Blog
Convenient but not accurate can cost you money
Online estimates like Zillow, realtor.com, Redfin, & Homes.com are convenient, but typically lack accuracy and may have a significant margin of error. They are constructed using a computer-generated algorithm that utilizes historical public sales data and trends called an Automated Value Model, AVM. National AVMs derive values from automated computer modeling of public records and may... Read More
An annual home equity update benefits homeowners
Homeowners should verify their home’s equity at least once a year because the two factors that affect it change regularly. Market value changes and the unpaid balance of the home decreases with each monthly payment made on an amortizing loan. Amortization and appreciation cause the equity to increase in value. Knowing your equity gives you options with... Read More
Is a friend your best choice for your agent?
In the realm of real estate transactions, the decision to engage a friend who also happens to be an agent may seem like a tenuous situation and may cause some hesitation. Concerns about how professional relationships may impact their personal connection occasionally weighs on a person’s mind, leading them to consider alternative options. It may stem... Read More
Home selling strategies for downsizing seniors
Downsizing can be a significant life transition for any age person, but especially for seniors who may have lived in this last home for some time. Follow these suggestions to make the downsizing process smoother and less stressful. Start Early: Begin the downsizing process well in advance of your planned move. Give yourself plenty of... Read More
Helping buyers make sense of upcoming changes
Upcoming changes in real estate transactions are imminent following the resolution of significant class action lawsuits involving sellers and the National Association of REALTORS® along with numerous leading real estate firms nationwide. These changes will have implications for sellers, buyers, and agents alike. There has been a lot of news coverage in the past few... Read More
Common Household Pest Problems & Solutions
Household pests can be a persistent and an unwelcome challenge for homeowners, disrupting daily routines and potentially posing health risks to occupants. From ants marching across kitchen countertops to rodents scurrying through attics, the presence of pests can create a sense of unease and frustration. However, understanding the common pests that may invade homes and... Read More
Living the Dream: The Value of Homeownership
Owning a home has long been considered a fundamental part of the American dream. It represents far more than just having a place to live—it embodies values, aspirations, and a sense of security. Here’s why homeownership is widely regarded as a key component of the American dream: Stability and Roots: Owning a home provides a... Read More
How to get a lower rate and a lower price
Are you in the market for a new home and wondering which mortgage option is right for you? While the world of home financing offers a surplus of choices, one option often overlooked is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage, or ARM. If you’re in a market where interest rates are trending lower, an ARM could be... Read More
Transform your home into a showstopper with the power of staging!
Imagine looking around your home and wondering how you can make it shine during those crucial showings. The answer is simple: staging! It’s a powerful tool that can transform your property and raise its appeal. Your online listing photos serve as the initial showcase for potential buyers. Staging plays a crucial role in enhancing these... Read More
Baby Boomers’ Wave to Downsize
As the first groups of baby boomers gracefully rides the wave of aging, they are setting new trends in the housing market, giving birth to what experts fondly refer to as the “Silver Tsunami.” This phenomenon is not merely about a change in address; it’s a lifestyle transformation tailored to meet the unique needs of... Read More