Moving With Pets
Scope out the area Before deciding to purchase a new home, walk around the neighborhood yourself to make sure it’s pet-friendly, especially if you have a dog. If you have a puppy that’s still being house-trained, a home with lots of steps or no yard makes it difficult for them to get outside before making a mess. If you have …
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6 Things New Homeowners Always Forget to Do
1. Check the Plumbing Inspect each toilet, under-sink plumbing, faucets, and visible pipes to make sure there are no leaks. If you find any, get it fixed right away—wasted water means wasted money. 2. Find the Fuse or Breaker Box These are generally located in the basement or the garage of a house, and sometimes in the closet or laundry …
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Your Guide to Mortgage Loans
Fixed-Rate These mortgages have the same interest rates for the length of the loan, which means your monthly payment will also never change. Although this guarantees stability as payments will never raise over time, the downside is that your interest rate will also never lower with the market. Fixed-rate mortgages are available for 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30–year terms. …
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Home Staging Tips and Tricks
If hiring a decorator isn’t in your budget, here are some creative ideas to make your home appear as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Simple is Good The décor should always complement the style of the home, not overwhelm it. Get rid of unnecessary chairs, side tables, file cabinets, paintings or art, and distracting rugs or carpets. If …
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How Commission Works in Real Estate
Something to keep in mind is that sellers can negotiate the commission, but buyers cannot. It’s also tax deductible! Here’s a breakdown of exactly where that commission fee ends up: Paid by Seller When signing a listing agreement, the seller acknowledges the commission rate they will need to pay, which is typically 6 percent. This amount is generally split …
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How to Handle a Last-Minute Closing Crisis
Crisis: Misplaced loan documents Sending your loan package overnight by express mail is not guaranteed to reach the seller’s agent on time. That’s why you and your realtor should stay in constant communication with the seller’s agent to make sure they have all the documents they need before your closing appointment. Call beforehand to confirm that all paperwork is ready …
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Where to Grab a Drink Near Encinitas
North County Wine Company, $$ Many would argue this to be the best wine bar in the Encinitas area. It’s a hybrid wine bar/wine shop that offers an impressive selection of wines from all over the world. The owners offer specials Tuesday through Sunday, but the locals are raving most about their Thursday deal: half-priced glasses of wine in the …
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Common Questions From 1st Time Homebuyers
Q: What does a real estate agent actually do? A: A real estate agent is essential to first-time buyers. Their most important duty is to represent you throughout the transaction, but they will also be there for you during every step of the home buying process and use their insider knowledge to help you understand it. Great realtors are responsible …
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The Best Restaurants in Encinitas
California has long been a hub in the restaurant industry, and Encinitas has proven to be an area that’s full of up-and-coming names in both fine dining and casual. Here are some of the best places to dine for foodies— and people who just like to eat! American Solace and the Moonlight Lounge: 25 East E St, 760-753-2433. Try …
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What Makes a Great Real Estate Agent?
Representing the seller or buyer is the bare minimum of what it means to be a real estate agent. Here are the most important qualities to look for before you make a decision. A Background of Experience The best real estate agents have a diverse background of skills and knowledge; not only in real estate transactions, but also in personal …
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