Tips for Buyers

TOP TRAITS OF A GREAT REALTOR®

A real estate transaction involves a lot of different players, including appraisers, inspectors, contractors, bankers, mortgage lenders, closing attorneys, as well as prospective buyers and sellers. But, the people who coordinate the process - the real estate agents and brokers, are the people who can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successfult transaction. At different times...

Finding the Right Agent

Not all agents work the same way. The most important attribute of an agent is that he/she is well connected to the real estate industry. He/she should know the market and provide information on past sales, current listings, his or her marketing plan, and at least 4 solid references. In addition, you also want to look for an agent that is honest, assertive, and one that best understands your needs. Try to...

In a Seller’s Market, Make Your Offer Stand Out!

Making an offer in today's market isn't easy. Homes are selling quick and above asking price. To get your offer accepted when you find THE ONE, buyers are having to get creative to make their offer stand out. Here are a few things to consider when making an offer: 1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This is a MUST in today's market! A pre-approval verifies you can afford a home and shows sellers you're...

What You Can Expect From the Spring Housing Market

As the spring housing market kicks off, you likely want to know what you can expect this season when it comes to buying or selling a house. While there are multiple factors causing some uncertainty, including the conflict overseas, rising inflation, and the first rate increase from the Federal Reserve in over three years — the housing market seems to be relatively immune. Here’s a look at...

How Global Uncertainty Is Impacting Mortgage Rates

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ll want to keep a pulse on what’s happening with mortgage rates. Rates have been climbing in recent months, especially since January of this year. And just a few weeks ago, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac approached 4% for the first time since May of 2019. But that climb has dropped slightly over the past few weeks (see...

Do You Really Need a Real Estate Agent When Buying A House?

You are ready to buy a house, and it seems every time you look at one, another REALTOR® calls. It is enough to make you want to do it on your own, and it is possible ,but  should you? Buying a home without a professional can be much more difficult, and here's why: You Won't Have As Much Market Knowledge. A good REALTOR® will listen to you and know what you need in a home and then go find...

Should You Buy or Sell a House in 2023? Don’t Base Your Decision on Headlines

In today’s housing market, the number of homes for sale is much lower than the strong buyer demand. As a result, homeowners ready to sell have a significant advantage. Here are three ways today’s low inventory will set you up for a win when you sell this season. 1. Higher Prices With so many more buyers in the market than homes available for sale, homebuyers are frequently...

Hot, Normal, and Cold Markets

Hot Market This is an extremely competitive market and is advantageous to the seller. Sometimes, homes will sell as soon as they are listed or even before homes are listed. Typically, during a hot market, multiple offers will be made on each home and more often than not, homes will sell for more than the asking price. It is even more crucial to be prepared and to be ready as a buyer when the market is hot....

Insist on a Home Inspection

A professional home inspection protects both you and the buyer. It allows both you and the buyer the opportunity to learn about the property’s defects. A home inspection usually covers the following: Plumbing conditions - if there is leakage or clogging Roofing conditions - the extent of deterioration, if there is leakage Electrical conditions - if there are inadequate circuits or potential fire...

Avoiding Financial Stress

By asking the right questions, and knowing exactly what your needs are, you can find the right loan for you. There are certain approaches that you can take while mortgage shopping that can cost or save you money. It is still true that the better qualifications you have, the lower your interest rate will be. However, there are mortgages available for almost everyone; it's the interest rates or the down...

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