Why the Holidays Are a Great Time to Sell Your House
In the world of real estate, you usually hear how it is best to sell your house in the spring months. Most people lay low or are too busy with the holidays during the winter months to consider buying a new home, and most likely prefer to home shop in the spring to ensure that they are settled in their homes before the start of a new school year.
But, life happens. What if you find yourself in a position where you can't wait for the weather to warm up before putting your house on the market? Is it a good idea to sell your home during the holidays? Surprisingly, there are many benefits to selling your home during the winter months. Here are reasons why it may be a good time to sell your house.
Buyers are Strongly Motivated
Anyone looking for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year's is likely to be a serious buyer because no one is going to waste their precious family time looking at houses during the holidays.
Putting your home on the market in the winter season and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a faster sale.
Less Inventory & Competition
Unlike in the spring and summer, there is usually less competition during the holidays. Many sellers do not want to list their homes just before or during the holidays, because of the obvious reason for simply wanting to spend time with their families and friends.
Again, you may hear that you can get the most from your home in spring and summer, but even if inventory is limited, there are plenty of homes listed around the holidays that may command a higher price. You may sell your home faster than those listed in spring if you play your cards right.
The Cozy & Festive Feeling
Holiday decorations can bring out the best in a home and attract buyers! Your home will look and smell wonderful if staged in a clever fashion. Turn the heat on, and bake a batch of cookies for an irresistible smell to pass through the home. Buyers can picture themselves better in a home that feels comfortable and cozy.
Furthermore, the holidays can provide an emotional connection to a home, making a buyer feel more compelled to write and make an offer (and possibly pay more).
Year-End Job Changes
The end of the year is typically when people are informed that they will be moving due to a job transfer, or when an offer from another company comes in that is simply too good to pass up.
Those people will need a home sooner rather than later, so they will be looking for a new home during the holidays. These buyers can't wait for spring, which is why listing during the holidays can result in a quick sale.
In Closing
Despite what you’ve heard, selling your home during the holiday season has many benefits. You can face less competition, have more serious buyers, and possibly even a quicker sale process. You also have the opportunity to create a warm and cozy atmosphere that you can’t really create in the warmer months.
If you find yourself ready to sell your home this season, don’t shy away because you think it may be a failure! Speak with one of our Realtors today and let’s get your home ready to sell!
4 Steps to Take if You Want to Buy a Home Soon
Is home ownership in your future? If your goal is to buy a home within the next six months or sooner, it would be best to start arranging your finances now! So, instead of jumping straight to the house hunt, let’s review some essential items to prepare you for buying a home.
Check Your Credit Report
Preparing your credit score and financial history are critical components of mortgage qualification. With AnnualCreditReport.com, consumers can receive three free credit scores per year, one from each of the main credit reporting bureaus. Once you have received your report, review it for any inaccuracies or errors, and if necessary, take steps to improve it.
Take these steps right away to get your credit in better shape:
- Always pay bills on time.
- Avoid applying for new credit cards.
- Dispute any inaccuracies on your credit report.
- Pay off any debts possible.
Build Your Savings
You may have already started saving if you have set the goal of buying a home. In competitive housing markets, some buyers may benefit from a larger down payment. But don't assume you have to put down 20%. Certain programs, such as those available to veterans and first-time home buyers, allow some people to make smaller down payments.
Home buyers usually have a downpayment at the forefront of their minds, but don’t forget it is wise to have funds set aside for unexpected emergencies and repairs that may arise with the new home as well.
Get Pre-Approved Before Searching
Never begin home shopping without a pre-approval in hand! A pre-approval helps you define your housing goals and shows potential sellers that you are serious about purchasing their home.
Once you've decided on a lender, you should request a preapproval letter, which details how much you might be able to borrow. Unlike a prequalification letter, a preapproval letter informs the seller that lenders have reviewed your finances and confirmed that you qualify for a loan, giving you an advantage over buyers who can't prove that they will get financing. The lender may verify your income, check your bank statements, and pull your credit in order to obtain this letter.
Interview Real Estate Agents
Hiring a real estate agent who looks out for your best interests will make the home-buying process much easier. Investing the time to interview a few agents can make a significant difference in your transaction, so select someone who will support your goals, work within your budget, and provide expert guidance.
Inquire about potential real estate agents' backgrounds, knowledge of your desired area or neighborhood, and fees.
Bottom Line
Don’t put off preparing for your first (or next) home purchase, it is in your best interest to start taking these steps now! When you get to the point of seeking guidance from a Realtor, you won’t be disappointed in our team at 316 Realty Group. Our Realtors have a vast knowledge of the greater Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, & Waco markets and care for our clients like family.
Are you ready to have a conversation about your next home purchase? Reach out today!
4 Reasons Why You Should Home Shop in the Winter
The spring and summer months are typically the busiest for home purchases. And for good reason: warm weather makes open houses, home inspections, and moving more appealing.
But what about in the winter? While it is true that things slow down during the winter, that is not necessarily a bad thing. If you are looking to buy a home, the season benefits you in particular! You could even say that winter is the best time to look for your next home. Let’s explore some of the significant benefits you may find if you choose to go house hunting in winter.
Less Competition, Less Frenzy
Less competition is favorable to both home sellers and home buyers. When there are fewer buyers to compete with, you are less likely to enter a bidding war and more likely to have your offer accepted.
More people stay inside when it's cold as well, and tend to go house hunting during the summer months. In return, you'll have an advantage and will beat out the competition if there is any.
Bidding Wars are Less Likely
Would you like to possibly save some money? During the winter, there are fewer buyers, so bidding wars are unlikely, and you can negotiate a better price.
Take your time, as the lack of competition, combined with the seller's eagerness to close, gives you the edge. They may even be willing to waive some of the contingencies in order to get you into the house or agree to your move-in date, even if it means leaving earlier than expected.
The House is Put to the Test
You probably imagine yourself pulling up to a home when it has a lush, green lawn and blooming shrubs. House hunting in the winter is a different story because you can see past the initial curb appeal that would normally have you starry-eyed.
When you are inside the home, you can witness if the windows are old and drafty and if there is poor insulation. If you have snow in your area, you can also note if there is any leaking in the ceiling. Home shopping in the winter allows you to view homes on their worst days, instead of their best, and benefits you greatly so you can know what you’re possibly getting into!
Faster Closing Times
If you do not experience inclement weather and heavy snow in the winter, (which could delay inspections and surveys), all the parties involved in the home-buying process are less busy than they would be during other seasons, from the real estate agent to the lender to the appraiser.
When you consider how many steps are involved in purchasing a home, this is fantastic news.
The Best Season is Off-Season
If you're on the fence about purchasing during the winter, consider the benefits we covered. There are also a number of factors to consider when selling your home during the winter months.
Finding a trustworthy and reliable Realtor can point you in the right direction when it comes to determining the best time to buy. It's also worth noting that buying during the winter season can mean a variety of things depending on where you live. You should not, however, be swayed by myths about the real estate "off-season." Let's talk about your needs today, we can't wait to help you find the perfect home!
Tips for Preparing Your Credit for a Mortgage
If you're considering purchasing a home or refinancing an existing mortgage, you most likely know the importance of paying your bills in a timely manner in order to preserve good credit. Even if you intend to be responsible with credit, certain situations can derail you and harm your score.
We’re going to go over some tips to help you keep your credit in great shape so you can avoid any credit issues. Let’s get started!
Review Your Credit Scores and Reports
It is critical to review all three of your credit reports from Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian before applying for a mortgage. AnnualCreditReport.com offers a free copy of each report once every 12 months.
If you find any errors on your credit reports, you should notify the credit reporting agencies immediately. An investigation into a credit dispute can take between 30 and 45 days. Furthermore, if the first investigation results in a negative outcome, you may have to try again or try a different approach entirely to resolve the issue.
Pay Down Credit Card Debts
Are you aware that even if you make your monthly payments on time, having a large outstanding credit card balance can impact your credit? It's actually high credit utilization on your credit cards that can hurt your scores, but large balances in relation to your credit card limits cause that high utilization.
You can lower your credit utilization ratio by paying down your credit card balances. Once the new card balances are updated on your credit reports, this may have a positive impact on your credit scores.
Make On-Time Payments
This one comes as a no-brainer! On-time payments are critical to establishing and maintaining good credit. If your credit reports show any recent late payments, it's usually a good idea to wait some time (six to twelve months) before submitting a mortgage application.
When late payments first occur, they have the greatest negative impact on your credit score. Then, as time goes on, they become less damaging. In terms of scoring, the older a late payment becomes, the better.
Hold Off on New Credit Applications
When a lender checks your credit as part of an application, a hard inquiry is recorded on your credit report. That hard inquiry could have a 12-month impact on your credit score.
This isn't to say that every time a lender pulls your credit, it will harm your scores, but it is possible. As a result, if you know you're going to buy a house soon, you should put a hold on any non-essential new credit applications.
The Takeaway
Taking the time to improve your credit score could save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the course of a 30-year mortgage. Whether you are about to purchase your first home or your third, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement and the urge to move quickly. You must keep in mind the role your credit score plays in the cost of your mortgage and your ability to even qualify!
Before you apply, take your time and prepare your credit to the best of your ability. Your efforts may pay off and save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
Renting vs Buying: How to Decide
It goes without saying that purchasing a home is a significant life decision, but is it right for you? Of course, there is no single correct answer because both renting and buying have advantages and disadvantages. Your personal finances, however, will play a major role in your final decision. Especially for younger people, renting seems to be a more cost-effective option.
That is not always the case, however. There are several lifestyle factors that can influence your decision, including how flexible you are, your career goals, and whether you want to own your own home.
If you're debating whether to rent or buy, keep reading to find out what factors you should consider before making a decision.
Are Your Finances in Order?
If you decide to buy a home, make sure you have enough funds saved for your down payment, closing costs, and any unexpected expenses, such as home maintenance and repairs.
When you own a home, there is no landlord to call when something needs fixing; it is entirely up to you! You'll need to plan for the unexpected, whether it's plumbing problems, replacing appliances, repairing your roof, and the list goes on. In order to cover the maintenance costs that come with homeownership, you should save 1-3% of the purchase price of your home each year.
Buying a home is usually cheaper in the long run as well, and it offers you an opportunity to build equity. Your home will most likely have increased in value when you sell it, too.
Do You Plan on Staying Put?
What are your needs in terms of flexibility or establishing roots? If you intend to stay in one place for an extended period of time and are financially capable of doing so, purchasing a home makes the most sense. In return, the fact that you have the ability to make a home uniquely yours would make homeownership a better financial and emotional fit.
However, renting may be a better option if you prefer to be more flexible. If you are considering a job in another state, you wouldn't want to deal with the stress of selling your home while relocating. Or if you are a newlywed and plan on having children in the near future, you may not want to buy a home just yet that wouldn’t accommodate a growing family.
Both of these situations could possibly be better served by renting so you can figure out what you need in a home, what your budget allows, and what kind of house fits your future lifestyle.
Are You Ready?
There isn't always a simple answer to whether to rent or buy. Depending on your personal and financial circumstances, the answer may change over time. Rent-to-own properties are another option, where you begin renting and eventually become a homeowner.
Your financial status and lifestyle should guide whatever decision you make. Our Realtors are here to help. Reach out if you have more questions and if you are ready to make a move!
HOA Communities: Pros and Cons
Are you considering purchasing a home in a community with a homeowner's association (HOA)? Make sure you understand how these organizations operate before making an offer.
An HOA is governed by a Board of Directors (homeowners elected by other residents), and it's their responsibility to set and enforce rules and maintain the grounds. These organizations are not only found in single-family home communities but in condominium and townhouse communities as well. You must also pay certain fees to live in these communities So before you start looking for a new home, you should consider whether you want to live in a neighborhood with an HOA, which comes with both pros and cons.
Pros of HOA Living
1. HOAs Resolve Disputes Between Neighbors
When problems arise, (loose pets, loud and obnoxious parties, piles of trash by the road, to name a few), a homeowner's association can help.
If you notice another resident breaking a rule or regulation, the association can act as a mediator. Rather than discussing the problem with your neighbor and causing tension in your relationship, you can contact your homeowner's association, which will contact the neighbor on your behalf.
2. HOAs Have More Social Activities
Streets with an HOA often have a stronger sense of community than your average neighborhood. This is due to the fact that having an HOA encourages a sense of community. Not only do HOA meetings will help neighbors to get to know one another, but they also give greater opportunities for social events.
It wouldn't be out of the ordinary to see block parties and social gatherings on your street from time to time. It's also easier to connect with neighbors when you start sharing amenities like a pool, tennis courts, or a golf course. If you like meeting people and socializing, an HOA could be right up your alley.
3. HOAs Maintain Property Values
In HOA communities, homes, and common areas are consistently cared for and well-maintained because residents are held accountable to deed restrictions. Property values are heavily influenced by this maintained curb appeal.
A well-kept home in a well-kept neighborhood is what attracts many home buyers to live in an HOA. You could say this is the biggest perk for most!
Cons of HOA Living
1. HOA Fees Can be Expensive
Unfortunately, many HOA communities can be expensive to join. High HOA fees, in general, entail more landscaping, general maintenance, and amenities. However, if you don't care about having a swimming pool or a gym, these high fees would be a waste of your money.
If a home has high HOA fees, make sure to get a list of everything that's included in the price so you know exactly what you're getting and if it even benefits you personally. In addition, carefully examine your monthly budget to ensure that you can manage to pay the monthly dues.
2. HOAs Have Rules and Regulations
If the monthly fees are reasonable, paying HOA fees may not seem as bothersome. You should be aware that the HOA has rules regarding the exterior of your home, even if you're fine with the fee.
Color, type, and size restrictions may apply to your front door, shutters, and windows. Associations can even restrict your outside decor and the number of vehicles you can park. A fine may be imposed if you violate the rules and regulations of the community.
3. HOAs Can Lack Privacy
It goes without saying that you will not have a lot of privacy if you live in an HOA community with homes practically touching each other, such as a townhome, apartment, or even some single-family homes.
Those who like a rural or country lifestyle and don't want to be involved with neighbors should consider homes with no HOA. The benefit of living close to your neighbors is meeting more people if you are more social and thrive in a community.
Is a Community Right for You?
Bottomline, HOAs aren't for everyone. If you want complete privacy or the ability to change the appearance of your home, you probably won't be content living in an HOA community. However, if you want a low-maintenance lifestyle, HOA living may be ideal for you. Whatever you decide, carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of HOA living.
As a final point, don't forget the importance of working with an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor. We look forward to assisting you on your home-buying journey!
3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a New Construction
The idea of a new construction home sounds appealing to many people. New construction homes provide endless customization options and the opportunity to truly make your own personal touches In a brand new home, you won't have to worry about old, stained carpets or old appliances; instead, you can select what best suits your family's individual tastes.
While choosing your favorite brick, paint, and countertops may be exciting and seem pretty simple, the buying process for new construction homes can be quite challenging without any prior experience and knowledge.
The good news is that following these tips for buying new-construction homes can save you money, and time. Here are three common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a new home.
Failure to Research Your Builder
Buying a new home will most likely be one of your family's largest investments in a lifetime, so it is essential that you prioritize quality, especially when it comes to the developer or builder in charge of creating your new home.
Even if you have completely fallen in love with a neighborhood and the style of its homes, you still must research your builder thoroughly. Look for reviews online, and keep an eye out for any patterns and feedback you may see, such as an excess amount of premature repairs/issues, poor workmanship, cut corners, and delayed construction.
You as the buyer can decrease your risks by doing appropriate research ahead of time, to save you both time and heartache!
Failure to Budget for Extra Costs
New builds can start as blank slates. Sure, some people may not consider it necessary to have privacy fences or gutters, but it’s only a matter of time before they realize they really dislike having a straight shot of their neighbors every time they sit on their porch, and they’ll probably be calling the gutter company after that first hard rain that creates trenches in the new lawn all around their home!
If you build in a community that has a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), you’ll want to read over the rules carefully. Make sure you set aside the expenses ahead of time to take care of any loose ends to be in compliance with the HOA. After all, nobody is excited about getting a letter from their Homeowner’s Association during the first week in their new home!
Failure to Work with a Realtor
There are most definitely some differences between buying a pre-owned home and a new construction home. As a result, unless you are an extremely experienced buyer, it is critical to have proper representation and take precautionary measures throughout the purchasing process of a new build.
It is of utmost importance and in your best interest to hire a Realtor before visiting potential locations and the property sales office. You always want your Realtor present to represent you properly! A Realtor will work to ensure that you are set up for success from the start, handling communications, disclosing the benefits and drawbacks of the property, and may even be able to help you negotiate lower costs.
Bottom Line
Purchasing a new construction home has significant advantages. However, there are numerous pitfalls, so buyers should exercise caution at all times and have the assistance of a real estate professional throughout the process. Before signing off on your new home, carefully consider all of the advantages and disadvantages of new construction.
5 Clever Ways to Complete a Bathroom Remodel
When you think of a bathroom remodel, your mind probably goes to a DIY show you've watched with lots of demolition and expensive changes. It goes without saying that any bathroom renovation is a large undertaking that will not be cheap. And it can appear complicated if you're working with a small or awkwardly shaped space, with quirky (even visible) pipework, lack of natural light, and more.
What if we told you that an attractive bathroom remodel can be achieved without breaking the bank, and the walls? Fortunately, there are numerous cost-effective bathroom remodeling ideas to incorporate into your next project. Let’s get started!
Utilize Mirrors to Create the Look of More Space
When it comes to small bathroom design renovations, large mirrors can make a small bathroom feel lighter and create the illusion of more space. Consider a frameless mirror covering the entire length of one wall, which is an even better approach.
Revitalize Cabinets With New Hardware
Purchasing and replacing old bathroom cabinets can be costly. Removing the old hardware and replacing it with new hardware is a far easier and less expensive way to bring new life to your existing cabinets. Be sure that your screw alignment matches up as well, that way you don’t drill any unnecessary holes.
Install an Updated Sink Faucet
Adding a brand-new sink faucet, like installing new cabinet hardware, is one trick that do-it-yourselfers and designers like to use to make a sink look new and stand out, without changing the entire top or vanity. Sink faucets are also pretty simple to install, which works in your favor since you will be saving money and not hiring a plumber.
Refinish, Don’t Replace your Tub
If your tub has any yellowness or discoloration from normal wear and tear, or even shallow cracks and scratches, consider refinishing instead of replacing. Bathtub replacement should be a last resort option but will need to take place if your tub has mold or mildew, leaking, or any damage.
Create Storage Space
Bathroom storage can be a tricky endeavor. There’s usually a struggle to find storage space for towels, toilet paper, soaps, and other toiletries. Here are a few ways to utilize blank spaces for storage:
- Think about upper wall space. Consider adding floating shelves over towel bars, or a multi-tiered stand over the toilet.
- Woven floor baskets are stylish and functional, and are great for storing extra towels or toilet paper.
- A floor-stand coat rack or a behind-the-door hook are great ideas for robes, towels, and clothes.
Time to Get Creative
By following these five tips, you will get off to a great start, and even better, you can do all of these tasks yourself! If you choose to work with one of our Realtors at 316 Realty Group, they will share recommendations during the renovation process so that you can make the changes that will give you the best return on your investment. Are you ready and confident to start your bathroom renovation?
Why You Should Use a Military Relocation Professional
Buying or selling a home is stressful enough for civilians, but military personnel face additional challenges. They may have to take quick action when closing a deal. If they are buyers, they may be unfamiliar with their new town. They have no idea how long they will be in their new home before the next PCS.
Taking it a step further, if the person is on active duty, they won’t even be in town for inspections, open houses, and the many other components and steps of the sale of the home. This is more than enough of a reason that hiring a Military Relocation Professional is one of the most important decisions that can be made. Continue reading while we share how MRPs are a huge asset for military homebuyers.
Military Relocation Professional: Defined
A Military Relocation Professional is a real estate agent who is a member of, and in good standing with the NAR (National Association of Realtors). First, these professionals must complete an MRP certification program that teaches them how to work with servicemembers, their families, and veterans to find housing options and utilize available benefits. Then they must pass an exam at the end of the course.
Many MRPs are military spouses, family members, or veterans themselves. Whether they share a personal military connection or not, all are devoted enough to military clients to invest the time and money necessary for certification.
What are the Benefits of Working with an MRP?
When it comes to military home buying and home selling, an MRP just gets it. They understand and expect that the process is different than your everyday real estate transaction. Here are some of the many benefits of working with an MRP:
Local Knowledge
An MPR that is native to the area will most importantly be familiar with the local market trends. They will also know all about the nearby amenities, and schools, and have connections and relationships with other real estate professionals.
Experts with Short Timeframes
An MPR knows that their buyer or seller needs to act quickly, and doesn’t have time to waste. Their skills and discipline allow them to find a home, write a purchase agreement, and negotiate the final terms in a short period of time.
Assistance in Utilizing Benefits
In most situations, VA loans are available, and they can increase purchasing power. Using an MRP can help you determine what the terms are and suggest VA lenders.
Present for the Process
It isn’t out of the ordinary for military buyers to be forced to commit to a home they've only viewed online, and sellers may not even wrap up the transaction before shipping out. This is where the MRP is invaluable. When the buyer/seller is not available, they can attend inspections, repairs, and closings in their place.
Are you Thinking You Need a Military Relocation Professional?
Buying or selling a home while serving in the military is challenging, but there's no reason to go it alone. A good MRP has been through many PCSs and can help anyone buy a home while serving in the military. Our Realtors with 316 Realty Group are well-versed in assisting military members and their families, and we would love to help you next! Give us a call today!
What is Probate in Real Estate?
When a person is deceased, their property, whether vacant land or an estate, must be distributed in accordance with the terms of their will. Most of the time, this will be accomplished through probate. The probate process can vary by state, but it is most often the only legal way to become the owner of real estate.
If you are involved in probate real estate, you should be aware of how the process works and how long it takes to complete the probate process. Depending on your role, you must also understand how to locate probate property, buy or sell probate real estate, how much probate costs, and the steps involved in various situations. If you are an heir or beneficiary, you may want to consider an estate loan to avoid the delays associated with probate.
Continue reading to learn more about probate in real estate and how to navigate it with these 8 things you must know.
How Does the Real Estate Probate Process Work?
The basic process of handling real estate in probate is overseen by the courts, regardless of the laws in each state. Before any real estate transaction can take place, the court must generally approve it. During this time, the personal administrator or executor in charge of the estate must abide by any court orders.
If one heir wants to keep the property but the other wants to sell it, or if multiple heirs want to keep the property but not share it, the court will decide what happens to it. Most of the time, the decision will be made to sell the property and divide the proceeds among the heirs.
If you are responsible for selling a real estate asset in probate, you must understand how probate courts sell real estate. Let's take this process step by step:
Establish the Estate Executor
If you will be handling the estate, you must have the court appoint you as executor. The executor is named in the deceased person's will in a testate scenario.
Hire a Probate Attorney
While acting as executor, it would be wise to hire a probate attorney to help you navigate the process. Your probate lawyer will represent you throughout the process and assist you with any issues that arise and will be paid by the estate.
Make an Inventory of the Estate’s Possessions
Make sure to collect all important information and documents when taking an inventory of the estate. This could include estate planning documents like a will, living will, or power of attorney, as well as assets like cars, bonds, stocks, debt, and life insurance.
Hire the Right Real Estate Agent
If you have a home that needs to be sold, a home appraisal should be performed and a real estate agent with experience selling probate real estate should be contacted. The agent will research comparable sales in the area and go over the appraisal to determine what the property's sale price should be.
Manage the Finances
You'll have a better understanding of the deceased person's finances after taking an inventory of the estate. First, you need to notify known creditors that the deceased owes money and pay their claims. The estate can also be used to pay off other debts. Upon satisfying these debts, you must file the deceased's income tax return.
Allow Time for Transfer of Assets
Real estate probate concludes with the transfer of assets. After all bills and creditors are paid and the executor petitions the court for asset transfers, the estate will be legally transferred to the beneficiary.
If, on the other hand, the property is to be sold in court, it must first be listed. The property will be listed for sale once the price has been determined. All heirs of the estate will be mailed a notice giving them 15 days to object to the sale of the property once an offer is made and the terms are agreed upon. If no one objects, the sale of the house will be handled in court.
Bottom Line
Dealing with probate real estate can seem quite daunting and time-consuming, but upon reading how the process works, you may realize it doesn’t have to be so challenging. Our Realtors here with 316 Realty Group are well-versed in the realm of probate real estate and you want one of them on your side. Give us a call if the time comes for you, we would love to assist you in any way we are able!