Reasons to Remodel

The National Association of Realtors released a new annual report earlier this week called the 2015 Remodeling Impact Report, which examines the results of remodeling for both realtors and homeowners. This report is the first of its kind, and shows how strategic remodeling projects can have a significantly positive impact on home equity— and even bring in more offers! Below …

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Buying a Home in the Winter?

While the real estate market starts to heat up around the spring season, it’s not the only time to find a new home. Here are some surprising reasons why you may want to reconsider putting your search on hold until the warmer months. You might get a better deal The average rate of price increases for homes in the US …

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Highlights from This Month’s HOME Survey

Yesterday, the National Association of Realtors released their quarterly household survey tracking current real estate trends. The Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) survey can be viewed in full here; below are some of the most interesting highlights about homeowner attitude, expectations for the real estate market, and more.   Half of surveyed American households believe the economy is currently …

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How the Federal Reserve’s Rate Hikes Will Affect Real Estate

In a move that has been anticipated by Wall Street for months, the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee finally announced that the Federal Funds interest rate will be raised 0.25%. The rate had been at 0% since 2008, a decision that was made in the midst of the recession in order to stabilize the economy. Some anticipate the Fed has …

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Financing a Home The Right Way

Determine a Price Range Decide what kind of mortgage you can afford, and stay as realistic as possible. Yes, owning a home is an investment—but it’s only a smart investment if you spend what you can afford now. Manage Debt Mortgage lenders typically look for those with debt less than 35 percent of their annual income. In order to qualify …

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How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

When preparing to sell your home, a property inspector will need to conduct a home inspection in order to assess value. If you can, attend the inspection yourself– and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Below are some tips to make sure nothing important gets overlooked. Remember, the details matter, too. Outdoors Clean out gutters and any debris that has …

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California Smoke Alarm Requirements

Here are the current requirements regarding smoke alarm installation in California, from the California State Fire Marshal. For more details, see the bulletin here– and stay safe by using smoke alarms to protect you and your family from house fires! Where are smoke alarms required? In each sleeping room Outside of each sleeping room On each floor Where are smoke …

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Stage Your Property Like a Pro

Staging: another word for preparing your home for showings, open houses, or private walk-throughs. Even if the price is right, first impressions are crucial in order to show off your home in its best possible light to appear attractive to buyers. Below are a few tips to help you do just that! Even if Your Bed is Gone, Fake One …

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Choosing a Qualified Buyer

If your home is on the market, it may be overwhelming when the first offers start coming in. Working with a great real estate agent ensures that you’ll have another discerning set of eyes to evaluate these offers- here are general guidelines to review before accepting any offers. Good Credit The best candidates actively monitor and work to improve their …

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Real Estate Terms You Need to Know

Appreciation: When the value of a property increases over time. This may be due to the location, market changes, inflation, or a number of other factors. Inversely, depreciation refers to when a property’s value decreases over time. Appraisal: A written estimate of a property’s value given by an individual who is authorized to do so. Appraisals can be conducted to …

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