Tag Archive for: Buying A New Home

Overcoming Challenges to Secure Your Dream Luxury Home in Scottsdale!

Overcoming Challenges to Secure Your Dream Luxury Home in Scottsdale!

Overcoming Challenges to Secure Your Dream Luxury Home in Scottsdale!

 

Are you a discerning buyer seeking a $1 million luxury home in Scottsdale? Do you worry about limited inventory, fierce competition, and rising property prices? Fear not, as we’ve got the solutions to help you navigate these challenges and secure your dream home!

1. Access to Exclusive Listings: Partner with our experienced real estate agents, who have access to a vast network of off-market luxury properties. Gain an edge by being the first to view hidden gems that perfectly align with your preferences.

2. Expert Negotiation Skills: Our agents are skilled negotiators, representing your best interests. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the best deal on your behalf, mitigating bidding wars and ensuring you stay within your budget.

3. Real-Time Market Insights: Stay ahead of market fluctuations with our up-to-the-minute market data. We’ll provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions and time your purchase strategically.

4. Thorough Property Evaluation: Our team of experts will conduct comprehensive property inspections and appraisals, ensuring you know the true value and condition of your potential luxury home.

5. Mortgage Assistance: Our financial experts specialize in securing mortgages for high-priced homes. We’ll guide you through the mortgage approval process, making it smooth and stress-free.

6. Transparent Cost Breakdown: Know exactly what to expect in terms of costs and fees. Our agents will provide a transparent breakdown of all expenses, so there are no surprises along the way.

7. Personalized Home Search: We listen to your needs and prioritize your must-have features. Our agents will tailor a personalized home search to find a property that meets your lifestyle and family’s requirements.

8. Privacy and Security Expertise: Your safety and privacy are paramount. We’ll assist you in finding a home that provides the level of security and exclusivity you desire.

9. Streamlined Buying Process: Our team will handle all the details, ensuring a smooth and efficient buying process. We’ll save you time, so you can focus on planning your exciting move into your luxury Scottsdale home.

10. Long-Term Support: Our relationship doesn’t end at closing. We’ll be here for you, providing ongoing support and guidance as you settle into your new luxury residence.

Don’t let challenges hinder your dream of owning a $1 million luxury home in Scottsdale. Partner with us, and let our expertise and dedication make the difference. Together, we’ll turn your vision into a reality. Contact us today to start your journey to a life of luxury!

Call Andrew with The Holm Group Today at 480-206-4265

Questions To Ask Before Buying a Historic Home

Questions To Ask Before Buying a Historic Home

Questions To Ask Before Buying a Historic Home

 

Historic homes are a great investment, but they can be more than you bargained for. Make sure to ask these questions before buying a historic home.

 

Scottsdale has been gracing Phoenix with its presence for over 120 years. Because of that, our neighborhood is home to some beautiful older homes, from Spanish villas to Frank Lloyd Wright’s gorgeous winter home, Taliesin West.

But as charming as older homes can be to look at, they can pose their own collection of challenges. That’s why it’s important to have a list of questions to ask before buying a historic home.

What Renovations Are Allowed?

In most cases, when you buy something, it’s yours. That usually means you can do whatever you want with it. But when your home is a certified “historic” property, you may need to adhere to some rules about how much you can change the home and property.

You typically aren’t banned from doing any renovation work on a historic home. However, local ordinances may bar certain exterior and interior changes to the home. Most communities—Scottsdale included—have an office of historic preservation that can offer guidance on what renovations are allowed.

How Old is the Electric Work?

Electricity first came to our area over a hundred years ago, and some homes’ electric work hasn’t changed much. While old wiring is usually still functional, it can become faulty when facing modern electrical needs. This can pose a fire hazard if you aren’t careful.

If you decide to buy a home with old wiring, you will likely have to rewire it. Unfortunately, this can be a tedious and expensive process that you will not be able to do yourself, so you will need to factor this into your budget.

What Kind of Pipes Does It Have?

Many cities’ sewer systems are much older than their citizens realize. Because of that, pipes in older homes can potentially be decades old. This can cause problems for homeowners because many older materials for pipes, such as cast iron or clay, can become brittle over time or be difficult to repair.

Additionally, some homes were built with lead pipes, which can lead to contaminated water. Knowing whether your home has lead pipes is essential to keeping you safe once you’ve purchased the home.

How Old Is the Paint?

Pipes aren’t the only area you might find lead in a historic home. Houses built before 1977 may have lead-based paint on the walls. Flaking lead paint and painting over lead paint can cause lead poisoning.

If you plan on changing the color of the walls, request a test for the walls. If the walls do have lead-based paint, you will need to call a specialist to remove the paint. You will also have to factor this into your budget.

Old homes are beautiful, but knowing the right questions to ask before buying a historic home will help you get the most out of your property.

72SOLD & The Holm Group

72SOLD & The Holm Group

If you are looking to buy or sell your home in Arizona contact Andrew at 480-206-4265

72 SOLD & The Holm Group

 

Are you looking to purchase a home or second home in the Phoenix – Scottsdale area?

  • We have exclusive access to over 600 listings a month before they are released to the general public.  Ask us how?
  • Let our experienced buyers agents guide you through the process starting with pre-qualification, offer, inspections and successful closing.
  • Not sure where to move when you get to Arizona?  We will give you tours of communities to give you an idea of what each has to offer.
  • The Holm Group has been representing buyers successfully in the valley for the past 22 years.
  • Our team approach assigns each buyer to a buyer specialist in your specific area within 24 hours that will assist you all the way through the buying experience

 

Are You Interested In Selling Your Home?

  • Our home selling program is Federally Trademarked and is featured on CBS, FOX, ABC, NBC, and Forbes Magazine
  • Our brokerage is spending over 2.5 Million Dollars a month for marketing in the Phoenix Metropolitan area.
  • Our marketing authorization time commitment is only 30 days as compared to the traditional listing timeframe of six months or more
  • Want to avoid the hassle daily showings?  We can show you how.
  • Want to pick your close date? Want to stay in your home after closing for up to three months? We can show you how.
  • Do you want to have confidence in knowing that you are selling at the top of the market?

 

Take a look at our brand new video that covers are home selling program by clicking on the link below.

 

A step-by-step guide for buying properties

A step-by-step guide for buying properties

A step-by-step guide for buying properties

Looking to buy a property? For most people, it’s a major challenge to take on for the first time. Even if you have some experience, you can never get used to buying real estate. It’s an incredibly complex process that can take up a lot of your time and focus. The good news is that you’re not the first nor the last person to go through this hassle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started in investing in real estate.

Decide if this is the choice for you

Buying a property may be the single largest investment you ever make, or it might be one of many large investments. Either way, you shouldn’t take this decision lightly. If you’re thinking of buying real estate, make sure that you’ve thought it through completely.

Whether you’re looking for a new home or investment opportunity, you should have a rough idea of what you want. Even if you’re absolutely certain that you want to make a particular purchase, you still need to orient yourself according to your goals. What are your top priorities when it comes to choosing a home? Are you willing to stick around in one place for a long while? If you’re investing in a property, what would be the best long-term option? These are all questions you need to think about before you make a decision.

Determine your budget

Once you’re absolutely certain of your decision, you need to start considering your budget. How much house can you afford? While this may seem like a pretty straightforward thing to determine, there may be some hurdles in the way.

You should always start by calculating your debt-to-income ratio, also known as a DTI. If you’re looking to invest in a property, this is a number that’s much more important than your income alone. It tells you how much money you can reasonably set aside for mortgage payments every month. If you find a property that you can afford according to your DTI ratio, it’s worth taking into consideration. Consider property taxes and homeowners insurance as well, as these expenses can pile up quickly.

People often underestimate the costs of renovations and any new additions. If you’re going to make some changes, take a look at the overall cost and add another ten percent to it. This will help in case your contractors experience delays or shortages of materials.

Consult a buyers agent

With all this in mind, the most important part of the process is finding the perfect property. This is easier said than done, as you may find hundreds of homes that suit your needs to an extent. As this is such a massive investment, getting everything right is absolutely critical. For many prospective homeowners, this can be quite the challenge.

In these types of situations, it helps to get a little outside assistance. Instead of doing all the searching on your own, you can enlist the help of a real estate buyer’s agent. They have the means and experience to find suitable homes quickly, and they can make the process much easier for a buyer. If they handle the searching part of the process, you’ll have a lot more time to focus on the paperwork and preparation.

Get a home inspection

While a real estate agent might be able to find a home that suits you perfectly, they can’t inspect it for you—And this is an important step you should take before making a purchase. If there are any problems with the house or utilities, you want to find out about them as soon as possible. Everything from the roof to everyday appliances needs checking, as you don’t want to end up calling a repairman on the first day.

As is the case with most types of specialized work, getting a professional to do the job is always recommended. An inspector can go over all the house’s essentials from top to bottom and alert you about any problems that might be present.

It would be wise to include a home inspection contingency if you make an urgent purchase. This allows you to back out of the buy or negotiate repairs if the inspection reveals major issues. Keep this idea in mind, as it could help you save your deposit.

Conclusion

If you’re a prospective real estate buyer, you’ll be caught up in this tangled web eventually. No matter what kind of real estate you’re looking for, it helps to be prepared. These types of purchases can have an enormous effect on your finances and life in general, which is why you shouldn’t wing it when it comes to looking for and buying a home. We’ve covered some of the most essential steps you should take when purchasing a new property, but there’s always more to consider. Always do your homework on the best options for your market and approach it carefully.

 

Critical Steps in the Home Buying Process

Critical Steps in the Home Buying Process

Critical Steps in the Home Buying Process

 

The housing market can be a difficult terrain to navigate when it’s your first time buying. You may not know what to look for, what’s a good deal, or how these processes go through. Be aware of the critical steps in the home buying process to make your initial viewings more manageable. Know the pitfalls that people typically fall into and make the most informed decision possible when you’re investing your time, effort, and money into a house.

Know Your Credit Score

Before anything, you need to know your credit score before moving forward. Learning this will give you an idea of how much money you can take out as a loan to pay for the house. The lower the credit score, the harder it will be to secure a high loan; some places may refuse you outright with no or poor credit history.

Be aware that accessing your credit score can lower it; contact your bank to see if they have some methods to provide you with an estimated credit score to avoid decreasing it.

Find a Lender

After you have an idea of your credit score’s standing, you need to seek out a lender to approve you for a loan. Houses can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, and most people can’t afford to pay them off completely when they first move in.

However, you need to be careful with the loans you accept; you need to pay attention to the term limit and the interest rate, among other things. You need to shop around and know how to find a lender who can offer you a reasonable contract.

Be Ready for the Down Payment

While no one expects you to pay for the entire house on day one, you still need to provide a down payment, usually at 10 percent of the house’s price. Putting down a down payment can improve your chances of receiving a loan, as lenders like to see that you have the financial backing to pay back your loans reliably.

But it also helps you in that you will need to take out less money for a loan, in turn lowering the amount you have to pay in interest over the years. The more you put down initially, the less you pay back later.

Get In Touch With a Real Estate Agent

One of the most beneficial steps in the home buying process is to team up with a real estate agent to help guide you through the procedure, Andrew w/ The Holm Group in Scottsdale. They will assist you in making bids on the home, direct you to houses that fit your purchasing criteria, and offer information on the surrounding area and market. Most likely, you won’t be able to figure out everything on your own, but it pays to have backup helping you along the way.

 

5 Things To Look For When Buying Your First Home

5 Things To Look For When Buying Your First Home

5 Things To Look For When Buying Your First Home

 

Buying your first home is an exciting experience. You are entirely in control of what you purchase, so you should make sure that you are making the choices that best suit you. You will have a specific price point for your purchase. You may also have a preferred neighborhood or area.

When you are working with a Realtor, you can make a wish list of features that you want. They can help you to narrow your choices down. Once you have the shortlist, you can move forward with trying to determine which one you will make an offer on. To do this, you need to look at several points. Consider these five to get you started.

 

#1: Check the layout of the home

The design of the home determines how your family will move around the house. Some people prefer large open spaces like great rooms so they can completely customize the area. Others want individual rooms that serve specific purposes.

If you entertain a lot, you might want all the common rooms in one area with the bedrooms separated. Having a bathroom in each area is probably a priority.

You might want a home that has bedrooms that are spread out. Some parents prefer this if they are moving with older children so that the kids have their own area of the house and the parents have theirs.

 

#2: Inspect the ductwork and piping

The ductwork and piping give you a good idea of how the home was maintained. Most people won’t think to check for things like duct cleaning that can lengthen the life of the HVAC unit. If you take the time to do this inspection, you could save yourself a lot of hassle. Leaky ductwork can put a strain on the HVAC and might mean that you don’t ever have comfortable rooms.

When it comes to the piping in the home, you need to look at the type of pipes and the age. This is especially important if the house is older because galvanized piping might have interior pits that could impact the quality of the water. You might even have to be concerned about lead in the pipes if the house is older.

 

#3: Verify the structural integrity

The structural integrity of the home is one of the crucial considerations when you are trying to decide whether to make the purchase or not. Some homes, such as those using sustainable construction methods, are more likely to still be in good condition. Insulated concrete forms are one building material that can provide long-term stability for a home.

A home that has a wood frame construction is likely going to be weaker than one made with ICF because wood can weaken and warp over time and with the changing weather. ICF isn’t likely to do this because the forms, which fit together like interlocking blocks, are durable and sturdy.

You can have the inspector try to determine the structural integrity of the home, but you can also look for signs that something is amiss. Open a few windows to see how easily they go up. If there is a problem with the “bones” of the house, the windows might stick. The same is true for doors. Bring a marble with you and put it on the floor. It might move a bit, but if it rolls quickly toward an area, it can mean that the floors are uneven due to settling.

 

#4: Look into the security features

The security features of the home can make or break the deal. You don’t want any that are worn out. Check to see if there is a camera system in place and find out if you will be able to transfer the service. Look at other security features like lighting around the outdoors or a window and door alarm system. If the home has a pool, verify that the fence surrounding it has a gate that closes automatically.

While you are looking at the security features, you should check out the crime rate in the area. This gives you an idea of what types of security items you will need to add or that you can do away with if you purchase the home.

 

#5: Review the smaller details

“All homes have their quirks. Look around to see if you can spot them at the home. While you are doing this, you can also find out what special features the home has. Look at the condition of anything that is touted as a feature. Also, check the integrity of the other parts of the home that are difficult to inspect at first glance like the roof, the quality of roofing material and integrity of the home siding.” – Jeff Guthrie, Phoenix Roofing Contractor and Roof Repair Expert

On the outside of the home, you can look for things like edging around the yard or additional lights near the outdoor living space. On the inside, think about features like linen closets, large windows and breakfast nooks.

You will know when you find the house that you should place an offer on. By doing your due diligence before you make the offer, you can reduce the stress and increase the excitement that comes with purchasing a new home. 

5 Things To Consider Before Buying Your Dream Home

5 Things To Consider Before Buying Your Dream Home

5 Things To Consider Before Buying Your Dream Home

Everyone has a dream of owning a home. As such, buying a dream home is one of the biggest accomplishments on the top of everyone’s list. Whether your desire is to own a picket-fenced sprawling suburban home or a modern urban loft, most people look for a home that feels comfortable for them and their families. 

Since finding your dream home is a long-term investment, finding one that feels like it was made for you can be an uphill task. That’s precisely why you need to determine what you want your home to have before you set out to search for it. If you’re looking for your dream home, here are five important things you’ll need to consider before closing the deal: 

  • Lot Size And Location Of The Property

In most instances, home owners consider the lot as an afterthought. They think about it afterwards, while in reality, it should be at the top of their minds since it’s something that cannot be altered. While it is possible to rebuild the house that you find on a property, the lot size remains the same. As you scout for different properties, it’s important to carefully consider lot size and its location before you submit an offer. 

If you have kids, consider the size of the backyard and go for a property that has enough space for kids to play. Also, check whether the property has a view that you could enjoy for years to come. If the property has too many compromises, then don’t hesitate to walk away. You’ll be much happier somewhere that suits your needs, than somewhere that doesn’t.  

  • Consider The Neighborhood

As you plan to buy your dream home, it’s critical that you remember it will not exist in a bubble. Rather, it will be part of a community that you will interact with on a day-to-day basis. As such, consider the neighborhood of the property in your search and ensure that the it suits your needs prior to making a purchase. Ideally, your dream home should be located in a serene, peaceful location. If you are upbeat about urban life, you may want to find a property in a location that has energy flowing from the bustling city. 

Maybe a good local coffee shop is high on your priority list, or perhaps you want to avoid conflict with noisy neighbors. Regardless, do your research before committing to a neighborhood. Before committing to the neighborhood, you should: Drive to the neighborhood where you’re considering and spend time there. Walk through the parks and eat in the restaurants in the neighborhood. If you find areas that you like, inform your NY Realtor so they can find suitable properties that meet your needs.

  •  Availability Of Desired Features

When searching for your dream home, there are always going to be those essential features that you cannot live without. Buying a dream home is not just about having enough space for your family, it’s about fulfilling your wishes. As such, it’s critical to make a wish list of features. Everyone’s wish list will be different – there are people who dream of getting up to watch the sun shine over a lake each morning, while others wish for picturesque mountains on the background of their home. 

To ensure that the desires of every person in your household are captured in your wish list, ask each person to craft their own wish list. Once that’s done, rank each feature based on its importance. While it’s highly unlikely there’ll be a property that matches the features of everybody’s list, conducting this exercise enables you to focus only on properties that work for the family. 

  • The Amount Of Space Available 

When you’re buying your dream home, you need to ensure that property you choose offers you the amount of space you want. While it may be challenging to determine the actual amount of space you need, it’s important that you avoid a small home that will require constant configuration to make it work. At the same time, getting a very large space will only increase your bills and housework. As such, consider the space that you currently live in and figure out how much additional space you’ll need to fully cater for your needs. 

  • Consider The Style Of Living 

Your dream home should be designed in the style that you want in terms of aesthetics and actual living. Considering that the style is often the first thing you notice anytime you get into a property, buying a home that fits your lifestyle and personality is extremely important.  If you value your freedom and wish to customize a property to your specifications, consider going for a single home. 

For people who enjoy having their own homes and access hotel-like amenities, condos are a great option. Town home living provides a good compromise between these two but with varying associations. Once you are clear about the style of living you want, consider the aesthetics. As you do your search, consider which properties are calling home.

Final Thoughts

Buying a dream home is an exciting achievement for most people. Knowing exactly what you want in your dream home enables you to narrow your search to properties that meet your needs. In addition to the five factors discussed above, consider the age of a home and its running costs before signing the dotted line. Also, buy a home that has the layout that you love.

 

Things You Should Check Before Buying a Home

Things You Should Check Before Buying a Home

Things You Should Check Before Buying a Home

 

Arizona is one of the most popular states to move to. With its sunny weather, job market, and incredible landscapes—no wonder it is! However, as dazzling as our great state is, you shouldn’t allow yourself to be dazzled to the point you move into any old house you find for sale. There are things you should check before buying a home not just in Arizona, but anywhere.

Are There Signs of Mold?

Because mold is associated with moisture, it’s easy to think you won’t have to worry about it when you move to the desert. But air isn’t the only place where moisture can creep in. Condensation from the air conditioning, burst pipes, and showers can all cause mold to build up. Since mold infestations can lead to exasperated allergy symptoms and breathing issues, that’s the last thing anyone wants in their new home. Likely spots to find mold include under sinks, around appliances, and in bathrooms.

How are the Windows?

Windows are the perfect way to let in that Arizona sunshine, but not all windows are created equally. Pay attention to single-pane windows or windows with lopsided frames, that let in a draft, or won’t open. Your air conditioner will have to work double-time to cool your house with windows like these. They could also be indicative of foundational or structural issues in the house itself. So, try to think beyond drapes when you look at the windows in a potential house.

What Type of Heating Does It Have?

We know what you’re thinking. “Heat? I’m moving to the desert! I came here specifically to avoid cold weather!” Don’t worry, the desert sun will keep you warm all year. The issue is when the sun isn’t out. Night times in the desert can get surprisingly chilly, often between forty and fifty degrees which can come as a shock after a 90-degree day. In the winter, your nights may get down to 32 degrees.

So, yes, you do need to pay attention to heating as well as air conditioning.  Check to see whether the units are well-taken care of and ask when they were last replaced. Also check what kind of heat system it is. Electric heating, more common in older homes, will cost much more than other types of heating systems.

Do the Trees Seem Stable?

It isn’t only inside the home that you should check before buying a home. There are perils that may exist in the landscaping, specifically the trees. There aren’t many trees in Arizona, so you may be excited to find your house has one. However, if the tree is damaged or has an infection it might need to be removed—and that’s no simple weekend, DIY job. You’ll have to either contact an arborist or choose a different house.

 

How to Prepare to Purchase Your First Home in the New Year

How to Prepare to Purchase Your First Home in the New Year

How to Prepare to Purchase Your First Home in the New Year

 

As 2021 gets closer, we’re all starting to think about new plans and goals to set for ourselves. A new year can bring with it new possibilities. The type of goal you set for yourself will most likely depend on where you feel you are at in this stage of life. Maybe it’s time to get back into your workout routine, or maybe you feel like 2021 is the year you find your dream career. For many people, it will mark the beginning of their plan toward home ownership. Home buying can be a long process and may include many steps. Beginning this process at the start of a new year gives you plenty of time to plan, organize, and execute on this major life milestone.

Financially Prepare

 

Oftentimes, it’s easy to only think about the actual home hunt part of the process, which on average is said to take about 10 weeks. But, there are a few important steps before you begin your hunt which can actually help you cut down on that two-and-a-half-month timeline. The first is to plan out your finances.

 To start your financial planning, take a look at the area where you want to buy a home. What is the average home price like? Do the houses usually go for above asking price? This will help you gauge how much you will have to spend to get the house you desire. Based on this information, you can then take a closer look at your bank accounts to see where you stand and if you’re ready to buy now or if you need a little more time to save. If you aren’t comfortable with where you currently sit financially and think you need more time, create a budget that will help you put away extra money each month that will go toward your down payment. Another helpful tip is to have money automatically taken out of your paycheck each pay period that goes directly to a savings account. This way you won’t even have to think about it or have the opportunity to spend that money on something else. You may also want to add more into your savings and consider over preparing, so if you get into a bidding war on your dream home you have extra funds to fall back on.

 You may realize you need more help planning for this purchase than you expected. In that case, you can always consider working with a financial planner, who can help you answer questions such as how much home should you buy, rather than how much home can you buy.

 

Plan Ahead

 When possible, try to get ahead of the game. Essentially this means take care of anything you can in advance that may hold you back later down the line. This can help during each step of the process such as finding a realtor, talking to a bank, and when making the offer.

 One thing that can help you prepare early on and stand out in an oversaturated seller’s market is to look into a mortgage and get preapproved before making an offer on a home. This step will help determine how much you can afford and may also point out any discrepancies or problems that could keep you from getting approved. If you know ahead of time, you can begin working to fix these issues before moving on in the process.

 On the other hand, if you’re in a good financial place, mortgage pre approval will help move the process along quicker when you do eventually find a house. Not every home buyer gets preapproved before finding a home, which can slow the process down and may add unwanted contingencies. If you make an offer and have been pre approved beforehand, it will help you stand out amongst the rest and make your offer more attractive to the seller.

 

Begin the House Hunt

 Once you have all your finances in order and have been preapproved and know exactly what you can afford, it’s time to find a realtor and begin the hunt!

 To get yourself prepared for speaking with a realtor, you should have in mind exactly what you’re looking for. The better idea you have, the better they will be at finding exactly what you want. You may ask yourself questions like:

  •  What neighborhoods or school districts do I like?
  • How many bedrooms do I need?
  • How big of a backyard would I like?
  • Do I need a basement?
  • Am I okay with an HOA fee?

 

Questions like these will help your realtor narrow down a list of homes for you and ensure both parties are in sync when it comes to what you’re looking for. Take time to talk with your realtor and tell them about yourself. This is another great way for them to understand what you want, and what your lifestyle is like. With this knowledge, they’re able to bring you a list of homes that all have potential, rather than a long list of no’s.

 

The Final Steps

 It may take some time, but eventually you will find a space that is perfectly suited for you or a home you believe you can work on and make your own. Once you’ve made an offer and it has been accepted, there are a few other hurdles you need to cross before the home is officially yours.

 As the buyer you have a few responsibilities when it comes to the closing of your new home. You’ll need to plan for closing costs by opening an escrow account, hire a lawyer who can help you with the final paperwork, and schedule a home inspection. Once the home inspection has been completed, and if you haven’t agreed to buying the home “as is”, you may even need to renegotiate the price of the home. An inspector may find things that need to be addressed by the seller before you can move in.

 Once you’ve agreed upon the price again, you then need to get the title of the home and secure title and homeowners insurance. Title insurance ensures you have ownership rights to the property and no one else can try to step in or take over. On the other hand, homeowners insurance will help you protect your home in case of damage as well as legal and liability responsibilities. With both of these forms of insurance, you will even further reaffirm you own the property and can protect and care for it as best as possible for years to come.

 All of these “little” things may feel like a lot, but it’s important you cover all your bases before finalizing the sale. Each step ensures you are getting the home in the best shape possible, and for the best deal. Finally, when all of these steps are taken care of, it’s time to close and sign on the dotted line. After all of the planning and preparation, you are now able to call yourself a homeowner. Although it’s a stressful process, it can also be one of the most rewarding. At the end of the day, don’t forget to take time to enjoy and celebrate this big milestone you’ve been planning for all year long.

Increase Your Home’s Value With These Simple Remodeling Tips

Increase Your Home's Value With These Simple Remodeling Tips

Increase Your Home’s Value With These Simple Remodeling Tips

Image source: Pexels

 

The real estate industry is probably one of the most successful enterprises today. In fact, it continues to grow and thrive over the years. And relating to real estate, more and more homeowners today believe in the power of home renovation and remodeling to increase their home’s value.

 When it comes to home remodeling, the budget you put in will not always guarantee a high income, but it’s worth a shot. Many people want to get the most out of every penny when doing home renovations, and there are quite a few important things you need to keep in mind. Before deciding on a remodeling project, consider factors like the overall cost versus the value and the quality of materials.

 Ultimately, you’ll want to improve your home by the time you finally decide to sell it so that you can command a higher price. Therefore, here are easy and simple remodeling tips to help increase your home’s value:

Increase Your Light And Space

Dull and cramped rooms are no good when it comes to selling a property, especially a home. One significant thing that homeowners can do to increase the overall appeal of their property is to open up the house to more natural light. Consider also to knock down some walls or get rid of unnecessary clutter to free and brighten up some space. An open floor plan will help make a home feel much larger than it actually is.

Organize Your Hardware And Furniture

No homebuyer gets attracted to outdated and unorganized homes. Make it a habit to incorporate timeless pieces into your home, so the overall vibe never goes out of style. The kitchen is probably one of the best parts in a home, and it is also the part where most homebuyers decide on whether or not to buy the property. Consider replacing your kitchen cabinet hardware. The price of cabinet handles shouldn’t give you much of a burden, especially when you look for timeless and high-quality pieces.

Create A Home Office

Many businesses today are giving employees the option to telecommute and work from home; hence, a home office would be an ideal way to add some value to your home. If you have an extra space or room in your home, consider renovating and turning it into a functional home office. Although be sure that there’s plenty of room enough for your workspace, and remember to have enough grounded power outlets and phone lines installed for all your office necessities.

Update Bathrooms

Bathrooms are also an essential part of any home. If your home does not have enough bathrooms, or if these are very outdated, you’re risking the chance of increasing your home’s value. And this will be a significant turn off to all potential buyers. Updating your bathroom’s features, amenities, and fixtures can definitely give your home an entirely different appeal, helping increase the property’s worth.

Do Landscaping

The exterior look of your home says a lot about how you take care of it. And often, the first impression of a home starts with its landscaping and outer appearance. It has been said and proven for first impressions to make a significant influence on a homebuyer’s decision-making process; hence you really need to set your priorities straight here. Make sure all your exterior decors and paint are up to par. Consider putting up drought-tolerant and low maintenance plants that will make up your complete mini landscaping, curb, and garden.

Wrapping Up

There are many other different projects you can do to help increase your home’s value. As long as you take the time to plan and execute things accordingly and keep a close eye on your budget, you can rest assured that you can make really nice upgrades to your home.

Things to look for when buying a house

 

Things to look for when buying a house

 

Buying a new house is, arguably, one of the most important financial investments a person can make. Not only will it cost you thousands if not hundreds of thousands, but you easily end up with a place that needs further investments in order to make it livable. So, in order to make sure that your investment is worth the money spent, you need to know which things to look for when buying a house. Luckily, we are here to give you a quick rundown of what house hunting is all about.

Before you go to check out a house

So, you’ve decided that you are going to buy a house and you have the necessary funds for doing so. Great! Should you simply step outside or go online and look for homes to check out? Of course not. In order to make your househunting worthwhile, there are some things that you need to decide beforehand. That way, you will have a much easier time going through dozens of homes that will be presented to you. Furthermore, you will have a much better understanding of which things to look for when buying a house.

The importance of having a decent real estate agent

Trying to find a home without help from a decent real estate agent is practically impossible. Even if you know all the things to look for when buying a house, you will still need a professional at your side to help you out. Keep in mind that house hunting is a tiring process that can often take months to conclude. And, as it turns out, good homes are always in demand, which is why the only way to get them is to be quick. So, if you want a fighting chance to buy a decent home, first find an experienced agent to help you out.

Things to look for when buying a house

Deciding on deal-breakers

One of the things your realtor will ask you to settle before you go house hunting are the deal-breakers. These are the things that a house must have, or must be without if you are to even consider buying it. So, if you want to do yourself and your real estate agent a favor, start thinking now about what your deal-breakers are. Do you want a smart home? Does your home need to have multiple bathrooms? What about a back yard? Answering questions such as this will narrow your search and make house hunting easier and more efficient.

Which things to look for when buying a house

So, with an experienced agent at your side, and your deal-breakers figured out, the time has come to look for homes. Now, keep in mind that the homes you end up seeing in person will be at their best. After all, the owner probably did what they could to make their home as presentable as possible. So, it is not uncommon for people to get carried away with the superficial beauty of the home, therefore neglecting the crucial aspects of it. So, here is what to look for.

Roof issues

Before you even set foot in the new home, make sure that the roof is in good condition. After all, the quality of the roof can mean that you need to fix it within a couple of years, or that you won’t have to worry about it for decades. In there is a small issue like needing to put new gutters on your house, you’ll be able to deal with it fairly easily. But, a major issue with the roof can cost you a fortune to repair. Finally, if the roof is new, it almost certainly implies cheaper homeowners insurance. So, do yourself a favor and check the roof.

Room quality

Once you do enter a home, try to ignore the looks of a room. Any paint job or minor issue can be easily fixed or altered, so you need not worry about them. Now, this can be hard to do, especially if the owner is pushing you to notice them. But, the more they push, the more you need to ignore these details. Instead, try to focus on how sturdy and well-built the rooms are. This means checking the structural integrity of the room and the quality of its aspects. Windows, doors and any wooden elements should be structurally sound with few if any repairs. Also, try to see if electricity is working properly and that all the appliances are in top condition.

Plumbing

Plumbing is the veins and arteries of your home. If it is not working properly, your whole home won’t function properly. So, do yourself a favor and check for plumbing issues before moving into a new home. This, as most of the things we mentioned so far, is best done with a more experienced person at your side. But, even if you are a rookie, you can still check for faulty plumbing. For instance, if you smell mold, know that there is probably an issue. Once you go into the kitchen or the toilet, make sure that every faucet is functioning properly and that every drain is working fine.

Pay attention to the temperature

One of the lesser know things to look for when buying a house is the temperature. By paying close attention to the temperature of the house you can figure out how good its heating system is. Furthermore, you can even deduce how well its insulation is working. Ideally, you want to ask the owner to change the temperature of the home once you walk in, just to see how long it takes. Remember, providing and maintaining a decent temperature for your home will be one of the biggest expenses in the long run. So, do what you can to make sure that your home has a decent system in place.

Requirements for Purchasing Your New Home

Requirements for Purchasing Your New Home

Requirements for Purchasing Your New Home

 

Owning a home is a dream come true to many people out there and, like with any other dream dream, achieving it is not easy. First of all, buying a home is perhaps the single largest investment that the majority of people make in their lifetime and it often takes decades to fully pay it off. Second, it is one of the choices that will affect your lifestyle the most, seeing as how you’re picking the place where you’re going to spend every single day (or nearly every single day) for years and decades to come. In a scenario where you might later turn the place into a rental property, it is also a business decision, which is one more reason to take things seriously.

Other than the issue of motivation itself, the logistics behind buying the place is quite arduous, as well. First of all, you need to raise enough money, which means spending more time at the bank than you feel comfortable with. It also means indebting yourself head over heels, which might also keep you up at night. Then, there’s so much paperwork when it comes to applying for the mortgage, closing the sale and then transferring the ownership and a lot of people fear whether they’re capable of undertaking such a massive task. With that in mind and without further ado, here’s a brief list that you can use in order to get a grip on some of these tasks.

1.      How much home you can afford

The first thing you need to determine is how much home you can actually afford. Bear in mind, this is not your only expense. Every month, you’ll have to make the mortgage payment, however, the cost of living won’t just magically disappear. You still have to pay your utilities which, depending on the local utility costs and the size of the place, may be more or less than what you’ve paid in your previous home. Other than this, you have the regular costs of living to worry about. All in all, you need to determine just how much of a home you can actually afford.

The simplest way to determine this is to make a crude assumption with the use of an online calculator. For starter, you need to make an estimate of your mortgage payment, your property taxes and the homeowners association fee. Then, there’s monthly homeowner insurance. Next, you need to take into consideration the down payment and the total closing costs. The majority of these calculators first ask you to set your location, based on which, the majority of these metrics are calculated. Then, you just add this to your regular expenses (minus your current rent payments) and see if you can handle it on your current income. Sure, your income may grow in the future but this is not a presumption that you should base your decision to buy real estate on.

2.      Prepare your finances for the mortgage

Next, you need to prepare yourself financially for the mortgage in question. For starters, chances are that you have no collateral whatsoever, which is why you are more likely than not to go for unsecured credit. This means that your credit score will play a major role in the mortgage terms that you can expect. So, start by checking your credit score. The metrics of the FICO scale are quite simple to grasp – the numbers go from 300 to 850 and the higher your score the better you’re off. If there’s enough time, you might even want to try and improve your score a bit.

Another thing you need to consider is how to save money for the down payment. Sure, the mortgage will cover about 80 percent of the value of the future home, however, the remaining 20 percent is still a formidable figure. This is why it’s recommended that you plan ahead and try to save as much money as you possibly can. Starting a savings account, gamifying your saving habits, leading a more austere life, selling an asset or finding an additional source of income are just some of the things that you should take into consideration.

Once you’ve dealt with this, it’s up to you to prepare all your documentation and get it in order. We’re talking about the paystubs, bank statements, self-employment income copies and your last two tax returns. In other words, you’re preparing everything that the lender will insist on during your mortgage application. Having everything filed and ready ahead of time can make things run so much smoother.

The last thing you want to do when preparing to take a mortgage is to do some research. Even with the same credit score, not every lender is about to offer you the same terms. So, what you need to do is go loan shopping. Sure, you might go to a major credit union to get your mortgage, however, looking for small personal loans online can be quite an efficient way of handling your down payment problem in a simple and efficient manner.

3.      Get in touch with professionals

Once you have the paperwork and the financial aspect of your home-buying effort out of the way, you need to find the right real estate for you and your family. First, you need to find the right real estate agent or, better yet, a great buyer’s agent. These people are not only well-versed in the industry but also there to help you get the best possible price for the real estate in question. Real estate agents are there to sell you the place and, as professionals, possess the knowledge of a variety of persuasion techniques. Your buyer’s agent is more likely to see past this and get you the best deal possible.

While we’ve already talked a lot about handling the finances prior to buying a new home, it is also quite important that you consult a skilled legal advisor to help you out. They can help you draft a plan that will allow you to save for the down payment or help you figure out how to effectively return your mortgage. A great financial expert, when contacted in time, can also help you figure out the best way to improve your credit score in order to get the most favorable terms when you finally apply for a loan.

Lastly, before you commit to buy the place, you need to make sure that the place is a prime piece of real estate. What this means is that you need to bring a number of specialists to inspect the place. We’re talking about bringing a general contractor to see the structural integrity of the place. Next, you need to bring a plumber and an electrician to see if the installations are in proper working order. This will either help you knock off the price a bit or, at least, know exactly what you’re getting into.

4.      Home appraisal

One of the most important steps used to protect both the buyer and the lender is the home appraisal. This consists of hiring a third party to make an assessment of the home’s value in order to make sure that the mortgage in question actually makes sense. Without it, the buyer would deliberately inflate the price of the home in order to get approved of a larger loan. In other words, this is a method used in order to ensure that everyone’s getting the fair price out of the deal in question.

Keep in mind that the seller often uses a number of appraisal-boosting techniques in order to get the most value out of their home. We’re talking about small improvements and boosting curb appeal of the place. Remember, nonetheless, that a professional can look past the décor and trifles. What they need to focus on are the crucial structural issues and base their assessment based on it. Still, if you believe the appraisal to be too much against your own interests, you can always challenge it. Sure, this prolongs the procedure by quite a bit, however, it is usually worth waiting.

5.      Survey the neighborhood

The next item on your list (while some argue that this should come before the actual visit to the place, let alone contacting professional inspectors), is checking the state of the neighborhood. This comes in several different stages. First, you want to check the crime rate of the place. In this day and age, all you have to do in order to get there is to find the online platform and type the name of the neighborhood. There are a lot of different thematic maps, both official and unofficial, that you can base your search on.

The next thing you should probably take into consideration is your future lifestyle in this neighborhood. If you’re looking for a place where you can start a family, then the vicinity of schools in the area might be your primary concern. Even if you are single at the moment, you need to weigh in the likelihood that this will change in the future and plan accordingly. The accessibility to job options in your field should be another major interest. Will you have to relocate in order to advance in your career? If so, this can be a major inconvenience and something that you should try to avoid.

Finally, let’s take into consideration a chance that you might want to repurpose the home in the future. Let’s say that you intend to turn it into a getaway, thus transforming it into a venue or a vacation rental. Does the place have a tourist potential? If you intend to turn the place into a traditional rental property, you need to take into consideration the appeal of the overall neighborhood. For anyone in the rental industry, vacancy is a direct loss of profit – the lower the vacancy time the better the investment. These are just some of the factors worth taking into consideration.

6.      Close the sale

Closing the sale itself may be quite an arduous task, which is why it’s vital that you have a skilled and experienced intermediary. Here, there’s a list of documents that have to be signed before the sale is final and official. On the top of the list, there’s the deed, the affidavit of title and the transfer tax declaration. These are the so-called real estate transfer documents. Then, you have the home loan documents, which are the note, the deed of trust, the loan application and the loan estimate and closing disclosure. Keep in mind that all of these documents should probably be checked by an attorney before you start signing them.

Next, you have some additional (miscellaneous) files worth keeping in mind in this occasion. First, you have the bill of sale, which transfers personal property that is being sold with the real estate. This is in the case where the place is furnished and already has furniture and appliances. Then, you need to have the certificate of occupancy, which serves as a guarantee that the place is habitable (according to local building codes). Finally, you need to receive homeowners’ insurance, at least until the loan is paid off in full. This is one of the last documents that you’ll have to sign, probably just before closing.

In conclusion

In the end, it’s important that you keep two important things in mind. First, handling all of these issues is not something that you’ll have to face on a regular basis. This is something that you do when buying a new home which is not an occurrence that should take place too often. Second, you can always hire specialists to help you out. Sure, this ends up costing more but it also provides you with higher security of the transaction and a safer decision-making process. At the end of the day, you should just look at this as an additional home-buyers’ fee and find some room for it in your budget. Skipping this step can be terribly inconvenient.

 

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

Tips for Moving in the Arizona Summer

 

If you’ll be moving in Arizona during the sweltering summer months, it’s important to prepare for dealing with the weather. Scottsdale summers are no joke, especially when you’re running around and lifting and moving heavy boxes all day.

Keep the following tips in mind when you’re getting ready for your big summertime move to stay comfortable, safe, and as sweat-free as possible.

Hydrate

Staying hydrated—before, during, and after the move—is the best thing you can do to stay safe in that infamous Arizona heat. When you’re prepping for a big summer move, it’s time to cut down on the coffee and wine and up your water intake, instead.

Keep a water bottle with you at all times during the move. Dehydration is no joke – according to the American Heart Association, this can lead to headaches, swollen feet, and even heat stroke. (And, keep in mind that its water you should be drinking, not sports drinks filled with added sugars and calories.)

Wear sunscreen

The sun doesn’t just bring the heat. If you’re moving in and out of the house, be sure to apply copious amounts of sunscreen and reapply throughout the day.

Remember, though: Sunscreen is never a complete block, no matter how high the SPF is; it’s important to take plenty of breaks in the shade.)

Dress appropriately

Now’s not the time to wear tight-fitting jeans. Long-flowing, loose-fitting garments keep you cooler than jeans and shorts. And since dark colors absorb light and heat, your outfit should consist of lighter colors.

There are a couple of other less-than-attractive but vital accessories to your moving attire. These could include:

  • hats
  • sunglasses
  • bandanas
  • neck towels

Get an early start

The coolest time of the day is the early morning. If you can start moving before temperatures start rising, you’ll be much better off. At the very least, try to schedule the most strenuous tasks for first thing in the morning. You’ll thank yourself later.

Listen to your body

If you start to feel woozy , headache-y, or in any way unwell, listen to your body. You may need more water, you may need to re-think your clothing choices, or you may simply need to take a break for a while. Everyone tolerates the heat a little differently, so listening to your body while you’re moving big, heavy boxes is crucial.

Get organized

Before you even start the moving process, ensure that everything is as organized as possible to allow for a quick, efficient, streamlined move. This could mean starting the packing process weeks before, and making sure everything is labeled and sorted into easily-transported groups.

Also, do not forget to turn on the utilities at your new place before the move. The last thing you want when you’re moving during the summer is to walk into a new home without air conditioning!

Hire the pros

Don’t ever try to move your things alone, especially in the heat. If you don’t have family or friends to lend a helping hand, you should consider hiring a professional crew to help carry boxes and heavy furniture.

Professional help doesn’t have to stay within the realm of moving boxes. You can also hire extra hands to help deep clean your old home or help deal with huge piles of junk or trash. The more able bodies you’re able to hire, the better.

Stay cool out there!

Moving can be an exciting time. But when moving from one Arizona home to another in the summer, staying cool and organized is vital.

If you need help looking for a new home in the east valley, reach out to our team today!