Here are some tims to help you hiring a remodeling contractor to spruce up your home and make it attractive to buyers: 1. Get at least three written estimates. 2. Check references. If possible, view earlier jobs the contractor completed. 3. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau for complaints. 4…. [Read more…]
Moving Checklist for Sellers
Use this list as a quide to help you through the move to your next home: Provide the post office with your forwarding address two to four weeks ahead of the move. Notify your credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, and bank of your change of address. Create a list of friends, relatives, and business colleagues… [Read more…]
What to Have on Hand for the New Owners
Congratulations on your home sale! This is a short list of things to have on hand for the new owners: Owner’s manuals and warranties for appliances left in the house. Garage door opener. Extra sets of house keys. A list of local service providers — the best dry cleaner, yard service, plumber, etc. Code to… [Read more…]
5 Things to Know about Homeowner’s Insurance
1. Know about exclusions to coverage. For example, most insurance policies do not cover flood or earthquake damage as a standard item. These types of coverage must be bought separately. 2. Know about dollar limitations on claims. Even if you are covered for a risk, there may be a limit on how much the insurer… [Read more…]
7 Reasons to Own Your Home
1. Tax breaks. The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home. 2. Appreciation. Real estate has long-term, stable growth in value. While year-to-year fluctuations are normal, median existing-home sale prices have increased on average… [Read more…]
Why You Should Work With a REALTOR®
Not all real estate practitioners are REALTORS®. The term REALTOR® is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Here are five reasons why it pays to work with a REALTOR®. 1. Expertise.You’ll have an expert… [Read more…]
Tips for Finding the Perfect Neighborhood
Your neighborhood has a big impact on your lifestyle. Follow these steps to find the perfect community to call home. 1. Location.Is it close to your favorite spots? Make a list of the activities — movies, health club, church, etc. — you engage in regularly and stores you visit frequently. See how far you would… [Read more…]
Take the Stress Out of Homebuying
Buying a new home is one of the most important decisions that you can make. While it’s easy to get overwhelmed, buying a house doesn’t have to be a painful ordeal. If you know the details and understand what you’re getting into, the process can be enjoyable and educational. As you look for your dream… [Read more…]
Your Home Wish List
What does your future home look like? Where is it located? As you hunt down your dream home, consult this list to evaluate properties and keep your priorities top of mind. You can print this list for reference. 1. Neighborhoods What neighborhoods do you prefer? 2. Schools What school systems do you want to be… [Read more…]
6 Creative Ways to Afford a Home
1. Investigate assistance programs. Investigate local, state, and national down payment assistance programs. These programs give qualified applicants loans or grants to cover all or part of your required down payment. National programs include the Nehemiah program, www.getdownpayment.com, and the American Dream Down Payment Fund from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, www.hud.gov. 2…. [Read more…]