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Nearly Half of Homeowners Would Pay to Improve a Neighbor’s Yard—Would You?

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 02:23:38 GMT

You’ve probably heard that “curb appeal” is important when selling your home. But just in case you haven’t, it’s essentially the first impression buyers get when they see your listing online—and even more so when they pull up to the house in person.

Curb appeal isn’t just one thing. It’s everything working together. The condition of the paint or siding. The front door. The driveway. Lighting. The roofline. Even the mailbox can play a role. And of course… your lawn. Well, apparently, it’s not just your lawn that matters.

According to a recent survey :

95% of respondents said a neighbor’s lawn conditions would impact the first impression they have of a home they’re considering.
93% said poorly maintained neighboring lawns affect how they perceive the home’s value.
56% said they’d hesitate to buy a home next to a poorly maintained lawn.

Considering how much it can influence a home’s value, nearly half of those surveyed said they would consider contributing financially to improve a neighbor’s yard if it meant their own home would sell faster or for more money.

Hearing that, you might already be making a mental list of which neighbors you’d need to pay a visit to.

But before heading over with what might seem like an irresistible offer, it helps to take a step back and look at the reality of the situation.

You Can’t Really Force the Issue…

You’ve probably heard stories about how homeowner associations (HOAs) fine residents for silly things like having the wrong color mailbox, a car parked in the driveway, or a potted plant sitting on their stoop. That might sound over the top, but at their core, HOAs are designed to protect property values. And one of the ways they do that is by keeping a close eye on how homes are maintained.

So if your neighbor’s lawn is an eyesore, that usually gets addressed pretty quickly. Whether it’s a friendly reminder or a not-so-friendly letter, there are rules in place for exactly this kind of thing. But not everyone wants to live like that.

In fact, plenty of homeowners specifically avoid HOAs because they don’t want someone telling them what they can and can’t do with their own property. And even people who do live in them don’t always love how rigid the rules can be. So if you’re dealing with a neighbor whose lawn could use some attention, there’s a decent chance you’re not in an HOA. And unless the property is in such poor condition that it violates local ordinances, your neighbor doesn’t really have to answer to anyone… including you. Which means no matter how much their lawn might be affecting your home’s curb appeal, you can’t force the issue.

…Even if You’re Offering to Pay!

But even if you’re not thinking about acting like the head of the HOA and sending a threatening letter, offering to help might not be as easy as you think, either. On paper, it sounds like a no-brainer.

“Hey, I’d like to pay to have your front lawn look nicer.”

Who says no to that? Well… probably more people than you might think. You may very well be coming from a good place—even if your intentions are purely about getting your home ready to sell—but it can still feel like you’re pointing out a problem they either can’t fix, don’t want to fix, or don’t think is a problem at all.

That doesn’t mean you absolutely shouldn’t offer to improve your neighbor’s lawn. But if you plan on doing so, here are a few things you should keep in mind:

Know thy neighbor
It’s hard enough to have a conversation like this with someone you know well. If it’s the first real interaction you’ve ever had with them, it’s going to be even tougher. Building some level of rapport first—simple conversations, friendly check-ins—can make a big difference when you eventually bring up a sensitive topic.

Lead by example
The survey noted that about half of homeowners said a neighbor’s lawn condition has motivated them to step up their own maintenance. A well-kept yard can be contagious. So perhaps setting the standard next door is enough to inspire change without ever having to say a word.

Look for an opening, not a confrontation
If your neighbor ever comments on your yard, jokes about theirs, or brings up maintenance in any way, that’s your moment. It creates a natural, low-pressure way to offer help or suggest collaborating.

Frame it as a win-win
Instead of pointing out a problem, position it as an opportunity. Something like: “We’re getting ready to sell and thinking about ways to make everything look great from the street. If you’re open to it, we’d be happy to help with your lawn too.” Keep it collaborative, not corrective.

Be prepared for a ‘no.’
Even if you’re offering time, money, or both, not everyone will be comfortable with it. And that’s their right. Pushing the issue can create tension that’s far more costly than any perceived curb appeal benefit.

Focus on your own curb appeal
Sometimes the best move is just making your own yard look as good as possible. Clean edges, sharp landscaping, a little extra attention to detail—it can help offset what’s next door more than you might think.

The Takeaway:

A recent survey revealed that 56% of people would hesitate to buy a home next to a poorly maintained lawn, and 93% said it would impact how they felt about the value of the property.

Which is probably why nearly half of those surveyed said they would consider contributing financially to improve a neighbor’s yard if it meant their own home would sell faster or for more money.

But before you offer to spruce up a neighbor’s lawn for the sake of your sale, keep in mind that it might not come across the way you hoped, or be received well. So if you decide it’s worth addressing, the key is to approach it with a little awareness, tact, and realistic expectations.

“Good Fences Make Good Neighbors”... As Long as You Keep These Tips in Mind

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:53:34 GMT

Putting up a fence might seem like one of the simplest home improvement projects you can take on. It adds privacy, defines your yard, keeps pets contained, and can even improve curb appeal. In many neighborhoods, fences are so common that homeowners rarely give them much thought beyond choosing the style and deciding how tall they should be.

But every now and then, a fence becomes the center of a surprisingly complicated situation.

A recent story highlighted a case where a fence that had been standing for years eventually led to a legal dispute over property boundaries and something called “adverse possession,” a legal concept that can allow someone to claim ownership of land if they’ve used it openly for a long enough period of time.

Cases like that are rare, but fence disagreements between neighbors are actually fairly common. And most of them don’t involve someone trying to claim their neighbor’s land. They usually start with small assumptions or simple oversights that snowball over time.

If you’re thinking about installing a fence around your property, here are several things worth keeping in mind before the first post ever goes into the ground.

Know Where Your Property Line Actually Is

It might sound obvious, but many homeowners don’t know exactly where their property boundaries are.

People often assume the line runs along an existing fence, a row of shrubs, or where the yard seems to naturally divide between two homes. Sometimes those assumptions are correct. Sometimes they’re not.

A professional survey is the most reliable way to determine exactly where your property begins and ends. If you had one done when you purchased your home, it’s worth pulling it out and reviewing it before making any decisions about where a fence should go.

Check Local Rules Before Installing Anything

Fence regulations can vary widely depending on where you live. Some towns require permits before installation, while others have specific rules about fence height, materials, and how close a fence can be placed to a property line.

Taking a few minutes to check your local rules before installing a fence can save a lot of frustration—and potentially expensive corrections—later.

Talk to Your Neighbor Before You Build

Even if a fence is entirely on your property, it still affects the people living next door.

A quick conversation can go a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings. It gives your neighbor a chance to ask questions, see where the fence will go, and feel confident that the project is being done properly.

Sometimes neighbors even decide to share costs or collaborate on placement so the fence works well for both properties. Either way, a simple heads-up can help keep the relationship friendly.

Make Sure the “Good Side” Faces Outward

Most fences have a finished side and a structural side where the posts and rails are visible.

In many areas, local codes require that the finished side face outward toward neighboring properties or the street. However, even where it’s not required, it’s generally considered good etiquette.

After all, if someone is going to look at a fence every day from their yard, it’s only fair that they see the nicer side.

If you’d prefer a finished look on your side as well, some fence styles are designed to look good from both sides, but (as you might guess) that will usually add a bit to the overall cost of the project.

Don’t Assume Old Fences Mark the Boundary

Just because a fence has been sitting in the same place for years doesn’t necessarily mean it marks the exact property line.

Sometimes fences were installed slightly inside the property line to avoid disputes or to make maintenance easier. But other times, fences were placed based on assumptions rather than an actual survey.

Relying on an existing fence as proof of the boundary can lead to surprises later.

Address Questions Early Instead of Letting Them Linger

One reason fence disputes sometimes escalate is that small uncertainties get ignored for years.

Over time, assumptions about where a boundary sits can become accepted as fact. In rare cases, long-term use of land can even raise legal questions about ownership.

That’s why addressing boundary questions early—and documenting things clearly—can help prevent misunderstandings down the road.

Try Not to “Dig In” if a Disagreement Comes Up

Fence discussions can occasionally become tense if both neighbors feel confident they’re right about where the boundary lies.

Before turning it into a standoff, it’s often worth reviewing surveys, checking property records, or bringing in a professional to clarify the situation.

In many cases, the issue turns out to be simpler than it initially appeared.

Hire Professionals Who Know the Local Requirements

Fence installation might look straightforward, but experienced contractors often know the ins and outs of local regulations, permitting requirements, and placement guidelines.

A reputable fence installer can help ensure the fence is positioned correctly and complies with local codes. They may also be able to identify potential issues before they become problems.

In many cases, letting professionals handle the details provides peace of mind that everything is being done properly.

Besides, it’s easy to underestimate just how difficult it can be to dig post holes and install a fence correctly. If it’s within the budget, leaving it to a pro with the right tools and experience can save a lot of time, effort, and frustration.

The Takeaway:

A recent headline made it sound like a homeowner was at risk of losing a few feet of their property because a neighbor’s fence had been sitting over the line for years. While situations like that don’t always lead to anything more than time and money spent on legal fees—and possibly some strained neighbor relationships—it’s a good reminder that property boundaries aren’t always as clear-cut as they might seem.

Something as simple as installing a fence can raise questions about property lines, local regulations, and long-standing assumptions about where one yard ends and another begins. Taking a little extra time upfront to confirm where the boundary actually sits, check local requirements, and communicate with neighbors can go a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings later.

Your Home May Be Part of the Great Wealth Transfer — But It Could Be Costly for Your Heirs

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:35:10 GMT

The oldest living generation today is often described as sitting on a tremendous amount of wealth. Much of it has been built slowly over decades, and a large portion of it is tied up in real estate — homes where decades of life took place — paid down slowly, maintained carefully, and held onto for years.

Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about how that wealth will eventually be passed on to younger generations, and how it could dramatically change their lives. Some of the headlines make it sound as though heirs are simply waiting in the wings, ready to receive an inheritance and turn it into luxury purchases, second homes, or dramatic lifestyle upgrades.

It can create the impression that the next generation is counting the days until they receive the wealth that took a lifetime to build, and the ways that it will be quickly spent.

But in reality, that picture doesn’t reflect what many families actually experience.

For many heirs, the wealth they inherit doesn’t arrive as money at all. It is often in the form of a home. And it usually takes time, effort, coordination, and decisions that aren’t easy to make, especially during an already emotional period before the house provides them with any money to spend on their own.

Inheriting a Home Can Actually Be a Financial Burden

When someone inherits a home, they haven’t inherited cash they can use right away. They’ve inherited a property that comes with responsibilities, decisions, and ongoing costs.

Even before anything can be sold, there are practical realities to manage. Property taxes still come due. Insurance needs to remain in place. Utilities, upkeep, and sometimes association fees don’t stop when they inherit the property. And if the home sits vacant, those expenses can actually increase, not decrease.

There are often administrative steps to work through as well. Settling an estate, navigating probate timelines, coordinating paperwork, or addressing title issues can take longer than people expect or can easily manage. When multiple heirs are involved, decisions can become more complex, even when everyone has good intentions.

All of this means there is often a long stretch between inheriting a home and being able to access any financial benefit from it.

In fact, that in-between period can be especially challenging because it may also require them to spend their own time and money in order to maintain the property, at a moment when they are already dealing with loss and transition.

The Money May Be Helpful… Just Not Life-Changing

The phrase “generational wealth” can create unrealistic expectations. While some heirs do inherit properties worth millions, many inherit homes with far more modest equity — especially once mortgages, liens, repairs, and selling costs are factored in.

For a lot of families, the proceeds from selling an inherited home won’t fund a luxury purchase or dramatically alter their lifestyle. Instead, it may:

Pay down lingering debt
Rebuild savings that were stretched thin
Cover education expenses
Serve as a long-awaited down payment on a home of their own
Provide a financial buffer during uncertain times

All of that is meaningful. But for most heirs, their inheritance is more about stability than it is an immediate path to a high-end lifestyle often imagined when people hear “generational wealth.”

It Might Be Difficult to Talk About, But It’s Worth It

Talking about what will happen to a home after someone passes can feel morbid, premature, or even unnecessary. Many homeowners plan to live in their home for the rest of their lives, and updating it or thinking about the future may not feel necessary.

So if this isn’t an easy topic to bring up, that’s completely understandable.

But avoiding the conversation doesn’t make the responsibilities disappear. It simply passes them along to your heirs, who must navigate decisions, logistics, and costs while also coping with loss.

Thoughtful planning doesn’t have to mean selling early or making major changes. Often, it’s as simple as understanding the home’s condition, keeping records organized, knowing its likely market value, or having a clear sense of what will need to be done — and by whom — when the time comes.

As difficult as it might be, the most meaningful thing you can do for yourself and your heirs is to start open conversations now and discuss how the house will eventually be handled.

The Takeaway:

Headlines about the “great generational wealth transfer” often make it sound like an entire generation is about to become extremely wealthy and start buying luxury real estate.

Some heirs may use their inheritance that way. But for most, the reality is far less glamorous.

Much of the inherited wealth comes in the form of real estate — homes that need upkeep, management, and careful decisions before any financial benefit can be realized.

Proceeds from selling an inherited home can be meaningful (paying down debt, rebuilding savings, or helping with a down payment), but they rarely become a life-changing windfall. For most heirs, it’s about stability, not luxury.

Open conversations and thoughtful planning now can help ensure that when the time comes, an inheritance provides support instead of unexpected financial or emotional stress.

New Construction Could Help Affordability, But Buyers Should Watch This One (First) Step

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:28:19 GMT

Housing affordability has become one of those rare topics almost everyone agrees on: it’s a problem. Buyers feel it, renters feel it even more, homeowners talk about it, and politicians on both sides of the aisle regularly float ideas on how to fix it.

Tax credits, zoning changes, interest rate adjustments, down payment assistance programs — for nearly every proposed solution, there’s a counterargument about whether it actually helps or just sounds good on paper.

But one idea comes up again and again, across government, finance, real estate, and even everyday conversations among buyers and homeowners: build more homes.

At its core, real estate is supply and demand in action. When demand outpaces supply, prices rise. When supply catches up, prices tend to stabilize or fall. So the logic is simple enough. If affordability is the issue, adding more housing inventory should help relieve some of the pressure.

Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Builders aren’t public utilities. They’re private businesses with margins to protect, financing costs to manage, and risk to account for. Construction costs, labor shortages, permitting delays, and interest rates all play a role in whether new homes will actually get built. But with enough incentives and pent-up demand, it’s not unreasonable to think we could see a meaningful wave of new construction in the near future.

And if that happens, you might just find yourself excited to go out and look for a new construction home!

A Lot of Buyers Casually Walk Into a Model Home for a “Quick Look”

For many buyers, the new construction process starts casually. Maybe they drive past a new development and decide to pull in. They walk through a model home “just to look.” They chat with the on-site sales representative — or even the builder directly. It feels low-pressure, informational, and harmless.

After all, no one’s signing anything… yet.

But what often happens next is where things get complicated. Buyers go home and sleep on it. They come back another time. Maybe even a third. Eventually, it starts to feel real — and that’s when many decide it would be smart to bring in their own real estate agent for guidance, negotiation help, and an extra set of eyes on the contract.

Unfortunately, when they try to do that, they often find out it’s already too late to get their own agent involved.

Why That First Visit Matters More Than Most Buyers Realize

What many buyers don’t realize is that the very first visit to a new construction site quietly sets the rules for how the rest of the transaction will unfold.

From the builder’s perspective, walking into a model home without an agent isn’t just a casual look, it potentially establishes the buyer as someone working directly with the builder’s sales team. Many builders have clear internal policies that say if a buyer’s first interaction happens without a real estate agent present, that buyer is considered “registered” to the builder. Once that happens, bringing in an outside agent later may not be allowed at all, or may require special approval which can be difficult to obtain.

Why? Because builders aim to keep tight control over their sales process. They control the product, the pricing, the incentives, the timelines, and the messaging. Introducing an independent buyer’s agent — especially after conversations, tours, or pricing discussions have already started — adds another voice to the process. And that voice is focused solely on the buyer’s interests.

That doesn’t make builders villains. It’s simply how many new construction sales are structured. But it does mean that a decision that feels small in the moment — “Let’s just stop in and take a look” — can have lasting consequences. By the time buyers realize they want professional representation and negotiation help, the window to involve their own agent may already be closed.

“Do I Even Need My Own Agent for New Construction?”

Some buyers, especially those who like the idea of a streamlined process, question whether bringing their own agent makes sense at all. After all, the builder already has a sales rep. The price is often set. The home is brand new. What’s there to negotiate?

It’s a fair question — and one that builders are happy to let buyers ask themselves.

But it’s important to remember that the builder’s sales agent works for the builder. Their job is to protect the builder’s timeline, pricing, and contract terms. They are not obligated to point out unfavorable clauses, suggest alternatives, or flag long-term resale considerations.

An independent buyer’s agent serves a very different role.

Their responsibility is to the buyer — not the builder. That means advising on contract terms, explaining how builder add-ons and incentives actually affect the bottom line, and helping buyers understand where there may be room to negotiate, even when the base price appears “fixed.”

In new construction, negotiations often happen in less obvious places. Closing cost credits, upgrade packages, lot premiums, build timelines, contingency language, and even how issues are handled during construction can all have real financial and practical implications. These are details buyers may not think to question, but they can matter long after the excitement of choosing finishes wears off.

An experienced agent can also provide context that isn’t available in the model home. How this builder compares to others nearby. How resale values have held up in similar developments. Whether certain upgrades tend to pay off (or not) when it comes time to sell. That kind of perspective doesn’t come from the builder’s sales office, because it doesn’t serve their interests to provide it.

In short, new construction may look like a straightforward sales process on the surface, but it’s still a real estate transaction between a buyer and a seller. A seller who is often much more experienced than the buyer…

So if you find yourself tempted to stroll into a model home in the near future, it may be worth pausing and scheduling that first visit with your own real estate agent instead.

The Takeaway:

If new construction inventory starts to increase, that’s good news for buyers and the market as a whole. More options, less pressure, and a healthier balance between supply and demand are all positives.

But buyers should slow down before casually walking into a model home alone.

If there’s any chance you’ll want an agent to be involved in the purchase, they should be part of the first visit — or at least formally registered in advance. A quick conversation upfront can preserve options, protect representation, and prevent frustration later.

Why January Is the Best Time to Kickstart Your 2026 Home Search

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:13:51 GMT

It’s a new year, and if buying a home in 2026 is on your mind, there’s one simple piece of advice worth hearing first: get started now.

Not in March. Not in spring. Not “when the weather gets better.” Now.

Why? For starters, buying a home takes time. A recent Realtor.com article suggests getting started at least six months before you plan to close. That doesn’t mean starting in January automatically puts you on track for a June closing. In fact, if you get started now, there’s a good chance you could be in a home much sooner than that.

On the flip side, even if you don’t plan to move until later in the year, beginning the process early still puts you in a far stronger position when you’re ready to make offers. You’re almost always better off starting sooner rather than later.

There’s a lot involved beyond simply finding a house you like. Financial preparation, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, understanding what you can truly afford, getting a handle on the existing inventory, touring homes, writing offers, negotiating terms, and finally closing — all of that takes time. And that’s before factoring in local competition and inventory.

But as we head into this new year, there’s another reason starting early matters even more — and it has everything to do with what’s happening in the market right now…

It’s Finally a Buyer’s Market in Many Areas… But It Might Not Last

One of the biggest reasons to begin in January is where the market stands right now. In many areas, conditions are unusually favorable for buyers — and that’s not something to assume will stick around.

According to recent housing market data, there were roughly 37% more sellers than buyers across the U.S. in November 2025, one of the largest gaps on record going back to 2013.

A gap that large can give buyers more negotiating power. It often leads to more options, more time to consider choices, and greater leverage when it comes to price, terms, and requests for seller concessions.

But that gap can easily close.

Many buyers put off looking for a home until the spring market “officially” begins. That’s in quotation marks because there really is no official date for when the spring market begins. But at some point in the next few months, there will likely be a surge of buyers entering the market.

When that happens, competition will increase, and many of the advantages buyers enjoy early in the year will likely begin to shrink. Buyers who wait may find themselves facing more multiple-offer situations, tighter negotiations, and less room to ask for concessions.

Getting started in January doesn’t just give you a head start — it gives you a shot at taking advantage of conditions that may look very different just a few months from now.

The First Thing to Do After the First of the Year

If you’re even just thinking about buying a home in 2026, the most productive first step after the new year isn’t scrolling listings or heading out to open houses — it’s having a conversation with a local real estate agent.

National headlines are helpful for understanding broad trends, but real estate is extremely local. Conditions can vary dramatically from one city to the next, from one neighborhood to another, and even from one price range to another within the same town.

An agent can walk you through what inventory looks like right now, how competitive buyers are in your target price range, and whether sellers are negotiating or still holding firm. They can also help you come up with a timeline and strategy based on your personal situation and the current market conditions.

The Takeaway:

Buying a home almost always takes longer than people expect. That’s why many experts recommend starting the process at least six months before you plan to move. That doesn’t mean it has to take that long — plenty of buyers find and close on a home much sooner. But it does mean that giving yourself time is rarely a bad idea.

Starting as early in the year as possible is always smart, but starting early in 2026 may be even smarter.

With roughly 37% more sellers than buyers — the largest gap we’ve seen since 2013 — today’s market is offering buyers opportunities that may not last once more people jump in later this year. Waiting until spring could mean more competition and fewer advantages than buyers see right now.

If you’re even thinking about buying in 2026, getting the ball rolling in January can put you in a much stronger position. And the best first step isn’t browsing listings — it’s talking with a local real estate agent who can explain what’s happening in your market, help you set realistic.

Why Buyers Shouldn’t Expect to Spend the Night in a Home Before Buying It (Even if It Is “Trendy”)

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 19:11:51 GMT

Every now and then, a new real estate “trend” makes headlines that sounds more like a reality show concept than an everyday practice. (Like when Bravo launched Buying It Blind , where home buyers handed over their finances and let complete strangers pick and purchase a home for them…sight unseen.)

So it wouldn’t be all that surprising if you read this recent realtor.com article and wondered if it was a far-fetched TV show concept, or an actual homebuying trend to consider if you’re buying or selling in the near future.

It’s being called the “try before you buy” approach. The idea is that spending a night in the home gives buyers a better sense of how it feels to live there.

But before you start fluffing the guest pillows or packing an overnight bag, it’s worth pausing to ask: Is this really a trend, or just a handful of stories about people who can afford to experiment?

Vroom Vroom vs. Room Room

If you squint just right, the idea of a “try before you buy” house sleepover might start to make sense when compared to buying a car. After all, before you commit to a new set of wheels, you take it for a test drive.

You adjust the seats, fiddle with the mirrors, maybe even blast some music to see how it sounds. You turn the steering sharply, tap the brakes, and sometimes just roll down the windows or open the sunroof to feel the wind in your hair.

The owner might even let you take it for a quick spin on your own, without them sitting awkwardly in the passenger seat.

But no one would hand over the keys for a weekend just to see how it fits in your garage or what it’s like to wake up and head to work in it the next day. Cars are personal and valuable too, but everyone knows there are limits.

A home is even more personal and far more complex. It’s entirely someone’s private space, full of memories, valuables, and liability concerns. You can’t just “take it for a spin,” promise to return it intact, and call it a day.

That’s why sellers shouldn’t feel pressured to let anyone spend the night, and buyers shouldn’t assume they can test-drive a house like a convertible. There are plenty of other ways to figure out if a home is right without crashing on the guest bed.

It’s Probably Not a “Trend” That Will Affect You…

Despite what the headlines might suggest, house sleepovers probably aren’t about to become the latest rage in real estate. They make for a good story, but in reality, most sellers and buyers will never encounter this scenario.

Why? Because most sellers are still living in their homes, and the idea of inviting a stranger to spend the night is, understandably, a non-starter. For one, it’s just not practical. It’s difficult enough to get out of the house for a half-hour long showing. But beyond that, there’s a lot of potential liability and legal issues to consider.

While some buyers might like the idea of an overnight stay in what could be their potential home, it’s also unlikely that most have the time to do it, and would probably find the prospect awkward, impractical, or even a little stressful.

That’s not to say requests won’t happen. A buyer might ask, especially if they’ve heard about it in the news or seen it on TV, but sellers don’t have to say yes. And for buyers, there are plenty of effective, practical ways to get comfortable with a home without ever spending the night.

…But Sellers, You Can Always Say No if a Buyer Asks

As unusual as the request sounds, sellers should know it could come up. A buyer might ask for an overnight or extended stay, especially in higher-end markets or slower conditions where they’re trying to feel confident before committing.

If it happens, don’t feel pressured to agree. A firm but polite “no” is completely appropriate — and often the wisest response.

Here’s why:

Liability and insurance – If someone slips, breaks something, or gets hurt, it could become a mess of finger-pointing and insurance claims.
Privacy and security – Your personal belongings, mail, and even digital devices could be exposed.
Marketing impact – Taking a property off the showing schedule for a “sleepover” limits exposure to other potential buyers.

If you want to accommodate a serious buyer without crossing that line, consider offering a longer second showing, allowing them to revisit with family, or scheduling a visit at a different time of day. Those gestures show flexibility without taking unnecessary risks.

And Buyers, There Are Other Ways to “Test Drive” a Home

Buyers understandably want to feel certain before making a major purchase. Spending the night might sound like the ultimate way to “get a feel” for a home, but it’s neither common nor necessary.

There are plenty of ways to learn what living in a property might be like without bringing an overnight bag:

Visit at different times. See how sunlight hits the rooms in the afternoon, or how quiet (or not) the street feels at night.
Listen to the surroundings. Roll down your car windows in the neighborhood and sit for 20 minutes. You’ll quickly learn whether it’s the sound of crickets or commuter traffic outside.
Pay attention during inspections. That’s your chance to test faucets, flush toilets, and check for squeaks or drafts. No need for a full shower to evaluate the water pressure.
Talk to neighbors. They can tell you more about noise, parking, and general livability than one night on the couch ever could.

Ultimately, the best way to build confidence in your purchase is through diligence, not sleepovers. Ask questions, take your time, and rely on your agent to help you navigate the details.

The Takeaway:

The idea of “trying before you buy” might sound intriguing — and it certainly makes for great headlines — but home sleepovers aren’t poised to become a real estate norm anytime soon. What’s being presented as a trend is really just a handful of one-off examples that make for fun reading, not a new standard practice.

For sellers, the takeaway is simple: you don’t have to hand over the keys for an overnight stay to make a sale. Protecting your privacy, security, and peace of mind should always come first.

And for buyers, there are far safer, smarter, and more practical ways to understand a home’s livability — from repeat visits and neighborhood drive-bys to thorough inspections and open communication with your agent.

Need to Sell Your Home Before Buying? This Could Be the Solution.

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 18:31:36 GMT

Buying a new home when you already own one is tricky in almost any market.

But when there’s limited inventory or a flood of buyers competing for the same properties, it gets even trickier. Even in a slower market, the logistics can still be stressful.

Plenty of homeowners start out thinking, I’ll just keep my eyes open, find something I love, make an offer, and it’ll all fall into place. Once I have another home lined up, I’ll sell my current place quickly; it shouldn’t be a problem.

It’s an optimistic approach, but reality often plays out differently.

Why Not Just Ask a Seller to Give You Time to Sell Your House?

It’s understandable if you don’t want to sell your current home until you’ve found the next one. But for many buyers, selling is the only way to free up the funds they need for their next purchase. And that’s where things get complicated.

You can end up feeling stuck in limbo, unsure how to make the leap without risking a stretch of being in between homes or juggling two at once.

A common assumption is that the seller of the home you want will simply wait while you sell your place, agreeing to a contingency that makes your purchase dependent on your sale.

In reality, most sellers aren’t thrilled with that idea. From their perspective, it introduces a big question mark into the deal. They’d much rather work with buyers who already have financing secured, have their home sold, or don’t need to sell at all.

That’s why real estate professionals usually advise putting your current home on the market first, getting it under contract, and then shopping for your next place. While contingent offers can work, they usually leave you at a disadvantage compared to other buyers.

Why Not Just Buy First and Hope Your House Sells?

Some buyers decide to take the opposite approach and try to find the perfect house, make an offer, and then scramble to sell their current place before the closing date.

It’s bold, but risky.

Even if your home is attractive and in demand, selling and closing on it in a short time frame is no small feat. Deals can fall through. Buyers can get cold feet. And if you’re under pressure to sell, you might end up accepting less favorable terms, giving up ground on price, or conceding on inspection repairs you’d normally push back on.

Bottom line: going under contract on a new home while still holding onto your old one can leave you financially and emotionally stretched thin.

How a Bridge Loan Can Help You Make the Leap

Fortunately, there’s a financing tool designed for this exact situation: the bridge loan.

As this article from the National Association of Realtors recently explained, bridge loans can give homeowners a way to move forward with buying before their current home sells.

A bridge loan is a short-term financing option that allows you to tap into the equity in your current home before you sell. Essentially, it gives you temporary access to your home’s value so you can act quickly in a competitive market without having to wait for your sale to close.

Here’s how it works:

Access your equity now. Instead of waiting for the proceeds from your sale, a bridge loan lets you borrow against a portion of your home’s equity. That cash can then go toward the down payment and closing costs on your new property.
Move faster in a competitive market. Sellers are more likely to take your offer seriously if you don’t have to make it contingent on your home selling. With a bridge loan, you can put in a strong offer with confidence.
Stay financially balanced. Lenders structure these loans so you’re not overextended. They’ll usually let you access enough equity to cover upfront costs without putting you in a risky spot.

In many ways, qualifying for a bridge loan is similar to qualifying for a traditional mortgage. Lenders look at your overall financial picture: your income, credit score, debts, and, of course, how much equity you have in your current home. They need to know you can comfortably handle payments on both homes during the short overlap period.

Time (And Timing) Still Matters… but a Bridge Loan Gives You Breathing Room

Bridge loans aren’t open-ended. Most give you about six months to sell your current home. That window can feel like a relief compared to trying to pull everything off in a matter of weeks, but it still comes with responsibility.

Once the bridge loan is in place, you’ll want to move quickly to prep your home, list it on the market, and attract serious buyers. The more proactive you are, the smoother the transition will be.

Think of the bridge loan as buying yourself breathing room, not a license to sit back and wait.

Is a Bridge Loan Right for You? Talk It Through With a Pro

Bridge loans aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. They offer clear advantages: flexibility, stronger offers, and less stress about juggling two closings, but they’re not without drawbacks. Interest rates are typically higher than traditional mortgages, and you’re temporarily carrying two loans.

If you’re confident in your home’s marketability and comfortable with a short-term overlap, a bridge loan can help you navigate the buy-sell puzzle. But if your finances are tight or your home might take longer to sell, it may not be the safest choice.

The smartest first step is talking to a real estate professional you trust. An agent can help you weigh your options, assess your home’s marketability, and connect you with lenders experienced in bridge loans. With the right guidance and a solid plan, moving from one home to another doesn’t have to feel impossible.

The Takeaway:

Buying a new home while still owning your current one can feel like walking a tightrope, but with the right strategy, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Contingent offers or buying first without a plan often leave buyers who also have a house to sell stressed and at a disadvantage.

Bridge loans offer a way to tap into your home’s equity, move quickly in a competitive market, and give yourself breathing room to sell your current property. They aren’t the perfect fit for everyone, but paired with the guidance of a trusted real estate professional, they can make the transition between homes smoother and less risky. The key is planning, knowing your financial limits, and having the right team in place to navigate the process successfully.

Who Gets the House? Navigating Family Tensions After a Parent Passes

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 17:57:29 GMT

Some families are incredibly close, spending vacations together and genuinely enjoying each other’s company. Others are deeply divided, unable to get along even under the best of circumstances. And then some families stay connected, but carry underlying tensions —such as a few unspoken conflicts, clashing personalities, or emotional distance that flares up during stressful times.

No matter where your family falls on the spectrum, when a parent passes away and leaves behind a home, the emotional and logistical challenges can push even the most grounded families into unfamiliar and uncomfortable territory.

In some cases, there’s been plenty of open conversation before the inevitable wills drawn, roles assigned, and instructions crystal clear. But in many families, it’s just not something that gets talked about until the moment arrives. And by then, emotions are already running high.

It’s easy to say the answer is more communication. Just talk about it ahead of time. Make a plan. Put it all in writing. And yes, in a perfect world, that would happen.

However, as many people are aware, it’s not always that simple.

It’s easy to say the answer is more communication. Just talk about it ahead of time. Make a plan. Put it all in writing. And yes, in a perfect world, that would happen.

However, as many people are aware, it’s not always that simple. Talking about death, even in the context of planning, can feel awkward or even taboo.

Which is why so many people find themselves navigating tricky decisions, old wounds, and a lot of gray area after the fact, when one of the biggest assets in the family becomes the biggest elephant in the room: the house.

When a Family Member Feels They Should Get the House

A recent article from Realtor.com covers the basics of how to sell a parent’s home, from prepping it for sale to coping with the emotions involved. It’s a helpful guide. But one common scenario it doesn’t directly address is when someone in the family wants to keep the house for themselves.

It’s not always about holding onto sentimental value. Sometimes, a family member believes they deserve to live in the house or buy it at a discounted price, or even get it for free. And if you’re not that person, it can be really difficult to understand their reasoning… or to stay calm about it.

Whether they’re asking for the house outright or offering to buy it at below-market value, it’s easy to get wrapped up in debates about what’s “fair.” But emotions don’t care about spreadsheets or comps. And even when someone’s request seems unreasonable, dismissing them too quickly can backfire.

Let’s take a look at why some family members might feel like they deserve the house, and then explore a few ways to approach the situation that might save relationships (and sanity) in the process.

Why They May Feel Like They Have a Right to the House (Or a Deal)

Here are a few common reasons a sibling or family member might believe they should be the one to keep the home, or get a deal on it:

They “need it” more. Maybe they’re struggling financially, dealing with health issues, or just generally feel like life’s been harder on them. They may see the house as a lifeline... or a fair shake after years of tough breaks.
They’ve been house hunting without success. In markets where inventory is tight or prices are high, the idea of having access to a home without the competition can be incredibly tempting and emotional. Watching the house go up for sale to strangers may feel like losing out yet again.
They felt they had a closer relationship with the parent(s). Whether they lived nearby and were the primary caregiver, or they simply had a more emotionally connected relationship, some family members feel a deeper bond to the home, and see keeping it as a way of honoring that connection. Or perhaps just more entitled to it.
A verbal promise was made. One of the most common flashpoints in estate situations is when a parent said someone could have the house... but didn’t put it in writing. That can be hard to prove or disprove, and can create tension between those holding the legal documents and those holding on to a memory.
They lived there already. In some cases, a family member has been living in the house, either long-term or in the final months of a parent’s life. Being told they have to move out can feel like they’re being forced out of their own home.
They feel like they’ve earned it. Maybe they paid for renovations, took care of the yard, handled the bills, or sacrificed in ways no one else did. Those contributions can build a sense of “ownership,” even if not reflected on paper.

How to Navigate the Emotions and the Process

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to this kind of situation, but few things to consider that might be helpful depending on your situation:

Pick your battles. Sometimes, keeping the peace is more valuable than squeezing every dollar out of the sale. If it’s feasible, and everyone else is on board, it might make sense to let them have the house, especially if they’re willing to buy out the other heirs at a fair price.
Consider bringing in a neutral third party. Emotions can cloud even the most basic conversations. A mediator, family therapist, or estate attorney can help keep discussions grounded and productive.
Consult an estate lawyer. Whether there’s a will or not, having legal guidance is essential. An attorney can help determine what’s enforceable, what’s fair, and how to protect everyone’s rights.
Lean on a real estate agent with experience in probate or estate sales. An agent who’s familiar with these types of sales can help manage timelines, pricing, and even delicate conversations between family members.
Set clear deadlines. If someone wants to buy the house, make sure there’s a timeline in place. Open-ended waiting periods can stall the process, add stress, and create resentment.
Document everything. Even if you’re trying to avoid conflict, make sure all agreements and decisions are in writing.

Dealing with the sale of a parent’s home is never just about bricks and mortar. It’s about history, grief, family dynamics, and sometimes decades of unspoken expectations or unresolved tension.

When emotions and real estate collide, it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture. But as hard as it is, treating the situation with compassion, clarity, and a little bit of structure can go a long way in preserving relationships and reaching a resolution everyone can live with.

The Takeaway:

Every family handles loss differently. And when a parent’s home is left behind, it can stir up more than just memories. Sometimes, a family member wants to keep the home or believes they’re owed the chance to buy it, putting pressure on relationships and the entire situation.

While it’s tempting to dig in and fight for what’s “fair,” remember that feelings often drive these conversations more than facts. By understanding where others are coming from, and leaning on professionals to guide the process, you’re more likely to reach a decision that feels not just practical, but peaceful.

Taking a Vacation While Buying a Home? Here’s How to Do Both Without Losing Your Mind (Or the House)

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 05:44:03 GMT

Real estate agents often joke that the best way to guarantee something big happens with a client is to plan a vacation. The minute their out-of-office email is set, sellers decide to list, buyers find their dream house, and offers start flying.

But it’s not just agents. If you’re in the middle of buying a home, odds are that as soon as you finally book that much-needed vacation, the perfect property will hit the market—or your lender will suddenly need one more document before they can clear your file.

So, what do you do if you’re house hunting—or already under contract—and also have a trip on the calendar? Cancel everything and put life on hold?

Not at all.

With a little planning and coordination, you can keep your transaction moving while still getting the break you deserve. Here’s how to juggle both without losing sleep—or the house of your dreams.

Choose the Right Agent (And Empower Them)

If you’re going to be out of town, your real estate agent becomes even more important than usual. You need someone who knows your preferences inside and out, can jump on new listings quickly, and is comfortable communicating across time zones and tech platforms.

During the search phase, that might mean giving you a live FaceTime tour from a showing or sending over detailed videos. Once you’re under contract, it means staying on top of every little detail and making sure the transaction doesn’t lose momentum while you’re away.

If you haven’t found the right agent yet, don’t wait until you’re packing your bags to start looking. The earlier you establish that relationship, the smoother things will go when you need them to step in on your behalf.

Line Up the Rest of Your Team in Advance

Buying a home takes more than just you and your agent. Lenders, inspectors, title reps, insurance providers—they all play a role, and each of them will likely need some kind of document, signature, or decision from you at some point along the way.

You’re always free to choose who you work with, but if you don’t have go-to contacts, your agent likely does. Leaning on their network of trusted professionals can help make the process smoother. These are people your agent already has a working relationship with, which can lead to quicker responses, clearer communication, and fewer dropped balls. Either way, make your choices early and connect your team members with your agent so everyone is in the loop when the time comes.

To avoid last-minute scrambling, try to front-load as many tasks as possible. Your lender may be able to gather key documents like pay stubs, bank statements, and ID copies ahead of time and keep them on file. If the timing works, you might even be able to knock out inspections or appraisals before you leave. At the very least, let your core contacts know your travel dates and the best way to reach you if something needs your attention.

And if there’s someone you trust—like a family member, close friend, or legal rep—consider giving them written permission or even power of attorney to act on your behalf while you’re away. It’s an extra layer of protection in case something time-sensitive comes up, and your agent or attorney can help you get that paperwork squared away.

Make Sure You’re Tech-Ready

Most real estate transactions today can be managed remotely, at least to a degree. But that only works if you’ve got the right tools in place.

Check that your phone plan includes coverage wherever you’re going, especially if you’re heading out of the country. If not, upgrade or add international service temporarily. Bring a laptop or tablet, make sure you know how to use e-signature platforms like DocuSign, and test your access before you leave.

Wi-Fi may not always be reliable, so plan ahead for backup options. If you need to print, scan, or fax something, scope out nearby business centers or office supply stores at your destination. Many hotels offer these services too—worth confirming before you check in.

Store Documents Securely (But Accessibly)

Buying a home involves a surprising amount of sensitive paperwork—Social Security numbers, financial records, legal IDs, and more. It’s risky (and stressful) to travel with those items physically, but you may need them while you’re away.

One smart solution is to upload essential documents to a secure, password-protected cloud storage service. That way, you can access and forward what’s needed from anywhere, without carrying paper copies through airport security. Just make sure you’ve tested access and organized your files before you take off.

If there are a few documents you’ve been specifically told to bring with you, keep them on your person—not in checked luggage—and secure them in a locked bag or safe at your destination.

Set a Daily “Check-In” Time

Even on vacation, it helps to stay lightly engaged with your real estate team. You don’t have to be glued to your phone all day, but having a set time each day to check email, return calls, and review any updates can go a long way in keeping things moving.

Let your agent and lender know when you’ll be available, especially if there’s a big time difference. It doesn’t need to be a long call—just enough to make decisions, sign what’s needed, or give the go-ahead on the next steps.

And if you’re traveling with others? Give them a heads-up, too. A quick explanation that you’ll need 15–20 minutes a day to keep a major life event on track can save everyone from surprises later.

Consider Travel Insurance—Just in Case

If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or dropping a lot of money on travel, it might be worth looking into a travel insurance policy that includes “cancel for any reason” coverage. That way, if a can’t-miss opportunity or closing snag pops up and you have to delay or cancel your plans, you’re not entirely out of pocket.

Even if you don’t go that route, having some sort of backup plan—like refundable bookings or flexible accommodations—can offer a little peace of mind.

The Takeaway:

Timing a vacation while buying a home can feel like tempting fate—but with the right preparation, you don’t have to choose between relaxing and staying on top of your transaction. From lining up a reliable agent and support team to setting aside time for daily check-ins, a little planning goes a long way toward making sure things don’t fall through the cracks while you’re away.

The key is to think a few steps ahead. Have your documents ready, your tech in place, and your people connected. Whether you’re still house hunting or already under contract, you can absolutely take that trip—as long as you take the right precautions to keep everything moving behind the scenes.

71% of Homeowners Are Delaying Repairs—Here’s Why You Shouldn’t

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:35:51 GMT

Most homeowners love the idea of home improvement projects—at least the part where they get to enjoy the finished product. A new kitchen. A spa-like bathroom. Or perhaps a backyard oasis with an outdoor kitchen.

But even the “fun” projects are easy to put off. Between the time commitment, the mess, the scheduling headaches, and the rising costs of materials and labor, it’s no surprise those Pinterest boards stay digital.

Which is why the less exciting stuff—such as basic home maintenance like fixing a small leak, dealing with slow drainage, or replacing aging systems—is even harder to prioritize. It’s not fun. It’s not flashy. And it rarely feels urgent…until it is.

According to a recent Forbes article , nearly three out of four homeowners (71%) have delayed a planned home project this year due to inflation, higher interest rates, and economic uncertainty.

So if you’ve been putting off some maintenance or repairs around your home, you’re not alone. Life’s expensive right now, and many households are rightfully being cautious.

But the article also warns that postponing certain types of work—particularly maintenance that affects the health, safety, or structural condition of a home—can come with serious consequences, both financially and otherwise.

What’s Getting Delayed…and What Shouldn’t Be

It’s totally understandable why homeowners gravitate toward projects that add visual appeal or everyday enjoyment. Who wouldn’t prefer dreaming about a kitchen upgrade or new outdoor entertaining area over replacing insulation or dealing with a crawl space?

But while it’s fine to daydream about the fun stuff, it’s the foundational items—literally and figuratively—that deserve attention first.

Unlike a dream kitchen or fancy tilework, many of these foundational fixes don’t need to follow trends or fit a personal design style. Their value is more universal to you as a homeowner and to potential buyers in the future. Well-maintained systems may not earn compliments, but they’ll keep you safe and comfortable while you live there, and help prevent inspection drama and last-minute price reductions when you sell.

Yet, unsurprisingly, the Forbes article pointed out that most homeowners are prioritizing kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces when imagining unlimited budgets. However, the article also makes it clear that the bigger risk isn’t skipping an upgrade—it’s ignoring maintenance.

Here are some examples of issues that tend to be pushed aside but shouldn’t be:

Small plumbing leaks or slow drainage
Damaged or aging roof
HVAC systems not functioning efficiently
Electrical issues or outdated panels
Cracked or shifting foundation
Gutter and drainage problems
Termite or pest issues
Rotting wood or deteriorated siding
Mold or ventilation problems

You don’t need to knock everything out in one weekend, and (thankfully!) not every item will apply to every home. But these are the kinds of things that, if ignored, don’t just sit quietly in the background—they get worse, more expensive, and far more noticeable during a home inspection.

How to Start Tackling Projects Without Getting Overwhelmed

The hardest part about dealing with home maintenance is often just figuring out where to start. When everything feels like it needs attention—and budgets feel tight—it’s easy to do nothing at all. But a smart plan doesn’t have to mean a massive upfront investment. It just takes a little strategy.

Begin with a walkthrough of your home, inside and out. Look for issues you’ve grown used to or have quietly ignored—things like water spots, sticking doors, loud HVAC cycles, or signs of moisture near windows. Then, sort what you find into three basic categories:

Must-do-now: anything posing a safety risk, showing active damage, or impacting major systems
Needs attention soon: aging or worn components that are functional for now but may not be for long
Nice to fix later: cosmetic updates or minor annoyances that aren’t urgent

From there, you can tackle projects in phases based on your time and budget. If something seems big or intimidating, break it down. A roof replacement, for example, may not be in the cards right now, but a professional inspection and some spot repairs might buy you time and peace of mind.

When it comes to budgeting, a few smart moves can go a long way:

Watch for seasonal deals or times when contractors are less busy—they’re often more flexible on pricing.
Set up a small monthly maintenance fund—$50 a month may not seem like much, but it adds up and helps soften the blow of unexpected repairs.
Bring in the pros when needed. Even a simple inspection (like HVAC or roof) can help you plan ahead, rather than waiting for a full system failure.

And don’t forget: your real estate agent can be a great resource, even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon. Agents often know the go-to local tradespeople, understand what future buyers will care about most, and can help you prioritize with an eye on long-term value.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Tackling one issue at a time, with a little planning and some smart shortcuts, can help you stay ahead of bigger, more expensive problems down the road.

The Takeaway:

It’s easy to put off home maintenance, especially the unglamorous stuff. And right now, with higher costs and a lot of economic uncertainty, most homeowners are doing just that.

But ignoring small issues doesn’t make them go away. It usually makes them bigger. And when it’s time to sell, they’ll still be there, just more expensive and more likely to turn buyers off.

The smartest move is to take care of things steadily over time, starting with the most important items first. Your future self (and your future buyer) will thank you. And if you ever want help knowing where to start, your real estate agent is just a call away.

How to Respond (Calmly) When a Lower-Priced Listing Comes on the Market When You’re Selling

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 21:44:15 GMT

If you’ve ever watched The Price Is Right, you’ve seen it happen: Contestants guess the price of a blender, a vacation, or maybe even a new car. Everyone gives it their best shot to come as close as possible to the actual price…until one strategic player waits for their turn and says, “$1.”

And sometimes, it wins—not because it’s the right price, but because it’s just lower than everyone else. There’s nothing wrong with doing it. It’s totally within the rules. But it’s certainly aggravating for everyone who had to come up with a thoughtful number to be at the mercy of someone who has had the privilege of seeing what they bid.

Real estate has its own version of that moment.

Maybe you’ve done your homework. You’ve looked at the comps, talked through pricing with your agent, and listed your home at a number that feels justified and market-appropriate. And then, a new listing pops up nearby—similar home, size, condition, and neighborhood… lower price. Probably not as absurd as a mere dollar, but lower enough to attract buyers and potentially steal them from you.

It’s completely normal to feel unsettled. Frustrated. Even a little blindsided.

While this can happen in even a strong seller’s market, it’s something you may start seeing more of as the market is shifting in many areas . And if it does, take a breath—this doesn’t automatically mean your pricing was wrong, or that you even have to adjust your own price.

A lower-priced listing nearby isn’t the end of the world. But it’s worth watching closely and talking through with your agent.

Did They Just Undercut You? Maybe Not.

Unfortunately, your home doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and the market can change even once you decide upon a price for your home and list it. What felt like a smart, competitive price one day can suddenly feel precarious if a new listing shows up down the block for less.

Sometimes it’s a home you were already aware of—one you used as a benchmark when working with your agent to set your own price—and then that seller drops their price unexpectedly.

Other times, it’s a brand-new listing that swoops in and surprises everyone with a price tag that undercuts yours.

While it’s likely the seller (and their agent) took your price into account when they chose theirs, it’s not always a direct reaction to your listing. In fact, their reasons might have little to do with you at all.

Here are a few possibilities:

They’re in a rush. A seller on a tight deadline—whether due to a job relocation, divorce, or financial need—may price their home aggressively to get a fast offer.
They’re hoping to start a war…but not with you. Some sellers intentionally list low to spark a bidding war and drive the price higher through competition.
They’re responding to the market. Conditions change. Interest rates shift. Buyer activity ebbs and flows. A well-timed adjustment could mean they’re picking up on subtle trends you haven’t yet considered.

It Could Actually Benefit You…

Real estate isn’t priced like gas at competing stations, and one lower-priced listing doesn’t instantly drag down the value of every home in the neighborhood. It may attract attention and get buyers lining up to see it and make offers, but only one of them is going to successfully buy it.

A thoughtful, up-to-date Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) should already reflect what buyers are actually willing to pay for your house, based on recent sales, not just new listings. As long as there isn’t a flood of other homes hitting the market at lower prices, your home still has a solid footing.

In fact, as long as your price is justifiable, a lower-priced listing nearby might work in your favor:

It may actually sell for more money. If the lower-priced home triggers multiple offers and ends up above asking, it could raise the benchmark for future comps.
It could generate more showings for your house. Even if your home is priced higher, buyers are likely to come look at yours as well at least for comparison. And if there’s a bidding war on the lower-priced house, buyers who lose out on the neighbor’s home may set their sights on your property next.
It might make your house look like a better bang for the buck. If their home doesn’t measure up, yours may seem like a better deal by comparison, even at a higher price. Sometimes, being just a little more expensive—but clearly better—can feel like a steal.

…But Could It Affect You? Sure. Should You Panic? Nope.

Yes, a lower-priced home could impact how buyers perceive your property. It might change the dynamics slightly—more competition can do that. But it doesn’t automatically mean you’re overpriced or that you need to act fast.

The key is to stay objective. Look at the big picture.

How does the new listing truly compare to yours in terms of condition, upgrades, and appeal? Are buyers responding to it in a meaningful way, or is it just getting attention because it’s new and cheaper?

Ask your agent to help you assess whether the other listing is shifting buyer behavior or just adding some noise. It may warrant a wait-and-see approach… or it may justify a price adjustment down the line. Either way, the decision should be based on data and strategy, not emotion.

Bottom line: Don’t ignore it, but don’t let it rattle you either. The best response is thoughtful, not reactive.

The Takeaway:

If your house is on the market and a new listing comes on at a lower price, it’s certainly something you should be aware of and take into consideration. However, as long as your home is priced appropriately based upon recent sales in the area, it doesn’t mean you have to immediately drop your house to compete with them.

Stay focused on your own pricing strategy, watch how the market responds, and lean on your agent’s insight to determine if any adjustments are truly necessary. One lower-priced listing doesn’t automatically change your home’s value—it just means it’s time to keep your eyes open and your decisions grounded in data, not drama.

If You’re Selling Your Home Soon, Don’t Let the Word ‘Concession’ Scare You

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:01:27 GMT

In recent years, it hasn’t been unusual to list a home and have it go under contract in a matter of days, often with multiple offers, sometimes above asking price, and occasionally with eager backup buyers waiting in the wings. During that time, many sellers didn’t even need to entertain a buyer’s request for a concession. In fact, buyers were often the ones waiving contingencies just to compete.

So if you’re planning to sell soon, it’s only natural to expect a similar experience.

But the reality is, in many areas and price ranges, the market is adjusting—and it’s important to understand what those changes mean, and what they don’t.

What Is a Seller Concession?

According to Redfin , 44.4% of home sales in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2025 included some form of seller concession. That’s up from 39.3% a year ago and just shy of the record 45.1% seen in early 2023.

But what exactly is a seller concession?

A concession refers to anything a seller provides to help reduce the buyer’s out-of-pocket costs—not including price drops or post-offer price negotiations. Think of it as a financial “sweetener” to help a deal go through.

Here are some common examples:

Money toward closing costs – A seller might agree to cover part (or all) of the buyer’s closing fees, which can be thousands of dollars.
Mortgage-rate buydowns – Sellers may contribute funds to help lower the buyer’s mortgage interest rate for the first few years or for the life of the loan.
Repair credits – Instead of making repairs, some sellers offer a lump sum credit so buyers can handle it themselves after closing.
Prepaid HOA fees – In some cases, sellers may agree to cover months of homeowners association dues upfront.
Home warranty plans – A seller might purchase a home warranty on the buyer’s behalf to cover systems or appliances for the first year of ownership.

While the reasons for offering concessions can vary, one thing is clear: they’re becoming more common—and not just in response to inspection requests or minor fixes. If you’re planning to sell in the near future, these kinds of negotiations are something you should be prepared to discuss.

Why It’s Happening (And Why It May Not Affect You)

At its core, this shift comes down to supply and demand.

In many markets, there simply aren’t as many buyers competing for each listing as there were during the frenzy of the past few years. That gives buyers more negotiating power, and concessions are one of the ways sellers are responding.

But this isn’t a nationwide, across-the-board trend…

For example, sellers in Seattle gave concessions in 71.3% of transactions during Q1, which was the highest rate among the 24 major metro areas analyzed. That’s nearly double what it was a year ago.

On the other hand, it was a completely different story in New York City. Concessions there dropped to just 5.5% of transactions, which was down significantly from a year ago and the lowest among major metros.

So, while the data may indicate that there’s an uptick in many areas, it all comes down to your local market.

Agreeing to a Concession Doesn’t Mean You’re “Losing”

The word “concession” can make it sound like the seller is “giving in” or getting the short end of the stick. But in reality, concessions are a common part of real estate negotiation—and have been for decades.

The red-hot seller’s market that defined the past few years created some short-term amnesia. Sellers got used to saying “no” to repairs, waiving contingencies, and watching buyers line up with offers over asking. But historically, that hasn’t always been the norm.

In fact, in balanced markets—or even slightly buyer-leaning ones—concessions are just part of doing business. They help deals move forward. They help buyers feel supported. And they can allow sellers to maintain their list price while still giving buyers a financial break.

And keep in mind that home prices remain near historic highs in many areas. So even if you offer money toward closing costs or repairs, you may still walk away with substantial equity gains.

If you’re asked to consider a concession, don’t think of it as giving in to something other sellers didn’t have to do. In today’s market, a little flexibility might be the difference between sitting on the market and closing the deal.

Rely on Your Local Agent’s Insight to Price and Prepare

If you’re planning to sell in the near future, one of the most valuable tools at your disposal is a real estate agent with a strong pulse on your local market.

What’s happening in one neighborhood—or even one price range—can look very different just a few miles away. A knowledgeable agent will know what kinds of offers are common, how frequently concessions are showing up, and whether your home is likely to spark competition or invite negotiation.

That insight can shape everything from pricing strategy to how you respond to offers. And if concessions are part of the equation, it won’t catch you off guard. You’ll be prepared—practically and emotionally—to navigate the market with confidence.

The Takeaway:

Seller concessions are becoming more common, but that doesn’t mean the sky is falling. It just means buyers have a bit more leverage than they did during the peak of the seller’s market.

And even then, everything depends on location, price point, and timing. Some sellers are still seeing multiple offers and bidding wars. Others need to give a little more to get to the finish line.

Either way, today’s sellers are still in a strong position overall. A well-priced, well-presented home—especially one backed by a knowledgeable agent—is likely to sell. If that sale includes a concession or two, that’s not a defeat. It’s just part of the deal.

8 Ways to Size Up a Neighborhood Before You Buy a House There

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 01:53:44 GMT

Finding the perfect house is exciting, but realizing the neighborhood isn’t a perfect fit for you after you’ve moved in…not so great. Maybe the street turns into a speedway at rush hour. Maybe the neighbor’s dog thinks barking is a competitive sport. Or maybe it just doesn’t feel right, and you can’t quite put your finger on why. Either way, it’s a hard thing to fix once you’ve signed the papers and unpacked the boxes.

So before you fall completely in love with a house, make sure you’re also feeling good about where it’s located. A little extra effort up front can save you from a lot of frustration later. Taking the time to really explore the area, not just the house, can give you a much better sense of what daily life will be like.

Here are 8 things you can do to figure out if the neighborhood is a good match or spot any red flags before it’s too late:

1) Visit at Different Times

It’s not enough to cruise through on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Visit the neighborhood at different times of day. Go back on a weekday morning, rush hour, and even a Friday night. That peaceful cul-de-sac might turn into a party zone after dark. If that’s what you’re looking for, great! If not…at least you dodged a bullet.

2) Ditch the Car and Walk Around

A lot of people go straight from their house to their car once they live somewhere, but whether you plan to take evening strolls or just dash in and out on your way to work, it’s still worth seeing what it’s like to be out on foot. It’s easy to miss things when you’re just driving through. Walking gives you a much better feel for the neighborhood. You’ll notice how people care for their homes, how clean the streets are, and whether neighbors seem friendly.

3) Chat With the Locals

You’d be surprised how much people will share—from the annoying barking dog two doors down, to how often the power goes out on the street. Even a casual “Hi, we’re thinking about moving here, how do you like it?” can open the floodgates.

4) Test Drive Your Commute

Don’t just trust an app to give you an accurate ETA from home to work! Try doing the actual drive, or hop on the mass transit you’ll use to get to work during your normal commute time. Ten miles can feel like 100 if you’re crawling the whole way. Yes, that means pretending to go to work on a random Tuesday morning. But getting up early to do a test run once or twice could save you from having to get up an hour earlier than you want to every day!

5) Hang Out Nearby

Spend some time in the places you’d actually go if you lived there. Grab coffee at the local café, walk around the closest grocery store, sit in the nearby park, or browse a few shops. Notice how the area feels. Are the people welcoming? Is it walkable? Can you picture yourself running errands here, grabbing a quick bite, or just enjoying some downtime? Getting a feel for the everyday spots you’d rely on is just as important as liking the actual street you might live on.

6) Listen (And Sniff While You’re at It…)

It might feel a little odd at first, but take a moment to just stand still and pay attention to what you hear and smell. Are there constant traffic sounds, barking dogs, or trains in the distance? Any weird odors in the air—like something industrial or, well, just not pleasant? These little things might not seem like a big deal during a quick visit, but they can start to matter when you’re living there every day. Trust your senses—they’ll pick up on things photos and listings never show.

7) Learn the Rules

It’s no fun buying into a neighborhood only to find out you can’t park your RV or paint your door red. Whether it’s a formal HOA, city zoning rules, or just neighborhood-specific quirks, it’s worth finding out what’s allowed—and what’s not. Things like parking restrictions, short-term rental limits, or even rules about landscaping and paint colors can all shape your experience. It’s not always easy to get your hands on the full HOA documents unless you’re a serious buyer, but if you have specific concerns, a polite email or call to the right contact (a listing agent, HOA board, or property management company) can usually get you the answers you’re looking for. Better to ask now than be surprised later.

8) Cyberstalk the Area

A quick search can tell you a lot. Look up crime maps, school ratings, reviews of nearby businesses, or even neighborhood Facebook or Reddit groups. You’ll get a sense of what people are talking about—whether it’s safety concerns, community events, or local issues. Take it all with a grain of salt (online forums can get dramatic), but spotting consistent patterns can help you understand what it’s really like to live there.

Selling Your First Home This Spring? Here’s How Thinking Like a First-Time Buyer Can Help

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 01:26:02 GMT

When you bought your first home, there was no shortage of advice. From mortgage tips to house hunting strategies, the world was full of guidance for first-time buyers. But now that you’re on the selling side for the first time, it might feel like you’re supposed to just know what you’re doing since you’re not completely new to the process.

Selling a home isn’t just buying in reverse. It comes with its own set of challenges, decisions, and potential missteps. Maybe you’re wondering how much to list for, whether you really need to repaint the living room, or why your agent is asking you to leave the house every time there’s a showing. If any of this sounds familiar, don’t sweat it—your past buying experience is about to come in handy!

If you can remember what made a home appealing (or a dealbreaker) when you were looking, you’ll have a much better shot at getting your own home sold quickly and for the best possible price.

Put Yourself Back in the Buyer’s Shoes!

As a first-time seller, it’s easy to focus on what you want from the sale. But the key to success is understanding what buyers are looking for. Think back to when you were house-hunting—what turned you off? What made you fall in love with a home? What aggravated you when you were looking at houses?

In case it’s been a while since you were in those shoes, let’s take a look at some of the things you probably noticed as a buyer, and use those insights to make your home as appealing as possible.

Price It Right from the Start
Remember those overpriced homes you scrolled past because they didn’t seem worth it? Or the ones that sat on the market so long you assumed something was wrong with them?
Buyers today have access to endless data, and they won’t hesitate to move on if your price doesn’t align with reality. Work with an agent to set a competitive, market-driven price from the beginning to avoid unnecessary price drops and delays.
Make It Easy to Show
When you were looking for houses, there were probably a few sellers who made it almost impossible for you to see it at the time you wanted to, or had really limited times they allowed buyers to come see their house.
It’s frustrating and often results in buyers moving on to a more accessible home. The more flexible you are with showings, the more potential buyers will get to see your home. And more buyers can lead to more (and better!) offers.
First Impressions Matter
Remember walking into a house and instantly knowing it wasn’t for you? Maybe the curb appeal was lacking, or the inside felt dark and cluttered. First impressions are everything.
Make sure your home is welcoming—fresh landscaping, a well-lit entryway, and a neutral, tidy interior can make all the difference.
Declutter and Depersonalize
Think about that one home you toured where every wall was covered in family photos, or the kitchen was overflowing with personal items. You probably took a quick look around to make sure the seller didn’t have a hidden camera behind one of their knick-knacks before joking about the family portrait from 1987!
It’s hard for buyers to picture themselves in a space that feels too much like someone else’s home. Clear the clutter, remove personal items, and create a clean, blank slate that buyers can envision as their own.
Address Small Repairs Before They Become Big Issues
Buyers will notice that leaky faucet, peeling paint, or a door that won’t quite close. While these might seem like minor details, they can leave buyers wondering what else has been neglected. Taking care of small fixes ahead of time signals that your home has been well-maintained and can prevent last-minute negotiation headaches.
Smell M atters More Than You Think
You probably walked into a home or two that made you recall a friend or family member’s home, which can be a nice walk down memory lane… as long as the home it reminded you of didn’t reek of strong pet odors or lingering food smells!
Even if a home looks great, bad odors can be an instant dealbreaker. Before listing, do a deep clean, air out the house, and consider neutral scents to create a fresh, inviting atmosphere.
Listen to Feedback
When you were a buyer, you probably had opinions about nearly every home you toured, and there’s a good chance your agent shared those thoughts with the seller’s agent.
Now that you’re the seller, expect the same from buyers—and don’t take it personally. If multiple people mention the same issue (like an outdated bathroom or a pricing concern), consider making adjustments to improve your chances of selling quickly.
Trust Your Real Estate Agent’s Advice
It might be your first time selling a home, but for a real estate agent, it’s what they do every day. A seasoned agent brings valuable expertise from both the buying and selling side, ensuring you price your home correctly, market it effectively, and navigate negotiations smoothly.
They’ll also help you anticipate potential challenges before they become roadblocks, making the entire process as seamless as possible.

The Takeaway:

Selling your first home can feel overwhelming, but if you shift your mindset and think like a buyer, you’ll set yourself up for success. Price it right, make it easy to show, and present your home in the best possible light. And most importantly, work with a knowledgeable agent who can guide you through the process.

Thinking of Selling Your Home FSBO? The Buyer’s Perspective Might Surprise You

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:55:46 GMT

If you’re considering selling your house “for sale by owner” (FSBO), you probably think now is as good a time as any in history to give it a try.

After all, technology has made it easier to market your house to potential buyers in the market, and there’s a shortage of houses for sale. So how difficult could it be to sell your house on your own?

Apparently not that easy…

Some percentage of homeowners try to sell their house FSBO every year, usually in an attempt to try and save money on commissions. But even though it’s supposedly gotten easier to sell a house, fewer sellers are attempting to do it as each year passes.

According to the 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of REALTORS®, FSBOs dropped to an all-time low of 6% of all home sales in the past year, and there’s been a downward trend over the last 40 years. FSBO sales accounted for up to 21% of home sales back in 1985, but have decreased each year since and have been in the single digits since 2010.

What Makes Selling FSBO So Difficult?

In reality, selling a home isn’t quite as simple as putting up a “For Sale” sign in your yard, and waiting for buyers to pour in. From pricing and marketing to negotiations and paperwork, selling a home involves much more than just finding a buyer.

But even if you have a handle on every aspect and nuance of selling a home, one thing you can’t easily overcome is how buyers think, feel, and act. Unfortunately for FSBO sellers, many buyers are hesitant to consider their properties because they’re concerned about dealing directly with the owner. Here are some reasons why:

Buyers don’t trust FSBOs – Another recent survey found that 43% of FSBOs said buyers simply didn’t trust them because they weren’t represented by an agent. Buyers often wonder why a seller might be choosing to go FSBO. Concerns about undisclosed issues, incomplete paperwork, or even potential discrimination can arise, especially since agents are bound by ethical and legal obligations to disclose certain information that an unrepresented seller may not.

Many buyers want an agent representing them – Just because you’re comfortable trying to represent yourself, that doesn’t mean your ideal buyer is. Buyers often prefer to work with a real estate agent because they not only provide them access to a broad range of listings, but also valuable assistance with paperwork, negotiations, and the inspection process. Most importantly, an agent provides a layer of detachment and negotiation expertise that makes buyers feel secure.

It’s less awkward if they don’t like your house – Even before wanting a buffer between themselves and a seller during negotiations, many buyers like having some space between themselves and the seller just to take a look at a house. Many buyers may avoid scheduling an appointment to see a house directly with an owner because they feel it may be awkward if they don’t like the house. Viewing a home with an agent means they can be honest about their thoughts without the potential awkwardness of sharing them directly with the seller.

It’s often difficult to even schedule a showing with a FSBO – Looking at homes listed by real estate agents makes it easy for buyers to schedule showings at a time that is convenient for them. Many buyers avoid the hassle of having to contact the seller directly, trying to arrange a mutually convenient time, and dealing with any schedule conflicts.

They may just be afraid of going into a stranger’s house – No matter how accommodating and friendly you might be, many potential buyers may just feel concerned for their safety agreeing to enter a stranger’s home without a third party involved.

Those are just a few reasons that FSBOs generally attract a much smaller pool of buyers than homes listed with an agent. So if you’re considering trying to sell your own home, be aware that you’re limiting yourself to buyers who are comfortable buying a home directly from an owner.

If you want to expose your home to the largest possible pool of buyers and sell your house quickly and for the most money possible, your best bet is to list your home with a real estate agent.

The Takeaway:

While selling your home “for sale by owner” (FSBO) might seem tempting to save on commission, it often comes with challenges that limit buyer interest. From trust issues and scheduling hassles to buyer discomfort with unrepresented sales, FSBO properties tend to draw a smaller buyer pool. If you want to maximize your exposure and sale price, working with a real estate agent is most likely going to outweigh any potential savings you’re hoping for.

What Happens When Your Home Listing Expires?

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:01:53 GMT

When you list your home, the hope is that it will sell quickly and profitably. But that isn’t always the case, and in some situations, your home may linger on the market to the point that your listing contract expires.

But if that happens, what does that mean for you, your agent, and your home sale?

A recent article from realtor.com explored some things sellers should know about expired home listings, including:

What does it mean when your listing expires? When you list a home, you sign a contract with a listing agent, and that contract must include an expiration date, which is typically between 3 and 6 months of the initial listing. If that date comes and you haven’t sold your home, your agent no longer officially represents you and your listing will no longer be actively marketed by them. If your home was listed on the local multiple listing service (MLS), it will be removed from there, along with many other real estate marketing platforms.
What if you sell right after your contract expires? Some contracts have a “commission protection period” clause, which means that if you sell shortly after the contract expires, your real estate agent will still receive a commission. Make sure to review your agent contract to see if this clause applies to you, and how long of a timeframe it covers.
What do you do when your listing expires? When your listing expires, you have some things to consider. For example, do you want to continue to list your home, or do you want to pull it from the market? If you decide to create a new listing on the MLS, do you want to change up some things—like tackle some renovations or lower the price of the home—to increase the chance of selling? Do you want to continue working with your listing agent, or do you want to try someone new? Asking yourself these questions will help you figure out the next best steps for your home sale.

Could a 55+ Community Be Right for You?

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:28:17 GMT

If you’re thinking about downsizing, you may be hearing about 55+ communities and wondering if they’d be a good fit for you. Here’s some information that could help you make your decision.

What Is a 55+ Community?

It’s important to note that these communities aren’t just for people who need extra support – they can be pretty vibrant, too. Many people who are downsizing opt for this type of home because they’re looking to be surrounded by people in a similar season of life. U.S. News explains:

“The terms ‘55-plus community,’ ‘active adult community,’ ‘lifestyle communities’ and ‘planned communities’ refer to a setting that caters to the needs and preferences of adults over the age of 55. These communities are designed for seniors who are able to care for themselves but may be looking to downsize to a community with others their same age and with similar interests.”

Why It’s Worth Considering This Type of Home

If that sounds like something that may interest you, here’s one thing to consider. You may find you’ve got a growing list of options if you look at this type of community. According to 55places.com , the number of listings tailored for homebuyers in this age group has increased by over 50% compared to last year.

And a bigger pool of options could make your move much less stressful because it’s easier to find something that’s specifically designed to meet your needs.

Other Benefits of 55+ Communities

On top of that, there are other benefits to seeking out this type of home. An article from 55places.com , highlights just a few:

Lower-Maintenance Living: Tired of mowing the lawn or pulling weeds? Many of these communities take care of this for you. So, you can spend more time doing fun things, and less time on maintenance.
On-Site Amenities: Some feature lifestyle amenities like a clubhouse, fitness center, and more, so it’s easy to stay active. Plus, others offer media rooms, libraries, spas, arts and craft studios, and more.
Like-Minded Neighbors: Additionally, these types of homes usually offer clubs, outings, meet-ups, and more to foster a close-knit community.
Accessible Floor Plans: Not to mention, many have first-floor living options, ample storage spaces, and modern floor plans so you can have a home tailored to this phase in your life.

Bottom Line

If this sounds appealing to you, reach out to a local real estate agent. They’ll be able to walk you through what’s available in your area and the unique amenities for each community. You may find a 55+ home is exactly what you’ve been searching for.

2025 Housing Market Forecasts: What To Expect

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:03:28 GMT

Looking ahead to 2025, it’s important to know what experts are projecting for the housing market. And whether you’re thinking of buying or selling a home next year, having a clear picture of what they’re calling for can help you make the best possible decision for your homeownership plans.

Here’s an early look at the most recent projections on mortgage rates , home sales, and prices for 2025.

Mortgage Rates Are Projected To Come Down Slightly

Mortgage rates play a significant role in the housing market. The forecasts for 2025 from Fannie Mae , the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and Wells Fargo show an expected gradual decline in mortgage rates over the course of the next year ( see chart below ):

Mortgage rates are projected to come down because continued easing of inflation and a slight rise in unemployment rates are key signs of a strong but slowing economy. And many experts believe these signs will encourage the Federal Reserve to lower the Federal Funds Rate, which tends to lead to lower mortgage rates. As Morgan Stanley says:

“With the U.S. Federal Reserve widely expected to begin cutting its benchmark interest rate in 2024, mortgage rates could drop as well—at least slightly.”

Expect More Homes To Sell

The market will see an increase in both the supply of available homes on the market, as well as a rise in demand, as more buyers and sellers who have been sitting on the sidelines because of higher rates choose to make a move. That’s one big reason why experts are projecting an increase in home sales next year.

According to Fannie Mae , MBA, and NAR, total home sales are forecast to climb slightly, with an average of about 5.4 million homes expected to sell in 2025 ( see graph below ):

That would represent a modest uptick from the lower sales numbers in 2023 and 2024. For reference , about 4.8 million total homes were sold in 2023, and expectations are for around 4.5 million homes to sell this year.

While slightly lower mortgage rates are not expected to bring a flood of buyers and sellers back to the market, they certainly will get more people moving. That means more homes available for sale – and competition among buyers who want to purchase them.

Home Prices Will Go Up Moderately

More buyers ready to jump into the market will put continued upward pressure on prices. Take a look at the latest price forecasts from 10 of the most trusted sources in real estate ( see graph below ):

On average, experts forecast home prices will rise nationally by about 2.6% next year. But as you can see, there’s a range of opinions on how much prices will climb. Experts agree, however, that home prices will continue to increase moderately next year at a slower, more normal rate. But keep in mind, prices will always vary by local market.

Bottom Line

Understanding 2025 housing market forecasts can help you plan your next move. Whether you're buying or selling, staying informed about these trends will ensure you make the best decision possible. Reach out to a trusted real estate agent to discuss how these forecasts could impact your plans.

5 Upsides to Downsizing Your Home

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:55:02 GMT

If you’ve been thinking about shrinking your square footage and moving into a smaller home, you’re probably well-aware of the obvious advantages: There’s less to clean, heat, and cool, which means a savings of time and money.

But that’s only the beginning. Downsizing offers several other, less-talked-about benefits that make scaling back very appealing. Take a look at some of the big things you stand to gain by going smaller.

1. Enjoy that equity—you’ve earned it

When you sell a home you’ve owned for years, possibly even decades, chances are you’ll have built up quite a bit of equity as you’ve paid your mortgage month after month.

There’s a good chance that whatever smaller home you buy will cost less than the bigger one you sell. So, you may want to consider taking the left-over cash and fulfill a lifelong dream. Maybe you’ve longed to travel the world? Perhaps you’d like to retire early, or cut back to part-time employment? Having extra funds from the sale of your home allows you to consider these options.

You can also put your mind at ease by paying off debt. If you have outstanding credit card balances or auto loans, save on interest by eliminating these burdens.

A sudden influx of cash enables you to boost your savings. If you don’t have any immediate needs or desires, bank this money for later use. Add to your nest egg by contributing to your IRA, or have more money taken out of your paycheck and put into your retirement plan.

2. Savor newfound time

Owning a smaller home typically means you’ll spend less time maintaining the interior. But don’t forget about the hours you’ll save on outdoor work if you minimize your acreage.

Should you choose to live in a condo or apartment, all that (often back-breaking) exterior work is handled by a maintenance team. Watch and enjoy as your weekly to-do list shrinks in your new slimmed-down setting.

3. This is your chance to make a fresh start

If you’d like to change your lifestyle completely, downsizing is the perfect time to make a fresh start. Embrace the cultural opportunities and mass transit convenience of a big city by finding an urban area that keeps you busy. Or, put down roots in the countryside and enjoy the scenery and sounds of nature.

Whether you’ve wished for a warmer climate, or wanted to move to an area that allows you more time to devote to a hobby like fishing or sailing, this is your chance.

Or, if you opt to stay in the same locale, you can always redecorate to give your new home a fresh feel. Because there’s less area to remodel, giving these spaces a makeover should be more affordable than if you’d tackled a renovation in your former home.

4. Enjoy more togetherness

When you’re not separated by multiple levels and extra space, you’ll find yourself spending a lot more time with family. If you’ve grown tired of yelling upstairs or down to find your partner, pet, or child, moving into a smaller home may offer the togetherness you’ve been missing.

5. Feel better about your carbon footprint

Because you’re in a smaller dwelling, most likely you’re using fewer resources such as electricity, heat, air conditioning, and even water for the lawn.

If you’re in a walkable area, you can also save on gas and feel good about decreasing pollution while keeping more cash in your wallet.

So, if you’ve had downsizing on your mind, don’t forget to consider these additional benefits. It may do more for you and your lifestyle than you had even thought it would!

Thinking About Buying an Investment Property for Your Child to Live in While at College? Ask Yourself These Questions First…

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 20:54:32 GMT

You don’t even need to have a child going to college to know that it costs a ton of money! But when you do have a student about to enter college or already there, you become extremely aware of how much it costs.

For those who aren’t quite there yet, when you hear how much tuition is, that number often doesn’t include room and board. So on top of what the classes cost per year, you need to include housing, which can be a hefty amount.

According to this recent article published by Education Data Initiative, the average room and board cost can range anywhere between a low of around $8,000 to a high of just over $14,000 per year. The average cost varies depending on whether it’s a private or public school, and whether it’s a 2-year or 4-year institution:

A 2-year public school averages $8,360.
A 4-year public school averages $12,640.
A 2-year private school averages $11,380.
A 4 year-private school averages $14,410.

But those are averages, so the actual cost may be higher or lower depending upon the school your child attends, and the type of accommodations they choose. (For example, the fee for a single-occupancy room will likely cost more than living in a dorm room or suite that is shared by multiple students.)

Regardless, no matter where a student goes to college, or what their living arrangements are, a significant amount of money will be spent on their housing. This is why it makes sense for some parents to buy an investment property for their child to live in while in college, according to this recent realtor.com article.

But does it make sense?

Let’s rephrase that… does it make sense for you?

There’s no absolute answer to whether or not it makes sense to buy an investment property for your child to live while at college. It certainly might be a wise decision for some parents and students, but it depends upon many factors. Here are some questions to ask yourself if it’s something you’re considering:

Will your child be allowed to live off campus? Some colleges and universities require students to live on campus, or at least for a period of time. So even if your child is only required to live on campus for their freshman year, you’d only be looking at three years of benefiting from the investment property as a place for them to live.

Does the math make sense? Would buying a place actually be more cost-effective than paying for a dorm? Depending on the real estate market in the area, the cost of buying a place—or even just paying the property taxes—may be more than it would cost to pay for a dorm room.

Is it worth having to pay for repairs and maintenance? It’s almost impossible to put an exact number on, but don’t forget to factor in some costs for emergencies and upkeep each year.

Is your child responsible enough to handle living in their own place and being in charge of it? It can be a great growing and learning experience for a child to live in their own place and be responsible for the day-to-day upkeep. But it can also be overwhelming (or at least distracting) for a student who isn’t quite ready for that kind of responsibility and impacts their ability to focus on their studies.

Are you counting on other students to also pay rent? One way many people justify the cost of buying a place is that they’re able to defray the cost by having other students pay rent to live there as well. If that’s your plan, try to make sure you have some other students your child feels comfortable living with who are committed to renting there, and have them sign a lease. It’s easy for a student to say they want to live there, but it’s easy for them to back out, or have their parents not agree to the arrangement. If you’re counting on tenants that don’t pan out, you could end up paying more than you would for a dorm room.

Are you prepared for the potential risks and liability? Not to say that your child is a party animal, but if you’re being completely honest with yourself, you probably know that any place you buy might be the site of a keg party or two. Unfortunately, parties can lead to problems and potential legal issues.

Or, will your child miss out on the social scene? On the other hand, living off campus may mean your child is left out of the loop and binds that are created when students live together in a dorm, especially if they start living off-campus in their first year. Of course, your child may prefer that if they’re not a social butterfly…

What if your student decides to transfer? Many students end up transferring to another school after a year or two. What would you do if your child left the area? Keep it and rent it out, or sell it?

Will it appreciate enough over the course of their time at school to offset the closing costs, carrying costs, and selling costs if you decide to sell it? It’s impossible to predict how much (or if) a house will appreciate during a period of time. Keep in mind that you may not make a profit after four years of college.

Will it be easy to sell when your child graduates or transfers? It’s also impossible to predict how long it will take to sell a house when you want to, but if there typically aren’t a lot of buyers in the area you’re considering, be aware that it might take some time to sell when you decide to. If it can’t be sold readily, be prepared to hold onto it as a rental, and have a plan for who will manage and maintain it at that point, once your child has moved out of the area.

Those questions aren’t meant to scare you away from buying an investment property for your child to live in while at college, they’re meant to help make sure you make a well-informed decision.

If you feel like it’s the right decision for you and your child, reach out to your local real estate agent and ask them to recommend the best investment-savvy agent they can find in the area of your child’s school to help you make the best purchase possible!

The Takeaway:

College is expensive, and tuition doesn’t usually include room and board, which adds significantly to the cost. The average annual room and board costs can range from $8,000 to $14,000, depending on the type of school and whether it’s public or private. Given these costs, some parents consider buying an investment property for their child to live in during college.

However, whether this makes sense depends on several factors: campus housing policies, cost comparisons between dorms and buying a property, maintenance responsibilities, the child’s readiness to manage a property, reliance on rental income from other students, potential legal liabilities, social impacts on the child, and the property’s future value and ease of sale.

These considerations are important to ensure a well-informed decision. If it seems like the right choice for you and your child, ask your local real estate agent to recommend the best investment-savvy agent they can find in the area of your child’s school to help you make the best purchase possible.

Buying a Home? Don’t Make These Mortgage Mistakes

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:50:42 GMT

Buying a home can be a complex process, especially when it comes to getting a mortgage, and because it’s so complex, many people make mistakes along the way. But messing up your mortgage can cost you in a major way, and could even put your home purchase in jeopardy.

So, the question is, what are the common mistakes people make when getting a mortgage, and how can you avoid them when buying your home?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined different mistakes home buyers make when getting a mortgage, including:

Waiting to buy a home until they have a 20 percent down payment. Having a 20 percent down payment (or more) is certainly ideal when buying a home, as it allows you to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI). But it’s not an absolute must, and sometimes, if you wait to make a move until you hit the 20 percent savings mark, you run the risk of interest rates rising in the future, which can end up increasing the costs over the life of your loan even more than paying PMI would have. Instead, talk to your lender to see what your options are, and assess if it makes sense for you to buy with your current savings and lock in a lower interest rate.

Meeting with only one lender. If you only meet with one mortgage lender — which, according to the article, is about 50 percent of all homebuyers in the US — you could be missing out on potential savings. Different lenders offer different interest rates, and if you only speak to one lender, you don’t know if you’d be able to get a more competitive rate elsewhere. To ensure you’re getting the best possible deal on your mortgage, aim to talk to three lenders; then, you can compare their offers (including interest rates and loan fees) to determine which is the best option for you.

Changing jobs. If you’re considering applying for a mortgage, it’s best to wait until after you’ve closed on your new home. Lenders typically want to see at least two years of consistent employment and income history, and changing jobs right before or during the lending process could put your ability to secure a mortgage at risk. If it’s at all possible, wait until after you’ve successfully purchased a home to switch jobs.

Clearing up 9 Misconceptions about the Recent Real Estate Settlement

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:40:41 GMT

You’ve probably heard all sorts of things in the news regarding the recently proposed settlement that the National Association of Realtors announced regarding a court case over how real estate commissions are paid.

Unfortunately, many of the things you’ve heard probably aren’t completely (or even remotely) true, because they’re coming from people outside the industry, who don’t truly understand it themselves.

Here’s a breakdown of 9 misconceptions about the real estate settlement, to help you separate fact from fiction:

1) The Settlement Broke Up a “Cartel”

There are millions of agents in the industry, and we’re all competing against each other in our local markets, even when we work at the same company and office. Our brokers and managers legally can’t even tell us what time to work each day, or how to do our work, because we’re almost all independent contractors, let alone how much to charge for our services.

Beyond that, it’s hard enough to get agents to agree on whether or not open houses are worthwhile! Agents are fiercely independent, and most of us have our own (very strong) opinions on how to run our business. So there’s no chance the entire industry was in cahoots to inflate commissions.

2) 6% Was the “Standard” Commission

Another thing you’d probably find difficult is getting an agent to even say the word “standard” to describe anything regarding real estate. One of the first things agents are taught when we enter the business is that there is no “standard” commission, and we’re told to not even discuss commission rates at all with other agents. You should see how quickly agents pounce on any agent who even says the word “percent” in an online forum. Most agents want nothing to do with any discussion that even hints at the topic.

Beyond that, the average real estate commission fluctuates from year to year, and hasn’t even been as high as 6% since 1992, according to Statista ! Yet, 32 years later, people somehow think that’s a rate the industry has been working together to maintain. Who is creating that perception, and why?!

3) This Is the First Time Real Estate Commissions Have Ever Been Negotiable

Many headlines, and even President Biden , claim that this is the first time in history that real estate agents have agreed that people can negotiate lower commissions when they buy or sell a home.

Just refer back to #2 above and it’s obvious that people have been negotiating different commission rates for many years, otherwise, commission rates would be the same across the board from year to year.

4) Sellers Never Had a Say in How Much Buyers’ Agents Were Offered

Technically, a seller agrees to pay their listing agent a certain amount. Part of that agreement sets forth how much of that amount the listing agent will agree to offer to a buyers’ agent who brings a qualified buyer if they end up buying the house.

As mentioned above, the amount the seller agrees to pay their listing agent has been negotiable, which includes having been able to negotiate how much goes to the buyers’ agent.

5) Sellers Will No Longer Be Allowed to Offer Buyers’ Agents a Commission

While the settlement proposes any offer of buyer agent compensation won’t be allowed to be displayed on an association-owned multiple listing system (MLS), sellers are certainly allowed to offer buyers’ agents a commission and have their agent make it known through other platforms and marketing materials.

6) Anyone Who Sold a Home Before Is Entitled to Money From the Settlement (And Lots of It!)

In order to receive any money from the settlement, you have to be part of the class action. But even if you are, don’t expect a huge payday. As is often the case, the ones who will have a substantial payday are the lawyers, while the home sellers each receive a small amount of compensation, which is yet to be determined.

7) Real Estate Agents Have to Charge Less Now

Nothing in the settlement says that an agent has to charge less for their services. Just as nobody could tell an agent they had to charge 6% before, nobody can tell an agent they’re not allowed to set their fees at whatever they like moving forward — whether they choose to lower, or raise their rates, or the array of services they offer at any particular rate.

8) Home Prices Will Come down Substantially and Make Them More Affordable Now

Real estate market values are determined by supply and demand. Sellers can only sell their house for as much as a buyer is ready, willing, and able to pay for it at any given moment in time. While commissions are often an expense within the sales price of a home, they do not impact how much buyers in the market are willing to pay for a home.

9) The Settlement Is Good News for Buyers Because They Can Avoid Working With an Agent and Save Money

This really depends upon who the buyer is…

Some buyers might feel like this is a win in that they can now opt to *not* have a buyers’ agent represent them, and avoid having the cost of a buyers’ agent in the purchase. But it probably won’t be that straightforward.

First, sellers aren’t necessarily going to agree to accept a lower price than the market will bear, just because you don’t have an agent. Beyond that, buyers who try to go through the process without an agent may find it difficult to navigate the process on their own or get the best results.

For those who want to work with a buyers’ agent, the settlement will require them to sign an agreement for representation, agree upon how much compensation their agent will receive, and possibly pay for the services of their own agent directly. However, the compensation may very well be offered by many sellers anyway, and even if it’s not, it’s possible to negotiate it into the purchase price.

Temporary Buy Down

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:47:59 GMT

Are you ready to make your dream of homeownership a reality? If so, you'll want to explore the fantastic option of Temporary Buy Down, which can offer you significant benefits during the initial stages of your mortgage.

What is a Temporary Buy Down?
It's a fantastic way to lower your initial mortgage payments, whether buying or selling a home. There are two types: seller/borrower paid and lender paid.

Seller/borrower paid involves setting aside funds to lower payments for a set period. This can be a great incentive for buyers, as it lowers their monthly payments and can even be rolled into the price of the home. Plus, it helps sellers without reducing the home's sale price.

On the other hand, lender paid involves the lender covering the buy down fee. While this may result in a slightly higher long-term rate, it offers a lower start rate during the buy down period, making it attractive when interest rates decrease.

What are the benefits? Here's a quick rundown:

Lower initial mortgage rates, allowing you to have a lower monthly payment
Improve cash flow during the buy down period
Save money in a declining rate environment
Great for when interest rates are high

If you have questions or want to learn more about how Temporary Buy Down can work for you, please to reach out anytime. I'm here to help you!

Want to Pay off Your Mortgage Faster? These Strategies Can Help

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 23:57:02 GMT

A home is a big purchase. Because it’s such a big purchase, it can take a long time to pay it off, oftentimes as long as 30 years.

But it doesn’t have to take that long! You can pay off your mortgage in a shorter time frame if you use the right strategies.

A recent article from realtor.com outlined strategies homeowners can use to pay off their mortgages quickly — without going broke in the process — including:

Make one extra payment per year. It may seem like making a single extra mortgage payment per year wouldn’t make much of a difference, but those single payments add up. Making one extra payment per year can help you knock about four years off of a 30-year mortgage.
Pad each monthly payment. Another strategy that can knock some time off your mortgage is to add a bit extra to your payment each month. For example, let’s say you have a $200,000 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 4 percent. Over the course of that loan, you’d pay more than $143,000 in interest. However, adding $100 to your monthly payment would allow you to pay off the loan about five years sooner—and save almost $27,000 in interest in the process.
Refinance to a shorter-term loan. If you bought your home when interest rates were higher than they are today, then refinancing to a shorter-term loan (like a 10 or 15-year fixed-rate mortgage) can not only help you pay off your home faster, but also save a significant amount of interest in the process. Just keep in mind that your monthly payments will likely increase because you’re shortening the length of time to pay off the balance, and you’ll also have to pay closing costs when you refinance. Before you refinance, talk to a lender to make sure that the pros outweigh the cons.

Buying a Home? Here’s What Home Inspectors Want You to Know

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 21:34:51 GMT

A home inspection is an important part of the buying process, which is why there are certain things that home inspectors wish they could tell buyers before the inspection to make the process easier, smoother, and less stressful for everyone involved.

So what, exactly, are those things?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined the top things home inspectors wish buyers knew, including:

Expect problems. Many buyers panic when they get an inspection report and see a list of issues with the home. But, according to inspectors, many of these issues aren’t a reason to panic. Even homes that are in great shape will have at least some problems come through on the inspection, so don’t panic when those problems come through. Instead, remind yourself that almost everything is fixable, and once you know what the issues are, you can then take steps to address them, or have the sellers address them before the sale is finalized.

Take care of water ASAP. While many maintenance issues can be dealt with on a somewhat flexible timeline, according to inspectors, one issue that needs to be dealt with ASAP is water. While water-related issues don’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s important to deal with them before (or immediately after) moving in; otherwise, you could find yourself dealing with significant water damage and the expenses that go with it.

Home inspectors can’t predict the future. Often, buyers want inspectors to speak in certainties. For example, they want to know exactly when a home’s roof will need to be replaced. But inspectors can’t predict the future. What they can do is give you insight into the current condition of the property and, in certain cases, a rough estimate of how much longer different elements (like a roof) will last. So, while it’s fine to ask your inspector to explain or expand on their findings, don’t ask them to tell you exactly what’s going to happen with the home in the upcoming years, because they can’t read the future any better than you can.

Assumable Mortgages Are a Great Way to Get a Better Rate When Buying a House… If You Can Get One

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 22:55:42 GMT

With mortgage rates hovering in the 7% range, being able to snag yourself a mortgage with a much lower interest rate probably sounds very appealing. This is why a new company called Roam has been all over the news recently, after recently launching a platform to help home buyers find mortgages they can assume for as low as 2%.

You’re probably thinking that sounds a little too good to be true, but certainly worth looking into if it’s even remotely possible. And you’d be right on both accounts.

Assumable mortgages aren’t a new thing; they’re no more available now than they were last week, last month, or last year. Roam is just trying to make it easier to find houses that are for sale and the owner has an assumable mortgage at an interest rate that’s lower than current market rates.

As you can imagine, they’d like to get paid for connecting you to a sweetheart mortgage rate. So be ready to pay them a fee of 1% of the mortgage you assume. For example, if the mortgage you assume is $400,000, you’d have to pay them $4,000, which isn’t bad considering the savings you’ll reap over the life of the loan.

The real catch is that their service is currently only available in five states: Georgia, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Florida. So if you’re not looking to buy in any of those states, it’s no easier to find a house you can buy with an assumable mortgage. Even if you do, you’re probably not going to find an all-inclusive list of homes that you can buy with an assumable mortgage, because it’s new to the market, and it relies on homeowners registering their house on the site.

You Don’t Need Roam To Buy A House With An Assumable Mortgage

Even though Roam may not be the solution for you that doesn’t mean you can’t find an assumable mortgage and buy a house at a lower interest rate!

In fact, it may be better to do it without relying on a website with limited inventory. If you were to only focus on houses being listed on a site like Roam — even if they did service your area — there’s a good chance you’d be missing out on other houses on the market that you like more, or better fit your needs.

If you want to try and buy a house with an assumable mortgage, here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

Look for homes in your price range and find one you like. In other words, do what every home buyer does and just shop for a home you truly want.
Find out if the owner has an assumable mortgage. When you find one you want to buy, have your agent ask the seller’s agent if the owner has an assumable loan and if they’d be agreeable to letting you assume theirs. Not all mortgages are assumable. FHA, USDA, and VA loans typically are (as long as both parties meet the criteria) but conventional loans — even if they’re backed by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae — typically aren’t.
Keep in mind that some owners may not be interested in going through the process or risk of working with a buyer to have their mortgage assumed, especially if they have other interested buyers who are going more traditional routes with their mortgage, or paying cash. They’ll also most likely expect you (and the lender) to sign paperwork releasing them of any responsibility for the loan moving forward because even if you assume their mortgage, they’d still be responsible for the debt if you default.
Find out if the rate and terms they have are worth assuming. Just because they have an assumable mortgage doesn’t mean they have a rate or terms that would be agreeable to you! It may seem like every current homeowner has a 2% mortgage rate, but not all do. And while most terms of the mortgage are likely to be fairly boilerplate, you still should review the entirety of the terms of their mortgage before investing time or energy into assuming it.
A ssess if it’s even financially doable for you. When you assume a mortgage, you take over the amount they still owe, not the purchase price amount. So, for example, if you were buying a house for $400,000, and the owner had a remaining mortgage of $100,000, you either have to have $300,000 cash to give to the seller, or take out a second mortgage to make up the difference. On the other hand, if you were purchasing for $400,000 and they still owed $360,000, then that’s equivalent to a 10% down payment which many buyers have and are expecting to put down on a house.

NOTE: If you do need a second mortgage to make up the difference, know that the original lender and/or the secondary lender may be hesitant to approve you for a loan because they don’t like taking a “back seat” to each other in case the buyer defaults. If you default, one of the banks is first in line to recoup their money, while the other has to hope there’s enough equity for them to get paid back.

Make your offer contingent upon approval of the assumed mortgage. Just like any other mortgage, you’ll need to apply with the homeowners lender and get approved by them to assume the loan. So make sure you have a mortgage contingency in case you’re not approved by the lender.
Apply for the mortgage and go through underwriting. You still have to apply for the loan through the sellers’ lender and qualify and get approved by the lender, as you would with any other lender.

Trying to find a house that even has an assumable mortgage takes some effort, and there’s still no guarantee that the owner will agree to let you assume it, or that the bank will approve you. But it’s at least worth a shot if it means saving a lot of money on your monthly mortgage payments, and the life of the loan.

The Takeaway:

A new company called Roam recently launched a platform to try and connect buyers with sellers who have assumable mortgages, which aims to help buyers obtain a mortgage at lower rates than most loans are currently at. However, they only serve a limited area and do not have an all-inclusive inventory of homes on the market.

Fortunately, you don’t need a company to help you find and obtain an assumable mortgage. You can always find out if the owner of a home you want to buy has an assumable mortgage, and if they’re agreeable to letting you assume it, you can apply for the mortgage through their lender. While it may take some effort, and there’s no guarantee that an assumable mortgage will be available on the home you truly want, it’s at least worth looking into in order to try and save money on your monthly payments, and the life of the loan.

Don’t Ignore Little Problems Around Your House, Because It Could Impact Your Insurance Coverage

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 06:54:02 GMT

Do you have some loose or missing shingles on your roof? Are your gutters pulling away from the house causing rain to pool at your foundation? Got any annoying leaks in your kitchen or bathroom? Or is there a bit of mold on your bathroom ceiling because of the steam of long hot showers?

If you have any of these, or other things that need to be fixed around your home, you’re not alone. Homeowners often learn to live with certain problems around their house, promising themselves they’ll get around to it eventually, for any number of reasons, such as:

They just don’t have the time to fix things.
They don’t have the ability to fix things on their own.
They can’t spare the money it’ll take for materials or to pay someone to fix it.
It can be difficult to find a contractor who is responsive or willing to deal with smaller jobs.
It’s not all that appealing to spend money on things that don’t have a “wow” factor or give you pleasure, like a new kitchen or bathroom renovation.
Unfortunately, ignoring smaller issues around your home can snowball into a bigger problem than you might think.

Insurance Covers Unexpected Events… Not Ones You Let Happen

According to Simply Insurance, recent statistics show that over 95% of U.S. homeowners have homeowner’s insurance. This is in part due to the fact that it just makes good sense to protect yourself from large catastrophic losses, but it’s also in large part due to the fact that anyone who has a mortgage is likely required to have homeowner’s insurance by their lender. (In fact, if you don’t maintain payments on your own policy, they’ll buy a policy of their choice and make you pay for it… and it’s usually more expensive than one you would have gotten on your own.)

So, while you might be aware that the longer you ignore problems with your house the more damage can be done, you might be comfortable taking that risk, since you most likely have insurance. Some people might even think that putting it off until it gets even worse and causes major damage could work to their advantage, thinking they can just file an insurance claim and get the work paid for that way!

While it might be appealing to get your money’s worth from your homeowner’s policy, it could easily backfire and cost you more than just taking care of issues before they get worse. Kiplinger recently published an article about how delaying repairs can actually put your homeowner’s insurance policy at risk. Within the article, Beth Riczko, president of Nationwide’s P&C Personal Lines was interviewed and said:

“As a homeowner, it’s important to protect your property from further damage when there is a known issue. When a claim is filed, there are many factors reviewed during the investigation that may impact whether the claim is covered, including if the insured followed policy conditions. For example, when shingles are damaged on a roof and aren’t repaired causing interior damage, there could be coverage impacts.”

In other words, not only will your insurance not cover the loose roof shingles the homeowner ignored for some time, it won’t cover the damage done to the inside of the house because of it! So the homeowner now has to pay for the roof and all of the interior damage. On top of that, now that the insurance company is aware of the issue, they may demand that you fix the problems immediately, or threaten to cancel your coverage.

So if you notice that work needs to be done around your house, and it’s something your insurance company or their adjuster could reasonably expect that you would have noticed and ignored, you ought to take care of the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. Here are a few tips on how to fix any issues you come across:

If you’re handy, roll up your sleeves and get it done. No matter how busy you are, carve out some time as soon as you become aware of an issue.
Not handy? Perhaps it’s easier than you think to become handy! Check out some how-to videos on YouTube; you’ll be amazed at how easily some things can be fixed with a little know-how you can find for free online.
Find a contractor or “handyman” you can rely on in your area. Ask friends for recommendations, or look at local forums on social media to find posts about who people recommended and hired in the area. It’s not only a good way to find out who you can trust to do good work, but also to hear from other people about how their pricing is.
Reach out to your favorite real estate agent. He or she can be an incredible source of information on who to hire, and might even have some insights into how to add some pizzazz or value to your home when getting the work done.

The Takeaway:

If you have some minor issues around your house that you’ve been ignoring, make sure to address them as soon as possible. Otherwise, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover any bigger damage that is caused due to you not fixing the smaller issues over time.

Want a New Home but Don’t Want to Lose Your Low Mortgage Rate? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About “Porting” Your Current Rate

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 17:41:06 GMT

Want to buy a new home, but don’t want to let go of your super-low mortgage rate? Depending on your loan and situation, there may be something you can do to buy a new property and retain your mortgage rate — a practice known as “porting” a mortgage.

But what, exactly, is a mortgage port, and how do you know if you qualify? A recent article from realtor.com answered frequently asked questions about porting a mortgage, including:

What is mortgage porting? When you port a mortgage, you transfer your existing mortgage to a new property, which means you get to keep the same interest rate on your loan. However, in order to port a mortgage, you’ll generally need to reapply and get approved for your current loan again.

What mortgages are eligible for porting? Porting a mortgage can be a great way to buy a new home without sacrificing your competitive interest rate. But, unfortunately, not all mortgages are portable. For example, some lenders allow porting while others don’t. You’re also unable to port a mortgage if you have a variable rate loan, or if you’re buying a home that costs less than the balance of your existing mortgage.

What homeowners are eligible to port a mortgage? In addition to your mortgage being eligible for porting, as a homeowner, you also need to qualify by meeting your lender’s eligibility criteria, and showing a reliable payment history on your mortgage.

Late Making a Mortgage Payment? Here’s What You Need to Know

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 18:06:12 GMT

It’s extremely important to pay your mortgage on time every month. But sometimes, things don’t work out that way, and you may not have the cash needed to pay your mortgage when it’s due.

So what, exactly, happens if you’re late making a mortgage payment?

A recent article from realtor.com answered common questions around what happens if you’re late paying your mortgage, including:

Will you get hit with a late fee?

While all loans offer a grace period to help borrowers avoid late fees — which are typically between 7 and 15 days — if you submit your payment after the grace period ends, you’ll likely be hit with a late fee, which is usually anywhere between 4% and 5% of the amount of the overdue payment.

Will a late mortgage payment impact your credit score?

Generally, mortgage lenders won’t report a late payment until it’s 60 days past due. So, as long as you pay your missed mortgage payment before that two month mark, it shouldn’t impact your credit. However, if your payment goes beyond 60 days past due, and it gets reported to the credit bureaus, it could cause your credit score to drop anywhere between 60 and 110 points, depending on your prior credit history.

Will the bank attempt to foreclose on your home after a missed payment?

Your lender won’t go after your home after a single mortgage payment. However, that changes if you fail to make your payment for three months, as your mortgage is considered in default when your payment is more than 90 days past due. If you get to that point, the bank will send you a letter that your mortgage is in default, and generally give you another 90 days to repay the missed payment. If you still can’t cover the missed payment, the lender will likely start the foreclosure process.

©JVDreamHomes2023

Owning vs. Renting a Home: An Honest Analysis of which Scenario Makes You Wealthier

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 15:27:38 GMT

If you rent a place to live, you might feel like people judge you for not buying a house, or at least make you feel like you should want to buy a house eventually. But buying a house isn’t something everyone wants (or is able) to do!

So you might appreciate what Ramit Sethi — a self-made millionaire who teaches people how to build wealth and get rich — recently said: “Renting can make you wealthier than owning a home.”

However, “can” is the keyword in that sentence.

He’s not wrong saying that renters shouldn’t feel bad, or like they’re failures for not owning a home. It’s the right decision for many people for a variety of scenarios, lifestyles, and reasons. But to say that renting a home is a better way to become wealthy than owning one is a bit misleading.

Let’s break down why it can make you wealthier, but probably won’t:

1. You have to be paying less for a rental than you could to own a home. According to his advice, you simply rent a place for considerably less than it would cost you to buy a place. This isn’t always possible, depending upon where you live. Sometimes owning is less expensive, or it’s not a significant enough amount of savings to do anything with.

2. You need to invest the amount you save by renting versus owning a home in some other form of investment. In theory this is great, but the reality is, many people won’t actually invest the amount they save by renting. A lot of people tend to use the extra cash on hand to enjoy things they want to buy and do. If they do, the investments then have to be safe enough to not lose money, but aggressive enough to make a return on investment greater than owning a home would produce in the long term.

3. Buying a home forces you to invest. By buying a house, you’re paying down the mortgage and gaining equity over the years. While many people aren’t great about saving and investing, most people are pretty good about making sure they’re always making enough to pay for their basic needs and costs, like their rent or mortgage payment; people are driven to protect the roof over their head.

4. The majority of peoples’ wealth is built through homeownership. The National Association of Home Builders reported that according to the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances, homeowners had a median net worth of $255,000 (much of it through equity in their home), which was more than 40 times the median net worth of $6,300 for renters. So, while it’s possible, it isn’t statistically common for renters to become wealthier than homeowners.

5. Rent prices continue to rise over the years. According to a Forbes article, other than rents coming down between 1940-1950, rents have gone up every decade since. So you’ll always be paying more for a place to live as the years go by.

6. Your mortgage payment can stay more or less the same for 30 years when you own a house. If you buy a house using a fixed rate mortgage, your payment will be relatively the same for the life of the loan, other than slight bumps up due to property tax increases and insurance rates. But while your payment doesn’t go up much, the value of your house (and your net worth) will likely be higher at that point.

7. Eventually, you won’t have a mortgage to pay. Rent never ends, but you can eventually pay off your mortgage. You’ll still have to pay for insurance and property taxes, but it will likely be less than whatever you’d have to pay in rent somewhere else. Having to pay rent that can continually increase, or have to move because your landlord decided to sell, or not renew your lease gets harder and harder the older you get.

Although it’s possible to become wealthier by renting, it doesn’t mean you will become wealthy simply because you rent a home instead of buying one. You need to crunch the numbers and see if you can save a significant amount of money by renting in your area, and then be diligent about investing the money you save.

That said, owning a home isn’t the best choice for everyone, and it also isn’t a guarantee that you’ll become wealthy. However, time and data show that homeowners tend to be wealthier than renters in the long run.

The Takeaway:

Can you become wealthier by renting a home rather than owning? Sure. But you need to be disciplined and profitably invest the amount you save by renting versus owning in some other forms of investment, which many people aren’t good about doing.

But most people are good about making sure they keep a roof over their head by paying their monthly rent or mortgage. By buying a house and paying your mortgage down over the years, you’ll gain equity and wealth you wouldn’t have as a tenant paying rent each month.

©JVDreamHomes2023

Buying a Home? Watch Out for These Red Flags

Fri, 05 May 2023 19:26:43 GMT

A home is a big investment, so when you’re investing in a property, you want to make sure it’s a good investment. While there aren’t any ways to know definitively, there are red flags to look for that could indicate a home is a less-than-ideal investment.

So what, exactly, are those flags?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined the red flags you’ll want to look for when buying a home, including:

Questionable tiling. Kitchen and/or bathroom tiling that’s uneven (either with the tiles themselves or the gaps between the tiles) often indicates a DIY job. Whether the previous owner took tiling into their own hands and did a shoddy job, or they hired a contractor that didn’t know what they were doing, chances are, you’ll find similar issues with other home renovations and could be looking at a serious investment to fix everything up.

Foundation issues. While hairline cracks in a home’s foundation are fairly common, if the home you’re looking at has large gaps in the foundation, it likely points to a larger, extremely expensive problem to fix.

Signs that property maintenance wasn’t a priority. Regular home maintenance tasks—like changing the air filters, flushing the water heater, and re-caulking around windows and doors—can help preserve a home’s value and avoid expensive repairs. If there are signs that the previous homeowner neglected these tasks, consider it a red flag that you might be facing costly repairs if you buy the home.

Have Your Down Payment Saved? Make Sure to Set Some Money Aside for These Closing Costs

Sat, 08 Apr 2023 15:34:36 GMT

Saving for a down payment can be one of the biggest hurdles on the road to homeownership. And once you have that down payment set aside, you might think that you have all the cash you need to successfully buy your home.

However, that’s not entirely true. In addition to your down payment, you’ll also need money to cover your closing costs.

But what, exactly, are the costs you need to save for, even after you’ve got your down payment covered? A recent article from realtor.com outlined common closing costs you’ll need to cover when buying a home, including:

Inspection and appraisal fees. If you’re buying your home with a mortgage, you’ll need to get an appraisal. Also, whether you’re buying your home with a mortgage or not, you should also get a home inspection. Make sure to set aside money to cover the fees for both.

Discount points. Buying discount points is a great way to lower the rate on your mortgage and save money in the long run. But you’ll have to pay to buy those discount points at closing, so it’s important to understand the costs before you arrive at the closing table.

Home insurance. Your home is one of the biggest investments (if not the biggest investment) you’ll ever make in your life, so you’ll need to secure home insurance before closing. The good news? There are tons of different insurance companies, agencies, and policies available, so if you do some research and shop around, you should be able to find coverage and a rate that works with your budget.

©JVDreamHomes2023

Quiz: 10 Questions to See If You Will Make the Right Choices When Selling Your House

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 21:47:47 GMT

You certainly don’t have to take classes or pass an exam if you want to sell your house. All you have to do is hire a great real estate agent who had to do both of those things in order to help you sell your house quickly and for the most money possible.

Even if you took the same classes and tests your agent took to become an agent, it’d be difficult for you to know everything you need to know. Much of the insight and knowledge that makes your agent so effective at getting you the best results comes from experience actually selling houses, not from real estate school.

However, the more you know and understand about the best decisions ahead of time, the better off you’ll be. So here’s a quick quiz to help you see what decisions you’d get right, and learn from the ones you get wrong so you will be prepared to listen to the advice of your agent when the time comes.

(The answers are at the bottom…but no peeking!)

1. Before listing your house, you should:

a) Renovate the kitchen and bathrooms.
b) Paint every room in the house.
c) Leave it as-is and let the buyer renovate and fix everything.
d) Speak with your real estate agent about what is worth fixing up and what is not, and doing those things.

2. How should you determine your listing price?

a) Use what the Zestimate says your house is worth.
b) Add 10% to what the Zestimate says.
c) Use an amount close to what your agent recommends, based upon a thorough market analysis.
d) Add up how much you owe on the mortgage, how much you spent on renovations and upgrades over the years, and how much more money you want to walk away with, and use the total of those as your listing price.

3. Which agent should you hire from the list below?

a) The one who had the highest suggested listing price.
b) The one who is honest with you about the value of your home, even if you threaten to list with another agent who said your house was worth more.
c) The one who has the nicest car.
d) The one who is with the biggest company in the area.

4. When filling out the sellers disclosure form about things you know are wrong with the house, you should:

a) Only list the things you think are obvious and that the buyer or their inspector will actually notice or figure out.
b) Don’t list any issues you may know about; it’s the inspectors job to find these things, and if they don’t find them, you’re not responsible.
c) Be honest about everything you know is or has been an issue with the house and disclose them all.
d) Have your agent fill it out for you.

5. When should you let buyers come see your house?

a) On Saturdays and Sundays only.
b) Only when the agent has an open house.
c) Establish a rigid set of hours on only certain days of the week that work for you, and refuse to let buyers come at a time that works best for them.
d) Whenever a buyer wants to come see your house…within reason.

6. If your house isn’t getting many showings or offers after being on the market for a while, you should:

a) Reduce the price.
b) Get angry with your agent and ask for more marketing.
c) Give it a fresh coat of paint.
d) Blame the market.

7. When buyers are coming to see the house, you should:

a) Be there to show them around the house room by room, and point out all of the upgrades and details they might miss.
b) Get the heck out of there and let the buyer and their agent have the freedom to look without you breathing down their neck.
c) Be there, just in case they have any questions, but give them space so they feel like you aren’t there. Try to stay about a room away, so you’ll be able to listen to every word they say.
d) Not be home, but make sure you have spy cams set up to see and hear them.

8. If you receive a low-ball offer you should:

a) Get really angry and not respond.
b) Get really angry and tell the buyer to get lost.
c) Get really angry and give the buyer a firm counter-offer and tell them they can take it or leave it, but you won’t budge any more than that.
d) Stay calm and respond with a thoughtful counter-offer and see if you can eventually get them to come up to a reasonable and acceptable amount you’re willing to accept.

9. If a buyer submits home inspection requests for repairs or credits, you should:

a) Tell them that those things have been like that for years, and you’ve been fine living with them like that, so you’re not willing to fix them.
b) Hire the appropriate professionals to fix every single thing the inspector noted on the report.
c) Review the buyers requests and be willing to negotiate which items will be done and which items will not be addressed.
d) Fix everything yourself, even if they should be done by a licensed contractor.

10. When moving out, make sure to:

a) Leave it as clean as possible and don’t leave anything behind without the buyer saying (in writing) that it’s ok for you to leave behind.
b) Leave every single paint can with leftover paint from any time the house was painted since it was originally built, just in case the buyer wants to “touch up” some areas.
c) Leave piles of trash at the curb because the garbage collectors will definitely pick it all up, no problem.
d) Wait until the last minute to pack, and expect the buyers to be okay with you coming back to get stuff once they own the house and move in.

OK, let’s see how you did on the quiz! Here are the correct answers:

1. d) Speak with your real estate agent about what is worth fixing up and what is not, and doing those things. (Sometimes it makes sense to renovate or fix things in your house before listing it. But sometimes you’re better off not spending the time or money on something that won’t produce a good return on your investment, or help get your house sold. Your agent can advise you on what to do, and what not to do, in order to maximize your sale price and net profit.)

2. c) Use an amount close to what your agent recommends, based upon a thorough market analysis. (Zestimates—or any other online valuation—are often inaccurate, so don’t put too much stock in any of them when pricing your house. And while the amount you owe on your house, any money you’ve invested into it, and how much you want to clear are relevant for you to consider, they do not impact how much your house is actually worth on the market. Your agent will do what is called a comparative market analysis—also known as a CMA—which compares your house to several others that are similar in size, condition, and location to determine the approximate value your house is worth.)

3. b) The one who is honest with you about the value of your home, even if you threaten to list with another agent who said they’d agree to list your house for more than it’s worth. (It’s not easy for an agent to stay firm about their honest recommendation on a list price when an owner wants to hear that their house is worth more money. But it’s even harder to do so when other agents are willing to let you list it for higher than you should. Sometimes agents will agree to let a seller list it for whatever they want, in order to just get the listing, and then encourage you to lower your price after being on the market a while. Unfortunately, listing for higher than the data indicates will probably lead to you having to reduce your price…and could easily cause you to sell your house for less than the initial recommendation.)

4. c) Be honest about everything you know is or has been an issue with the house and disclose them all. (Your agent can’t even coach you on what to disclose or not disclose, let alone fill the disclosure out for you. And you shouldn’t try to hide anything you know is wrong with the house, unless you enjoy the thought of being sued for failing to disclose a problem. You should be honest and disclose everything and anything you know is wrong with the house, or has been an issue that you have resolved.)

5. d) Whenever a buyer wants to come see your house…within reason. (Buyers don’t only look at houses on weekends or when there’s an open house. In fact, the most motivated buyers will most likely come see your house as quickly as possible, which may be during the week. The easier you make it for buyers to come and see your house at a time that works for them and their agent, the more quickly your house will get sold, and the less time you’ll have to deal with buyers coming in and out of your house.)

6. a) Reduce the price. (You will most likely see all of the current buyers in your price range come through your house within the first couple of weeks of listing. If you don’t receive an offer, or the showings have tapered off after a few weeks of being on the market, you should consider reducing the price.)

7. b) Get the heck out of there and let the buyer and their agent have the freedom to look without you breathing down their neck. (Buyers and their agents need to feel free to look around and talk about what they’re thinking and feeling with each other, without the owner present…in plain sight or otherwise. They don’t need you to show them around or point things out. So make sure you’re not home, and don’t eavesdrop on your potential buyers with any sneaky tech devices.)

8. d) Stay calm and respond with a thoughtful counter-offer and see if you can eventually get them to come up to a reasonable and acceptable amount you’re willing to accept. (Some buyers come in with a low-ball offer just to see if they can get a ridiculous deal. But others do it because they just think they should, or don’t know any better. If a buyer comes in with an unreasonably low offer that has no data to back it up, stay calm and negotiate with them until you get them as high as they’ll go, and you can ultimately decide to take their offer, or tell them thanks, but no thanks…)

9. c) Review the buyers requests and be willing to negotiate which items will be done and which items will not be addressed. (Just because a home inspector found something and put it in the report does not mean you will have to take care of it. Inspection issues are negotiable and your agent can help you decide which things to agree to address, and which things to decline. But whatever you do agree to address should be done by a qualified or licensed professional, such as an electrician, plumber, etc.)

10. a) Leave it as clean as possible and don’t leave anything behind without the buyer saying (in writing) that it’s ok for you to leave behind. (Make sure to give yourself plenty of time by packing and arranging movers well ahead of time. When it’s time to give the buyer possession, the house should be in “broom clean” condition, which is a bit subjective, but basically boils down to being clean and nothing is damaged or broken. Don’t expect the buyers to want any of your stuff you don’t feel like moving, and make sure to get their permission before leaving anything behind in the house.)

©JVDreamHomes2023

Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time? Here’s What You Need to Know

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 21:32:46 GMT

If you currently own a home and want to buy a new property, the chances are you’re going to have to navigate selling your current home and buying your new home at the same time.

But what, exactly, does that look like? What do you need to know to successfully buy and sell property simultaneously?

A recent video from realtor.com outlined a few key factors to consider when buying and selling a home at the same time, including:

You probably have money to work with. If you’ve owned your home for more than a few years, there’s a solid chance that you’ve gained equity in the property. That equity can help to fund your new home purchase—either by acting as a down payment to pair with your new mortgage or, if you’re downsizing and have a lot of equity, to help you come in with an all-cash offer on your new property.

The market is less competitive—which means sellers may be willing to work with you. When compared to the past few years, the real estate market has cooled off quite a bit. There’s less competition, and less competition means that sellers may be more open to accepting an offer contingent on selling your current home, which many sellers wouldn’t even consider in a hyper-competitive market.

It’s important to understand the pros and cons of selling first vs. buying first. One of the biggest decisions to make is whether you should sell your current home, or buy your new home first. Before you make that decision, it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks of each. For example, if you sell first, you have an absolute deadline to move out—and if you haven’t purchased a home by that date, you may need to put your belongings in storage and look for temporary housing until you find your next property. On the flip side, buying first can put pressure on you to sell your home quickly, which could lead to you selling your current home for a less-than-ideal price. If you’re unsure whether to buy or sell first, talk to your real estate agent; they can help you weigh the pros and cons and make the right decision

The Government Just Made Buying Your First Home More Affordable (And a Few Tips to Make It Even More So)

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 21:22:46 GMT

No matter how much buying a house makes sense for your long-term financial well-being, buying your first house can often just seem expensive and totally out of reach. That leads to many younger people putting off buying a home until later in life than they might have, if the costs were lower.

But there are plenty of younger people buying homes. Nearly 40% of people under 35 own a home, so it’s by no means impossible or entirely unaffordable.

As you can see in the graph above, the homeownership rate goes up to just over 60% for those between the ages of 35-44, which is about where the homeownership rate is for the entire US, regardless of age.

Interestingly, if you look at the chart below, the homeownership rate has actually hovered between 62 and 68 percent since 1965. So, basically, the wheelhouse for homeownership begins around 35 years old.

This means that buying a home when you’re under 35 gives you some precious years of building equity, wealth, and long-term financial well-being, while your peers are still renting, or living at home.

Here’s How the Government Is Making It More Affordable to Do So…

Buying your first home is about to become a little more affordable due to a recent move by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), to reduce how much mortgage insurance premiums are for FHA borrowers.

FHA loans are a common type of mortgage for many first-time buyers. They are insured by the federal government, and have less strict guidelines, which are helpful for a buyer with lower credit score, or a lower down payment to buy a home. However, when you put a lower down payment on a home, you have to pay mortgage insurance. The premiums for that mortgage insurance is what the FHA is lowering, and they will now be $800 less per year on average.

Not a bad chunk of change to save on a yearly basis. That said, it might seem like a drop in the bucket of what you’d need in order to make buying a home affordable.

If you want to join the ranks of the approximately 40% of younger homeowners, here are a few other ways to shave down the cost of buying your first home and making it even more affordable:

You don’t need to buy a big house. The chances are, you’ll end up selling your first home and buying another (or two) in your lifetime. So don’t think you need to be able to buy a house that will suit your future needs. Focus on buying a home that meets your needs for now, and in the near future. And don’t get caught up in trying to impress your friends and family with how big of a house you have, because owning one at a younger age is impressive enough.
Furnish it within a budget. Another great reason for buying a smaller house is that you don’t have to spend as much to furnish it! The bigger the house, the more rooms it has… and the more furniture you have to buy. But even when you buy a smaller house and need less furniture, you should still try to furnish it on a budget. Look for good deals and discounts, rather than racking up a credit card bill that you’ll be paying off longer than the more expensive furniture will last.
It doesn’t have to be your ideal location. If you have a specific town, city, or neighborhood you aspire to buy a home in, but it’s more expensive than you can afford, you’re probably better off buying somewhere you can afford right now vs. waiting to afford where you eventually want to live. Time, inflation, and rising home prices have a way of outpacing the ability to save for enough of a down payment to buy a more expensive house. You’re better off buying in another area now, and letting those economic factors help you grow your wealth and equity so you can trade up to a more expensive home in the area you truly want to live in a few years.
Try and beat what you would pay in rent. This is a double-dip scenario: you pay less per month than you would in rent, and accrue equity and wealth while doing so! It’s not always possible, but sometimes you can actually buy a home for less than you currently pay in rent. But the key word here is “try.” You may need to look harder, or perhaps be less picky in order to make it happen, but it can be worth the sacrifice and effort! Doing this can put you way ahead of where you would’ve been financially in a lot less time.
Learn to be handy. Owning a home comes with the need to fix, replace, or update things on occasion. Some things you’ll need a pro to fix, and you should budget for that. But spending a little time learning how to fix, replace, or update something on your own can save you a lot of money. YouTube (and other online platforms) have made it possible to watch a how-to video on almost anything! (Heck, a woman and her children built an entire house just by watching them!)

Combining a few of those tips—along with the lower mortgage insurance premiums—will go a long way in making it more affordable to buy your first home now, rather than years from now.

The Takeaway:

While that may not seem like enough money to make buying your first home more affordable, you can shave down and control the cost on your own by:

Not buying too big of a house
Being flexible on where you buy
Staying within a budget when furnishing it
Learning how to do some repairs to it on your own.

The Must-Know Habits of Successful Homebuyers in 2023

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 23:18:25 GMT

Buying a home in today’s market can be a challenging process. And if you want to succeed, there are certain habits you’ll want to cultivate—habits that will increase your chances of finding your dream home and having your offer accepted.

But what, exactly, are those habits?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined some of the key habits potential buyers need in order to successfully find and purchase a home in today’s market, including:

They’re persistent. While the market overall has cooled in recent months, there are definitely still areas where inventory is low and competition for properties is high. And in those markets, persistence is key.
They’re not afraid to ask questions. For most people, buying a home is the biggest investment they’ll ever make. And in today’s market (or really any market), successful buyers know that asking questions—about the property, about the homebuying process, about their mortgage—is a must to ensure that they’re making a good choice, and buying a solid investment.
They have a clear distinction between “wants” and “needs.” When it comes to buying a home, there is a difference between “must have” and “nice-to-have.” And the most successful buyers in today’s market have a clear distinction between what they want in a property, and what they need in a property—and are willing to be flexible for features that fall under the “wants” umbrella.

8 Reasons You Should Seriously Consider Listing Your House in January 2023

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 02:07:40 GMT

If you’ve been thinking about selling soon, you’re probably leaning toward doing so when the spring market rolls around, since it’s often considered the best time of year to sell a house. However, you might want to reconsider what constitutes the “best” time for you to sell your house.

It’s hard to qualify any specific time of year as the best time to sell, but spring probably gets ranked highest more so because it’s when more people tend to list their homes, and more buyers tend to look for a home. But that doesn’t mean it’s the most strategic time to sell yours.

In fact, listing your house well ahead of the official start to the spring market could be the most strategic thing you do in any market, but even more so given the current market conditions. Let’s take a look at 8 reasons you should seriously consider listing your house in January 2023:

1. Spring Market Actually Unofficially Begins in January

First off, even defining when the spring market begins is a moving target, but March, April, May probably sounds right to most people.

Unless you’re in the real estate business, the chances are you wouldn’t lump January into the mix of months to describe the spring market. However, March comes pretty quickly, and agents see a lot of activity from buyers who want to buy in the spring market, but actually start looking in January. Some of them just want to get a head start, while others want to beat their competition… and some simply want to be in their new home by spring.

2. Less Competition

Just like early bird buyers jump into action in January to avoid competition from other buyers, homeowners who list their house in January capitalize on less competition from other sellers who are waiting for spring.

Over the past couple of years, that probably didn’t matter quite as much, since there weren’t enough houses for sale to keep up with the number of buyers in the market. But now that the market is shifting—and there are fewer buyers competing for more listings in many areas—listing before more sellers add to the number of choices buyers have might be a wise move.

3. Prices Are Still Historically High

While there’s a lot of chatter about real estate prices coming down, according to this Forbes article, home prices are still 6% higher than they were last year, when prices were considered historically high. However, it also speculates that a drop in prices could happen depending upon what happens with mortgage rates moving forward.

Whether or not home prices are actually higher, lower, or about the same depends a lot upon your area and price range. But overall, prices haven’t taken a dive off of a cliff… yet.

4. Mortgage Rates Are Currently Lower

You’re probably well aware of the fact that interest rates skyrocketed from being historically low for years, to over 7% in October of 2022. While they certainly aren’t back down below 3% like they were in 2021, they’ve recently come down to around 6%, which has some buyers breathing a sigh of relief and trying to buy before they go up again.

That said, rates have a tendency to change quickly and often, so it’s hard to bank on lower rates being an enticement for buyers. But if they’re relatively lower than they have been, it’s something you don’t want to overlook.

5. Seasonally Pent Up Demand

There’s often pent up demand from buyers after the holiday season, since many of them take time off from searching during the last couple of months of the year. So when January rolls around, they can be anxious to start their search back up and find some new options on the market.

6. The Buyers Are More Serious

There are typically more active buyers during the official spring season, but they’re not all serious buyers. However, any buyer looking at houses in January tends to be highly motivated to buy a house. So, you’re not dealing with as many lookie-loos waltzing through your house like they’re auditioning for an HGTV show.

7. Shorter Days

As the days go by, they also get longer. More sunlight later in the day also means more buyers wanting to see your house in the evening. Most people prefer to see a house while the sun is out, so listing in January increases your odds of having less buyers coming through when you’d prefer to be home relaxing.

The Takeaway:

If you’ve been thinking about selling, and you were leaning toward waiting until the spring market officially arrived, you might want to consider listing in January instead.

There are always strategic benefits to listing your house in January, but given the current shift in the market, there are even more reasons to do so.

Tips for Parents That Want to Help Their Child Buy a Home

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 21:01:20 GMT

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to give your children the best life.

And as they enter adulthood, for some parents, that includes helping them purchase their first home.

But how, exactly, do you go about helping your child purchase a home?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined tips and strategies to help parents that want to help their kids buy real estate, including:

Give the down payment as a gift.

One of the most common ways parents help their children purchase a home is by contributing to their down payment. As a parent, you have two options for helping your child with a down payment: you can loan them the money, or gift it to them. If you loan your kid the money, they’ll be on the hook for taxes. If you gift them the money (up to $16,000 per parent), the gift is considered tax-free.

Be a co-owner with your kid...

Some lenders will also allow you to buy a home with your child and set the equity however you’d like (for example, you own 60 percent, your child owns 40 percent), which dictates how much each party takes home if and when you sell the home. This can be a good option if the goal is to eventually sell the home to your child; that way, they can eventually become the full owners of the property—and you can get back your investment.

…or buy a house on your own and rent it to your child.

If your child doesn’t qualify for a mortgage (and if you have the funds to do so), you can also purchase a home on your own—and then rent it to your child. That gives them time to build up their credit and save for a down payment—and eventually, purchase a home on their own.

©JVDreamHomes2022

10 First-Time Home Buyer Blunders To Avoid

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:48:17 GMT

Most of us dream of a familiar, comfortable place to call our own, and buying a home is a rite of passage into adulthood, and into our own piece of the American Dream.

But until and unless you’ve been through the process at least once, there are plenty of mistakes many people make on their journey to property ownership.

If you’ve made any of these yourself, don’t feel bad—it can happen to the best of us. And if you’re an aspiring homeowner who wants to get ahead of the curve, take a look at the following things NOT to do when buying your first home…so when it’s time to pull the trigger, you’ll be ready to go!

1. Ask an agent to go see houses before getting pre-approved

It’s tempting to visit properties the minute you’ve made up your mind that you want to buy, but putting the cart before the horse can backfire spectacularly.

If you haven’t actually qualified for financing, you should hold off on going to look at houses with a real estate agent (or even going to open houses), since there’s no guarantee that a mortgage company can lend you the money. There’s no greater let down than finding a house you love, and finding out you can’t be approved for a mortgage in the price range of that house.

Besides, many sellers and their agents won’t even consider your offer if you don’t include a pre-approval letter. So, you should have it in hand in order not to lose precious time when you find “the one”.

Bottom line is…getting pre-approved is the first step in the homebuying process, so always start there.

2. Buy a home you don’t feel great about because of pressure from others

We’re all influenced by the people around us, whether it’s friends, parents, significant others, or even people on the internet. But don’t let the opinions of others guide your decision making when it comes to buying a home.

Everyone has their own taste, but at the end of the day, you’re the one that will be paying, and, more importantly, (literally) living in your decision. Make an offer because you want to, not because you think it’s what someone else wants you to do.

3. Pass on the perfect house over a trivial cosmetic feature

Real estate can be quirky, and there are plenty of aesthetic choices homeowners make that won’t work for everyone else. But if everything is great except for some cosmetic features, don’t walk away from the deal over something that can be changed later on.

Location is about the only thing you can’t change about a house, but everything else can be removed, remodeled, and replaced, so don’t pass up something that might be a great fit just because it happens to have an eyesore, or isn’t quite your taste.

4. Get hung up on properties outside your price range

The thing about dream homes is that they’re usually pretty darn expensive. And, it’s just human nature to want as much (or more) than we can afford. So, it’s pretty common for home buyers to find themselves longing for that perfect house that’s usually a few hundred thousand (or million) dollars outside their price range.

Don’t let these properties get you down. If you look hard enough, there’s going to be a great option within your price range. And who knows, maybe sometime in the future, that dream house might actually be within your budget.

5. Assume that your offer will be accepted

Making your first offer is a big deal, and you might think that since you’re putting so much money on the line that there’s no way someone could possibly turn it down. But the reality is a little more complex.

In a competitive market, sellers will often get multiple offers, or hold out for a higher price than you might be willing to go. There are a lot of moving parts, and there’s a good chance that if you saw something you liked about a house, some other buyer might have seen the same thing too. But don’t get discouraged—negotiations are common, and, if it doesn’t work out, another house will eventually come along.

6. Assume that once an offer has been accepted, the deal is done

An accepted offer is an important milestone, but it doesn’t mean the deal is done.

Between an accepted offer and closing, there are lots of moving parts and boxes that need to be checked: from financing, to inspections, to the title search, to seller’s circumstances—and unexpected things can happen throughout the process. While the overwhelming majority of accepted offers turn into closed deals, you should never assume that just because the buyer and seller have agreed, that the deal is finalized.

7. Make a big purchase or take out new debt before the closing

This has been the kiss of death for many real estate transactions. A buyer gets their offer accepted, starts the mortgage process, and then goes out and buys a car, or finances a bunch of new furniture for their new place. Then, once the mortgage company checks the credit report before closing—as they always do—the buyer no longer qualifies for the mortgage since they now have new debt that changes their debt to income ratio.

There’s a simple solution to this potential problem…don’t do it!

8. Forget to get an estimate of how much money you’ll need at closing

Many people do back-of-the-napkin calculations, or use an online calculator, to figure out how much money they’ll need to bring to closing. But it’s important to get accurate estimates from your mortgage lender, because if you don’t, you run the risk of being unpleasantly surprised, or worse, coming up short.

There are many fees associated with a real estate transaction, from closing costs, to state taxes and fees, to attorney’s fees, and you should be aware of all of them well before the closing day. You won’t be able to get an exact amount on your closing costs until you are close to your closing day, but you can and should get a good handle on how much to approximately expect.

9. Try to mislead the mortgage company

Most people wouldn’t do this, of course, but not only do you run the risk of not being approved for financing if you try to mislead your lender, you also might end up facing some legal issues down the road. There are some who—in an effort to get approved—might embellish, or flat-out lie on their mortgage application, but the only one that will ultimately be hurt by these lies is the borrower. Mortgage companies have rigorous screening and validation processes, and they usually uncover deception when it can’t be backed up with the proper documentation. So make sure you tell the truth, it’s the only way to go.

10. Work with an agent who doesn’t care

A real estate transaction is a complicated, sometimes stressful experience that requires a knowledgeable and level-headed professional to help guide you through the process. That’s why picking the wrong agent can have devastating consequences. Even worse than hiring an agent who doesn’t know the answers, is working with someone who doesn’t care. A great agent has empathy, and will make sure you feel good about things as you go through the process. So don’t be flippant about who you decide to work with, because the consequences are more impactful than you might think.

At the end of the day, buying your first home should be an exciting and rewarding experience. It’s a rite of passage, and you should be proud of yourself for getting there! If you’re in the market for a home, or are starting to consider it and have any questions you’d like answered, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

©JVDreamHomes2022

How to Make Your House the One Buyers Pick (And the Deal Stick) When Selling in This Market

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 02:40:44 GMT

No matter what the market is like, it’s always important to price your home appropriately. Even over the past few years, when houses were all seemingly selling over asking price within hours of hitting the market, you couldn’t sell your house for more than buyers were willing (or able) to pay for it. But there was a little more room for error when listing a little too high.

However, the market is shifting now, so that wiggle room is tightening up, and you have to pay closer attention to your pricing. That doesn’t mean prices have tanked; houses are still selling for record highs.

But, as a Realtor.com article reports, a recent survey done by Cinch Home Services revealed that 51% of buyers backed out of contracts in the past year.

Some of the reasons buyers gave for backing are nothing a seller can do anything about, like:

Buyer’s financing falling through due to rising rates
The buyer lost a job
The buyer took on too much debt before closing

But some of the factors are within your control as a seller, such as:

A low appraisal
Buyers finding a better deal on another house

You can’t control how much buyers are willing to pay for a house, how much other sellers are asking for their house, or how much an appraiser will say your house is worth. All you can do is be aware of current pricing trends, and be willing to adjust yours.

So here are some things you can do to make sure your house is the one buyers choose to buy, and keep your deal together all the way to the closing table:

Be aware of other sellers’ pricing

What other houses would a buyer interested in your house consider? Keep a close eye on the prices of competing homes on the market. And that doesn’t just mean right in your neighborhood, or even town. Most buyers aren’t dead set on just one area, and could easily choose to buy another house they feel is a better deal. So make sure you’re aware of any house that gives yours a run for the money.

Also pay attention to how much houses recently sold for, because those are what appraisers use to come up with their valuation. If you based your listing price off of data from two or three months ago, and houses closed for less since then, it could affect how an appraiser values your house.

Be willing to budge

If you see other sellers dropping their prices, consider lowering yours as well to ensure that you’re an attractive option to buyers in the market.

If you have an interested buyer whom you sense is considering other houses, you may want to indicate that you’re willing to negotiate.

Even if you have a firm deal with a buyer who is trying to back out because they found a better deal, you might want to renegotiate rather than stick to your guns. It’s better to hang onto a buyer for a little less money than it is to lose one altogether.

And if you have a firm deal with a happy buyer, only to find yourself dealing with a low appraisal mid-way through the transaction, you probably should consider adjusting the sales price down as well. You can see if the buyer will make up the difference, but in this shifting market it probably won’t be something buyers are as willing to accommodate as they were recently.

It might sound like bad news for sellers—and some sellers will refuse to adjust and budge—but the chances are you can still sell your house for more than it was worth a year or two ago. You’re better off capitalizing on that by budging and selling now, rather than holding firm only to find that prices drop even more in the coming months.

The Takeaway:

While sellers always need to be careful about pricing their house appropriately on the market, the past few years were more forgiving if you made a mistake.

But the market is shifting and many sellers are losing deals they could have saved if they were willing to adjust their price.

While it may not sound appealing to take a lower price, you’re most likely able to sell your house for more now than you could have a year or two ago. So before you dig in on your price, consider whether it’s worth the risk of values dropping even more in the coming months.

©JVDreamHomes2022

If It’s Such a Bad Time to Buy Real Estate, Why Are the Wealthy Doing It?

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 02:24:14 GMT

According to a Housing Wire article, 75% of people recently polled by Fannie Mae felt pessimistic about the real estate market, and that it’s not a good time to buy a house. So, if you’re among the many who feel that way, and you’re thinking about holding off for prices to come down, you’re not alone.

Considering that interest rates are up and prices haven’t dropped as much as buyers would like, it isn’t surprising to hear that news. Some marginally qualified potential homebuyers have legitimately been priced out of the market. But many others are simply being cautious, not wanting to make a mistake by buying in this market, especially when so many other buyers don’t seem to think it’s a good time to buy.

But that still leaves 25% of people who don’t think it’s a bad time to buy real estate. Who are they, and why do they feel that way?

Well, wealthy people may not comprise that entire 25%, but they’re at least among the people who feel like it’s a fine time to buy real estate. Yahoo finance just reported that billionaires have a growing appetite for buying houses, even as the market slows down.

That probably sounds like an apples to oranges comparison. After all, the wealthy have, well…wealth. They can afford to buy real estate, regardless of whether the market is up, down, “hot” or not. It often seems like the rich get richer, and the poor get poorer, even when times are tough. (Perhaps even more so during those times…)

People have every right to look at it that way, but it probably won’t make them any wealthier. The more productive thing to do would be to look at what the wealthy are doing during times like this that the majority of people aren’t doing… and consider following their lead.

According to the Yahoo article, buying real estate is particularly appealing to them because:

It’s a liability that tends to appreciate over time
It provides significant tax benefits
It can be used as collateral
It can be passed to heirs with little or no penalty

Generally speaking, wealthy people take on debt and liabilities that make (or save) them money. While they can certainly make bigger purchases with less concern than the average person, they aren’t in the habit of making decisions that will lose them money, if they can help it. So if they’re buying real estate in the current market, it’s a pretty good sign they’re not worried about losing money on a house in the long run. Real estate is (and always has been) meant as an asset that provides many long-term benefits.

So if you’ve been thinking about buying a house, but have concerns about whether you’ll be paying too much or lose money, take all of that into consideration. House values may seem “high” right now, but over time they’re likely to be even higher. And since the majority of people seem to be pessimistic and hesitant to buy right now, you might be able to find yourself a better deal than you otherwise could.

The Takeaway:

Nearly 75% of people feel like now is not a good time to buy a house, but the wealthy are still buying real estate.

While it’s easy to say that the wealthy don’t care about whether the market is “bad” since they have more assets and capital to work with, they’re also not likely to make such relatively large purchases if they feel they’re going to lose money.

So if you’ve been hesitant to buy because you’re worried about paying too much or losing money, take that into consideration and know that buying a house is a solid long-term investment. Capitalize on the fact that the majority of people are pessimistic, and buy a house while there’s less competition and a better chance of negotiating the price down.

©JVDreamHomes2022

5 Benefits of Homeownership (That People Often Forget About)

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 22:11:05 GMT

Working in real estate, allows me to witness the true joy that comes from home ownership. At the end of the day, after all the paperwork is signed, after the champagne has been uncorked, real estate is all about real people being able to call someplace their own—a small slice of earth where they can lay their heads at night and make a future for themselves and their families.

Here are some of the true benefits of homeownership that we hear about from many first-time homebuyers:

1. Locked-in monthly expenses

Renting and hopping around from place to place can be exhausting—not only because of the constant upheaval, but also because rents keep rising, especially if you’re in a major metropolitan area. Buying a home fixes your costs in place (save for increases in taxes and insurance), and allows you the peace of mind of knowing your mortgage payment will be the same next year as it is this year. This might not seem so dramatic when you look at it in the short term, but if you’re thinking ten, fifteen years out, it’s a big deal.

2. Building a nest egg

In addition to fixing your monthly costs, you’re also buying an asset for yourself, as opposed to spending money to pay off someone else’s. The majority of Americans have a significant portion of their net worth in their home’s equity, and it’s long been a reliable way to accumulate wealth over time. Many homebuyers are sick of throwing their hard-earned money towards rent, and love the idea of using a home sort of like a savings account, especially when residential real estate has consistently appreciated over time. While it might not be the get-rich-quick scheme many people dream of, if you’re going to pay for a place to live anyway, why not be the primary beneficiary of your own hard work?

3. The joys of personalization

Sure, you can decorate an apartment or a rented house, but you can never make those intrinsic changes that make a place truly feel like it represents you. Spend enough time in a home and you’ll know exactly what you want to change to make it perfect. And decorating and remodeling can (and should) be fun. Your home is your castle, and you should make yourself feel as comfortable as possible. That’s why most people choose a home that has just the right amount of stuff they love, whether it be location, kitchen, or layout, and then change the rest of it themselves to truly make it their own.

4. Becoming part of a community

You can, of course, become a member of a community when you rent. But ownership conveys a deeper sense of belonging, especially on your end. Think about how you feel when you accidentally break something at home. When you own, the emotional frustration is deeper because that home belongs to you. It’s this same concept that drives communities to push for higher rates of owner-occupancy and homeownership. People who own in a community tend to have a bigger stake in it, if not only out of self-interest. When you buy, you’re not only making a commitment to yourself, you’re making one to your entire neighborhood.

5. A safe place to call your own

People have long valued a place to come home to and call their own. It is, after all, where we go when we’re done being out in the world. It’s a safe refuge where we can close the door and rest, spend time with our families, and be ourselves without having to worry about other people. A home gives us our own sanctuary—something every human being needs to feel safe and secure. At the end of the day, this is the most powerful reason why people strive to buy homes, and the true benefit of homeownership that outweighs all the others.

Those are just a handful of reasons we hear from homeowners. But everyone has their own personal reasons for wanting a home…

So if you’re already a homeowner, let’s hear what you love about homeownership! And if you’re not, what would owning a home mean to you?

©JVDreamHomes2022

Wave Goodbye to Waiving a Home Inspection

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 22:31:27 GMT

Over the last couple of years, buyers have had to do everything they possibly could to compete. It wasn’t just about price; they also had to come in with as “clean” an offer as possible, which often meant waiving fairly standard contingencies.

In case the term isn’t something you use in day to day life, a contingency is a clause in the contract that is in place to protect the buyer. The most common ones are:

Mortgage contingency: If the buyer’s mortgage isn’t approved, they can back out of the contract.
Appraisal contingency: If the house doesn’t appraise for as much as the buyer is offering, they can cancel the contract.
Home inspection contingency: If the buyer finds major structural or operational issues with the house, they can request that repairs be made, or cancel the deal if the seller won’t agree to their requests.

Unless you were a cash buyer, it was almost impossible to waive your mortgage contingency. (Well, you could, but if the mortgage wasn’t approved you were asking for trouble since you’d technically be on the hook for the amount you offered to pay the seller, or you could get sued or at least lose your deposit.)

And if you were applying for a mortgage, it was difficult to truly waive the appraisal contingency. So only buyers who had the financial ability to make a cash offer could waive those.

However, the home inspection contingency was one that almost any buyer could waive if they wanted to — and many buyers did just that in order to make their offer as appealing as possible, since it was the one contingency they could feasibly waive.

Waiving a home inspection isn’t ideal. It’s understandable that so many people did it because they probably didn’t stand much of a chance at having their offer accepted if they didn’t. But most buyers would prefer having the chance to get an inspection and not only know if there are any problems, but also be able to request they be taken care of, or be able to cancel the contract.

While the market hasn’t entirely shifted to a buyers’ market (and it may or may not), it’s certainly improved in some ways for buyers. There’s a little more inventory, a little less competition, and prices seem to be at least stabilizing in many areas. All of those factors are adding up to giving buyers some breathing room and the ability to avoid waiving their rights to a home inspection as often.

It may not sound like such a big deal to buyers who are hoping for a dream scenario where prices plummet and lower mortgage rates make a comeback, but it is. This is the sign of a more stable market where buyers don’t have to make such quick, rash decisions. So if you’ve been waiting or taking a breather from house hunting to wait until things cooled off, these subtle shifts in the market are a good reason to get back out there and look for a home.

The Takeaway:

Mortgage, appraisal, and home inspection contingencies are meant to protect you. While it made sense for many buyers to waive them in order to be more competitive in the last couple of years, it wasn’t ideal. In most areas, the market hasn’t shifted to a true buyers’ market. But in many areas, favorable conditions are starting to emerge for buyers, like not having to waive their right to a home inspection.

©JVDreamHomes2022

The One Thing You Need to Focus on When Buying a Home in This Market

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 17:21:22 GMT

Many prospective buyers are concerned about the interest rates, where the market is headed, and whether they’ll be paying too much for a house if they buy right now. While that last sentence may sound very fitting for today’s market, the reality is buyers are almost always concerned about those three things.

That’s not to say those concerns aren’t valid right now, because the market is shifting in many areas of the country. But if buyers are holding their breath for the market to shift entirely in their favor, they might not see the price drops they’re simultaneously hoping for (to get a better deal) and fearing will happen (if they pull the trigger and buy a house now.) There’s no crystal ball to predict either scenario, nor can you control how it plays out.

What you can control is your ability to comfortably afford the house you buy—whether you buy one now or wait it out.

No matter what the market is like, it’s always important to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking at houses. It’ll give you a firm grasp on how much a lender will allow you to borrow, and help you to focus on houses you know you can purchase. But just because a bank approves you for a certain amount, doesn’t mean you should spend the entire amount they’ve approved.

A lot of buyers think that if a lender approves them for a certain amount, they can comfortably afford the monthly payments. In theory, that’s true. A lender shouldn’t (and probably wouldn’t) approve you for an amount you can’t afford to pay on a monthly and long-term basis. So they’re most likely confident you can afford to pay the principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI), on a monthly basis.

However, not all mortgage lenders or reps are created equal. Some will truly take the time to make sure you understand how much the loan will cost on a monthly basis, and they’ll help you determine whether that fits in with your lifestyle. Others…not so much; they just pump out a pre-approval and send you on your merry way to spend as much as you want up to that amount.

Your lender will likely consider the bigger picture of your expenses, but they can’t and won’t know your day-to-day lifestyle unless you broach the topic. So make sure you ask your lender or mortgage rep to help you analyze how much your actual mortgage payment will be on a monthly basis, not just how much you are approved to spend on a house, and consider whether that fits in with how you like to live. Think about what you need to (and just like to) spend money on each month, besides your housing:

How much are your car payments?
How much do you spend on groceries?
Do you like going out to eat a certain amount of times per month?
Do you like to travel?
Are you saving for, or paying off college tuition?
Will you need to cut back on some things, or will you be able to continue the lifestyle you’re used to?

As long as you know how much your monthly payment is, and you’re comfortable with it, you can truly feel better about buying a house in this market, or any other market. If you can afford it on a monthly, ongoing basis, it doesn’t matter if house prices drop for a period of time, or if your interest rate isn’t as low as it might’ve been if you bought a year ago. If house prices drop, just don’t sell it until prices bounce back above what you bought it for, which they historically do over the long term. If interest rates drop, refinance and get yourself a lower rate and payment down the road.

The Takeaway:

Real estate prices can go down. They don’t constantly appreciate and go up. There are dips in the market. So it’s natural for buyers to be concerned about buying and then seeing the prices drop.

Historically, though, home values ultimately go up over time. So it’s a sound investment no matter what the market is like when you do buy, as long as you can afford it on a monthly basis and don’t sell when the market values are down.

So, make sure to not only pay attention to the amount you’re pre-approved to purchase a house for, but (more importantly) the amount of your monthly payment. If you can comfortably afford to pay it each month, you’ll be fine no matter what the market is like.

©JVDreamHomes2022

10 Things to Bring With You When House Hunting

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 19:50:26 GMT

Looking at houses to buy can be a ton of fun, but it can also get tiring and overwhelming if you don’t come prepared! But unless you do it for a living, you might not know what to bring with you when you’re house hunting.

To make sure you spend more time enjoying your home search, and less time stressing, here are 10 things you should gather up when you head out to see houses:

1) A watch

OK fine, your phone will do. Just make sure you have a way to keep an eye on the time, and be on time! Not just because it’s courteous to your real estate agent (who likely has a busy schedule), but also for the homeowners who are probably leaving their house so you can view it without them breathing down your neck the whole time. Not to mention other buyers who may have an appointment to see the house after you.

2) Your “needs and wants” list

Before you even start actually looking at houses, you should create a list of things you absolutely need in a house, and a list of the things you want (but could live without). It will help you truly assess whether each house meets your needs or not. Pro tip: make it into a checklist and print one out for each house so you can check the items off as you view it.

3) Notepad and pen

A checklist won’t cut it for everything. Sometimes you need to jot down a few notes that you’ll want to remember about each house. They start to blend together after a while, and you can easily forget something you loved (or hated) about a house. Better to grab yourself a notepad and pen than it is to scribble notes on your hand!

4) A measuring tape

Got yourself a king size bed, or an heirloom piece of furniture you can’t live without? Then you better make sure it’ll fit in the house you choose. Better to know right away than to wait until you’re under contract, so bring a tape measure and the dimensions of the furniture you care about, and make sure it fits in the space when you first see the house.

Mary Poppins GIF from Mary Poppins GIFs

5) Snacks

While it’s fine to look in the cabinets of the houses you look at, it’s a no-no to snag a snack out of them. You’d be surprised how hungry you get when you’re out looking at houses, but especially when you’re making an entire day of it. So pack a snack or two before you hit the road.

Getting Snacks Eating GIF from Getting Snacks GIFs

6) Coffee

More of a coffee fiend than a snack hound? Then make sure you stop at Starbucks on your way to the first house. (Can’t hurt to grab one for your agent while you’re at it! Just sayin’…)

The Haunting Of Bly Manor Dani Clayton GIF from The Haunting Of Bly Manor GIFs

7) Shoes that are easy to slip off and on

It might not sound like a big deal, but taking your shoes off and putting them back on every time you enter and leave a house can get annoying. Many homeowners will want you to take your shoes off when walking through their home, so make life easier on yourself and wear shoes that are easy to slip off and on.

Anime Putting On Shoes GIF from Anime GIFs

8) Booties

Alternatively, you could wear whatever shoes you desire, and just hope that the owner provides booties for you to slip over them. That said, those things can get kind of gross with so many other buyers using them before you. So, if that grosses you out, you may want to buy some booties of your own and B.Y.O.B.

Coronavirus Protection GIF from Coronavirus GIFs

9) People with opinions

If you have someone in your life who has a say in any way about the house you buy, bring them along as early and often in the process as possible. If you bring your parents, or a trusted friend to chime in to just the house you decide to buy, they won’t have all of the context they need to give a valuable opinion. They need to see the houses you didn’t like, as much as they need to see the house you love. (It’s especially important to include them in the process if they are chipping in money for your down payment or closing costs!)

This Place Bummer GIF from This Place GIFs

10) A checkbook

You never know which house will be “the one,” and when you know, you know. And if you know it’s a great house, there’s a chance another buyer will too, so make sure you’re ready to pounce and make an offer. Bring your checkbook along so you can write out an earnest money deposit to show the sellers you’re serious — before someone else swoops in and swipes your home-to-be!

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9 Surprising Things First-time Home Buyers Should Know

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 03 May 2022 00:19:12 GMT

People who have been homeowners for a long time tend to forget how exciting and nerve-wracking it feels to buy a home for the first time. Once you’ve been through the process, you know what to expect and aren’t surprised by the second (or fifth) go-around. But for new homeowners, the road is filled with novel experiences, and the learning curve might feel a bit steep to someone who has never been through it before.

So, let’s take a look at ten things that may surprise you as a first time buyer, to help cut down on that learning curve!

1. Getting pre-approved is very, very important

While there are no barriers to looking at houses online, it’s absolutely critical to get pre-approved for financing before going to look at homes in person. This will allow you to not only determine exactly what you can afford, it will ensure that you’re ready to make a strong offer in the event you find your dream home.

2. There are a huge amount of resources available for homebuyers

The housing industry is a giant segment of the economy—an entire ecosystem that keeps millions of people employed. That’s why there are so many resources catering to potential home buyers: from listing websites, to learning tools, to guides, videos, and everything in between. If you have any question, no matter how specific, there’s a good chance you can easily find the answers you’re looking for.

3. A home can be much different in person than in photos

Pictures don’t always tell the full story. This can be a tough lesson to learn, especially if you get your hopes up. The good news is that this works in both directions. Sometimes, photos make a home seem a lot nicer than it really is. But, just as often, pictures don’t capture the entire essence of a house, and might fall short when it comes to showcasing it’s more positive attributes. The bottom line is: you should see it in person to be sure.

4. If a house is a great deal, expect plenty of competition

Unless you’re looking in an especially unique area, you’re likely to find plenty of competitors when a listing is a great deal, or when it has “everything” most people are looking for. There are exceptions, of course, and sometimes you might get lucky, but for the most part, if you recognize a great opportunity, there’s a good chance other people will too. It doesn’t even need to be a “deal”…it can just be when a house is priced appropriately within the market. Always expect that if you see the value and appeal of a home, so will another buyer. So, act quick, and write up a strong offer!

5. It’s perfectly normal to be nervous before (and after) an offer

Don’t feel silly if you find yourself filled with anxiety after submitting an offer. And definitely don’t be hard on yourself if you’re anxious even after your offer has been accepted. It’s completely normal to worry about all the decisions, stresses, and eventualities as you’re going through the process.

6. There’s plenty to do to keep everyone busy before the closing

If you think an accepted offer means you’re done, think again. In some ways, this is when the real work starts. A lot of the work will be done for you by industry professionals, but you will need to be ready and aware of anything they need you to do on your end. For example, lenders will want contract and financial documentation, and lawyers or title companies will need you to review documents and sign off or acknowledge them.

7. Agents, mortgage brokers, and lawyers will explain everything to you

Don’t be afraid of the nuances and moving parts of buying a home, because from day one, you have plenty of resources at your fingertips. Your agent, your mortgage broker, your closing attorney, and everyone in between will be able to explain the process and answer questions as you move forward. These people usually have years of experience, and none of them will begrudge you for not knowing everything they know. And if you have questions, or something doesn’t make sense, don’t be shy…just ask! That’s what they’re there for!

8. Owning feels different than renting

Renters don’t have the same skin in the game that owners do, and when you’ve bought something and put your money and credit on the line, it feels different. Once you close on your home and move in, you’ll start to understand the feeling of commitment and ownership that comes from your own space. You’ll not only want to make it yours, but you’ll also feel a sense of pride and care that is often elusive for renters.

9. An agent does a lot more than help you find a house

Some people think of real estate agents like cashiers: people who help you with a transaction before you move on and forget all about them. But in practice, this is often not the case. Buying a home is such an emotional journey for even the most stoic among us that it’s almost impossible not to form a deeper connection with the person helping you find the perfect home, and guiding you through the process. Agents will serve as consultants, confidantes, interior designers, therapists, and everything in between. Agents become a part of one of life’s biggest milestones, and this makes it nearly impossible for them to take it lightly.

Hopefully this will make you a more confident buyer and help take some of the surprise out of the process for you!

9 Open House No-no’s

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 23:49:47 GMT

When buying a home, there may be no single event as important as the open house. Attending an open house gives you the opportunity to see, feel, and experience the home for yourself, far beyond what’s possible from looking at photos, taking digital tours, or driving by on a sunny afternoon. The open house is when you really get to find out whether you can see yourself living in the home or not.

But if you want to get the most from an open house, there are some things to keep in mind (and some costly mistakes you’ll want to avoid). Not only is it possible to cost yourself money at an open house, but in some (rare) instances, a seller might not even entertain an offer based on somebody’s behavior at the open house.

So if you want things to go smoothly, and want the best opportunity to buy your dream house, here are nine things you should never do at an open house:

1. Keep your shoes on when you’ve been asked to take them off

No one likes to walk around without shoes on, especially in somebody else’s home. But as an open house guest, you need to respect the seller’s instructions. If you refuse, you might be asked to leave, and blow your chance at landing an accepted offer.

2. Let your children roam around unattended

Parenting is difficult, and bringing your kids along with you to an open house is understandable—after all, they’ll be living there too. But when touring an open house, make sure to keep an eye on your children, because, as we all know, they tend to get into things, and a packed home is full of all sorts of interesting items. A good rule of thumb is to just pretend that you’re at a museum.

3. Loudly make negative comments about the house

We all have opinions, especially when it comes to a house that we’re considering paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for. But keep your negative opinions between you, your partner, and your agent, because if the seller’s agent overhears you, they might not only feel insulted, they’re likely to relay the comments to the seller, who might not take them too kindly if you put in an offer.

I Hate This House Yelling GIF from I Hate This House GIFs

4. Pry into the seller’s personal belongings

Being allowed into someone’s home for an open house does not give you carte blanche to go through their personal stuff, no matter how intriguing it might be. Opening dresser drawers, touching clothing, pulling back bedding, and rifling through bookcases is a no-no, and violators are likely to be asked to leave. You’re there to see a property, not personal property.

Cat Insists On Keeping Drawer Open GIF from Kitty GIFs

5. Overshare

Unless you’re a trained spy, you probably don’t think too much about tempering your speech when chatting with strangers. But an open house is an exception, and you might want to consider what you’re revealing during conversations with (and around) seller’s agents. Even though talking about how much you’re pre-approved for, where your kids go to school, how desperately you need a new home, or that your lease is ending soon might seem harmless, it can put you in a poor position when you begin negotiations, so act accordingly.

Playing House Keegan Michael Key GIF from Playing House GIFs

6. Make an offer

Even if you absolutely love the house and would be willing to give up a kidney for the chance to live there, you don’t want to make an offer during the open house. Not only would this be out of the norm, but it would also reveal your eagerness and put you in a position of weakness during negotiations. So even if you’re absolutely obsessed, take a deep breath, step outside, and regroup with your agent and your loved ones before making a decision.

I Want To Make An Offer Matthew Glave GIF from I Want To Make An Offer GIFs

7. Spend too little time there (if you’re interested)

There’s no need to spend hours at an open house, but if you walk in and walk right out, you might be doing yourself a disservice. To be sure, sometimes you know that it’s not a fit right away, but if you do like it, there’s nothing wrong with spending some time looking around and taking in the details. At the very least, it might help you remember the little things that you’ll be thinking about once you start planning to move in.

Simpsons Walkinandout GIF from Simpsons GIFs

8. Lie about your intentions

Some people like to play games, but there’s really no upside to being disingenuous about your intentions during an open house (or after). Whether you’re just there to look, or are truly serious about making an offer, don’t present yourself otherwise. Not only is it bad form, but word can travel a lot quicker than you might think, and the next time you want to be taken seriously, you might not be.

Honest Is Always The Best Policy Just Be Honest GIF from Honest Is Always The Best Policy GIFs

9. Show too much enthusiasm

When we love a property, it can be difficult to contain our excitement, especially if we’re not used to playing our cards close to the chest. The open house, however, is one occasion when you’ll want to put on your poker face and play it cool. If you show too much enthusiasm, the seller’s agent (and therefore the seller) will know that you’ll do just about anything to get the house—and that’s not the position you want to be in.

Tips For Making The Most Of Your Virtual House Hunt

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 22:53:14 GMT

Social distancing is one of the most responsible things you can do right now - both to protect your health and the health of the people in your community.

And with social distancing in full swing, searching for a home in the traditional sense—including going to tour homes in person—is getting put on the back burner.

But just because you can’t see homes in person doesn’t mean your home search has to suffer!

A recent article from realtor.com outlined tips for conducting a virtual house hunt that’s just as good as the real thing, including:

Look for red flags in listing photos. You don’t want to waste your time virtually touring homes that aren’t going to be the right fit. When going through a listing, look for red flags that might indicate that a listing isn’t what it seems—and isn’t worth your time (for example, photos that are stretched in an effort to make the room look bigger, or a complete lack of photos of the home’s interior).

Ask your real estate agent to go into detail during virtual tours. Thanks to technology like Zoom or FaceTime, your agent can take you on a virtual tour of potential properties. But video doesn’t catch all the small details you would catch if you were physically in the space (like the finishes on cabinets, or crown molding on the ceiling)—so make sure to ask your agent to talk you through those details.

Check out the neighborhood. There are a ton of interactive map tools on the internet that will give you insights into a potential home’s neighborhood—so make sure you use them.

Bottom line? If you’re looking for a home right now, you’re going to have to get creative with your home search. But with a little creativity, technology, and patience, there’s no reason your virtual home search can’t be just as effective as a traditional search!

Planning to Sell Your Home This Year?

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 22:34:18 GMT

The winter isn’t the most popular time to sell your home. But if you’re planning on selling in 2022, there are things you’ll want to take care of now so that your home is ready to list when the temperature starts rising—and the market starts heating up.

But what, exactly, are those things?

Maximize Curb Appeal
Getting them through the front door starts at the curb. Manicure the lawn, trim the trees and shrubs. Pull weeds and plant some colorful flowers. Clear the walkways. Fix peeling paint and wind up that hose. Paint the address number on the curb.

Make Repairs to Visible Blemishes
Is there something that’s an eyesore, but an easy fix? If looking at it bothers you, it could bother a potential buyer and reduce the appeal of your home. Replace burnt out light bulbs, fix that loose door handle, make needed paint touch-ups.

Make a Buyer’s Entrance Inviting
Freshly paint the front door with a color that contrasts the house. Add a new welcome mat. Hang a fresh wreath on the door.

Let the Light Shine In
Removing heavy window coverings to let in the natural light we all crave. Add lamps to brighten up darker areas to add more cheer.

Remove the Clutter
This serves two purposes. First, you want your home to have an open and inviting appearance. Removing clutter will make rooms appear larger and more appealing. Second, it helps YOU prepare to move. Going through the clutter and getting rid of what you don’t need will make your move much easier.

Remove Personal Items
It will be much easier for a potential buyer to imagine your home as theirs when they can envision their own items in it.

Highlight Special Features
Use accents and color to draw eyes to special features that you want potential buyers to notice—throw pillows, plants or other eye-catching accessories.

Add Mirrors
Use mirrors to make rooms look larger and lighter. Position opposite windows for best effect.

Clean Out Cabinets and Closets
Buyers are nosy and they WILL open the cabinets. Make sure your contents are orderly and organized.

Eliminate Odors
Clean to remove any odors and do not cook any meals with heavy, lasting smells before a showing.

Add Aromas
You can easily add appeal by quartering an orange and adding it to a pot of water with a cinnamon stick. Simmer on low for an inviting aroma. Or bake a fresh batch of cookies (and leave a plate of them on the counter for visitors).

3 Reasons Why It’s Important to Price Your Home to Sell

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 04:22:24 GMT

Coming up with the right price when selling your home is a balancing act. You want to ask for as much as possible, but not so much that you turn away potential buyers. You also don’t want to cheat yourself with a price that’s lower than your home’s worth.

The “right” price is one that’s in tune with what similar homes are selling for in your market. It’s a figure that you and the buyer agree accurately reflects the home’s value. If you’re working with a real estate agent, the agent can help you evaluate the market and resist the temptation to overprice your home — or give in to your fears and underprice it.

You should listen to what your agent says: You’re better off getting the price right the first time around. Here are three reasons to price your home correctly from the start — and strategies for coming up with the ideal dollar amount, whether you’re doing this on your own or with a seller’s agent:

You can attract more buyers

Some sellers may be tempted to ask for more than market value — even if they’re willing to accept a lower offer — just to see if there are any takers at the larger number. But this strategy can backfire if sellers price their home out of range of potential buyers.

Say your home’s worth $299,000 according to your market research, and you’re willing to sell for that amount. But you list at $315,000 to see if anyone makes an offer at the higher price.

A serious buyer may have a budget of $299,000 and so search online listings only for homes priced through $300,000. That buyer may not even see your home unless you lower your asking price. It’s better to price your property right from the start to maximize the number of qualified buyers.

You will sell your home faster, for a higher price

In a hot market with many buyers, a fairly priced home could receive multiple offers because people recognize it’s a good deal. It may even spark a bidding war that drives the final offer above your asking price.

But an overpriced home could scare away some of those buyers, who may think that they’re dealing with an unreasonable seller. You may be willing to sell your house for less, but a buyer may not even bother to make an offer if the home’s overpriced from the start.

It’s even worse in a cooler market, one that has few buyers. The home will remain for sale with no takers until the price moves low enough to attract a buyer. And that means the seller is wasting time by offering a home at an artificially high price.

If a home doesn’t sell within 30 days, it’s a good indication that it’s not priced right, according to the National Association of Realtors. In addition, research suggests the longer a house stays on the market, the lower its final selling price will be. Sellers may end up making less money than if they’d priced the house correctly when it first listed.

Buyers will have more confidence in your property

You don’t want to price a home too high, but you don’t want to go too low, either. Then, a potential buyer may wonder if something is secretly wrong with your property.

If you offer your home for a fair price, one that’s similar to comparable sales in your neighborhood, a buyer may feel better about the transaction. The buyer may reason that if you’ve done your homework on pricing, you’ve also done your homework on making sure the home is in good condition.

Renting a House Is Getting Way More Expensive. Is It Time to Buy?

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 03:47:42 GMT

Prices for everything have been going up - from food, to gas, to services, and people are getting less for the dollar. Rents are no exception.

After an unprecedented period of time where renters could more or less just cite COVID as a reason to not pay rent, the moratoriums on evictions are gone and rents are roaring higher—particularly with single-family rental houses.

People rent single-family homes for many different reasons, and it often makes sense to do so. If you’re relocating to a new area and aren’t sure if you’ll stay in the area for long, or want to get to know the area before buying a house, renting certainly makes sense. Or, perhaps it’s the only option due to credit issues, or the inability to obtain a mortgage for other reasons.

But one reason for renting that may need to be questioned is the notion that it’s more affordable to rent than buy, especially if you’re trying to rent a single-family house.

CNBC recently reported that single-family rents are up 10.9% year over year , which is three times the 3.2% annual growth seen in October 2020. At the most basic level, this is due to the simplest of economic laws, which is supply and demand. Vacancy rates are at a 25-year low, so there are less homes to rent and demand for them is high, so landlords can easily demand higher rents.

Much of this demand reportedly roots back to people who would otherwise buy a house, but decide to rent because they feel home prices are high, and the competition to buy houses on the market has been fierce. Valid reasoning…until and unless renting actually costs more than buying. With rent prices increasing, and the competition getting as fierce for rental homes as it is in the buyers’ market, it does beg the question whether it makes more sense to rent if you can qualify to buy a house.

While home prices have certainly risen in recent years, buying a house can hedge against inflation, especially when rates are low, according to this Forbes article . Locking in a low, fixed mortgage rate with even a low down payment is possible. So, it may make more sense to take advantage of the historically low interest rates (before they jump up), brave the competition, and spend the security deposit (and first and last month’s rent) on a downpayment to purchase a home rather than rent one.

Renting might end up being your best (or only) option, but it certainly can’t hurt to weigh which makes more financial sense. Just running on the assumption that renting is your best or only option could actually be costing you more than you think.

Prepping Pets for the Move

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 23:22:08 GMT

Your moving day is set and it’s time to start preparing.

As you’re making your lists and checking them twice, don’t forget to factor in your furry friends.

Here are some tips for making sure the process goes smoothly.

Medical records.

When moving to a different city or state, one of the main things you need to take into consideration is finding a new veterinarian that is the right fit for you and your pet.

If you have family or friends in the area ask for recommendations or do your own research by reading reviews and news articles.

Once you find one, contact your current vet to initiate a transfer of medical records. Then schedule a “get to know you” appointment shortly after your move.

Transportation.

Whether it’s a short drive or a long plane ride, you pet will likely need to be put into a carrier.

For most pets, this is a foreign concept and they require time to get comfortable with it.

Start acclimating your pet as early as possible and use comfort items like treats and favorite toys and blankets to make the experience a positive one for your pet.

Acclimation.

Pad your moving schedule with ample time to get your dog or cat acclimated to their new home.

While the movers are still hard at work, keep them safely away from foot traffic to reduce stress.

Once they’ve left, make sure to clear anything that could be dangerous and block off areas as necessary then let them free to get a lay of the land on their own.

Turning a Bedroom Into a Lux Bedroom

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 23:20:08 GMT

For most of us, our bedroom is little more than a place to sleep and relax.

However, just because it’s always been that way doesn’t mean that we have to settle for drab and dreary.

One trend that’s gaining steam these days is converting your current bedroom into a luxury suite (or something comparable).

If you want to live like you’re renting a room at the Ritz, then you want to follow these tips.

Compartmentalize Your Activities.

Making your bedroom more functional is going to make it more luxurious.

Add a gorgeous desk for working and a TV area for entertainment, and you’ll be living it up in no time.

Make it Chic.

Choose a color palette that is both luxurious and classy.

Silver and gold can seem tacky, so choose muted shades that compliment each other.

Also, a brilliant and commanding headboard can instantly upgrade the look of your room without any other changes.

Light it Properly.

Finally, make sure that you have the right light to show off your designs.

If it’s too washed out or yellow, then it will look drab and run down.

Switch to brilliant LEDs and see the difference.

Choose Your Accents Wisely.

We already mentioned a headboard, but some elegant drapes can also make your room feel more royal.

Being strategic with your furniture accessories is going to both keep you under budget and avoid doing too much with the space.

Are you ready to lux your bedroom?

You’ll be impressed by the results, and the feeling of decadence will make you more confident in your surroundings.

Dispelling Refinancing Myths

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 23:46:42 GMT

“Refinancing” is a scary word for many people, but that shouldn’t be the case for you.

For many homeowners, refinancing can not only lower your monthly payments and help with your monthly budget, but it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

YOU’RE NOT TOO LATE.

For years now, we’ve been hearing that interest rates will be on the rise, and even if there are some small adjustments in the horizon, you’re still in a great position to drastically lower your interest rate.

The general rule is if your mortgage interest rate is more than one percent above the current market rate, you should consider refinancing.

IT’S NOT TOO TIME CONSUMING .

Don’t brush off refinancing just because it seems like a long and daunting process.

An informational call with a lender to see how rates compare will only take a few minutes. There are also some programs for streamlining the application process.

And besides, isn’t the amount of money you could save worth the time and effort?

ARMS CAN BE REFINANCED, TOO.

Seeing your Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) increase after the introductory period can be incredibly stressful and place a squeeze on your budget.

Many people assume they’re stuck, but ARMs can be refinanced, just like fixed-rate mortgages. You can even switch to a shorter term fixed-rate mortgage, such as 15 or 23 years.

The longer you’re planning to stay in the home, the more sense it makes to look into refinancing.

Additional Fees to be Aware of When Purchasing a Home

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 02:17:01 GMT

Purchasing a home is arguably one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime.

As you start your hunt, don't forget there will be other costs associated with your purchase than the price of the home.

Here are 5 fees to keep in mind as you begin to budget.

Home inspection.

This is a crucial step in the home buying process.

The findings that come from the inspection can help you negotiate price and repairs.

Generally, you can expect to pay between $300 to $500 depending on the home and the location.

Title services.

Title services encompass the transfer of the title from the seller and a thorough search of the property’s records to ensure to no one will pop up with a claim to the property.

Additionally, you may need to buy title insurance which will protect the lender or your investment in the home.

Appraisal fee.

Before getting a loan, you will likely be required to get an appraisal of the home to determine its estimated value.

This will be conducted by a third-party company and the cost can land anywhere between $300 and $1,000, depending on the size of the home.

HOA fees.

Many communities have a homeowners’ association that enforces monthly fees.

This money is used for general maintenance and updates to areas like pools, parks, and more.

Typical HOA fees start at around $200 per month.

Taxes.

The taxes each buyer pays at the closing table differ, but it is not uncommon for it to be up to two months’ worth of county and city property taxes.

Additionally, there may be taxes for the transfer of the home title.

Priority Tasks for your Move-In

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 01:42:17 GMT

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, and you’re probably daydreaming about decor and paint schemes and new furniture.

But before you get into the fun stuff, there are some basics you should cover first.

Change the locks.

Even if you’re promised that new locks have been installed in your home, you can never be too careful.

It’s worth the money to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no one else has the keys to your home.

Changing the locks can be a DIY project, or you can call in a locksmith for a little extra money.

Steam clean the carpets.

It’s good to get a fresh start with your floors before you start decorating.

The previous owners may have had pets, young children, or just some plain old clumsiness.

Take the time to steam clean the carpets so that your floors are free of stains and allergens. It’s pretty easy and affordable to rent a steam cleaner—your local grocery store may have them available.

Call an exterminator.

Prior to move-in, you probably haven’t spent enough time in the house to get a view of any pests that may be lurking.

Call an exterminator to take care of any mice, insects, and other critters that may be hiding in your home.

Clean out the kitchen.

If the previous occupants wanted to skip on some of their cleaning duties when they moved out, the kitchen is where they probably cut corners.

Wipe down the inside of cabinets, clean out the refrigerator, clean the oven, and clean in the nooks and crannies underneath the appliances.

Eye-Catching Ways to Decorate with Plants

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Sun, 10 Oct 2021 18:40:38 GMT

Using plants as décor is a great way to add a little color and a natural, bright feel to any room.

There are endless types of plants to choose from and various ways to display each one, but here are a few of our favorite combinations.

Geometric pots.

Find geometric pots or planters of various sizes and plant small succulents of different styles and colors in each one.

Then group a few pots together on a window sill or shelf or use them individually to adorn a side table or center of the dining room table.

Long, hanging plants.

Purchase a larger, draping plant-like eucalyptus, fern, or ivy and hang it from the ceiling using a macramé plant hanger or place it on a high shelf or ladder.

These plants are perfect for the corner of your living room or room with a large, plain wall that is in need of a little pop of color.

Plant corner.

Have a large corner in the dining or living room and need ideas on how to fill it?

Consider turning it into a small plant sanctuary. Select plants of all different sizes, heights, colors, and styles and purchase either matching pots or a mix of designs.

Consider the use of a stool or small table to create additional levels and strategically place each one in the corner.

Air plants.

Air plants are universal and can be included in DIY wall art, hung from the ceiling or on the wall inside geometric metal prisms, or placed inside beautiful glass terrariums alongside other plants and colorful rocks or sand.

What to Negotiate When Buying a House

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 02:09:22 GMT

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned veteran, the negotiation part of the transaction can be a little daunting and stressful.

However, it is necessary to ensure you are getting the best possible deal for your money.

So, what should you negotiate when buying a home?

Closing costs.

Your closing costs are determined by a variety of factors, but you can expect it to be between 2% to 5% of the purchase price.

Ask the seller to cover some or all of the closing costs upfront or request a closing credit that can be used to make specific updates and fixes to the home.

Inspection and closing timing.

Buyer offers that include a quick inspection and close timeline are often more attractive to sellers who have been going through the process for far too long.

Just ensure you allow yourself ample time to get your financing in place and complete proper, thorough inspections.

Home warranty.

Sellers will often agree to pay the premium on the home warranty at closing and then hand it off to the new homeowner, who is responsible for the deductible on any future claims.

Repairs.

Your inspection may uncover small or large repairs needed to bring the home up to standard.

You can negotiate to have these items fixed before closing or ask for a price reduction to cover the costs.

Furnishings.

Love how the seller has furnished and decorated the home?

Buyers sometimes negotiate keeping couches, fixtures, landscaping items, patio furniture, appliances, and more.

And many sellers agree, wanting to make the home more appealing.

Tips for House Hunting Online

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Sat, 14 Aug 2021 02:38:28 GMT

Hunting for a new home online is a great place to start your search, but it should not be your end all be all.

Good listing agents are excellent at highlighting the best features of the home, but keep in mind there may be more than meets the eye.

To make the most of your time and efforts and gather a well-rounded picture of home listings online, keep the following three things in mind.

Stay up to date.

When you start your search, make sure you find a site that pulls up-to-date listings directly from the multiple listing service (MLS) where real estate agents actively post their most current homes for sale.

Many online resources update less often or fail to remove listings that are off the market, making it more difficult to sort through the clutter.

Pictures can be deceiving.

Real estate photographers are experts at showing a home in the best possible light.

Many use tools and strategies to boost appeal, such as a fisheye lens to make areas look larger and creative editing to make colors and textures really pop.

But, often listings will not contain photos of unappealing parts of the home, like small closets or outdated bathrooms.

See it to believe it.

Once you find what appears to be your dream home online, call up your real estate agent and schedule a showing.

You want to take the opportunity to vet the home in person and explore every part of it before beginning the offer process.

Your real estate agent will help you cover all your bases and will ask questions you may not have thought of.

Getting Ready for Retirement

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 00:34:33 GMT

For most people, retirement feels like a long way off.

But, if you don’t start preparing as early as possible, you may find yourself in a place of financial insecurity when the time does come.

To avoid this, consider implementing the following tips.

Calculate your target savings.

In general, it’s recommended that you save between 10 to 15 percent of your income for retirement.

However, you can always use an online savings calculator to determine the amount you need to save for your specific needs and goals.

Contribute to your employer’s retirement savings plan.

Does your job offer a 401(k), traditional IRA, or Roth IRA? Sign up and start saving as soon as they allow you to.

It’s recommended to set up automatic paycheck deductions and, once the money is in your retirement fund, don’t touch it.

Take advantage of employee benefits.

Many employers offer matching which generally requires you contribute a certain percentage of each paycheck and your company will then contribute a matching amount with funds of their own.

They might also offer health savings or flexible savings account.

By contributing to these accounts, you reduce your amount of taxable income, allowing you to save more money.

Pay off your debts.

Start by paying off any high-interest credit card debt first.

Then look at other debts, such as student loans and car payments, and make a plan for paying those off incrementally.

Reduce daily spending.

Although this feels like a no-brainer, spending your money thoughtfully now can make a big impact later.

Seek out areas of your life where you can.

Tips for Storing Wine at Home

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 00:30:26 GMT

If you are a big wine connoisseur or just saving a few bottles to crack open on special occasions, it’s important to understand how best to store them safely until you’re ready to partake.

Follow the guidelines below!

Temperature.

To ensure each wine bottle maintains the proper flavor and aroma, storing it at the correct temperature is essential.

Regardless if it is red, white, or sparkling, storing your bottles at 53°F to 57°F is most ideal.

Keeping your bottles in a room where the temperature is much warmer than that may cause the flavor to become flat.

Keep your wine in the dark and away from direct UV rays as much as you can to protect the wine’s flavor.

Moisture.

Controlling the humidity in the room is important if you plan to store bottles for more than a couple of years.

The ideal humidity for storage is between 50 to 75 percent and anything below that could cause the corks to dry out, letting air seep into the bottle.

Positioning.

Generally, it is advised to store wine bottles on their sides.

This allows the wine to stay up against the cork which should aid in keeping it from drying out.

However, if you don’t plan to store the wine for long or if the bottle has a screw top or plastic cork, this is not required for safe storage.

Timing.

Not all wine is designed to have a long shelf life or be aged.

Make sure you know what the winemaker’s intention was for that particular bottle.

It is always better to open it a little early and enjoy it!

Townhouse vs. Condo: Which One Should You Buy

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 03:15:33 GMT

Whether it’s your first time buying or you just want to purchase something smaller, townhouses and condos are both great options.

Check out the differences between the two to help aid you in your search!

Condominiums.

Condominiums are similar to apartments in that you purchase an individual unit inside of a larger building, but not the property it sits on.

This generally includes access to the building’s amenities, such as the clubhouse, pool, and gym. However, condo owners are not responsible for the upkeep and repair of these common areas.

Because of the number of shared spaces, living in a condo often allows for meeting new people and building a strong sense of community.

There is a fairly similar vetting process for loan approval as for a full-sized home; however, the lender will also look at the health of the condo association.

Townhouses.

Those who purchase a townhome are generally purchasing the complete unit, both inside and out, including the land it sits on. This might also include the driveway, yard, or roof.

Traditionally, these units are two- or three-stories tall and may also include common areas like pools and parks. Townhome owners pay a fee to a homeowners association every month and the loan process is the same as buying a full-sized home.

Which is the best choice?

Both townhomes and condos offer less maintenance than a traditional home and generally offer great shared areas.

Your decision ultimately comes down to you and your family’s needs and wants.

Things you’ll want to take into consideration include location, lifestyle, family growth, and price.

What To Do with an Unfinished Basement

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 03:12:34 GMT

Although currently dimly lit and a little rough on the eyes, your unfinished basement still has a lot of potentials.

With just a little love and the help of the following ideas, you can spice it up in no time and get some great use out of the space.

Add a pop of color.

Give your basement a whole different look without a big renovation by adding some color to space.

Consider painting and sealing the floors, opening up the room by painting the rafters white or a light color, or creating a bold accent wall.

Divide the space.

Want to make your basement a multi-use room?

Partition out the area by installing an inexpensive curtain system. This can be done either with a curtain track or a simple wire, some hooks, and curtains will suffice.

Add foam mats.

Whether you’d like to use the basement as a home gym to get a quick workout in or a place for the kids to play and rough house, adding some foam mats into the mix is a great and easy solution.

They come in various colors and can quickly be picked up and tucked away if need be.

Use a large rug.

As an alternative to adding mats, find a large, eye-catching rug to be used as a focal point, and furnish the area around it.

Add lighting.

Basements often offer very little built-in lighting and few outlets around the room.

Consider stringing café lighting across space from the rafters to give a nice ambiance and glow without any difficult electrical work.

Your Guide to Home Appraisal

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 02:53:35 GMT

You’ve found your dream home and now it’s time to cross all your T's and dot all your I's before it’s all your own.

And one of the first items on your closing checklist the home appraisal.

So, what exactly is that?

The home appraisal is essentially a value assessment of the home and property.

It is conducted by a certified third party and is used to determine whether the home is priced appropriately.

During a home appraisal, the appraiser conducts a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home. He or she factors in a variety of things, including the home’s floor plan functionality, condition, location, school district, fixtures, lot size, and more.

An upward adjustment is generally made if the home has a deck, a view, or a large yard.

The appraiser will also compare the home to several similar homes that were sold within the last six months in the area.

The final report must include a street map showing the property and the ones’ compared, photographs of the interior and exterior, an explanation on how the square footage was calculated, market sales data, public land records, and more.

After it is complete, the lender uses the information found to ensure that the property is worth the amount they are investing.

This is a safe-guard for the lender as the home acts as collateral for the mortgage.

If the buyer defaults on the mortgage and goes into foreclosure, the lender generally sells the home to recover the money borrowed.

Finding the Right Mattress

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 02:41:31 GMT

You’ve got more options than ever when mattress shopping these days with no shortage of retailers to choose from. Here are the factors you should consider when you’re shopping for a perfect night’s sleep.

Mattress construction .

The most popular mattress types are inner spring mattresses, memory foam mattresses, and adjustable air mattresses.

Each has pros and cons when it comes to durability and comfort customization.

Firmness .

Mattress firmness plays a huge role in the quality of your sleep.

Mattresses that are too firm or too soft can cause aches and pains, so it‘s recommended that you test a mattress for 10- to 15 minutes in store before making a purchase.

Sleeping position.

Your mattress should match your sleeping style (side, back, face-down, etc.).

You want a mattress that keeps your spine in proper alignment.

For example, some mattresses are better for side sleepers, while others are better for back sleepers.

Size.

It’s not quite as simple as choosing between a king and a queen mattress.

You should also consider your height, as some mattresses are a better fit for shorter people while tall people will want a longer mattress so their limbs aren’t hanging over the edge of the bed.

Stability.

For couples, you should consider how the mattress reacts when one person moves, so the other person’s sleep isn’t disturbed in the middle of the night.

What to Repair Before You List

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 02:20:48 GMT

When you’re getting ready to list your home, it’s of the utmost importance to ensure you are showing it in the best light.

Taking time to highlight its strengths and fix up some of its possible weaknesses can make a big difference in how fast it sells.

Here are our top four recommended repairs to make before selling your home.

Repaint walls.

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce it up, and generally, it can be a do-it-yourself project.

Make sure to cover any walls with scratches and chips and consider updating any accent walls with a more neutral coat.

Repair floors.

Hardwood floors are a very desirable feature in a home, so you want to ensure they look their best by fixing scratches or dull areas.

If your carpet is worn or stained, consider replacing them.

And don’t forget the tile in your kitchen or bathrooms. Re-grouting can go a long way in making dingy tile work look brand new!

Refresh the landscaping.

Show buyers your home is the full package by dressing up the outside as well as the in.

Clean walkways and driveways, plant seasonal flowers and plants, trim hedges and trees, install outdoor décor pieces and fill in mulch and gravel.

Fix your fixtures.

Leaky faucet? Rusted drains? Loose drawer handle?

Making these small fixes can make a big difference to potential buyers with detailed-orientated minds.

Improve your kitchen.

An outdated kitchen can be a real eyesore in a home.

Updating cabinetry, repairing or replacing countertops, and installing new faucets and sinks may be worth the investment

Which Down Payment Strategy is Right for You

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 11 May 2021 03:31:15 GMT

You’ve most likely heard the rule: Save for a 20-percent down payment before you buy a home.

The logic behind saving 20 percent is solid, as it shows that you have the financial discipline and stability to save for a long-term goal. It also helps you get favorable rates from lenders.

But there can actually be financial benefits to putting down a small down payment—as low as 3.5 percent—rather than parting with so much cash up front, even if you have the money available.

THE DOWNSIDE

The downsides of a small down payment are pretty well known.

You’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance for years, and the lower your down payment, the more you’ll pay.

You’ll also be offered a lesser loan amount than borrowers who have a 20 percent down payment, which will eliminate some homes from your search.

THE UPSIDE

The national average for home appreciation is about five percent.

The appreciation is independent from your home payment, so whether you put down 20 percent or 3.5 percent, the increase in equity is the same.

If you’re looking at your home as an investment, putting down a smaller amount can lead to a higher return on investment, while also leaving more of your savings free for home repairs, upgrades, or other investment opportunities.

THE HAPPY MEDIUM

Of course, your home payment options aren’t binary.

Most borrowers can find some common ground between the security of a traditional 20 percent and an investment-focused, small down payment.

Your trusted real estate professional can provide some answers as you explore your financing options.

Summertime Adventures Await

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 11 May 2021 02:19:30 GMT

One of the perks of summertime is often the glorious weather. Many areas across our country experience more sunshine and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. We have pulled together several online resources to help you find local parks, nature reserves, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures!

The National Park Services shares exciting information about parks in your local area, our parks’ history, and historical monuments.
https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm

Find Your Park helps you find outdoor adventures based on your interests and availability. They share historical landmarks, national parks, and American treasures.
https://findyourpark.com/

Discover the Forest provides detailed information about hiking locations, family-friendly activities, and fun day trip ideas.
https://discovertheforest.org/

America’s Parks has created a map showcasing national and state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, fish hatcheries, forests, scenic rivers, natural areas, and recreation areas.
https://stateparks.com/

National Park Foundation shares fun activities for stay-at-home adventures and information for visiting national parks across the country.
https://www.nationalparks.org/

Recreation.gov helps you dream up your next trip, figure out the details, and reserve experiences at over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country. There's something for everyone on Recreation.gov, so get out there, experience the USA, and bring home a story!
https://www.recreation.gov/

Answers For Homeowners Four Biggest Questions

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 11 May 2021 02:08:37 GMT

1. Is now a good time to sell?

In short, yes. Here are the biggest reasons why:

Inventory is still at record lows and buyer demand at record highs. Low mortgage rates mean this is the

perfect time to move up or downsize your current living situation for an affordable price. Sellers have

leverage in a highly competitive market. This can be strategic when it comes to negotiating terms.

2. What if I sell my home, but I’m unable to find a new one to buy?

Closing dates can be worked out in the terms and are often flexible. And there are many short-term

housing options available should there be a gap.

3. Home prices are high right now. Should I wait to buy?

Increasing values don’t always equate to decreased affordability. The actual cost of housing reflects a

person’s purchasing power, which is a function of mortgage rates and income. It’s not just price.

4. If a lot of foreclosures hit the market, will that decrease home values?

This is a common concern about the end of forbearance and homes potentially flooding the market.

Here’s why that’s not likely to happen.

Nearly 30% of borrowers in forbearance are still current on their mortgage payments. Learning from

the past, many banks will negotiate modification plans with borrowers, which will enable households to

maintain ownership. Most homeowners are equity rich, and many will be able to sell instead of going

into foreclosure.

Upsizing Your Home

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Sun, 11 Apr 2021 16:18:15 GMT

Unfortunately, our homes don’t always grow with us.

What may have initially worked fine for a single person, a young couple’s starter home, or a family with a newborn can quickly become too small as families expand and multiple generations live under one roof.

Remodeling and adding to your home is one option for creating more space, but it can be costly, and the size of your property may be prohibitive.

That’s when moving to a bigger home becomes the best solution.

WHERE DO YOU NEED MORE SPACE?

The first thought when upsizing your home is to simply consider square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

But it’s important to take a more critical approach to how your space will actually be used.

If you have younger children (or possibly more on the way), then focusing on bedrooms and bathrooms makes sense.

But if your children are closer to heading off to college or starting their own families, it may be better to prioritize group spaces like the kitchen, dining room, living room, and outdoor space—it’ll pay off during the holidays or summer vacations, when everyone is coming to visit for big gatherings.

MOVING OUTWARD.

If you need more space, but don’t necessarily want a more expensive home, you can probably get a lot more house for your money if you move a little further from a city center.

While the walkability and short commutes of a dense neighborhood or condo are hard to leave beyond, your lifestyle—and preferences for hosting Thanksgiving, barbecues, and birthdays—might mean that a spacious home in the suburbs makes the most sense.

It’s your best option for upsizing while avoiding a heftier price tag.

How You Can Finance Your Home Renovation

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:18:49 GMT

Outdated kitchen. Overrun backyard. Unusable basement space.

If you have a home renovation project on the mind, the first thing you have to consider is how you are going to finance it.

Here are the most common options to make your dreams become a reality.

Cash.

Paying in cash is the most straightforward financing option, just save until you have enough money to cover the expenses.

This will help eliminate spending outside your budget; however, it can also extend your timeline.

Mortgage Refinance.

If you’ve been making payments on your home for a few years and your interest rate is higher than current market rates, you may be eligible for a mortgage refinance, reducing your payments and freeing up some money.

Cash-Out Refinance.

You can tap into your home equity and borrow up to 80 percent of your home’s value to pay off your current mortgage plus take out more cash to cover the renovations.

This option is encouraged only when you’re making improvements that will increase the value of your home, as it can add a lot of interest and fees.

Home Equity.

Getting a home equity line of credit allows you to borrow money against the value of your home.

You receive usually up to 80 percent of your home’s value, minus the amount of your loan.

Retirement Funds.

Homeowners can consider pulling money from a 401K or IRA account, even though they aren’t specifically meant to cover a home renovation.

This option might incur additional penalties or tax payments, but may be worth it when making improvements that will benefit them financially in the long run.

Create the Office of your Dreams

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 02:48:08 GMT

Whether you now work full-time at home or occasionally need to conduct business in the evenings or on the weekends, a home office a great way to utilize an extra room.

A dedicated workspace in your home can be designed to increase productivity and comfort.

Here are 5 ideas to get you started.

1. Invest in a good office chair.

Investing in an ergonomic office chair is essential. You may be spending anywhere from 30 to 50 hours a week sitting in it, so your back will thank you. Purchasing one with multiple adjustments is ideal so it fits you just right.

2. Switch up your lighting.

Fluorescent lighting has been proven to be hard on the eyes. Make the switch to LED or halogen light bulbs in your home office and try to let in as much natural light as possible. Also, consider finding a desk lamp to reduce headaches and eye strain.

3. Keep essentials in reach and organized.

Nothing says productivity like a clean, neat workspace. Select a desk with a lot of storage or install creative shelving to keep items like pens, pencils, extra batteries, calculators, notepads, and more stored within arm’s reach.

4. Decorate bright.

Pick a color you love and use it to spice up the room. Use cheery yellow or red or relaxing tones like green and blue, instead of beiges and browns.

5. Aim for the view.

If possible, place your desk so you are facing a window instead of a blank wall. Natural light can do wonders for staying alert and you can give yourself a short mental break when necessary by looking to the outdoors.

Create an Evacuation Plan for your Pets

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 02:14:03 GMT

An evacuation plan is a necessity for every home, especially if you live in an area where fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, and other disasters are a possibility.

Many homeowners create evacuation plans for their homes and practice them with their kids, but far fewer have considered one for their pets.

Take these steps to add your pets to your evacuation plan.

Assign pet evacuation to an adult.

Everyone should know how to act during an evacuation, and that includes assigning one parent or adult to the pets. This allows the other parent and the children to focus on their part of the evacuation plan, so there’s no confusion during a high-stress moment when time is of the essence.

Keep evacuation maps and pet carriers readily accessible.

If you need to evacuate, you should know exactly where every important item is. If you pets require carriers, keep them in a place that you can access easily.

Practice your plan.

Include your pets in your home evacuation drills. It’ll help you see how they will respond and make changes to your plan if necessary. Getting your dog out of a window may not be as simple as you think!

Be prepared in case you get separated from your pets.

No matter how much you drill your evacuation plan, it’s possible that a dog or cat will run off while you’re focusing on keeping your family safe. A microchip or a GPS-compatible tag can help you find your pets once it’s safe to return to the area.

Give your Deck a Facelift

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 22:46:37 GMT

Hanging out with your family or hosting friends on your old, dingy deck is not very appealing.

Lucky for you, refreshing it doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.

Try your hand at the makeover ideas below!

Restore your decking.

Depending on the shape it’s in, sometimes all your deck needs is a little love.

If it’s still fairly new, your deck might just need a deep cleaning and a new coat of sealant. There is a multitude of deck finishing and cleaning solutions on the market to choose from to achieve this.

However, if it's more worn down, the rejuvenation process may be a bit longer, including searching for larger repairs, tightening any hardware, giving it a good cleaning, applying a stain, sealant, and paint, and more.

Add lighting.

Ambient lighting can completely transform your outside space into a relaxing, cozy oasis.

Consider adding solar lights that don’t require a plugin or battery replacement. The lights turn on automatically when the sun sets, making your deck come alive.

You can also consider paper lanterns, rope lights, mason jar lamps, or small twinkle lights, depending on the style and mood you’d like to set.

Build a privacy screen.

Privacy screens come in all styles, shapes, and sizes.

Consider purchasing and installing bamboo fencing or lattice panels for a quick and easy solution.

Or, if you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can build a wooden frame and grow climbing plants or vines or stretch outdoor fabric in between.

Whichever route you end up choosing, make sure you get the most out of your efforts by evaluating all lines sight before building.

Dont' Forget About Homeowner Tax Breaks

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 23:18:40 GMT

A New Year means tax season is right around the corner.

One of the many perks of homeownership is big tax breaks. So whether you’re doing your taxes yourself or getting help from a professional, it’s important to take advantage of those breaks!

Mortgage Interest Deduction:
Before buying a home, a standard deduction may have made the most sense when you prepared your taxes. But homeowners can deduct the interest portion of their mortgage payments, and the earlier you are in your mortgage, the greater the percentage of each payment that goes toward interest, so take advantage right away!

Home Office:
There are specific criteria that have to be met in order to deduct home office expenses, but it can lead to a very large deduction. In general, your home office has to be used specifically for business purposes. Check with a tax professional to see if your home office qualifies for a deduction—it’s a little extra work, but can make a big difference in your tax responsibility.

Social Game of the Month - February

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 23:08:05 GMT

SPYFALL:

Put on your best lying face and fake it till you make it in Spyfall, a game where the spy tries to remain “hidden” while the other players deduce who it is. Everyone will get a role and know a certain location, except for the spy who has to lie their way out of a barrage of questions.

It’s also a perfect companion game for Skype or Google Hangout calls so you can catch who’s being all shifty-eyed.

How to play:

Open the website , create a private room and send the invite link to your friends. You can customise the number of players or number of locations.

Each player gets to ask any other player any question, for example “Is this place underwater?”
The player must answer the question. Answers should be discreet enough that the spy cannot guess the location, but also clear enough to prove their innocence.
If you are notified to be the spy, pretend like you know what the location is.
After one round of asking, everyone guesses who the spy is.
If the spy is exposed, they can still win by correcting guessing the location.

No. of players: 3-12 players

Organic Food on a Budget

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 22:56:47 GMT

Organic food usually tastes better, and is better for you, but it can also be very expensive compared to non-organic products.

Organic food can cost nearly 50 percent more, thanks to the extra labor required to produce it and consumers’ demand exceeding supply.

So how do you get tasty organic food without spending a ton of extra money?

Follow these tips to get more bang for your buck.

Shop at farmers’ markets.

You can get fresh organic produce for far less at a farmers’ market than you’d pay at the grocery store.

It’ll taste just as good, and you’re getting your food straight from the source.

Choose seasonal produce.

Out-of-season produce usually has to be imported, and that can really drive up the price.

Focus your meals on in-season fruits and vegetables so that you don’t end up paying $6.00 for a pound of organic asparagus.

Shop more frequently, and plan your meals around bulk sales.

The trick here is to only buy what’s needed for your meals, and to only plan for a week of meals at most.

That way you’re less likely to throw food away, because you can use leftover produce for more meals before it goes bad.

Grow your own.

A home vegetable garden will provide some extremely cheap organic produce, and gardening can also be a fun and rewarding hobby.

Chase Away Cabin Fever

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 18:15:00 GMT

Sure, that flower bouquet may be quite decorative, but consider bringing home something a bit unexpected to help chase away cabin fever.

PEACE LILY

Since the days are shorter in winter, and there are often low levels of sunlight, choosing a plant that tolerates dusky conditions is an important factor. The peace lily (Spathiphyllum group) loves shade, and winter provides its preferred light level.

Treat it right and this glossy-leaved stunner will not only brighten up a dark corner but do so with a bloom as well. Learn more about the peace lily and its care requirements online at The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Note: The peace lily isn't a true lily.

Bonus: The NASA Clean Air Study recommends growing the peace lily indoors to clean the air of formaldehyde, benzene and several other indoor pollutants.

KALANCHOE

"Cheerful" is the perfect word to describe the scallop-edged leaves and clusters of brightly- colored flowers of the kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana). Best of all, this gorgeous, colorful display occurs in winter, in shades of orange, pink, red, yellow and white.

This beauty performs best with lots of light so place it near a south-facing window. Overwatering will kill it, so allow the soil to dry-out between waterings. Learn more about this plant's requirements at the New York Botanical Gardens website.

Note: Parts of the Kalanchoe, especially the flowers, are poisonous to pets and children. If you suspect that your child has ingested the plant, call your medical professional or the American Association of Poison Control Centers, available 24 hours a day, at 800-222-1222. If your pet ingests the plant, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

Bonus: It's easy to get your kalanchoe to rebloom – follow the walk-through provided by Clemson Extension.

AFRICAN VIOLET

We decided to include the African violet (Saintpaulia spp.) in our list of cabin fever busters because they are so easy to grow and they easily tolerate the warm indoor air in the winter.

In fact, you can help your African violet thrive by keeping indoor temperatures between 65 degrees to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.

If the leaves begin to yellow, the plant may need more sunlight, so move it to a "window with western or southern exposure," and filtered sunlight, recommend the experts at Optimara/Holtkamp Greenhouses, Inc.

Note: Never place the African violet in direct sun as it may burn the foliage.

Bonus: Create new African violets from the leaves of your current plant. Learn how online at Penn State University Extension's website.

Social Games of the Month - January

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 22:00:00 GMT

Just because you can’t physically be with your friends while social distancing doesn’t mean that you can’t play with them. And having fun isn’t only for kids.

Studies show that playing online games as an adult can do everything from help you to tackle your stress to boost your overall well-being—something that we all need during these heavy times.

WORDS WITH FRIENDS : A fun way to connect with family and friends. Sometimes staying in touch is as simple as playing the perfect word. And your brain will get a workout as well because let’s be honest—there are only so many words that you can fit the letter Q into. Test yourself against fun, fictional personalities in Solo Challenge or exercise your strategic thinking with Daily Word Play puzzles. Got a competitive streak? Go head-to-head in NEW Lightning Duels with high stakes and rewards.
Click this link to download: Words With Friends

CODENAMES: this is a word-based party game that’ll test how well you and your buddies can communicate with each other. Awarded as one of the best board games in 2016, there’s an online variant that’s free and just as fun.

Image credit: Codenames Online

Players are split into two teams – red and blue – with one spymaster on each side. The spymaster gives one-word clues and the team guesses the corresponding words until all of their color has been cleared.

Nothing will beat that “Eureka!” moment when your friend correctly guesses “School”, “Temple”, “Hotel” and “Crane” from a single word – “Building”.

Click this link to play: Codenames

9 Things Homeowners are Looking Forward to in 2021

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 19:15:00 GMT

2020 has come to a close, and what a year it’s been!

We went through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, a contentious election, and no shortage of bad news, making it the year that most people won’t soon forget.

As 2021 approaches, however, homeowners have a lot to look forward to. While the world of real estate was upended over the past year (especially in major cities), there’s still nothing better than having a place to call your own.

With a vaccine on the horizon, and a potential return-to-normalcy in sight, here are nine things homeowners will be looking forward to in 2021:

1. Spending time decorating something besides the home office

Got a new desk, a standing desk, a new chair, new monitors, and a bookshelf… it’s time to step out of the home office and pay some attention to the living room.

2. People who know they’re not meant for the woods moving back to the city

If you’d rather hear a train than random animal sounds, it might be time to head back.

3. A more predictable real estate market

At first everyone was scared the real estate market would tank. Turns out sales and prices went up instead in a lot of areas!

4. Seeing unmasked faces in their Ring doorbell cameras

Is it a burglar or a delivery driver? Who knows!?

5. Having people over at their house again

At least someone will get to see all the nice decorating you’ve done during quarantine.

6. No more discarded masks littering the yard and sidewalks

They’re like the cigarette butts of the 21st century.

7. Restaurants in their neighborhoods opening back up

I can’t explain it… the Caesar salad at Trattoria just tastes different.

8. Having less furniture on back order

It’s easier to find a box of Cuban cigars than it is to find a nice couch.

9. The continuation of low interest rates

Anything with a 3 or less in front of it is pretty incredible.

Achieve Morning Person Status

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 18:45:00 GMT

Ever wish you could become one of those rare morning people? The ones that wake with a start, feeling refreshed and energized. The ones that get in that morning workout or wrap up some work before many of us even hit the snooze button for the first time.

Here are five tips to help you achieve that early bird status!

1. Create a morning schedule.

Physically write down the things you’d like to complete in the morning and set a time for each. Then stick with it. Once you force yourself out of bed early one or two weeks consistently, you’ll find it gets easier and easier to do.

2. Let the light in.

Whether natural or artificial, light tells your brain its time to get up and get going. If your room lacks large windows where you can open the blinds up, consider investing in a timed lamp or alarm clock with a light.

3. Prep and eat breakfast.

Although there are many of us who chose the skip breakfast, it is key to perking up your energy in the morning. Try prepping protein-focused meals the night before or grab a yogurt or fruit and try to consume it right after you wake.

4. Get your body moving.

Whether it’s a short walk around your neighborhood or a rigorous 5:30 am spin class, getting your blood pumping will help wake up your body and has a ton of other benefits, like stress and anxiety reduction.

5. Feed your mind.

Stimulate your brain and do something you enjoy first thing in the morning. Try reading a favorite book, catching up on the news, doing daily meditation, or setting intentions.

3 Easy Ways To Live A Greener Life

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 02:01:38 GMT

Green – a word that can indicate envy or inexperience, it can conjure up a frog named Kermit, or immature fruit.

It's also a descriptor of a lifestyle that is concerned with environmentalism.

While many Americans take this concern to the max, others adopt pieces of a green lifestyle. This way, they can do their part to help the environment while saving money in the process.

A Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) study found that more than 40% of us will purchase green products for the home. If you're among this group, read on to learn three easy ways to make your life at home a bit greener.

1. VOW TO GO GREEN WHEN YOU CLEAN

You'll find lots of cleaning products at the supermarket, labeled "eco-friendly" or "green." Do they work as well as traditional cleaners?

"They have been demonstrated to be just as effective at tackling various cleaning chores as traditional cleaning products," according to research analyst Samara Geller with the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

But not all so-called eco-friendly products are created equal and even the experts at EWG.org admit that. In fact, they recommend that when shopping for cleaners to use in the home, ensure that they are:

• Certified by Green Seal or Ecologo

• Fragrance-free

• Free of quaternary ammonium compounds or triclosan

Go online to ewg.org/guides/cleaners to find out which cleaners they recommend.

2. SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT BY INSTALLING A NEW THERMOSTAT

If you haven't read up on programmable thermostats, what are you waiting for? Basically, you program in the times you want the home's temperature to warm or cool and to regulate what it should do when nobody is at home.

Look for a "smart thermostat," which will "learn" your heating and cooling habits and you can control it from an app.

The folks at the U.S. Department of Energy find that you could save up to 10% on cooling and heating your home just by dialing back the thermostat 7 degrees while you're at work.

3. SAVE EVEN MORE WITH THIS SIMPLE TIP

What's simpler than changing a light bulb? If you ensure that the new bulbs are ENERGY STAR® certified you'll save up to 90% in energy consumption, according to the owner of the ENERGY STAR registered trademark, the EPA.

Take these three steps to a greener home to help protect your family, your pocketbook and the environment.

11 Things You Think When Watching HGTV

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 01:47:23 GMT

Most of us have a favorite TV channel; a safe go-to when we want to kick back and take our mind off the stresses of everyday life. For many people—especially those of us who love real estate—HGTV is a reliable source of entertainment, and a great way to experience some of the ups and downs of home ownership in thirty-minute and sixty-minute increments.

While we all experience shows in our own unique way, there are plenty of overlapping thoughts and emotions that go through our heads when we watch the characters we love (and love to hate) doing their thing, and HGTV is no exception. Here are 11 things that probably go through your head whenever you watch HGTV:

1. Time to settle in on the couch and watch the drama unfold.

All I need is a snack and my remote…the hosts and contestants will do the rest.

2. I never knew there were so many popcorn ceilings in the world .

That stuff’s gotta go!

3. Why did they pick that house!? The other one is sooo much nicer!

What the heck are they thinking!? They’re making a huge mistake.

4. That couple wants completely different things. How the heck are they ever gonna agree on a house!?

She wants a brownstone in the city. He wants a place with a lot of land. Maybe they should call a divorce lawyer.

5. I can’t believe they’re going over their budget like that.

Where are they gonna get the money? Are they selling a kidney?

6. Man, they really love shiplap, don’t they?

At this rate, there’s gonna be shiplap on the floors, ceiling, and kitchen counters soon.

7. How in the world can they afford that house? It makes no sense!

She’s a part time cat therapist and he’s a student. What am I missing here?

8. David and Hillary never seem to agree on anything, do they?

How can two people who never agree work together like this?

9. There’s no way they could get that renovation done that quickly!

Even with this guy…

10. Literally every single guy says they want a mancave.

Was there some sort of memo that went out to all the males in the universe?

11. This makes me want to go out and buy a new place!

I wasn’t planning to move but every time I turn on HGTV, I start daydreaming again.

5 Tips to Host the Perfect New Year’s Eve Party in a Small Space

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 00:58:37 GMT

If you live in an apartment or a small home, don’t let lack of space stop you from hosting a grand New Year’s Eve party. With a little bit of thoughtful planning, you can create a celebration that’s so enjoyable no one will stop to take note of your limited square footage.

Fortunately, friends and family tend to focus on the company, food, and the warm atmosphere, so invest your energy there, rather than worrying about elbow room.

Follow these five tips for cultivating a festive gathering that proves good times happen in small spaces.

1. Clean and declutter

Clean spaces tend to look larger. In addition to dusting and scrubbing, decluttering will also enhance the appearance of your home. Because you probably want to make every inch count, remove all unnecessary items as well.

For example, stash that robot vacuum (which can quickly become a trip hazard for a tipsy guest) in the closet or under the couch. Remove appliances you’re not using from countertops to create more space in the kitchen, even if you have to cram them into a crowded cabinet. If you’ve got bookshelves, you may want to put away your collections and use this area for appetizers or to create a self-serve bar.

Bonus: if getting your home more organized is one of your New Year’s resolutions, here’s a chance to get a jump on decluttering. You’ll not only be making your party more enjoyable, you’ll head into the new year with a resolution already checked off the list.

2. Create a flow

When you’re already working with tight spaces, the last thing you want is everyone grouping in one spot. You can establish a nice flow that ensures guests to circulate by setting up a bar area in one corner, appetizers in another, and desserts in the kitchen. Make them move around!

As friends arrive, let them know where everything is, and encourage them to help themselves. If you’re short on fridge space, pack your sink (or tub) with ice and let it serve as your cooler, keeping beverages chilled.

3. Plan your menu thoughtfully

Even though you’re playing host, you still want to enjoy the company of your guests. You can’t do that if you’re stuck in the kitchen cooking or even reheating everything from appetizers to entrees, and sides. As you’re thinking about your menu, choose dishes that can be made ahead and don’t require you to stand at a stove. Plus, if guests see you working hard, they’re bound to offer to help, and before you know it, you’ve got a dozen people hovering in the kitchen clogging up your flow, bumping into each other, and making them all the more aware of the limited space.

As you’re choosing which foods to serve, consider what’s easiest for guests as well. If you don’t have seating or places to put a plate down for everyone in attendance, opt for bite-sized finger foods so no one’s juggling a fork and knife while standing. Seating doesn’t need to be formal either. Put everything from throw pillows to a piano bench to work for you.

4. Don’t go overboard with decor

Though festive, streamers and balloons can limit open spaces, and can float, fall, or otherwise get in the way of your guests. Plus, they create visual clutter, and will undo any of the good work you did decluttering.

Try and stick to things that don’t take up a lot of space, and aren’t too large.For instance, you can create instant ambiance with the twinkling light of votive candles, and they take up very little space.

5. Consider the crowd

Obviously, if you have a smaller space to entertain in, you want to make sure you are careful not to invite to large of a crowd. It’s fine to invite a few more than you can comfortably fit, since not everyone will RSVP yes to your event. But don’t go overboard.

More importantly, consider who you are inviting, and how they will blend with the rest of the guests. In a tighter space, it’s all the more important to make sure the guests who do come mingle well together.

Having a bigger home to entertain in isn’t the only solution to hosting a great New Year’s Eve party! With a little forethought and preparation, your home can be the perfect place for your friends and family to celebrate.

A Guide to a Perfect 4th of July

183:815548141 (Judith Vandsburger) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 23:29:09 GMT

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just spending time in your own backyard, we're here to make sure you're equipped to have a great 4th of July.

Local Events

Most cities that are still participating in firework shows this year have reported that they are actually launching them higher in the sky so you can see them from a distance to avoid tightly packed crowds.

Carmel's Backyard CarmelFest

Carmel's plan is to have fireworks easily viewable from backyards around town or from outdoor dining at local restaurants. Fireworks will start at 9:45 and will launch from 3 different locations: West Side (West Park, 2700 W. 116th St), Central Carmel (Chase Court between Range Line Rd and Guiford Ave), and East Side (Badget Field, 5459 E. Main Street). More Info

Gilroy Fireworks

Gilroy will be launching fireworks but will be closing the surrounding areas, encouraging people to view them from home or from a safe distance. Fireworks will launch from Gilroy High School at dusk and can be seen from a 2.5 mile radius. More Info

Los Altos Hills Caravan Parade

Los Altos Hills will be hosting a caravan parade around town including decorated classic cars. Starting at 10am, the parade will start at town hall and go to West Fremont Rd, Robleda Rd, Purissima Rd, Arastradero, and end at the C.E.R.T. Station on West Fremont Rd. People are encouraged to view from the sidewalk at a safe distance from others. More Info

Fire up the Grill

Put on your New Balances, tuck your American flag t-shirt into your jean shorts and pick up your spatula.

Grilling Guide

Burgers, chicken, pork, veggies, fish, you name it. Here's the ultimate grilling guide to ensure you have a delicious 4th of July.

On the Lighter Side

There are certain side dishes that are practically mandatory at a barbecue: corn on the cob, potato salad, pasta salad, and baked beans to name a few. But if you want to take your bbq side dishes a bit further, try a peach-and-fennel slaw, or spicy charred fava bean pods. Here's a great list of BBQ side recipes .

The "UV Liberty" Cocktail

This is basically a spiked ice cream float made for the 4th of July. All you need is UV Blue raspberry vodka, raspberry sherbet, and lemon-lime soda to make this sweet and refreshing drink. Check out the full recipe here.

5 Gift Ideas for Essential Workers

Sat, 16 May 2020 18:53:36 GMT

It’s easy to focus on what you can’t do while you’re stuck at home these days. But here’s something you can do: Show thanks to the essential workers in your life.

Health care professionals, grocery store employees, first responders, mail carriers and many others are still going to work every day. They’re risking their health to help our community.

We might not be able to spend time together in person, but we can still be there for our friends and neighbors.

So how can you show your appreciation? Consider sending one of these gifts.

Gift Cards : Essential workers might not have as much time to cook for themselves, so give them gift cards to local restaurants or food delivery services.
Entertainment : They could probably use an escape now more than ever. Help them take a mental break with a streaming subscription, a book or a preloaded e-reader.
Home Essentials : Your favorite frontline workers are also braving the grocery store for the basics. Gift them a healthy stash of hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and other must-haves to save them a trip.
Self-Care Items : Everyone deserves a few minutes to relax each day, no matter how busy work might be. Help local essential workers take a load off with soothing soaps, lotions and bath bombs.
Thank-You Note : Sometimes the best gifts are the simple ones. You can leave a handwritten thank-you card, send a friendly text message or write a thoughtful email.

Remember: We’re all in this together, and supporting each other is important during these uncertain times. For more ideas on celebrating the amazing people in our community, get in touch today.

How Tech Helps You Buy or Sell a Home

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 03:12:27 GMT

With much of the country mostly staying home, it's not your typical spring homebuying season.

You might think social distancing has made it difficult to meet with lenders, view properties and sign paperwork, but fortunately that's not the case.

In fact, prospective buyers and sellers continue to move forward with their housing needs and doing so with safety in mind.

While the process may look a little different, modern technology is making it possible and, in some ways, more convenient.

So how does it work?

Virtual Open Houses and Showings: Facebook Live, FaceTime and Zoom are all being used to show properties. And many listings include a prerecorded tour of the home.

3D Floor Plans and Interactive Walk-Throughs: Online tools make it easy to create interactive 3D walk-throughs and even allow for decor and furniture placement to give buyers a more lifelike feel of the space.

Electronic Signatures and Deed Filings: E-signing technology means there’s no need to meet in person to sign offers, contracts or any other paperwork needed in the process.

Desktop and Drive-By Appraisals : If sellers are hesitant to have an appraiser visit their property in person, desktop and drive-by appraisals are a good alternative. These use city data, prior appraisals and comparable sales information to assess a home’s value. Homeowners can video chat with the appraiser to show them the interior and exterior elements of the property.

The way we buy and sell homes may have changed for now, but it’s still an active and essential market. If you have any questions about making a move, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

How to Create Your Ideal Home Workspace

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 20:56:49 GMT

Working from home is one of the many challenges Americans are facing during the coronavirus outbreak. And while the arrangement may have its perks — like no commuting or office attire — it also has some serious setbacks.

The biggest one? That's finding the motivation to stay productive. With kids, pets and that comfortable bed calling your name, it can be hard for even the most diligent of workers to stay on task.

Are you struggling in your efforts to work from home? If so, these workspace tips can help:

Pick your area. Separate personal time and work time by designating a spot for your work. It could be a desk, a corner of the dining room table or even a surface in a cleared-out closet. Just make sure it's yours — and that your loved ones know it too.

Keep it tidy. Nothing can slow you down like disorganization. Set yourself up for success with the right folders, shelves and other tools you'll need to stay productive. You should also make an effort to clean up your space after signing off each day.

Make yourself comfortable. You might not have a cushy office chair, but do your best to add some comforts. Put a fluffy pillow or warm blanket on the dining room chair you're using, or grab a footstool from the living room so you can lean back during conference calls.

Add personal touches. You'll be spending a lot of time in that spot, so make sure you're happy there . Use photos or fresh flowers to personalize your space.

Are you looking for more ideas on turning your space into a work-from-home haven? Get in touch today.

Your Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 18:57:05 GMT

It’s no secret that springtime can breathe new life into a home. And in many markets, spring is the most popular time to buy or sell. Freshly manicured lawns and immaculate interiors add a certain appeal that may not be there during other seasons.

A property that’s in excellent condition is sure to catch the eye of a buyer. Even if your home isn’t currently on the market, it’s a good idea to make a habit of regular upkeep.

Ready to tackle your home maintenance tasks? Here’s your spring to-do list.

4 Tips for Decorating a Small Space

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 23:14:14 GMT

Whether it’s a cramped bedroom or an office nook, many homes have a small room that’s difficult to decorate.

Do you wish you could add more charm without forgoing square footage? Well, just because your space is limited, it doesn’t mean your style has to be.

Make your tiny area more usable and trendy with these four tips.

1. Create a focal point. Designing without a focal point can make your space look cluttered. Instead, arrange a single, standout feature at the center of the room. Organize a gallery wall with several of your favorite photos or hang one attention-grabbing piece of art.

2. Take decor to the top. If your home lacks high ceilings, use tall floor lamps and curtains to elongate your walls. You can further give the illusion of height by installing vertical shelves closer to the ceiling instead of at eye level.

3. Make it bright. Bring in natural light by hanging sheer window curtains. You can also add a mirror to the wall opposite a window to reflect light.

But if your small space doesn’t have windows, consider these ideas to illuminate it:

Overhead lighting, such as bright bulbs in ceiling fixtures.
Diffused lighting, like opaque glass or shaded floor lamps.
Task lighting, including desk or reading lights.
Arrange multiple levels of lighting so your gaze moves to various areas of the space, which can make it feel larger.

4. Add decorative storage. When a room is full of stuff, it tends to feel smaller. Use your walls for storage by installing hooks or racks to give your items a rightful place.

If you want more space-saving ideas — or if you’re ready to start looking for a larger home — reach out today.

Do you want more space when you retire?

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 20:22:46 GMT

When you think of the home you’ll retire in, a new house may come to mind. Or maybe you’re contemplating moving to your favorite vacation spot or somewhere closer to friends and family.

With so many choices, how will you know what’s best for your lifestyle?

Here are three questions to consider before making a move for retirement:

1. Will you relocate? Maybe you have a favorite beach town in mind for your retirement, where you can relax year-round. If so, be sure to account for the price of moving and the costs of your new community. If the cost of living is higher, make sure you have enough money saved to live comfortably.

2. Should you downsize or upgrade? The kids have likely moved out, so you could opt for a smaller house or condo. But a more substantial property may offer additional space for visitors and hobbies. Think about what’s best for your family, then consider sitting down with a financial planner to evaluate your assets to be sure you can afford your options.

3. Is the timing right? If you’re not quite ready to retire but thinking about moving, it may be better to buy property while you still have a steady income. On the other hand, you can take your time looking if you start after you’ve left your job. Either way, explore your options to ensure you’re making the most of your investment and your retirement.

Is retirement in your near future? Are you ready to start looking for a new home? Reach out today to discuss your next steps.

Does your home inspire wellness?

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 00:08:23 GMT

When you think of wellness, does your living space come to mind? Today, people are taking wellness beyond diet and exercise and into their homes. So, if you want to improve your quality of life, you might be interested in wellness-focused interior design.

This style of design uses natural elements to boost your mood, increase your productivity and influence your mental well-being.

Here are four ways you can bring this trend into your home:

1. Let in the light. The sun’s light can elevate your mood and promote alertness. Take advantage of daylight by arranging workspaces near windows, using light-filtering curtains or strategically hanging mirrors to reflect more light. Natural light can recenter your sleep cycle and promote vitamin D production — two keys to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

2. Promote air circulation. Proper air circulation provides a regular temperature, removes impurities and that “stale” feeling, and prevents mold. For better air quality, use ceiling fans, open the windows and install attic vents. The more space there is in a room, the more air can circulate.

3. Add more plants. Being close to nature can improve your overall well-being . Plants add color to your home, purify the air and may even reduce stress. Bring the outside in by adding plants to every room in your home, especially the spaces where you spend the most time.

4. Design a calming space. Create a private sanctuary that’s free of distractions, like clutter and electronic devices. Dedicate time to this space so you can calm your mind, gain a fresh perspective and reflect on your day.

Interested in boosting your home’s wellness factor? Or thinking about looking for another home to call your own? Get in touch today.