While some potential homeowners were unable to purchase a property this summer due to fierce competition and a short supply, many experts say autumn is actually the best time to shop. With fewer people in the market to buy a home and those who listed properties before still anxious to sell, this season creates a higher probability for better deals and better pricing.

The biggest thing that can help facilitate real estate sales at this time of year is that most homes still on the market have been there for some time – usually a few months, according to Trulia. Sellers are more likely to bring down their prices and provide a little more wiggle room than they might have during the summer to get a deal done expediently, especially if they’re looking to

…

 

Planning to buy an investment property is an exciting … and serious venture. For most, no matter how logical and analytical the investment property search begins, the further you get into the process, the more “emotional” the decisions become. While buying an investment property certainly makes sense for some, be sure to consider the following before making the big decision:

Research, Research, Research

Finding the perfect physical property is just the tip of the iceberg. Research on everything from the demographics, schools, and new projects around you are just as important for the future value of the property. In a fast growing place like Middle Tennessee, researching the future of the surrounding area is crucial for any investment. Consider

…

Starter homes are becoming increasingly popular due to the number of young adults moving into the housing market – primarily as first-time homeowners and buyers. Due to their size, such properties typically carry significantly lower price tags than median-priced homes and may be perfect for buyers looking to keep their costs down, according to Trulia. However, with the demand so great, starter homes typically spend very time on the market and often attract multiple bidders.

Digging into the numbers
Research shows the challenges shoppers fixed on lower-priced housing options are likely to encounter. Through the end of the first quarter of the year, starter homes made up just 22.4 percent of listings, down from the previous 22.8 percent on both a

…

Usually, by the time you schedule a home inspection, you’re at least halfway in love with a house. You’ve walked through it many times, and you’ve likely made note of any concerns you have regarding the home’s condition. The inspection is the last hurdle separating you from the house of your dreams, so it’s only natural for you to want it to go well.

Ultimately, though, you really don’t want a home that doesn’t pass the most rigorous inspection. Hire an impartial inspector who has no loyalties to anyone involved except you. The most qualified home inspectors do cost more than one you might find by happenstance, but when you compare this cost to the overall investment you’ll be making in this new home, it becomes clear that this is not the moment for

…

Moving tests the “planner” in us all. The details, the prep –  the lists of what to prepare for seem to be never-ending. But one thing that seems to slip people’s mind is prepping to move your pets. After all, they’re members of the family – so it feels like they can just hop in the car and go, too! However, depending on the type of pet and move – there is likely some planning involved. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to moving your beloved furry one:

Research Ahead of Time Each state has different regulations for pets. This includes any type of permits, certifications, and vaccines your pet may need in a new location. Also if applicable be sure to check in with future landlords or HOAs for regulations that must be…

When preparing to buy a home, it’s important for buyers to work with a real estate professional who can advise the best possible strategies for getting a mortgage and finding an affordable home. This partnership can make the real estate sales process go a lot more smoothly.

Perhaps the most important part of getting into the housing market – especially if it’s for the first time – is to do as much homework as possible before diving in, according to Bankrate. That means first determining what homes in a given area are selling for, and what that would mean to the would-be buyer in terms of monthly costs, incorporating charges like mortgage payments, mortgage insurance, homeowners insurance, property taxes and so on. Closing costs must also be considered

…

 

 

Visiting an open house should be more than just a casual walk-through of the home – it’s a great time to talk with the listing agent and ask questions. Here’s a list to get you started.

1. How long has the property been on the market? If the property has been on the market for a long time, you might be able to offer a lower amount. 2. Have there been any offers and how many? This helps you to feel out your potential competition and also tells you whether to submit your best offer first or bid competitively. 3. Why are the owners selling and what is their timeline? The more you know about the sellers and what they want, the more easily you can work around it — and put together a tempting offer while still…

 

 

Spring in real estate is such a busy time and we know many of you are getting ready to list your homes! As you move on to your next dream home, let’s stop to talk about some important aspects of listing your current house! The National Association of Realtors®, or NAR, reports that 81% of Realtors® on the buyer’s side say that staging helps buyers see the property as a home. That’s some pretty strong statistics!

We have lots of reasons to stage and the pictures really speak for themselves but if you need more of a push…

 

1. Clear out Clutter and Mess

2. Make an Impression

3. Get People Through the Door

4. Make Your Home Look Great in Photos

At the end

…

Curious about home warranties? They may be the right choice when selling your home! They can help differentiate your home and give your property the advantage it needs in this hot market!

Homeowners carry expense burdens that renters are able to avoid. Home repairs, homeowner’s insurance, and property taxes are the heavy hitters, often consuming so much of their income that homeowners find themselves less able to purchase the goods and services they desire, not to mention luxury items and vacations.

Tax filing, while never enjoyable or exciting, is a key opportunity for homeowners to recoup a portion of the money they’ve had to put into their home by taking full advantage of the deductions and credits that exist to assist them. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at just a few of the tax breaks that any homeowner should consider.

One note before we get started: these homeowner deductions are all itemized. That means you won’t be

…