Blog
How Temporary Buydowns Can Benefit Homebuyers
As a homebuyer in today’s fluctuating market, you might be hesitant to commit until interest rates stabilize. However, a temporary buydown could be your secret weapon for making homeownership more affordable now while keeping your options open for the future. How Temporary Buydowns Work to Your Advantage A temporary buydown, like a 2/1 buydown, lowers... Read More
Maximizing a Homeowner’s Chance to Sell
Recent policy changes made by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have shifted the dynamics of buyer’s agent compensation, prompting sellers to reconsider their strategies. Many buyers, especially first-time homebuyers, have limited savings and may struggle to cover additional costs beyond the down payment, closing costs, and other expenses associated with purchasing a home. Mortgage lenders... Read More
Tips for Hiring a Home Inspector
Congratulations on your offer being accepted! In many cases, you may have a provision in your sales contract for a satisfactory home inspection. You’re one step closer to owning your dream home. Now is the time to choose a home inspector to take a closer look at the property. Inspectors are thorough and in some states... Read More
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