Every seller wants to get their house sold quickly, for as much money as they can, with as few headaches as possible. And chances are, you’re no different.But did you know one of the biggest things that could jeopardize your success is the asking price for your home? Pricing your house correctly is one of the most crucial steps in the selling process.So, how do you know if you’re missing the mark? Here are four signs your high asking price might be turning potential buyers away—and why leaning on your real estate … [Read more...]
How the Federal Reserve’s Next Move Could Impact the Housing Market
Now that it’s September, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve (the Fed). The overwhelming expectation is that they’ll cut the Federal Funds Rate at their upcoming meeting, driven primarily by recent signs that inflation is cooling, and the job market is slowing down. Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody’s Analytics, said:“They’re ready to cut, just as long as we don’t get an inflation surprise between now and September, which we won’t.”But what does this mean for the housing market, and more importantly, for you as … [Read more...]
How To Choose a Great Local Real Estate Agent
Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home. But how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you make that big decision as you determine your partner in the process.Check Their ReputationStart by gathering information about agents in your area. From there, try to narrow down the list. Ask the people you trust if they have someone they’d recommend. You’ll want to find an agent with a strong online presence, plenty of positive reviews, and someone … [Read more...]
What Credit Score Do You Really Need To Buy a House?
When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Think of it like your financial report card that lenders look at when trying to figure out if you qualify, and which home loan will work best for you. As the Mortgage Report says:"Good credit scores communicate to lenders that you have a track record for properly managing your debts. For this reason, the higher your score, the better your chances of qualifying for a mortgage."The trouble is most buyers … [Read more...]
Helpful Negotiation Tactics for Today’s Housing Market
If you haven’t already heard, homebuyers are regaining some negotiating power in today’s market. And while that doesn’t make this a buyer’s market, it does mean buyers may be able to ask for a little more. So, sellers need to be ready for that possibility and know what they’re willing to negotiate.Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a house, here’s a quick rundown of potential negotiations that may pop up during your transaction. That way, you’re prepared no matter which side of the deal you’re on.What Can You … [Read more...]
Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help It Sell Faster
If you’re thinking about selling your house, you should know there are buyers who are ready and able to pay today’s high prices. But they want a home that’s move-in ready. A recent press release from Redfin explains:“Buyers are still out there and they’re willing to pay today’s high prices, but only if the house is in really good shape. They don’t want to spend extra money on paint or new appliances.”It makes sense when you think about it. They’re having to pay a lot of money for a house in today’s market. That … [Read more...]
How To Determine if You’re Ready To Buy a Home
If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to buy a home, there’s probably a lot on your mind. You’re thinking about your finances, today’s mortgage rates and home prices, the limited supply of homes for sale, and more. And, you’re juggling how all of those things will impact the choice you’ll make.While housing market conditions are definitely a factor in your decision, your own personal situation and your finances matter too. As an article from NerdWallet says:“Housing market trends give important context. … [Read more...]
Why Working with a Real Estate Professional Is Crucial Right Now
Navigating the housing market can be tricky, especially these days. That's why having an experienced guide when buying or selling a home is so important. The market isn't exactly straightforward right now, and working with a real estate expert can offer insights and advice that make all the difference.While today’s market conditions might seem confusing or overwhelming, you don't have to handle them alone. With a trusted expert leading you through every step, you can navigate the process with the clarity and … [Read more...]
The Price of Perfection: Don’t Wait for the Perfect Home
In life, patience is a virtue – but in the world of homebuying, waiting too long in hopes of finding the perfect home actually isn't wise. That’s because the pursuit of perfection comes at a cost. And in this case, that cost may be delaying your dream of homeownership. As Bankrate explains:“One of the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes is looking for a home that checks each of your boxes. Looking for perfection can narrow your choices and lead you to pass over good, suitable options for starter homes in the … [Read more...]
Your Agent Is the Key To Pricing Your House Right [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some HighlightsThe asking price for your house can impact your bottom line and how quickly it sells.Both under- and overpricing have drawbacks. So to find the right price for your house, lean on your agent for their expertise.Don’t pick just any price for your listing. Trust your real estate professional to help you find the perfect price for your house. … [Read more...]