The Balistreri Blog

Buyer Activity Is Up Despite Higher Mortgage Rates

By KCM on May 02, 2023

If you’re a homeowner thinking about making a move, you may wonder if it’s still a good time to sell your house. Here’s the good news. Even with higher mortgage rates, buyer traffic is actually picking up speed.

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Why Buying a Home Makes More Sense Than Renting Today

By KCM on May 01, 2023

Wondering if you should continue renting or if you should buy a home this year? If so, consider this. Rental affordability is still a challenge and has been for years. That’s because, historically, rents trend up over time. Data from the Census shows rents have been climbing pretty steadily since 1988.

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A Recession Doesn’t Equal a Housing Crisis

By KCM

Everywhere you look, people are talking about a potential recession. And if you’re planning to buy or sell a house, this may leave you wondering if your plans are still a wise move. To help ease your mind, experts are saying that if we do officially enter a recession, it’ll be mild and short.

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Selling in the Spring

By SaleCore Elite on April 01, 2023

It's no secret that there’s no better time to sell your home than the spring. Typically, you will see an increase of 15-20% more homes on the market, and those homes will sell faster than any other time of the year. Why is that? People start looking for homes as the weather warms up, and buyers have cash returns in their pockets and often want to get settled during their kids’ summer break. If you’re thinking about selling in the spring, you’ll want your home to be seen in the best possible light, as more homes on the market mean more competition. Start by catching up on any deferred home maintenance. Then, look at these 10 tips to help you get that sold sign this spring.

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Pricing Your Home to Sell

By SaleCore Elite on March 15, 2023

When selling your property, choosing the right price may be the most crucial decision you make. If you overprice the property, after the first two to three weeks of showings, the appeal of the house will no longer be as new. After around 21 days, demand and interest start to decline. There is nothing stopping you from lowering your pricing down the road, but it may be too little, too late. Although pricing too high can be a mistake, don't worry about pricing your home too low. Properties priced below market value will often receive multiple offers that will then drive the price up to market level. It's all about supply and demand. In order to get your asking price as close to market value as possible, you'll want a comparative market analysis (CMA).

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Home Inspections and Warranties

By SaleCore Elite on March 01, 2023

Not every homeowner is able to purchase their property from a seller or developer who has the best of intentions. In light of this, home inspections and warranties are frequently regarded as crucial steps in the purchasing process. Although while each of these elements are crucial, they are actually rather distinct. A house inspection often evaluates the condition of significant home components, such as the HVAC system, plumbing, roofing, and window and door insulation, although it normally excludes appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers. On the other hand, home warranties only cover appliances, not structural issues that have to do with the functionality of the home. So, homeowners who choose to cut corners by skipping these stages in the home-buying process may wind up having to pay much more in the long term to fix problems that a certified home inspector would identify and that a basic home warranty would cover.

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What You Can Afford

By SaleCore Elite on February 15, 2023

Realizing your dream of owning a home requires taking the crucial first step of figuring out how much house you can afford. A house is perhaps the largest purchase you'll make in your lifetime, not just due to the initial cost but also due to ongoing costs like regular upkeep, furnishings, and insurance. You'll probably need a mortgage if you can't afford to buy a home outright. You're not alone though; 78% of purchasers in 2022, according to the National Association of Realtors, had to finance their purchase. Knowing how much house you can afford is essential before applying for a mortgage, especially as prices for homes rise.

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Q&A for Sellers

By SaleCore Elite on February 01, 2023

It takes more than just putting your home on the market and waiting for offers from motivated buyers to start pouring in to sell your house. You'll need to take a deep breath, look at your home closely, and ask yourself a few questions if you want to have any hope that your sale will go successfully. Finding a real estate agent, deciding on a list price, and holding a few open houses all seem like fairly simple phases in the home selling process, but there are a number of less obvious elements that have a significant impact on whether your house sells and how much it sells for. To help you enter the home-selling process fully prepared and with your eyes open, here’s a list of five essential questions to ask yourself to get started.

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Appraisals & Market Value

By SaleCore Elite on January 15, 2023

Are you curious about the difference between the appraised and market values of your house and how they might affect a sale or home purchase? You're not alone, as the market value of a given piece of real estate is frequently significantly different from the appraised value of the same property. We've put together a helpful reference to these fundamental real estate concepts so you can learn more about how assessed value versus market value function and how each term is defined by industry professionals.

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Home Improvement Trends

By SaleCore Elite on December 21, 2022

If you're looking for home improvement tips for the upcoming year, you've come to the right place. The latest home improvement trends are all about making your home more efficient, stylish, and sustainable. There are always new trends emerging in the world of home improvement, and it can be tough to keep up with what’s popular. Whether you’re looking to update your home’s design or make some necessary repairs, here are a few home improvement trends to keep in mind.

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Hiring an Agent

By SaleCore Elite on October 16, 2022

It is not at all uncommon for people to try to cut costs where they can. Home buyers and sellers often think about saving money by not hiring a real estate agent. However, a professional real estate agent is a great asset who can provide invaluable knowledge and services to their clients, and actually save them significant hassle and money in the long run. Regardless of whether you’re a buyer or seller, it is important to understand what a real estate agent does and how their role can make navigating the process, from start to finish, a much smoother and less stressful transaction for you.

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Should I Sell My House This Year?

By KCM on September 07, 2022

There’s no denying the housing market is undergoing a shift this season as buyer demand slows and the number of homes for sale grows. But that shift actually gives you some unique benefits when you sell.

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How Owning a Home Builds Your Net Worth

By KCM on September 05, 2022

Owning a home is a major financial milestone and an achievement to take pride in. One major reason: the equity you build as a homeowner gives your net worth a big boost. And with high inflation right now, the link between owning your home and building your wealth is especially important.

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Buyers: You May Face Less Competition as Bidding Wars Ease

By KCM on August 30, 2022

One of the top stories in recent real estate headlines was the intensity and frequency of bidding wars. With so many buyers looking to purchase a home and so few of them available for sale, fiercely competitive bidding wars became the norm during the pandemic – and it drove home prices up. If you tried to buy a house over the past two years, you probably experienced this firsthand and may have been outbid on several homes along the way.

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A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers

By KCM on July 25, 2022

Mortgage rates are much higher today than they were at the beginning of the year, and that’s had a clear impact on the housing market. As a result, the market is seeing a shift back toward the range of pre-pandemic levels for buyer demand and home sales. But the transition back toward pre-pandemic levels isn’t a bad thing. In fact, the years leading up to the pandemic were some of the best the housing market has seen. That’s why, as the market undergoes this shift, it’s important to compare today not to the abnormal pandemic years, but to the most recent normal years to show how the current housing market is still strong.

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The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program

By Balistreri Real Estate on July 24, 2022

The Florida Hometown Heroes Housing program makes homeownership affordable for eligible frontline community workers by providing downpayment and closing cost assistance to income-qualified homebuyers so you can purchase a primary residence in the community in which you work and serve.

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Should You Buy a Home with Inflation This High?

By KCM on July 19, 2022

While the Federal Reserve is working hard to bring down inflation, the latest data shows the inflation rate is still going up. You no doubt are feeling the pinch on your wallet at the gas pump or the grocery store, but that news may also leave you wondering: should I still buy a home right now?

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Finding the Perfect Home

By SaleCore Elite on June 21, 2022

Buying a new home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and one that you may only make a handful of times in your life. When you are house-hunting, the price, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the amazing kitchen will certainly influence your decision, but there are many other significant factors to consider before making an offer. Depending on your personal needs and preferences, finding the “perfect” home that encompasses every one of the elements below may be challenging. Thus, it is imperative to prioritize your preferences to ensure that you don’t settle for anything less than what you’re willing to sacrifice. A home is much more than an investment, so focus on the aspects that will enrich your lifestyle, and at the very least add a level of convenience to your daily routine.

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Earnest Money

By SaleCore Elite on June 20, 2022

When a buyer and seller enter into a purchase agreement, the seller will take the home off the market while the transaction moves through the entire process to closing, which can take several weeks. If the deal falls through, the seller has to relist the home and start all over again, which could result in a significant financial loss. Therefore, as you near the process of making an offer on a home, your real estate agent will want to discuss your Earnest Money, a form of security deposit also known as a “good faith” payment. Earnest money shows the seller that you’re acting in good faith and committed to buying their home, and provides them with some compensation in case you back out of the deal without a valid, contractual reason.

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Home Price Deceleration Doesn’t Mean Home Price Depreciation

By KCM

Experts in the real estate industry use a number of terms when they talk about what’s happening with home prices. And some of those words sound a bit similar but mean very different things.

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Is the Housing Market Correcting?

By KCM on June 10, 2022

If you’re following the news, all of the headlines about conditions in the current housing market may leave you with more questions than answers. Is the boom over? Is the market crashing or correcting? Here’s what you need to know.

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What Are the Best Options for Today’s First-Time Homebuyers?

By KCM on June 06, 2022

If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’re likely balancing several factors. Because both mortgage rates and home prices have risen this year, it costs more to buy a home than it did even just a few months ago. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans on hold.

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Will Home Prices Fall This Year? Read What the Experts Say

By KCM on May 10, 2022

Many people are wondering: will home prices fall this year? Whether you’re a potential homebuyer, seller, or both, the answer to this question matters for you. Let’s break down what’s happening with home prices, where experts say they’re headed, and how this impacts your homeownership goals.

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Three Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

By KCM on May 03, 2022

Buying your first home is a major decision and an exciting milestone. Even though it can feel daunting at times, it has the power to change your life for the better. If you’re looking to purchase your first home, you may be wondering what’s happening in the housing market today, how much you need to save, and where to start.

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Your House Could Be Closer to List-Ready Than You Think

By KCM on May 03, 2022

One of the biggest concerns for a homeowner looking to sell is the time they’ll have to put in before listing their house. If that’s the case for you, you should know – your home might be closer to list-ready than you think in today’s housing market. A survey of recent sellers from realtor.com finds that many were able to get their house ready in less than a month.

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Home Energy Audits

By SaleCore Elite on April 06, 2022

While you may be familiar with ways to measure efficiency in various aspects of your life, such as your vehicle or even your work, have you thought about how to measure the efficiency of your home? A home energy audit, also known as a home energy assessment, can help you evaluate and understand the big picture of your home's energy use, comfort, safety, and potential savings. An audit will determine how much energy your home consumes, where inefficiencies may exist, and which problem areas and fixes you should prioritize to save energy and improve the comfort of your home. Conducting a home energy audit is fairly simple, allowing you to do much of it yourself, or you can call the professionals for a more thorough assessment.

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Your Credit Score

By SaleCore Elite on March 20, 2022

Your credit score is one of the most important measures of your financial health. In a quick glance, your score tells lenders how responsibly you use credit and your likelihood of repaying new debt. Your credit score if checked for a variety of reasons, including home loans, property or auto rentals, a new job, credit card, insurance, cell phone service, and cable/utilities. The better your score, the more likely you will be approved for new loans or lines of credit. Individuals with higher credit scores are considered low-risk borrowers and are offered the best available interest rates, promotional fees, and perks, saving them hundreds of thousands of dollars over the course of their lifetime. On the contrary, individuals with poor credit scores are considered high-risk borrowers, receive higher interest rates and struggle to get approval for housing or even life insurance. It is vital to understand these scores, what factors impact you the most, and how you can improve your score.

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Upcoming Local Events - February 2022

By Balistreri Real Estate on March 10, 2022

Discover fun things to do and family friendly events in near our market areas.

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Key Factors That Impact Affordability Today

By KCM on March 09, 2022

You can’t read an article about residential real estate without the author mentioning the affordability challenges that today’s buyers face. There’s no doubt homes are less affordable today than they were over the last two years, but that doesn’t mean homes are now unaffordable.

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How Global Uncertainty Is Impacting Mortgage Rates

By KCM on March 06, 2022

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ll want to keep a pulse on what’s happening with mortgage rates. Rates have been climbing in recent months, especially since January of this year. And just a few weeks ago, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac approached 4% for the first time since May of 2019.

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Pending Sale Mishaps

By SaleCore Elite on March 06, 2022

You’ve finally found your dream home and your offer has been accepted. Or, perhaps you are the seller and just accepted said offer. Congratulations, you are almost there, but it's not time to celebrate just yet. During the real estate process, the purchase or sale of a home goes into a "pending" status after an offer has been accepted and before the sale has closed, commonly referred to as "under contract" or "closing period." While the vast majority of home sales close smoothly and in a timely manner, it's also important to prepare yourself for the possibility that your deal could fall through. However, if you plan ahead and know what could go wrong, it will help you to increase your chances of finalizing the deal and avoid heartache and disappointment. And, while you can’t control all these factors, you can make sure you’re fully prepared to address your own responsibilities as a buyer or seller to prevent any mishaps.

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Down Payment Assistance Programs Can Help You Achieve Homeownership

By KCM on March 01, 2022

For many homebuyers, the thought of saving for a down payment can feel daunting, especially in today’s market. That’s why, when asked what they find most difficult in the homebuying process, some buyers say it’s one of the hardest steps on the path to homeownership.

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Working from Home

By SaleCore Elite on February 14, 2022

Although working from home is not a new concept, it is the new normal for many Americans. Employers have discovered that they no longer need large office buildings and can save thousands on overhead costs by having their employees work from home. Similarly, employees have discovered that they are equally, if not more, productive when working from home and have saved hours of their personal time and money by eliminating their commute. It is, however, essential to create a productive work-from-home environment, one that will separate you from your home life, including caretaking or homeschooling duties. Not having these boundaries can make it difficult to stay focused on work.

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Want Top Dollar for Your House? Now’s the Time To List It.

By KCM on February 10, 2022

When you’re selling any item, you usually want to sell it for the greatest profit possible. That happens when there’s a strong demand and a limited supply for that item. In the real estate market, that time is right now.

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Consumers Agree: It’s a Good Time To Sell

By KCM on February 06, 2022

In today’s sellers’ market, many homeowners are weighing their options and trying to decide if they should sell their house. If you’re in that group, you may be balancing things like the ongoing health crisis, rising mortgage rates, and your own changing needs to determine your best time to make a move.

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The Top Indicator if You Want To Know Where Mortgage Rates Are Heading

By KCM on February 02, 2022

Mortgage rates have increased significantly since the beginning of the year. Each Thursday, Freddie Mac releases its Primary Mortgage Market Survey. According to the latest survey, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has risen from 3.22% at the start of the year to 3.55% as of last week. This is important to note because any increase in mortgage rates changes what a purchaser can afford.

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Time to Downsize?

By SaleCore Elite on January 29, 2022

Selling your home and moving into a new house is often bittersweet. You are eager for change, but anxious to leave a home filled with so many memories. Downsizing can be even more difficult, but can be the right decision depending on your goals. People opt to downsize for many reasons, and in different stages of life. You may find that purchasing a smaller home makes sense if you want to save money and get rid of unused space, are moving from the suburbs to a big city, are an empty-nester, have recently been divorced or lost a spouse. A smaller home typically means not having enough space for all of your belongings and can lead to stress and anxiety, especially for those who have a great deal of stuff and may have a difficult time separating from it. However, downsizing is an opportunity to refresh and start anew. If you plan carefully, you can create a comfortable and stylish environment, without sacrificing meaningful belongings.

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Annual Mortgage Checkup

By SaleCore Elite on January 17, 2022

It’s a new year and a time of significant change in our world, but what about in your life? In the past year, you may have experienced shifts in employment, had a baby, been married, been divorced or reached retirement age. These are events that can completely alter the course of your life, and yet…your mortgage may have remained the same. This time of year, many of us are thinking about routine annual maintenance: annual physical exams, annual performance reviews, annual auto tune-ups, and even annual spring clean-outs. But, have you scheduled an annual mortgage checkup?

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Why Waiting To Sell Your House Could Cost You a Small Fortune

By KCM on January 05, 2022

Many homeowners who plan to sell in 2022 may think the wise thing to do is to wait for the spring buying market since historically about 40 percent of home sales occur between April and July. However, this year’s expected to be much different than the norm. Here are five reasons to list your house now rather than waiting until the spring.

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How Much Do You Need for Your Down Payment?

By KCM on January 03, 2022

As you set out on your homebuying journey, you likely have a plan in place, and you’re working on saving for your purchase. But do you know how much you actually need for your down payment?

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Avoid the Rental Trap in 2022

By KCM on January 03, 2022

Are you one of the many renters thinking about where you’ll live the next time your lease is up? Before you decide whether to look for a new house or another apartment, it’s important to understand the true costs of renting in 2022.

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Two Reasons Why Waiting to Buy a Home Will Cost You

By KCM on December 09, 2021

If you’re a homeowner who’s decided your current house no longer fits your needs, or a renter with a strong desire to become a homeowner, you may be hoping that waiting until next year could mean better market conditions to purchase a home.

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Struggling To Find a Home To Buy? New Construction May Be an Option.

By KCM on December 08, 2021

There’s no question that the financial benefits of selling a house are outstanding today. Now is truly a great time to list if you’re ready to make a change. But if you do sell your house right now, you may be wondering where you’ll go when you move.

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Why It Just Became Much Easier To Buy a Home

By KCM on December 07, 2021

Since the pandemic began, Americans have reevaluated the meaning of the word home. That’s led some renters to realize the many benefits of homeownership, including the feelings of security and stability and the financial benefits that come with rising home equity. At the same time, many current homeowners have decided their house no longer meets their needs, so they moved into homes with more space inside and out, including a home office for remote work.

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Hiring the Right Contractor

By SaleCore Elite on December 04, 2021

Whether you’re planning a move, or just moved into a new house, you may have home improvement projects you need assistance in completing. As you plan your next home renovation project, choosing the right contractor for the job is a critical first step in your planning process. As experts in building and remodeling projects, contractors can manage all the necessary permits, inspections, labor, equipment, and materials to ensure your project is successful. It’s important, however, to do your research so that you don’t end up with an untrustworthy contractor who will scam you, or an inexperienced contractor who does an inadequate job. Follow these steps to ensure you hire the right person for your project.

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Is Your Home Ready to Sell?

By SaleCore Elite on November 15, 2021

Choosing to sell your home is one of those crucial decisions that will have a lasting impact on your journey to financial independence. Whether you’ve sold many homes or are considering selling your first, there are many factors you need to know before putting your house on the market. Your time is valuable and your goal is to get your house sold for the highest price in the least amount of time. Selling a home can be inconvenient for your family, create stress and anxiety, and lead to thoughts of uncertainty. These feelings can be minimized if well-thought-out decisions are made, and proper preparation is taken along the way. Whether you are relocating for work, moving to a more desirable neighborhood, making room for a growing family or downsizing, you need to take the proper steps to ensure that your home is ready to sell.

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Determining Your Budget

By SaleCore Elite on November 10, 2021

Making the decision to purchase a home is a big and exciting step. The next most important step is to determine how much you can and should realistically spend. The amount is dependent on several factors that include, but are not limited to, your income, credit score, and lifestyle. Because housing is expensive and the biggest line item in the monthly budget for a majority of households, it is not a decision to be made lightly. It is also important to know that when you are shopping for a mortgage, lenders may pre-qualify you for a loan amount higher than you expect and moreover, than you should use. Although there are some financial rules of thumb when it comes to affordability, remember it does not account for personal circumstances. During this process, be cognizant of the following questions: How much is too much? What if we spend too much and become house poor? What if we don’t spend enough and regret our decision?

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Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022

By KCM on November 03, 2021

Mortgage rates are one of several factors that impact how much you can afford if you’re buying a home. When rates are low, they help you get more house for your money. Within the last year, mortgage rates have hit the lowest point ever recorded, and they’ve hovered in the historic-low territory. But even over the past few weeks, rates have started to rise. This past week, the average 30-year fixed rate was 3.14%.

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Sellers Have Incredible Leverage in Today’s Market

By KCM on November 02, 2021

With mortgage rates climbing above 3% for the first time in months, serious buyers are more motivated than ever to find a home before the end of the year. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), puts it best, saying: “Housing demand remains strong as buyers likely want to secure a home before mortgage rates increase even further next year.”

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Renters Missed Out on $51,500 This Past Year

By KCM on November 01, 2021

Rents have increased significantly this year. The latest National Rent Report from Apartmentlist.com shows rents are rising at a rate much higher than the three years leading up to the pandemic

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Does Your House Have What Buyers Want?

By KCM on October 28, 2021

The rise in remote work is changing what many Americans want in their homes. Many companies are choosing to delay reopening or go remote full-time, and today’s buyers are looking for homes with more space to support their work needs.

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Preparing for Fall

By SaleCore Elite on October 12, 2021

While the beautiful and gently tumbling leaves of Autumn seem so peaceful, they should also alert homeowners that cooler temperatures are quickly approaching. Because the typical household is consumed with work, family, activities, etc., it’s easy for home maintenance to fall to the bottom of the priority list. While it would be ideal if preparing your home was as simple as hanging a wreath and lighting a pumpkin spice candle, there are many more tasks that must be dealt with before transitioning from hot Summer days to cool Fall evenings, and eventually cold Winter nights. Preparing your home does not have to be stressful, and by taking care of these maintenance projects now, you will save on energy costs, avoid costly repairs, and feel confident that you’ll be warm and comfortable when the colder weather arrives.

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The Main Key To Understanding the Rise in Mortgage Rates

By KCM on October 04, 2021

Every Thursday, Freddie Mac releases the results of their Primary Mortgage Market Survey which reveals the most recent movement in the 30-year fixed mortgage rate. Last week, the rate was announced as 3.01%. It was the first time in three months that the mortgage rate surpassed 3%.

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4 Tips To Prep for Your Home Sale This Fall

By KCM on October 03, 2021

Even in a hot sellers’ market like today’s in which homes are selling so quickly, it’s still important to make a good first impression on potential buyers. Taking the time upfront to prep your house appropriately can bring in the greatest return on your investment.

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As Home Equity Rises, So Does Your Wealth

By KCM on September 29, 2021

Homeownership is still a crucial part of the American dream. For those people who own a home (and those looking to buy one), it’s clear that being a homeowner has considerable benefits both emotionally and financially. In addition to long-term stability, buying a home is one of the best ways to increase your net worth. This boost to your wealth comes in the form of equity.

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Buy or Rent?

By SaleCore Elite on September 19, 2021

It has been said that being a homeowner is the key to happiness and a big part of the American dream. In addition to being a fulfilling milestone that offers a sense of pride and accomplishment, there are several benefits to buying a home. However, choosing whether to buy or rent a home is a major decision that affects not only your lifestyle, but your financial health as well. Choosing the option that is best for you isn't just about money, it is also about comfort and your vision for your life. Following are some of the major reasons why buying a home may be a better choice than renting.

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Is It Time To Move on to a New Home?

By KCM on September 18, 2021

If you’ve been in your home for longer than five years, you’re not alone. According to recent data from First American, homeowners are staying put much longer than historical averages

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Is the Number of Homes for Sale Finally Growing?

By KCM on September 14, 2021

An important metric in today’s residential real estate market is the number of homes available for sale. The shortage of available housing inventory is the major reason for the double-digit price appreciation we’ve seen in each of the last two years. It’s the reason many would-be purchasers are frustrated with the bidding wars over the homes that are available. However, signs of relief are finally appearing.

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Why It’s Still Safe To Sell Your Home

By KCM on September 11, 2021

If you’re on the fence about whether or not you want to sell your house this year, there’s good news. Real estate professionals are highly experienced in how to sell houses safely during the pandemic. Over the last year, agents have adopted new technologies and safety measures designed to keep you safe. And experts say these practices are here to stay.

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More Young People Are Buying Homes

By KCM on August 19, 2021

There’s a common misconception that younger generations aren’t interested in homeownership. Many people point to the fact that millennials put off purchasing their first home as a reason for this belief.

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Options for First-Time Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]

By KCM on August 18, 2021

With a housing market this competitive, sometimes you have to think outside the box. Work with your trusted real estate advisors to do things like assess your budget, expand your search radius, look into other options, and determine your true needs. If you’re having trouble finding your first home, let’s connect to explore your options. It’s out there!

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The Best Use of Time (and Money) When It Comes to Renovations

By KCM on August 16, 2021

In the current sellers’ market, many homeowners wonder what, if anything, needs to be remodeled before they list their house. That’s where a trusted real estate professional comes in. They can help you think through today’s market conditions and how they impact what you should – and shouldn’t – renovate before selling.

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Secure Your Home

By SaleCore Elite on August 05, 2021

As the largest single purchase you’ll ever make, protecting your home is paramount, both as an investment and for the safety and comfort of your family. As secure as your home and neighborhood may feel, there is always room for improvement. There are many simple and low-cost solutions to make your home less vulnerable to intruders and break-ins. Being aware of potential security risks and taking action early is the best way to keep your home and loved ones safe. While it is not necessary to do everything at once, identify which strategies are most relevant to you, and make a plan to add the rest later.

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Surprising Shift Favors Homeowners: Buyers Now Prefer Existing Homes

By KCM on August 04, 2021

In April, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) posted an article, Home Buyers’ Preferences Shift Towards New Construction, which reported: “60% of people who were looking to buy a home in 2020 said they’d prefer new construction to an existing home.”

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Sellers: Make Today’s Home Price Appreciation Work for You

By KCM on August 03, 2021

Home prices continue to rise as we move through the summer, and that’s good news for sellers who are looking to maximize their home’s potential. If you’re on the fence about whether to list your house now or later, the question you should really ask is: will this price appreciation last?

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With Rents on the Rise – Is Now the Time To Buy?

By KCM on August 01, 2021

According to recent data from realtor.com, median rental prices have reached their highest point ever recorded in many areas across the country. The report found rents rose by 8.1% from the same time last year. As it notes: “Beyond simply recovering to pre-pandemic levels, rents across the country are surging.

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Top Mortgage Myths

By SaleCore Elite on July 21, 2021

Purchasing a home is one of the largest and most expensive investments you will ever make, and can be an overwhelming experience if you aren’t familiar with the process. Because buying a home and getting a mortgage go hand-in-hand, it’s important to educate yourself to avoid feeling intimidated. Home loans aren’t always easy to understand, and there are a number of commonly-believed mortgage myths that can make the process even more daunting. It is vital to ask your mortgage loan officer about anything you don’t understand, but being aware of the biggest misconceptions about home mortgages will help to relieve some of the stress.

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What You Should Do Before Interest Rates Rise

By KCM on July 17, 2021

In today’s real estate market, mortgage interest rates are near record lows. If you’ve been in your current home for several years and haven’t refinanced lately, there’s a good chance you have a mortgage with an interest rate higher than today’s average. Here are some options you should consider if you want to take advantage of today’s current low rates before they rise.

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Diving Deep Into Today’s Biggest Buyer Concerns

By KCM on July 14, 2021

Last week, Fannie Mae released their Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI). Though the survey showed 77% of respondents believe it’s a “good time to sell,” it also confirms what many are sensing: an increasing number of Americans believe it’s a “bad time to buy” a home. The percentage of those surveyed saying it’s a “bad time to buy” hit 64%, up from 56% last month and 38% last July.

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Why This Isn’t Your Typical Summer Housing Market

By KCM on July 11, 2021

In real estate, it’s normal to see ebbs and flows in the market. Typically, the summer months are slower-paced than the traditionally busy spring. But this isn’t a typical summer. As the economy rebounds and life is returning to normal, the real estate market is expected to have an unusually strong summer season.

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Common Buying Mistakes

By SaleCore Elite on July 05, 2021

Buying a home can be an exciting, yet nerve-wracking experience, especially if you are a first-time homebuyer. Because a home purchase is not complete until the keys are in-hand, if you’re not careful in the days and weeks leading up to your closing, you could actually put your sale in jeopardy, or lose the home altogether. Many buyers tend to make costly mistakes during the mortgage and home-buying processes. While some of these mistakes may seem insignificant, they can divert your closing and create considerable headaches. Avoid these common home-buying mistakes and keep the stress to a minimum.

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In Today’s Market, Listing Prices Are Like an Auction’s Reserve Price

By KCM on June 16, 2021

For generations, the process of buying and selling a home never really changed. A homeowner would try to estimate the market value of their house, then tack on a little extra to give themselves some negotiating room. That figure would become the listing price. Buyers would then try to determine how much less than the full price they could offer and still get the home. As a result, the listing price was generally the ceiling of the negotiation. The actual sales price would almost always be somewhat lower than what was listed. It was unthinkable to pay more than what the seller was asking.

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Housing Wealth: The Missing Piece of the Affordability Equation

By KCM on June 16, 2021

The real estate market is soaring today. Residential home values are rising, and that’s a big win for homeowners. In 2020, there was a double-digit increase in home values – a trend that’s expected to head toward similar levels this year. However, skyrocketing prices are causing some to start questioning affordability in the current housing market.

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Making a Home Yours

By SaleCore Elite on June 15, 2021

Whether you’ve just moved in, or have been in your house for a while, you should feel welcomed the moment you step through the door. While that feeling doesn’t always come naturally, there are many ways to create that cozy, warm sensation without spending a lot of money. You’d be amazed at the resources you already have, so put them to good use and make your home a place that makes you happy. No matter the size or style, incorporating your personal flair and belongings is what’s going to make your house a home.

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Hope Is on the Horizon for Today’s Housing Shortage

By KCM on June 14, 2021

The major challenge in today’s housing market is that there are more buyers looking to purchase than there are homes available to buy. Simply put, supply can’t keep up with demand. A normal market has a 6-month supply of homes for sale. Anything over that indicates it’s a buyers’ market, but an inventory level below that threshold means we’re in a sellers’ market. Today’s inventory level sits far below the norm.

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Dreaming of a Bigger Home? Why Not Buy It This Year?

By KCM on June 02, 2021

Are you clamoring for extra rooms or a more functional floorplan in your house? Maybe it’s time to make a move. If you’ll be able to work remotely for the long-term or your overall needs have simply changed, it’s a great time to sell your house and move up.

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6 Reasons to Celebrate National Homeownership Month

By KCM on May 31, 2021

Our homes are so much more than the houses we live in. For many, they’ve also become our workplaces, schools for our children, and safe harbors in which we’ve weathered the toughest moments of a global pandemic. Today, 65.6% of Americans call their homes their own, a rate that has risen to its highest point in 8 years.

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Where Do Experts Say the Housing Market is Headed?

By KCM on May 24, 2021

As we enter the middle of 2021, many are wondering if we’ll see big changes in the housing market during the second half of this year.

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Ready to Sell?

By SaleCore Elite on May 18, 2021

There are so many factors that go into deciding if you are ready to sell your home, and timing is extremely important. While timing is a crucial part of your home-selling journey, it’s a very personal decision that should be based on your specific circumstances. Personal factors that you should consider first when determining if you are ready to sell your home include: lifestyle, current home equity, and whether you are financially prepared. Then, look at the external factors to determine whether it’s a good time to sell. Knowing whether it’s a seller’s market that will make your sale worthwhile, and choosing the best time of year to list your home (even down to the month and day) can impact how quickly your home sells and for how much.

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Why Waiting to Buy a Home Could Cost You a Small Fortune

By KCM on May 12, 2021

Many people are sitting on the fence trying to decide if now’s the time to buy a home. Some are renters who have a strong desire to become homeowners but are unsure if buying right now makes sense. Others may be homeowners who are realizing that their current home no longer fits their changing needs.

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Experts Say Home Prices Will Continue to Appreciate

By KCM on May 10, 2021

It’s clear that consumers are concerned about how quickly home values are rising. Many people fear the speed of appreciation may lead to a crash in prices later this year. In fact, Google reports that the search for “When is the housing market going to crash?” has actually spiked 2450% over the past month.

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3 Graphs Showing Why You Should Sell Your House Now

By KCM on May 08, 2021

There’s no doubt that 2021 is the year of the seller when it comes to the housing market. If you’re a homeowner thinking of moving to better suit your changing needs, now is the perfect time to do so. Low mortgage rates are in your favor when you’re ready to purchase your dream home, and high buyer demand may give you the leverage you need to negotiate the best contract terms on the sale of your house. Here’s a look at what’s driving this sellers’ advantage and why there’s so much opportunity for homeowners who are ready to move this season.

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The Appraisal Process

By SaleCore Elite on April 29, 2021

Whether you’re buying a new house, selling a house or refinancing an existing mortgage, a home appraisal is a key component of each transaction. Understanding the appraisal process and how it impacts your home’s value is extremely important. The more you understand, the smoother the transaction will be.

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Is Home Price Appreciation Accelerating Again?

By KCM on April 28, 2021

At the beginning of the year, industry forecasts called for home price appreciation to slow to about half of the double-digit increase we saw last year. The thinking was that inventory would increase from record-low levels and put an end to the bidding wars that have driven home prices up over the past twelve months.

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4 Tips to Maximize the Sale of Your House

By KCM on April 25, 2021

Homeowners ready to make a move are definitely in a great position to sell today. Housing inventory is incredibly low, driving up buyer competition. This gives homeowners leverage to sell for the best possible terms, and it’s fueling a steady rise in home prices. In such a hot market, houses are selling quickly.

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Saving for a Down Payment

By SaleCore Elite on April 25, 2021

Purchasing a home is a big financial step and the amount that you need to save for a down payment can be daunting, but it’s certainly not impossible. Homeownership can be one of the cornerstones of building wealth. But to ensure that it is truly a wealth-building tool and not a financial burden, you must be prepared for the financial obligations of your investment. This means not only being able to afford your monthly mortgage payment and other expenses of owning a home, it also means saving for a down payment. Knowing how to save for a down payment takes a little bit of planning, a lot of discipline, and sometimes more time than you realize. Here are some key ways to help ensure you have enough money when it's time to go house-hunting.

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82,338 Great Reasons to Buy a Home Today

By KCM on April 19, 2021

The financial benefits of buying a home as compared to renting one are always up for debate. However, one element of the equation is often ignored – the ability to build wealth as a homeowner. Most experts are calling for home prices to continue appreciating over the next several years.

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Preparing to Sell

By SaleCore Elite on April 15, 2021

Preparing to sell your home is a huge undertaking, and the little things can make a big difference. Careful planning and knowing how to professionally prepare your home is imperative to ensure your house stands out and attracts as many buyers as possible. With so many changes over the past year, home features that were once just "nice-to-haves" may now be "must-haves" for buyers. You’ll need to consider what homebuyers are looking for in 2021 to make your home the most attractive house on the market. Features like home offices, updated kitchens, and move-in ready homes can’t be overlooked, and you will need to go above and beyond to prep your house for sale. Start by walking through your home as if it is the first time and take notes on what you, as a potential homebuyer, would notice, and then resolve those issues.

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Don't Sell on Your Own Just Because It's a Sellers' Market

By KCM on April 14, 2021

In a sellers’ market, some homeowners might be tempted to try to sell their house on their own (known as For Sale By Owner, or FSBO) instead of working with a trusted real estate professional.

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Happiness at Home

By SaleCore Elite on April 08, 2021

The outside world can be a stressful and uncertain place, especially these days. Our personal priorities pull us in so many different directions, from work calls and meetings to children’s activities, online schooling, and the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Creating a home that promotes daily satisfaction and moments of joy is key for pursuing a happy life. Being happy doesn't have to be complicated, but our environment can significantly impact our mood, anxiety levels, and our overall mental health. That is why it’s so important that our homes are a sanctuary for relaxation, rest, and happiness. There are many simple tasks and low-budget design tweaks you can implement to instantly boost the happiness at home.

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What is the #1 Financial Benefit of Homeownership?

By Keeping Current Matters

There are many financial and non-financial benefits of homeownership, and the greatest financial one is wealth creation. Homeownership has always been the first rung on the ladder that leads to forming household wealth.

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What It Means To Be in a Sellers’ Market

By Keeping Current Matters

If you’ve given even a casual thought to selling your house in the near future, this is the time to really think seriously about making a move. Here’s why this season is the ultimate sellers’ market and the optimal time to make sure your house is available for buyers who are looking for homes to purchase.

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Buyer & Seller Perks in Today’s Housing Market

By Keeping Current Matters

With so many buyers looking for homes to purchase and so few houses available today, there’s a substantial increase in bidding wars, and homes are selling fast.

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Ready to Buy?

By SaleCore Elite on March 30, 2021

The prospect of buying a new home is exciting, but also stressful as it is one of the largest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Although owning a home comes with many advantages, you must consider your circumstances carefully when making such a big commitment. How will you know when you’re ready? Even when the interest rates are low and the market is competitive, there are many personal factors to qualify when determining whether the time is right. It should be a well thought-out decision and requires a hard look at the different aspects of your life.

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Closing Costs

By SaleCore Elite on March 26, 2021

As a homebuyer, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of making plans for your new home. You have accounted for the mortgage payments, thought about décor and color schemes, and planned where every piece of furniture will go. But, there are still some very important transaction details you may have overlooked, such as the countless transaction fees charged to buyers, known as Closing Costs. These costs can add up quickly and catch you by surprise. Therefore, it is imperative to understand what each fee covers, how you can reduce or eliminate these fees, and how much you may need to pay. Closing costs are unavoidable when buying (or refinancing) a home. However, understanding what these costs cover, ensuring you’re getting the best rates, and budgeting for them will make for a smoother closing process.

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Home Inspection Debacles

By SaleCore Elite on March 17, 2021

Closing on a new home can be very exciting, but sometimes you encounter inspection debacles that can break the deal. As a seller, inspection surprises can catch you off-guard forcing you to spend thousands before you can close. As a buyer, these surprises may prevent you from signing off on the home of your dreams. So, as you can imagine, the home inspection is one of the bigger points of contention in a real estate deal. With so much up for negotiation, the home inspection raises many questions. For example, what are mandatory repairs? And, who must pay for these repairs?

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Will the Housing Market Bloom This Spring?

By Keeping Current Matters

Spring is almost here, and many are wondering what it will bring for the housing market. Even though the pandemic continues on, it’s certain to be very different from the spring we experienced at this time last year. Here’s what a few industry experts have to say about the housing market and how it will bloom this season.

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Buyer Beware

By SaleCore Elite on March 12, 2021

Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, second home or even a vacation home, buying a house is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. For this reason, buyers need to be extremely vigilant throughout the house-hunting process. It can be a very exciting time, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the emotion, buyers must remember to stay mindful, to look beyond beauty, and examine the integrity of the elements that make up the home. Sellers don't always disclose the whole truth to potential homebuyers, especially if they're motivated to sell, so it’s crucial to know what you’re getting into before making a commitment. To save you time, money, and heartache, be sure to look closely at any prospective home with a fine tooth comb. Keep these common red flags in mind, use your senses, and think twice before you buy, no matter how incredible the house may seem.

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Why PMI?

By SaleCore Elite on March 02, 2021

As a homebuyer ready to take the plunge, a mortgage lender will typically require a minimum down payment of 20% of the home's purchase price. As a borrower, if you cannot meet that minimum requirement, a lender will view the loan as a risky investment and therefore require Private Mortgage Insurance, also known as PMI. What does this mean for you? While PMI does have some downfalls, it may have its advantages as well. It is important to do your research, get all your questions answered, and make the best decision for you and your situation.

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Get Ready, Get Set, Buy!

By SaleCore Elite on February 18, 2021

The real estate market generally cycles through two stages, a buyer’s market and a seller’s market. In a seller’s market, inventory is low and demand is high, resulting in much more competition for each property. In addition, sellers have many more freedoms when it comes to asking price and negotiations. As a homebuyer, it can be very overwhelming as markets can shift almost overnight. When the market changes, your home-buying strategy needs to change with it, and time is of the essence. In a seller's market, you should always assume you're competing against several other offers. You must be prepared and ready to act quickly at any given time. You want every advantage and a smart strategy for positioning yourself ahead of other buyers to edge out the competition. Establishing that you’re a serious buyer, with the financial capabilities to meet all obligations, is the first way to a seller’s heart. But, be willing to go the extra mile to ensure success in a seller’s market.

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Common Selling Mistakes

By SaleCore Elite on January 27, 2021

Selling your home can be time-consuming and emotionally challenging, especially if you’ve never done it before. Half the battle is anticipating issues before they come up, and making sure you are mentally and financially prepared for any less-than-ideal scenarios. It is extremely frustrating when your home is not selling, and knowing that the longer it sits on the market, the less appealing it will become to buyers. Thinking about all that can go wrong and how the consequences of a mistake can impact your finances and your peace-of-mind, might be overwhelming. However, knowledge is power and if you’re aware of some common mistakes to avoid when selling your home, you can be more confident when something doesn’t go as planned.

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Understanding Home Equity

By SaleCore Elite on January 24, 2021

Homeownership has paved its way as part of the American Dream by providing families with a place of their own and an opportunity for building financial security. This security comes in the form of Home Equity. Whether you’re just beginning the home-buying process or already a homeowner, understanding home equity is the key to getting the most benefit from your investment. Although a lengthy process, building equity in your home can be the smartest, long-term strategy for wealth and financial security. It is especially beneficial during these trying times when many households are struggling with their housing expenses, as homeowners have better alternatives because of their equity.

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Negotiating After Inspection

By SaleCore Elite on January 10, 2021

When an offer to buy a home is accepted, it can be easy for both the buyer and seller to feel that they’re safely at the finish line. The acceptance of an offer brings the deal much nearer to the closing table, but there are still important steps the transaction must go through before the deal is complete. Typically, a buyer’s offer comes with some contingencies, the most common being Contingent Upon Home Inspection. A home inspection is conducted by a licensed professional who evaluates the property from top-to-bottom to identify any parts of the home that are out-of-code or in need of repair/replacement, and provides the buyer with a detailed report of the home’s structure, plumbing, electrical, foundation, roof, etc. Home inspection clauses allow a buyer to back out of a deal without losing their deposit if the home inspection results are not satisfactory. If the buyers still want the home, they will begin the negotiation process.

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First Time Buyer

By SaleCore Elite on December 27, 2020

If you are reading this article you are probably around the age 25-35 and are looking into purchasing your first home. This is one of the biggest decisions and one of the most expensive purchases you will make in your life. When purchasing your first home there are a lot of unknowns and unexpected expenses so it is important to have a deep understanding of your personal finances and priorities when it comes to finding your dream property. Ask yourself, "Am I financially stable?" or "Is now the right time to invest in a home?" Buying a home is not always going to be a positive investment. Looking at the market and loan rates can greatly affect a first time buyer and need to be taken into consideration. Here are the 9 steps that will help you along the way and lead to a positive return on your investment as a young buyer.

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Selling During the Holidays

By SaleCore Elite on December 16, 2020

While the thought of selling your home during the winter months may dampen your holiday spirit, the season does have its advantages. There is typically less inventory in the housing market, allowing your home to easily stand out, and holiday buyers tend to be more serious. Some people need to sell during the holidays, and some people need to buy during the holidays. It may not seem like the most ideal time, but provided you position your home in just the right way, it also presents a unique opportunity to create a warm and cozy environment that you can’t present during the spring or summer months. Follow these steps to make your home bright, cheery, and inviting to potential buyers, because selling your home this holiday season may be your best gift all year.

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Go Greener at Home

By SaleCore Elite on November 24, 2020

The idea of making your home environmentally-friendly can be overwhelming. While many people associate going-green with inconvenient and expensive lifestyle changes, there are a number of economical and easy adjustments you can make around the house to reduce landfill waste, clean the air, and preserve the natural landscape. Begin with the small things, and over time you can take bigger steps to building an energy-efficient home, and significantly shrinking your carbon footprint. Being eco-wise is not only good for your home and the earth, but your budget as well. Following are several tips toward achieving a more sustainable lifestyle.

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Boost Your Appraisal

By SaleCore Elite on November 15, 2020

When selling your home, a very important part of the process includes a home appraisal. The ultimate goal of the appraisal is to place your home on the market based on a fair and comparable set of standards, but also to have it appraise at the highest dollar amount possible. There are a number of factors that will affect the end-value of your appraisal. As a homeowner, you cannot control such factors as the housing market, comparable sales in the area, and the age and location of your home. Many factors, however, are within your control and understanding these will help get you the most value, and avoid over- or underpricing your home. Aside from major renovations, home additions, and other expensive improvements, there are numerous other ways to boost your appraisal.

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Maximize Your Deductions

By SaleCore Elite on October 27, 2020

Homeownership is a great investment, and rewarding in so many ways…building equity, making a house your home, and significant tax benefits. As such, knowing what you're eligible for is the first step in saving as much as possible. Taxes are complicated and unique to each individual’s/ couple’s situation. In order to maximize your homeowner deductions, it’s important to consult with a tax professional to help determine which deductions make the most financial sense for you. In general, however, when you itemize your deductions, you will be able to deduct the following:

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Ensure a Smooth Moving Day

By SaleCore Elite on October 13, 2020

Moving is an adventure, but the moving process itself can be a very overwhelming experience. Whether you are relocating across town or across country, packing up your belongings and loading everything you own into a moving van isn't easy. However, with some time and organization, you will be amazed how much smoother the transition can be. Because there is so much work to be done, breaking the process into these 4 steps will help you to stay focused, remember the small things, and enjoy those last moments in your home.

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Save Thousands at Closing

By SaleCore Elite on October 05, 2020

Buying a home is an adventure, but an expensive one at that. Moreover, the process of obtaining a home loan can be confusing and daunting. This is especially true when it comes to closing costs, a lengthy list of fees charged by the lender and other vendors to facilitate the sale of the home. Understanding these fees, and whether or not you're being overcharged, can be overwhelming. The good news is that both buyers and sellers typically contribute to covering these costs, although buyers will pay the majority. Closing costs come from various places, but typically fall into three categories: lender fees, third-party fees, and prepaid funds for insurance, property taxes, and interest. Most buyers know to shop around when it comes to mortgage rates, but it shouldn't stop there. Pay close attention to these 6 ways to reduce your closing costs, it could potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long-run. If you do your research and are prepared, you won’t be surprised by the final figures.

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Get Ready, Get Set, Sell!

By SaleCore Elite on September 21, 2020

Selling your home and knowing what steps to take to accomplish it quickly can be a stressful and emotional experience. But, you don’t have to do it alone. Having the right teammates can provide you invaluable expertise, guidance, and advice. Whether you are a first-time or experienced seller, having these professionals on your team can make all the difference in having a quick and stress-free experience.

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Home Maintenance Tips

By SaleCore Elite on September 11, 2020

For most Americans, your home is your biggest investment, so why not protect it? Whether you’re planning to sell in the future, or happy where you are, home maintenance must always be a priority. It’s easy to procrastinate, to ignore the warning signs, but keeping a watchful eye on these 5 issues will help ensure that a small problem doesn't turn into a much larger and more expensive problem in the long run. The key is not waiting until there’s an issue to deal with; a little prevention goes a long way.

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Florida Attracts More Northerners

By The New York Times on September 02, 2020

Since the beginning of the pandemic, home sales in parts of the Sunshine State have more than doubled.

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Skip the Home Inspection?

By SaleCore Elite on August 08, 2020

Finding and buying the perfect home can be an arduous process no matter how many times you’ve done it. Between the revolving dollar signs and flurry of tedious paperwork, it might be tempting to skip the home inspection. But a home inspection can save you thousands of dollars in the long run, so it’s worth the small investment. Consider these 5 reasons you should go ahead and schedule that home inspector, despite the inconvenience.

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Build Your Dream Home Office

By SaleCore Elite on August 02, 2020

Working from home should be relaxing and give a sense of freedom from your everyday cubical. Now that people have been forced to isolate due to this current pandemic, COVID-19, many people have moved to working at home. These tips will give you some insight into creating a happy, relaxing, and productive workspace. Having a designated personal workspace will also help you separate your personal life from your work. To stay motivated and inspired check out these five tips for a successful workspace.

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Sell Your House for Top Dollar

By SaleCore Elite on July 10, 2020

In order to sell your house for top dollar here are a few things you can do. Whether it is intentional or not, homebuyers are massively influenced by their first impression of a respective property. The first impression is responsible for setting the tone for the rest of the experience. If you are looking to sell your home follow these steps to void any potential setbacks and unappealing characteristics. Complete these steps and you will be off to selling your home in no time.

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Feel Your Best in Your Nest

By SaleCore Elite on June 29, 2020

Your home should be your haven, your happy place. If you are looking at ways to spice up your home use these tips and tricks to make your home an oasis you will not want to leave. There is no need to stress, after reading this article you will be left with five tiny tweaks that are easy, quick, and affordable. These strategies will leave you feeling your best in your nest.

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What Recession? Summer Home-Buying Season Heats Up as Prices Surge.

By Clare Trapasso | Realtor.com on June 11, 2020

As the summer home-buying season gets underway, median home prices are surging. They shot up 4.3% year over year as the number of homes for sale continued to dry up in the week ending June 6, according to a recent realtor.com® report.

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Why Invest in Real Estate Now?

By SaleCore Elite on May 18, 2020

With the challenges to the current market, are you wondering if investing in real estate is right for you? If so, you are not alone. Investing in real estate can be a lucrative- and satisfying- way of making money. For inexperienced newcomers, however, it can also be intimidating and overwhelming.

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Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

By SaleCore Elite on May 11, 2020

Lush lawns, vibrant paint, sparkling windows, and charming front porches. Homeowners looking to sell in a competitive real estate market need every advantage they can get their hands on. One of the simplest yet most impactful ways sellers can make their home leave a stellar first impression is through upgrading their home's curb appeal. Here are three reasons why you should boost your home’s curb appeal now.

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Coronavirus: Resources for Property Owners

By National Association of Realtors

Resources to provide property owners with assistance during the COVID-19 crisis.

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Selling to Millennial Buyers

By SaleCore Elite on March 11, 2020

Millennials are now the single biggest market of potential home buyers in America, and they will keep revolutionizing the industry for at least the next decade. Knowing how to appeal to this demographic is the key to attracting their interest. A few simple and affordable upgrades to your home will effectively grab their attention, so follow these ideas and attract millennial buyers -- quickly and profitably.

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Getting your House Ready for Sale

By SaleCore Elite on February 17, 2020

Whether you are selling a property you have inherited, or just getting ready to move on from the place you raised your family, selling a property brings many emotions. But that doesn’t mean you should just get it over with, you want to do this right, and that means finding a real estate agent with local experience and success selling similarly priced properties. This can seem like a challenge, but with online resources, such as agent reviews, and the experiences of friends and family, you can find a local expert to help. The agent will assess your property and identify areas of work that may need doing to help the sale, along with sourcing the professional photos and establishing the listing price that will get the best response.

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Rising Prices and Home Equity

By SaleCore Elite on January 20, 2020

Over the last couple of years, we’ve heard quite a bit about rising home prices. Today, expert projections still forecast continued growth, just at a slower pace. One of the often-overlooked benefits of rising home prices is the positive impact they have on home equity. Let’s break down three ways this is a win for homeowners.

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Sell During the Winter?

By SaleCore Elite on January 12, 2020

Many home sellers believe that Spring or Summer are the ideal times to sell a property, so much so it seems odd to suggest otherwise. However, Winter is a great time to sell your home and get a good price for it. Here are 5 reasons why, if you are thinking of selling, winter is the perfect time to do it.

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Saving for Your Own Home

By SaleCore Elite on December 31, 2019

Most likely to be the biggest purchase you ever make, and a landmark milestone in so many American’s lives, buying your own home is a goal for all kinds of people. However, for most of us, that means taking on a mortgage, and to be approved for that, you will need to put some money down. That isn’t the only thing that anyone thinking of buying a home needs to save for either, from property taxes to closing costs, and of course ongoing repairs and maintenance once you have that dream home, the costs quickly add up. Saving to cover all of that can take time. If you are staring at endless bills while your dream of owning a home seems to have disappeared over the horizon, don’t fret, our 5 tips will help you save the money you need.

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Home for the Holidays

By SaleCore Elite on December 16, 2019

Staying home for the holidays can be a very heart-warming time, filling your home with memories that will last for years, especially when hosting guests. However, the added task of preparing your home for this special time can be stressful, particularly when the days leading up to the holidays are already very busy. We offer these 5 tips for you to make your home ready for the holidays.

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How to Buy Your First Home

By SaleCore Elite on December 09, 2019

Buying your first home is an adventure unlike any other. Exciting in parts, scary in others, it is not just a landmark moment, but opens the door to a new way of living. The thing is, it doesn’t have to be scary at all, once you know what’s coming, you can prepare properly and take it all in your stride. This is good for your nerves, but also allows you to enjoy the adventure more, because that first home really is something to savor. Here are 7 tips for making sure you are ready for that first purchase, take them in and know that you can handle anything that comes your way.

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Selling Your First Home

By SaleCore Elite on December 08, 2019

One thing that is only obvious once you have done it, is that the process of selling a home is very different to that of buying one. For anyone faced with selling their first home, whether that to find something bigger for a growing family, or just to move to a different area for work, that difference in process can be a shock. It can also lead to difficult challenges that could be avoided with more knowledge and preparation. In this guide, we give you the information to help make your first sale a hassle-free experience.

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Becoming a Productive Homebuyer

By SaleCore Elite on December 07, 2019

In a competitive housing market, finding your dream home means taking control. If you’re not a productive homebuyer, you could be missing out on the ideal home, so what are you waiting for? Being a productive homebuyer means being in control, taking opportunities in the market to get the best deal possible. To be a productive homebuyer you need to understand the intricacies of the real estate market, not just the information an agent tells you. Doing this puts you in a better position than others to get the best price for that dream home. The thing is, it’s not difficult, you can be a productive homebuyer too, just follow these three simple tips and get ahead of the pack to grab the perfect home at an affordable price.

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5 Great Outdoor Living Ideas

By SaleCore Elite on December 06, 2019

When creating your outdoor living area try to mimic the look of your dream vacation spot. Set the scene for relaxation by styling your outdoor living area with design details that remind you of being on holiday. No matter your budget, there are plenty of ways to make an outdoor space pretty, practical and even more enjoyable. Here are some of our favorites.

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2019 Luxe Gift Ideas

By Luxury Portfolio

For the people on your list who have everything, take a peek at these luxe gift ideas to get inspired and find something truly unique.

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Is Your First Home Now Within Your Grasp?

By Balistreri Real Estate

According to the US Census Bureau, “millennials” are defined as 18-36-year-olds. According to NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the median age of all first-time home buyers is 32. More and more “old millennials” (25-36) are realizing that homeownership is within their grasp now!

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Is Your House Priced To Sell Immediately (PTSI)?

By Balistreri Real Estate

In today’s real estate market, with more houses coming to market every day and eager buyers searching for their dream home, setting the right price for your house is one of the most important things you can do.

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Out-of-State Buyers Flock to Miami

By Wall Street Journal

A growing list of public officials in high-tax states are expressing alarm that big earners are bolting to low-tax states as new data suggests some home buyers are moving in response to the year-old change in the federal tax law.

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The Importance of Homeownership to the American Dream

By Keeping Current Matters

For centuries, people in this country have seen homeownership as part of the American Dream. Whether they were born here or immigrated from another country, they wanted to own a piece of America. With so many prominent societal changes over the last few decades, it is fair to ask if people in America still feel the same way about owning a home. .

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Pat Riley Reportedly Buys Florida Condo at Surf Club

By Realtor.com

Miami Heat President Pat Riley has brought some heat to the real estate market. He and wife Christine purchased a unit in the Four Seasons Residences at the Surf Club in Surfside, FL, for $8.1 million, the Real Deal reported.

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Why It Makes No Sense to Wait for Spring to Sell

By Keeping Current Matters on January 24, 2019

The price of any item (including residential real estate) is determined by the theory of ‘supply and demand.’ If many people are looking to buy an item and the supply of that item is limited, the price of that item increases.

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Enjoy Your Own Private Island Off the Florida Keys

By Realtor.com

Escaping to the warm sun and pristine sand of island life is the ultimate dream scenario. After all, what’s not to love about swaying palms, a gentle breeze, and miles of turquoise-green waters stretching out in front of you? Now take the dreamy island getaway in your mind's eye and multiply it by a factor of 10. East Sister Rock, a private island situated just off the Florida Keys, takes island paradise to a whole new level.

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5 Things You Must Do Before Selling Your Home

By SaleCore Elite

Selling a house can be a major turning point in someone’s life. When you get ready to sell your house, it can lead to a situation of emotion, busyness, and stress. It’s easy to look over some of the most important things to make sure you’ve done before you put that ‘For Sale’ sign up for grabs. Thinking About Selling Your House? You MUST do These 5 Things First!

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6 Inexpensive Ways to Transform a Room in 3 Hours or Less

By Realtor.com

Is your home decor looking a little drab? Perhaps you grew weary of the whole look some time ago, but you haven't had the time, money, or inspiration to redo it. But here's something that'll cheer you up: Enlivening your interiors can be done in three hours or less. Yes, just three hours! And it's not nearly as messy, complicated, or expensive as you might think.

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