Remodeling ROI: Low Price, High Return Renovations
Putting some sweat equity into your home can do wonders when it comes time to sell. But before dropping big dollars on a major home makeover, consider a few smaller changes that may just give you a bigger dollar-for-dollar return. A few cosmetic changes go a long way Tearing apart your old kitchen may be the cause of countless daydreams; however, first consider a cost-effective facelift. Things like changing fixtures, fresh paint, updating cabinetry handles or adding a decorative backsplash are simple and relatively inexpensive ways to...
read moreHow the iPad is Changing Real Estate
If you don’t know much about the Apple iPad, you’ve been living under that proverbial technology rock. The world of mobile technology is evolving before our eyes, and its effects will change the entire personal computing industry. Over the next decade, our laptops, desktops, smartphones, tablets and netbooks will change drastically to incorporate iPad features that are barely in their infancy. The lines between “desktop” and “mobile” computers will blur, and you will eventually end up with one personal device that does it all. I could talk...
read moreFront Door Face Lift
“Don’t judge a book by its cover” does not apply when it comes to selling a house. In real estate, first impressions can make all the difference, and nothing makes a first impression like the entrance to your home. Luckily transforming a lackluster entrance can sometimes be as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint, so, if a home’s front door currently says “go away,” have no fear. The tips below will have your entrance saying “come on in and stay a while” in no time. Choose a Theme Your front door serves as an introduction to your home, so...
read moreThe Dealkillers – Dark, Cluttered and Dank
As a seller, you may be so used to living in your home that you may not realize that its condition is putting buyers off. For example, you may love dogs so much that you’re immune to how much their fur dander, food dishes, and bed cushions are perfuming your house. Your home problems may also be something else – too much furniture, or a dark ambiance. All of these problems are easily correctable. The silent market is talking to you Three hints that your home needs some serious review is that you’re not getting showings, buyers are not making...
read morePut Your Tax Return In Real Estate
The average tax return this year is $3,129. Such an amount could go a long way toward a down payment on a first home or investment property. Lenders usually want to see a down payment of 5-10% and this can be an overwhelming sum for some people. However, on a $100,000 property, this can be as little as $5,000 which means, with your recent tax return, you’re already more than halfway there! Potential first-time buyers may also be unaware of what a difference it will make to be a homeowner at this time next year. People who rent are, most...
read moreHome Inspections 101
What does your home inspection cover? And who is liable if a problem develops down the road? We’ll answer these questions in today’s column.You need an inspection on any property you are buying, regardless if it’s old or new construction. An inspection is like a check-up for your house. What repairs will need to be addressed now and what might need to be addressed later down the road? This is what you have answered during an inspection. Having an inspection done prior to signing a contract allows you to negotiate your...
read morePower Saving For A Down Payment
Power Saving For A Down Payment Now more than ever, saving for a down payment is a crucial step to owning a home. Right now Capital Hill legislators, lobbyists, real estate industry experts and others are wrangling over Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act provisions in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Among the most discussed provisions is one that would create a Qualified Residential Mortgage (QRM), one that will be viewed as a loan offering a lower risk of default. Because of the low risk, borrowers...
read moreChoosing Your Dream Home
There’s a lot to think about when it comes to buying your dream home. Every decision, small to large, is important! Let’s look at a list of common issues that buyers face. 1. Neighborhood: Deciding on what neighborhood you desire is tricky. You must consider your wants and needs. They vary by person. Do you have children and need to live within the boundaries of a specific school district? You might want a short commute, a neighborhood with historic homes, or homes that are near night life and restaurants. 2. Square footage: What...
read moreSell Your Home Now With These Tips
In a buyers’ market, selling your home can be a frustrating lesson, especially if you make costly mistakes that can slow your sales opportunities. According to an article by Zillow, about 36 percent of homes nationwide sold for a loss in January. As spring rolls in and buyers head out to shop for their perfect home, they’re doing so with a critical eye because of the many choices due to excessive inventory. If you avoid common seller mistakes, you can save yourself time and money. Let’s take a look at a few of these problem areas....
read moreCompetitive Tips for Buyers
Not every market is struggling. The truth is that many desirable neighborhoods and zipcodes are still experiencing healthy inventory levels and conditions that promote multiple offers. As a buyer in these markets, how can you be competitive? First, and perhaps most importantly, be ready to buy. Readiness is not impulsiveness, however. Before you begin your home search, be clear on your objectives. This means knowing your budget (and how much wiggle room you really have), what amenities are must-haves, and what things you can do without. By...
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