House Inspection Checklist For Buyers Are you going to be inspecting a house? Having a checklist for home inspections is crucial for a buyer. Inspecting a home is a step in the home-buying process that should never be skipped. As a real estate agent, one of the questions buyers often ask me is what kind of inspections I should be doing. Of course, my advice is to inspect everything pertinent to the property. Inspecting a house is one of the most crucial phases of a real estate transaction. A ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what a septic system is and how it works? Maybe you are wondering what type of septic system you have. When people look for answers to these questions, it is often because a repair or replacement is needed. Do you need to replace your septic system? Are you interested in understanding the costs of septic system replacement? If you're considering buying a home that needs a new septic tank system or getting a construction loan to build a new property, you might need to know th...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What to Know About Septic Inspections Are you wondering how septic inspections work? If you are buying a home with a septic tank, there are some things you need to be aware of. If you sell your home, you could need a septic system inspection. For example, here in my home state of Massachusetts, we have a law known as Title V that a seller must have their septic system inspected by a septic inspector upon the transfer of real estate. Septic inspectors must be licensed in many states, so you ca...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What is The Cost of Pumping a Septic Tank? The typical septic tank pump costs between $200-$500. We will explore in detail all the factors that impact pumping costs. Maintaining a healthy and functional septic system is crucial for adequately disposing wastewater from residential and commercial properties. Regular septic tank pumping is essential to septic system maintenance, as it helps prevent costly repairs and ensures the system's longevity. A septic tank pumping should be part of your pr...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Greater Metrowest Massachusetts encompasses cities and towns west of Boston in the counties of Middlesex, Worcester and Norfolk. Middlesex County, MA - As of 2011, Middlesex County’s population is 1,487,768 people, and is the twenty-third most populous county in the nation. Norfolk County, MA - As of 2011, the population of Norfolk County is 660,302 people, and is the 28th highest-income county in the nation and the wealthiest county in Massachusetts. Worcestor County, MA - As of ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering about the most essential considerations with HOA fees? Many home buyers ask what an HOA is and what they do. Homeowners associations (HOAs) play a significant role in many residential communities, providing various services and amenities to enhance the living experience for homeowners. One of the essential aspects of HOAs is the collection of HOA fees or homeowners association fees. In this guide, we will examine the intricacies of HOA fees, their purpose, components, what t...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Townhouses Are you thinking about buying a townhouse? Many potential buyers ask what a townhouse is. Townhouses are once again becoming popular with homebuyers. The increased popularity is thanks to buyers looking for low-maintenance homes near amenities they can walk to and offer better value. Many people purchase a townhouse as a second home in vacation destinations. A significant attraction for doing so is the lack of regular maintenance associated with ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Have you just heard about this type of condo and are wondering what it means and how it works? Understanding Non-Warrantable Condos and their financing challenges is crucial when purchasing a condominium. Non-warrantable condos fail to meet requirements set by agencies like Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the FHA. Factors that make a condo non-warrantable include incomplete projects, short-term rentals, and developer control. Usually, more than 50 percent of the condos must be owner-occupied in ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
The cost for a land surveyor can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the property, the location, the type of survey required, and the surveyor's experience and reputation. Additionally, local market conditions and the availability of surveying services in your area can also influence the cost. The average land surveying costs approximately $550. However, the price for a land surveyor varies quite a bit. Many factors go into property survey costs, including ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Understanding common HOA violations is crucial for homeowners to maintain compliance and avoid penalties. We will provide an overview of common disobedience within HOA communities, including pet-related violations, parking and vehicle violations, landscape and maintenance violations, architectural violations, and noise and nuisance infractions. It also offers insights into dealing with violation notices, appealing contravention, and best practices for avoiding transgression. Stay informed and...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Getting Building Permits For Work at Your House is Vital Did you not pull building permits for work done at your house? Getting a permit for building or improving is crucial. When you consider making improvements or additions to your home, it can be tempting to try and skirt the permit process. In some cities and towns, the cost and hassle of getting a building permit can seem unnecessary, especially if you are handy and like to make renovations or you have a friend who offers to do it for yo...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Realtors Guide To Hopkinton Real Estate Are you interested in hiring a Hopkinton Realtor? If so, you have come to the right place. Learn all there is to know about the real estate market from top Hopkinton, MA Realtor Bill Gassett of RE/MAX Executive Realty. If you have any questions about Hopkinton and specifically Hopkinton Real Estate, don't hesitate to contact me, as I have been a resident for fifty-four years! I have been selling real estate in town for the last thirty-eight years! Very ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering how long it takes to close on a house? The time to finalize a real estate transaction can be a mystery to many buyers who have never purchased. One of the questions I get from home sellers is what they can expect the time frame to be from start to finish. Those who are buying a home for the first time also ask as well. Closing on a house can be a tense experience and one you might want to be over as soon as possible. Getting an accepted offer is exciting, but all the hard work| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What is a Good Score For Credit? Do you know what a good credit score is? How about the highest credit score possible? Over the years of working as a real estate agent, lots of people have asked me what the best credit score I can get is. A good credit score is vital when applying for a mortgage or renting an apartment. But what's a perfect credit score, and how high does it go? Any credit score over 740 is great and will give you access to the best interest rates on financial products. The h...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Have you heard a real estate agent using the term 'seller concessions' or 'selling concessions' and wondered what it meant? Buying a home can stretch your finances to the limit, with closing costs that could be as much as 5% of the purchase price. This can make purchasing the home you want very difficult, but there is a possible way to have the seller help you with these closing costs. If the situation is right, sometimes the owner might be willing to help with these costs. These are seller c...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Millennial Home Buyer Tips For those unaware, a millennial home buyer is defined as someone in the 18-35-year-old age bracket. Millennials buying homes have not been as plentiful as other generations. Millennial home buyers have not looked at purchasing real estate in the same fashion as other generations have. With the recent real estate recession fresh in their mind, in addition to student loan debts, high unemployment, and tighter mortgage credit, millennials have not been as quick to jump...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
A seller assist, also known as a seller concession or seller credit, is a feature of loan programs that allows the seller to help the buyer by covering a portion or the entire closing costs. This option is desirable for buyers with limited cash and sellers facing challenges selling their properties. It's essential to note that a seller's assistance is not free money, as sellers may compensate for this assistance by increasing the sale price. Different loan types have specific rules regarding ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Seller's disclosures are essential legal documents that inform buyers about potential issues or defects in a property. In most states, these disclosures are required to ensure transparency and protect buyers and sellers. The disclosures vary by state and typically include known problems such as structural damage, mechanical or plumbing issues, and past water damage. Buyers must review these disclosures, seek clarifications, and conduct inspections to thoroughly understand the property's condi...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what reserve capital is and how it works in an HOA or condo association? Reserve funds are vital in ensuring financial stability for home and condo owners. These funds are set aside for future costs and unexpected financial obligations. Homeowners Association (HOA) reserve funds are used for major maintenance, renovations, costly repairs, and emergencies within the community. Understanding reserve funds' importance, purpose, usage, and proper management is crucial for a soli...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
The Ultimate Guide to Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) Have you heard of restrictive covenants or house covenants? While you might have a checklist of things you want from your next home, you might also need to consider what you are and aren’t allowed to do when you own it. If you buy a home within an HOA or another type of planned community, you may be restricted in how you use your property. Some people in the real estate industry call them restrictive covenants, while othe...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Everything to Know About Off-Market Properties Are you ready to learn all there is to know about off-market properties? You probably want to know what an off-market property is and how to find them. Key things you'll learn about: What are off-market properties? How to find off-market homes. Understanding real estate listing status terminology. Misleading pre-foreclosure off-market listings explained. Benefits of off-market properties. When searching for a new home to buy, you might have seen ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Donate to Charity Are you in the process of selling your home? Do you need a donation pick-up? Maybe you are trying to eliminate the clutter that will make your property far more salable? Could you be trying to downsize, or perhaps try to clear out some room for things that fit your current lifestyle better? Would you like to donate some of your stuff? Maybe you have some furniture nobody wants that you would love to be picked up? If you are like most people, moving is a prime time for gettin...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Real Estate Agents Guide To Millbury Massachusetts Learn everything there is to know about the Real Estate market from top Millbury MA Realtor, Bill Gassett of RE/MAX Executive Realty. If you have any questions about anything to do with Millbury and specifically Millbury Real Estate, please let me know. I've been selling in and around town for over 34 years. I am very familiar with the area and the real estate options here. There are not many Realtors in Millbury with a track record as a top ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What Are Open Houses? Open houses are a marketing activity performed by a licensed real estate agent, usually on a weekend, whereby a home seller's property is open to the public for a designated time period. Open houses typically last for a couple of hours, when people can come and go at their leisure. There is no appointment or qualifications necessary to enter the home. If you look, you're bound to see weekend open houses in your area. During an open house, the property is typically showca...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what not to fix when selling a house? It's essential to know you're spending money in the right places. Knowing the repairs and updates are worth your time and money is crucial for home sales. Consulting with a real estate agent can provide valuable insights into prioritizing repairs and upgrades for maximum return on investment (ROI). We have covered what to repair or renovate when selling a house. Now, we will cover what to skip. Not all repairs are necessary; focusing on ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Maximum Real Estate Exposure was designed to help home sellers achieve max visibility for their homes. Get expert knowledge from a top Realtor in Massachusetts.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Do you know the most common first-time home buyer mistakes? You probably feel overwhelmed if this is your first time buying a house. There is a lot to learn, and it can feel like a bit of a juggling act—which can be hard to do when you’ve never juggled before. Fortunately, plenty of people have gone through the home-buying process you are dealing with now, and you can learn from their mistakes. Check out the following list of common first-time buyer mistakes so that you can spot them befo...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Many buyers enlist the assistance of a buyer's agent when purchasing a home. Buyer's agents play a crucial role in helping buyers navigate the complex real estate market and secure the best possible deal. However, it's essential to understand the concept of buyer's agent fees before agreeing. It should be noted that changes in the real estate industry could change how consumers pay a real estate commission. Following a real estate commission lawsuit, the industry is bracing for changes that c...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Get a Good Credit Score When Buying a Home Are you wondering what a good credit score for buying a house is? A healthy credit score is a vital factor when buying a house. A good credit score can mean the difference between getting the most favorable interest rate and terms from a mortgage lender. With a better score, you will pay less for the home you purchased. Potential buyers need to remember that the actual cost of owning a home is directly tied to the mortgage terms you receive. Many pro...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
When selling a home, a few things are essential to your success. The two most critical are working with a successful real estate professional and pricing your home correctly. After that, several factors will influence your success as a home seller. One of them is ensuring your home is in excellent condition and shows well. Others will emphasize that professional photography is vital. As a thirty-seven-year real estate veteran, I can attest that these things are crucial to home sales. We will ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you eager to paint the town red with a 'SOLD' sign? If so, then you're on the right page! Finding a top-rated Realtor in your area isn't always easy. You don't want just any agent but someone who will knock your socks off with their service and expertise. Navigating through the wild jungle of real estate can be overwhelming. Thankfully, your search for a trusted guide and partner ends today. Here, we dissect reviews, dive deep into facts, and reveal the traits of top-performing local real...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Understanding An Earnest Money Refund Are earnest money funds refundable? When you are purchasing real estate, there are quite a few things you need to know. One of those things is whether or not your money is refundable. The reason for this lies in the sometimes incomprehensible deal of purchase agreements. Many buyers and sellers will ask their real estate agents whether the earnest money deposit is refundable. Sometimes, these situations can be more complex than a simple yes or no answer. ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
One of the questions I often field as a real estate agent from buyers and sellers is the difference between a pending home sale and a contingent home sale. Some will also ask what a contingency means as well. The meaning of contingent is not difficult to understand and neither is pending However, if you are not buying or selling real estate daily, there is quite a bit of lingo that can make you wonder. When you start looking real estate listings, you will come across properties in different s...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Things To Consider When Buying A Home With A Well Well inspections are critical when buying a home with a well as the primary water source. Buyers considering homes in rural settings often encounter houses for sale that get their water from wells. With homes drawing on municipal sources, there is an assumption that the water in the house will be readily available and meet the safety standards of the municipality. But with private water, you cannot make any assumptions about its purity. Beyond...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what a well inspector charges for an inspection? Having a reliable source of clean water is crucial for any homeowner, especially those who rely on well water. Regular well inspections help ensure the safety and quality of the water supply. However, many homeowners wonder about the well inspection costs. We will examine the factors that influence the price of a well water inspection and provide you with a better understanding of what to expect when hiring a well inspector. A...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering how much an attorney for real estate charges for their services? Several factors come into play regarding the cost of hiring a real estate attorney. Factors such as the type of case, complexity, and the attorney's location can influence the overall cost. Attorneys may charge hourly rates or flat fees, ranging between $150 and over $400 per hour or between $500 and $2,000 for closing on a house. Additional expenses like title insurance, transfer taxes, and registration fees m...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering how to negotiate after a home inspection? Negotiating after a home inspection is a skill and an art. The cost of a home inspection is relatively mild compared to the purchase price. A buyer can easily walk away when negotiations after a home inspection fail. A house is never bought or sold until the money exchanges hands. You may have received an offer on your house and be reasonably sure you have a buyer, but there are several other steps you must go through before the sale...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Understanding sub-agents in real estate is crucial for buyers and sellers alike. A sub-agent is a real estate agent representing the seller's interests alongside the listing agent. They help with tasks such as marketing the property and facilitating negotiations. However, it's essential to note that sub-agents primarily focus on the seller's needs, which can pose potential disadvantages for buyers. Some states have even eliminated the sub-agency model in favor of buyer's brokerage agreements ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Have you heard a real estate agent use the word “comps” and wondered what they meant? Understanding a real estate comp will probably be foreign if you are not in the industry. Comps in real estate are comparable sales. Real Estate comps are used to compare and determine the fair market value of a property. Without appropriate comparisons, determining a home's value is far more challenging. Real estate agents and appraisers use comparable sales to assist buyers and sellers in understanding...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Have you heard the real estate term 'CMA' and wondered what it was? It's an abbreviation for comparative market analysis. Sellers and buyers should understand a comparative market analysis in real estate. If you are selling your home, deciding how much to ask can be difficult. Likewise, choosing how much to offer for the home is crucial when buying. Whichever side of the real estate transaction you are on, getting this wrong could cost you thousands of dollars. Having an appropriate listing p...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Selling a house in probate can be a complex and legally intricate process. It involves specific steps to ensure the property is sold appropriately and that the estate is settled according to legal and ethical standards. My guide will provide detailed insights into each stage of the process. I have put in substantial effort to ensure you are up to speed on everything you should know about the process. I will educate you on the following: How probate court appoints an executor or administrator ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Over the years, a few people have asked me if there is anything different about selling a home on a busy street. Selling many homes is challenging, but some are more difficult than others. Homes on busy streets are one type of home that takes extra finesse to unload for a great price. But don’t […] The post Selling A House on A Busy Road: What You Should Know appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Selling a house with unpermitted work is challenging and complex, and it can lead to legal issues, financial losses, and strained relationships between buyers and sellers. Unpermitted work refers to renovations, additions, or alterations to a property without obtaining the necessary building permits from local authorities. These unapproved changes can significantly impact the sale process […] The post How to Sell a Home With Unpermitted Work? appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Do you know the typical mistakes in selling winter homes? Selling your home in winter presents a unique set of challenges. However, there are still buyers out there, which means there is a good chance you can sell your home for a great price. But to do so, you must avoid the most common mistakes […] The post Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a House in The Winter appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
An appraisal is vital when applying for a mortgage, refinancing an existing mortgage, or selling your home. Appraisers can help determine your home’s value and ensure you receive the best possible deal. An appraiser uses several factors to determine the value of a home, including its size, location, condition, and amenities, The appraisal process is […] The post Appraising Property: How it Works and What to Know appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Selling an inherited property can be a complex process involving legal, financial, and emotional considerations. Understanding the steps and legal and tax implications is crucial for a smooth transaction. I have gone to great lengths to help you understand the process in an easy-to-understand fashion: The detailed process for selling an inherited property. Comprehensive information […] The post How to Sell an Inherited Home: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering when you should stop making mortgage payments on a home loan when selling? Selling a house with an existing mortgage is expected in real estate sales. One key aspect involves understanding when to stop making mortgage payments and how to manage the payoff. I have put significant effort into making this as […] The post When Should I Stop Making Mortgage Payments When Selling a Home? appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Selling a house with a mortgage is a common scenario that requires careful planning and knowledge. Whether moving for work, upsizing, or downsizing, understanding each step can help you make the most of your home sale. A real estate transaction with a mortgage isn’t that much different than if you didn’t have one. Some people […] The post Can You Sell a Home With a Mortgage? Yes You Can! appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
The Definition of a Buyer's Market In real estate sales, there are essentially three types of markets. There is a buyer's market, a seller's market, and a balanced market. The differences between buyers' and sellers' markets are like night and day. Real Estate markets go through cycles. The real estate market never stays the same as outside forces change it in one direction or another. When there is a buyer's market in place, more homes are available for sale than people looking to buy them. ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What is a Home Inspector? Are you looking to find an outstanding home inspector? Choosing a home inspector is part of the home-buying process, which can significantly impact your satisfaction with your future home. For a potential home buyer, it is an investment that cannot be understated, A home inspector is a professional engaged in performing the service of assessing a property's condition. It can be a pre-sale inspection for a seller or, more commonly, for a buyer with a property under co...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Bidding wars on houses are all too common these days. How do you win when there are multiple offers on the home you love? Winning a bidding war on a home isn't always easy. You may find that out quickly if you plan to buy a home. When making a home purchase now, whether a new home or a resale, the chances are high that there will be competing offers on the property you love. High demand coupled with low inventory has created bidding wars in many markets. If you are trying to buy, especially i...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Does having solar panels increase home value? Whether or not solar panels increase property values and how much depends on several factors. Understanding solar power when buying or selling a home is essential. An increasing number of homeowners are installing solar panels to save money. Better for the environment and capable of generating around half the electricity needed to run an average home, they have apparent benefits. However, solar panels can complicate the transaction when buying or ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What to Know About Buying New Construction Homes Are you thinking about buying a new construction home? The idea of purchasing a brand-new house is appealing to many homebuyers. Going directly to the builder and being the first to live in a home offers advantages. However, buying a newly constructed home isn’t the same as buying from a homeowner. With a new construction home, some similarities exist to buying resale or even older homes. But there are also many differences that you need to c...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Home Values on Zillow Explained Are you wondering whether Zillow house values are accurate? One of the questions real estate agents often get from consumers is, 'how accurate are Zillow home value estimates.' Home buyers and sellers need to understand right from the get-go that a Zillow home value is NOT accurate the vast majority of the time. More tools are available than ever for the average person interested in buying or selling a home. The internet provides numerous resources for everythi...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What Buyers and Sellers Need to Understand About a Home Inspection Are you going to be getting a home inspection? Inspections for homes are a vital part of the real estate transaction process, so it makes sense to learn as much as you can about them. The more you know about what they entail and how they affect you as a buyer or seller, the more confident you will be moving forward with your transaction. If you're buying or selling a home, you should be well informed on the ins and outs of a h...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Check For Potential Issues When Buying Your First House Do you understand what's needed for due diligence in real estate to be completed? If you are a first-time homebuyer, you are probably doing all the research to ensure you don't make any mistakes. Performing due diligence increases the odds that you won't regret purchasing. The homework you are doing now is essential because a lot goes into buying a home—which means you have a lot to learn in a relatively short time. The due diligence p...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Do you want to know how to get the best mortgage rate for an upcoming home purchase? Getting the best mortgage rate is a significant concern for any home buyer. Everyone wants to get the lowest mortgage interest rate possible! When you consider that only a few percentage points can cost you thousands over the life of a loan, it only makes sense to seek the best mortgage rate you can get. Buying a home is already expensive. There is no reason to pay more than you have to. Unfortunately, many h...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Many consumers have preconceived notions about selling a house as-is where-is. It's probably not exactly what you think. Sometimes, when you sell a house with issues, selling it “as is” may seem like the most straightforward course of action. Most homeowners assume that selling an as-is house means they will not have to make any repairs to the property (which is true) and that it will be practical and involve the least amount of stress (which may be far from true). Before you sell your ho...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What You Should Know About Homeowners Association Rules If you are shopping for a home right now or planning on doing so shortly, you will encounter homeowners associations (HOAs). In all homeowner's associations, some rules must be followed. HOAs are management organizations that define and enforce rules governing condominiums and home communities. Some consider them overbearing patrols that make homeownership harder than it has to be. Others think of homeowner's associations as essential or...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering how property lines work? Maybe you are trying to determine precisely where your property lines are located. You're not alone if you nod yes to these questions. Understanding how to find property lines is vital, especially after buying a home. Lots of folks try to research how to find their lot lines. The most common problems regarding property boundaries are fences a neighbor wants to construct. When fences are built between properties, where exactly is the right place to co...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Tips For Trouble-Free Condo Buying Are you thinking about buying a condo? What is the best advice when buying a condominium? Start by immediately understanding that it is much different than purchasing a single-family home! Buying a condo offers some advantages – living closer to a town, affordability, and less maintenance. But buying a condo is not the same as purchasing a single-family home. With single-family homes where there is no HOA, you are the king of the castle. With a condo, you ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What Renovations Should I Make at My House Before Selling? Are you wondering about the best renovations for ROI and resale? If so, you are wise to do so. Many potential homeowners never give it a second thought. Many sellers assume that any renovations or repairs they do to their house will automatically increase the money they get for the home. Unfortunately, this assumption can upset those who invest a lot of money in home improvements and find they don’t make their money back when they s...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what dual agency is and how it works? One of my duties as a real estate agent is to explain how agency law works in Massachusetts. I must present agency law at my first meeting with a prospective buyer or seller client. State laws require agents to do this. It is something I take seriously. Real Estate agents can essentially do one of three things: represent a seller, a buyer, or both. There are two types of dual-agency transactions. One is acceptable, and the other is not. ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
11 Financing Programs for First-Time Home Buyers Are you looking to find a first-time home buyers program? A first-time home-buying loan is something that many folks ask both real estate agents and mortgage brokers about. It's an excellent question to ask as there are numerous first-time home buyers programs to consider. Understanding how to get a mortgage is one of the first steps to homeownership. The improvement in recent years of the real estate market has benefited many people, from buye...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What is an Appraisal? Appraisals and appraisal contingencies are standard parts of most real estate transactions and the home-buying process. A real estate appraisal is often conducted when purchasing a home and getting a mortgage. It ensures that you pay the fair market value for a property. Appraisal is a requirement of mortgage lenders before they provide financing. They want to ensure that the asset they're lending against has sufficient equity. The home appraisal establishes a value base...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you looking for creative real estate marketing materials to sell a house? It may seem obvious, but great marketing is the key to successful home sales. One of the areas that many Realtors miss out on is the marketing material left on the property. Most buyers love to look at marketing brochures and other materials real estate agents provide. Utilizing these helpful marketing ideas allows you to sell your house faster and for more money. If you are like most sellers, you'll want to make yo...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what an FHA loan is and how it works? Over my thirty-eight years as a real estate agent, many clients have asked me about FHA loans and whether they would be a good mortgage choice. FHA mortgage loans are a staple for many homebuyers. When considering buying a house, you will want to find the best mortgage. For many buyers – especially first-time homebuyers – the best mortgage option is an FHA or Federal Housing Administration loan. FHA loans tend to be available to borr...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Have you heard your mortgage lender or real estate agent mention title searches and wondered what they were referring to? Property searches are done on nearly every real estate transaction. Understanding a title search is crucial when purchasing a house or other real estate. Property title searches examine public records to confirm a property's legal owner and verify whether there are any liens or claims that could impact a buyer's ability to purchase. Buying a home can be an exciting experie...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you considering selling your home without a real estate agent? Did you know that most house sales by owner fail? A home sale by owners is not easy! Choosing to go without a real estate agent usually ends in poor results. But why is that the case? Why is selling a house by the owner so challenging? The standard driving force behind most for sale by owner homes (FSBO) is to save on paying a Real Estate commission. Even though I've been a Realtor for nearly forty years, I can clearly underst...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Tips on How to Deal With Bad Neighbors Do you want to know how to deal with toxic neighbors? Selling your home can be challenging, even in the best circumstances. There is just a lot of work involved in selling. So even if you do everything correctly and a buyer arrives on your doorstep the first day, it doesn't mean the whole process will be stress-free. In real estate sales, there are numerous obstacles along the way that home sellers need to overcome. It could be the property inspection, t...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Understanding Title Insurance in Real Estate Would you like to know what title insurance is and how it works? You're probably interested in learning the cost of title insurance and whether it is worth having. Homebuyers often ask real estate agents or mortgage lenders about title insurance and why they always need it. By the time you're done reading, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of this insurance and why it makes so much sense to have it. You will also learn precisely how title i...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
We Buy Ugly Houses Reviewed Do you know the pros and cons of selling your home to one of the We Buy Houses flipping companies? You only have to drive around your town for a little while to come upon “We Buy Houses” or 'We Buy Ugly Houses' type signs plastered on telephone poles or street signs. The signs tell you that a company out there will purchase your home, no matter its state. These are investors who are looking to flip your house for a profit. Housing flipping has become a lucrativ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
What to Know About Credit Karma, Including Accuracy Have you ever wondered what Credit Karma is and how it works? Maybe you have seen their advertisements on television? Are you wondering if Credit Karma is accurate? Your credit score is one of the most critical financial information, especially when buying a home. For a long time, creditors and lenders have used your credit score to determine whether they would lend to you and what terms they would offer. Today, your credit score affects eve...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Are you wondering what a pocket listing is and how it works? Pocket listings are properties sold 'off market' or marketed to potential buyers by a brokerage privately instead of utilizing the multiple listing service (MLS). These non-public listings are kept in-house by a listing agent. Negotiation will be done by the agent, who may or may not share the information with colleagues. Sometimes, there is a for sale sign on pocket listings, and sometimes there isn't. These properties will not be ...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Would you like to know how to research the history of a property online and offline? You'll be shaking your head in the affirmative right now if you're smart. Whether you want the history of your house or one you're looking to buy, it's essential information. When you are ready to buy a home, you might have questions about the property's history. Whether you have heard rumors about the home or want a more in-depth understanding of the house you're investing in, it is possible to find a lot ab...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure
Many consumers ask what a real estate attorney does. Do I need one in my real estate transaction? Speaking from thirty-eight years of experience as a real estate agent, I can talk about the importance of having a lawyer in your corner. Buying a home isn't the same as many other purchases you might make. Ownership is legally changed from the seller to the buyer, and documentation and contracts are involved. Because buying a house is more complicated, using an attorney for real estate purchases...| Maximum Real Estate Exposure