10 Issues Commonly Found During Home Inspections

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In 2020, home inspections started to be waived frequently to make buyers’ offers look enticing. The market is still hot, but home inspections are becoming more common during the fall 2022 market. There is a lot that goes into the process of buying and selling a home. Although not required, a home inspection is one of the most transparent ways to unearth your potential new home before you sign on the dotted line for the final time. 

Here are some of the most common issues found during the home inspection process. 

But first, what is a home inspection?

In simplest terms, a home inspection is a thorough examination of the current condition and safety of a home. It is conducted by a licensed home inspector and reviews areas such as:

  • Heating system
  • Central air conditioning system
  • Interior plumbing
  • All electrical 
  • The roof and attic space
  • Visible insulation
  • Interior areas such as walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
  • The home’s foundation and other structural components
  • The basement 

What does a home inspection help with?

As buyers, home inspections are great ways to get to know the bones of your potential home, ask sellers to fix any significant and costly problems before purchase, and negotiate the terms of your offer to meet your financial needs while getting the house back in order.

As sellers, home inspections are a great way to gauge the overall condition of your home, get a better understanding of your home’s value, and work with your realtor and buyers to discuss options for fixing any major issues with terms that work for both of you. 

What are the 10 most common issues found during a home inspection?

1. A faulty foundation

The most common signs of this issue include ​sticking windows or doors, cracks in the wall, especially above the doorway, sloping floors, or visible cracks in the exterior base of the home. One of the most costly issues to fix, an update to the foundation could cost upwards of $10,000.

2. An old roof

The life expectancy of most roofs is anywhere from 15 to 20 years. During the inspection, roof issues are often noted when there are loose or crooked shingles, leaks in the ceiling, or any loose flashing. Roof repair or replacement can cost between $5,000 to $10,000 or more.

3. Plumbing issues

Faulty plumbing can be noticed in things such as leaky pipes, backed-up sewage systems, or improperly functioning water heaters. The cost to repair plumbing depends on the location and severity of the issue.

4. Mold 

Mold, especially hidden, can be highly detrimental to the overall health of a real estate property. Mold is caused by moisture, which in most cases indicates a leak somewhere in the home. The cost to mitigate mold depends on the severity of its spread. 

5. Electrical issues

Poor wiring or other electrical hazards are frequent issues found during the home inspection process. The most common wiring issues are missing junction boxes, reverse polarity, and damaged receptacles. However, repair and replacement costs are relatively low compared to other reported home inspection issues unless the wiring problem is extensive and requires a complete home replacement.

6. Heating failures

Problems like a blocked chimney, faulty furnace, or non-working controls are enormous issues that home inspectors often encounter. Failed heating systems can cost a lot to replace, especially when your home requires a new furnace. Generally speaking, fixing common heating problems is between $5,000 to $8,000.

7. Structural damage

A common issue in older homes, structural damage can refer to various problems. The most frequent sagging floor joists, rafters, and door headers. Depending on the severity of the issue, the cost could range from minor to major. Review your report in detail to better understand exactly what structural issues are at play.

8. Pest infestations

The ever-so-devious pests come up often on home inspection reports. From rodents to termites, pests can cause serious problems in a home, especially when left untreated. The cost of pest removal depends on how much area the pests have destroyed and exactly what is needed to remove them.

9. Drainage Trouble

Surface grading around the exterior of a home can cause severe drainage issues. Extensive drainage issues can lead to mold and mildew growth, a leaky basement, or foundational issues if not tended to properly. The cost to fix surface grading is based mainly on the size of the area. 

10. General cosmetic issues

Often seen by the naked eye, cosmetic issues are not something that most would think to see on a home inspection report. However, as a seller, it is vital to take care of cosmetic issues to show the buyer and inspector that you care for the property at all levels. Lack thereof could signal other issues to be found below the surface.

 

If you’re in the market for a new home or hoping to sell your home this year, it is important to consider all the factors that go into a home inspection. To learn more about the home inspection process or begin the home buying or selling process, contact us today. 

How to Gain and Use Home Equity

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The North Shore real estate market is still incredibly hot! The high values of homes in this current seller’s market mean that those who already own them have probably seen a large increase in equity due to high appraisal values. Working with an experienced Realtor who is knowledgeable about the market is critical- here is how to gain and get the most out of your home equity. 

How to Build Home Equity

The first way to build home equity is through a down payment on a house. The larger a down payment you spend on a house, the more equity you will immediately possess. Your equity continues to grow as you make mortgage payments, so be sure to pay them on time. If you have the means to pay more than the minimum monthly mortgage payment, you will build equity faster.

Home equity grows with the value of your home, so staying in the same place for multiple years will likely increase the chances of your home’s value going up. Though it isn’t possible to predict the housing market with complete certainty, home values always trend upwards over time. Another way to increase the value of a house you own is with home improvements. Obviously, improvements that increase square footage will bring more value to your home, but so do smaller projects like finishing a basement or adding a walkway. Be sure to research what home improvements will add value to your home, and consider using money borrowed against your home equity to fund such projects. If money borrowed on home equity is used for capital improvements, the interest is tax-deductible. 

 

How to Borrow Against your Home Equity

Home equity is considered an asset and a part of your net worth, but it is not a liquid asset. To use your home equity to leverage more funds, you will have to look into the different ways to borrow against it. 

Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan, also referred to as a second mortgage, is a lump sum borrowed against your home equity, separate from your original mortgage. Unlike business or student loans, you can use a home equity loan for a large variety of purposes. They also have lower interest rates than credit cards due to the fact that your home is being used as collateral in the transaction. Taking a lump sum is a good option for those who are prone to overspending, as you cannot impulsively take out more than the agreed-upon amount. 

Home-Equity Lines of Credit 

Home-equity lines of credit, or HELOCs, are a common way of borrowing against your home equity. HELOCs are growing increasingly popular with homeowners who are not interested in refinancing their homes due to current high interest rates. They work similarly to credit cards in the sense that the homeowner can borrow up to a certain amount of money and pay off the balance. This method of borrowing is considered better than lines of credit or personal loans, as they are far cheaper. HELOCs offer a revolving line of credit that allows you to borrow as much or as little as you like, making them different from the lump sum received in a home equity loan. 

 

How to Use Funds Borrowed Against Home Equity

Borrowing against your home equity can help you pay off debts at lower rates. Many people choose to use home-equity lines of credit for large debts, higher education, or another property! Perhaps the most common use of a HELOC is for funding home improvements or additions. Using money borrowed against your home equity to improve or add to the home is a great idea, both for your own personal use of the space and for increased home value if you are looking to sell in the future. If you are looking to use your current home equity to help you invest in another property, contact me today to get started!

Tips for New Real Estate Agents

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How can a new real estate agent set themselves apart from others and grow their business and reputation? Maura Allard provides some of her best tips for new real estate agents based on her many years of experience in the field! 

Join a Team

As is the case with many professions, it’s easy to gain experience from watching the pros! If you work with a team, you will have an opportunity to work with experienced Realtors to better understand how they operate and why they have been successful. Typically, teams have proven systems in place that help you receive the support and answers you need to grow your career.  

Don’t be afraid to work with renters (tenants and landlords) 

Although many realtors and real estate agents primarily sell houses, working with rentals can be a great way to make connections and gain experience in the industry. Many renters may be looking to buy a home or condo in the future, and they will likely want to work with you again! Similarly, if the tenants have a positive experience with you, they may recommend you to their friends and family who are looking to rent or buy. Forming a relationship with the landlords of these buildings is also a great idea, as they may want to sell or purchase more investment properties. 

Don’t Shy Away from Leads With a Referral Fee

If an agent or broker would like to pass a client along to you, don’t be discouraged by the referral fee they take out! These fees are typically only due once. If you do a phenomenal job and keep in touch with the client, they may refer you to friends and family, and you probably will list their home if they sell! This tip goes hand in hand with many others- with the overall goal of establishing strong relationships with your clients. Taking on clients through a referral does not have to become a regular practice, but as a new agent, you should definitely consider them on a case-by-case basis.

Find Your Niche

Though you may be working in a small geographical area, there is probably still a lot of variety between the properties and types of people buying, selling, or renting. Personally, I received my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation and marketed myself to seniors and downsizers. Gaining experience in a specific type of real estate will help potential clients find you, and provide them with more comfort that you are the best agent for the job. 

Don’t Forget About Your Clients!

The best way to gain a positive reputation is to make yourself memorable in your relationships with clients. Setting yourself apart from everyone else can inspire clients to recommend your services to others, write positive reviews, or hire you again in the future. Call then, email, or text just to see how they are doing. Buying a home is a very personal process for your clients- make sure they know how much you care! 

 

Click here for more information on Maura and her team, or contact us today if you are interested in buying or selling your home! 

10 Common Homebuying Questions Answered

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Whether you’re in the market for your first home or your tenth, buying a house is an exciting and sometimes, overwhelming time in your life. From your dream must-have lists to the ideal locations, school ratings, neighborhood amenities, and budget, there is a lot involved in the homebuying process. As you continue to navigate through your personal journey of purchasing your next home, many questions may arise throughout the process. 

Today, we want to answer the ten most common questions that realtors get asked in the homebuying process. We hope our answers will give you some insight into the process and ease any anxiety about all that home buying entails. One thing’s for sure: buying a home may be a lot of work, but it is worth every list, question, and step in the process to get you into the home of your dreams to enjoy for years to come. 

Here are the ten most common questions about buying a home. 

1. What’s the first step in the home buying process?

Before you begin touring homes and popping into open houses, the first step is to obtain a mortgage pre-approval from a loan officer. This document outlines how much you can afford and how much you’ll get pre-approved for once finalizing your mortgage. This allows you to work directly with a realtor to search for homes within your budget and wishlist. Without it, you don’t have much ground to stand on or a solid number to work with on determining the best homes in your budget. The mortgage officer will run a thorough credit check, verify income, and review other financial documents to determine a max approval amount during the pre-approval process. You may also discuss what type of loan is best for you, downpayment requirements, and overall timeline. 

2. How long does it take to buy a home from start to finish?

The timeline for buying a home varies by person and is mainly driven by how quickly you find a home you want to put an offer on. Some people go through 20 or more homes before finding their dream home, while others just visit a handful before submitting an offer. Once your offer is accepted, the standard timeline from approval to keys in hand ranges from 30 to 60 days based on the terms of the closing agreement. 

3. How does a realtor help me?

Realtors are your go-to industry expert in the search for your next home. They help you schedule showing, provide detailed information on the neighborhood and home specifications, and are often well-versed in the area you are shopping in, giving you the insider scoop on what area, home size, neighborhood, and amenities are right for you and your family. Realtors also work with your mortgage company and other realtors to finalize documents once you’ve closed on a home. In short, realtors are your eyes and ears in the market during the buying process and your go-to expert throughout the entirety of the purchase transaction. 

4. How much does a realtor cost?

In most instances, a realtor does not cost the buyer anything. During the home selling process, the sellers pay a fee to their realtor, which is typically split between the selling agent and buying agent at the time of closing. Buyers may opt into compensating their realtor as part of their realtor agreement. 

5. Do I need to meet a minimum credit score?

Yes, you must meet and maintain a healthy financial status to qualify for a home purchase. Although different loans vary when it comes to credit score requirements, most require a score of at least 620 or higher. In rare instances, a score as low as 580 may work. During your preapproval process, speak with your mortgage specialist about your unique credit situation. If you do not currently meet credit score requirements, your mortgage lender will often provide you with a path to improve your score and qualify for the loan you need over a period of time. 

6. How much does my down payment cost?

Down payment cost depends on the type of mortgage loan you use. However, in most cases, you can expect a down payment to range from 3% to 5% of the total cost of the home. 

7. Besides the down payment, what else should I plan to pay for?

Planning out your financial path during the homebuying process is an essential part of setting yourself up for success. Although a down payment is typically the biggest chunk of the out of pocket expense you’ll face, there are other fees you should know about and save up to cover including:

  • Closing costs
  • Homeowners insurance
  • HOA fees (if applicable)
  • Property taxes
  • Home repair and maintenance

8. Are there any programs I could qualify for?

Yes, in some instances, you may qualify for special home buying programs such as:

  • VA Loans
  • USDA Loans
  • FHA Loans

Speak with your real estate agent and mortgage lender to determine what loans you qualify for. 

9. What advice would you give first-time homebuyers?

Buying a home for the first time is a big feat, albeit exciting. There are plenty of things to consider before taking the leap on submitting an offer for your first home. Our advice is this:

  • Make sure you have a strong financial cushion to help pay for all costs associated with a down payment, closing costs, and other costs that may arise during the home buying process.
  • Keep an eye on your credit score and work with your mortgage officer to follow recommended steps to keep your finances in tip-top shape.
  • Use a realtor who understands the area and has experience working with first-time home buyers.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
  • Prepare to compromise on your dream wishlist.
  • Enjoy the journey!

10. Why buy a home in New England?

We may be biased, but New England has our heart. From the picturesque winters and crisp falls to the blooming springs and warm and welcoming summers, we couldn’t think of a better place to call home. There is nothing like experiencing all four seasons in the glory of your backyard. Not to mention, the schools are top-rated, the seafood is out-of-this-world and the history is all-encompassing. So whether you’re new to the area or have called New England home for a while, we couldn’t think of any reason not to consider calling this lovely side of the United States home. 

If you’re in the market for a home this year, it’s always important to stay up-to-date on the latest market trends, understand the entirety of the buying process, and connect with professionals who are willing to travel the entirety of the home buying process with you to make all aspects of this next chapter easier on everyone. To learn more about buying a home, or to begin the process contact us today. We would love to help you get into the home of your dreams this year.

Top 5 Real Estate Myths Debunked

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Whether you’re in the market for your first home purchase or consider yourself a seasoned professional when it comes to house hunting and closing on properties that make your heart sing, you may have come across some common real estate myths in the process. Buying a home can be complicated for anyone. From a pre-home search checklist to a comprehensive closing guide, it can be overwhelming to ensure you’ve nailed everything down before move-in day. So don’t let common misconceptions about the real estate world send you into a tizzy. 

Read on to learn about the 5 most common real estate myths- debunked.

1. Myth: You should pick out a house you love, then get a pre-approval.

Although the ultimate goal in any home search is to secure the home you love and live there for countless years after a seamless real estate transaction process, you must follow specific steps to get there first. It is beyond tempting to jump onto a home buying site in search of the perfect home that fits your criteria, but how can you know exactly what you can afford without a pre-approval? You can’t. It is always best to speak with a real estate professional and lender first, then proceed to home searching after you’ve received a pre-approval letter. 

2. Myth: Open houses are a waste of time when you’re trying to sell.

There is no such thing as a waste of time when it comes to finding creative ways to sell your home. Open houses are the perfect opportunity to reach a broader group of potential buyers in the current seller’s market. Without requiring showing appointments, the amount of foot traffic you could receive on your home increases astronomically, which will ultimately turn into more offers on your property. Nix the worry that comes with hosting an open house and let your realtor take care of the details to increase the demand on your property.

3. Myth: Home inspections don’t matter.

Although it sounds incredible to save a couple hundred bucks after you’ve spent a lot of money securing your new home, don’t skip the home inspection. During this process, a specialized home inspector reviews your home from top to bottom, looking for over 1,500 things throughout it. From electrical and plumbing to the home’s foundation and ventilation system, a thorough inspection is completed that is worth its weight in gold. It is much better to know the ins and outs of your potential home upfront rather than discovering issues down the road post-purchase. 

4. Myth: You’ll save money when you sell your home without a realtor.

It’s tempting to try and take on the sale of your home on your own. Unfortunately, many first-time sellers believe that a “for sale by owner” option is the best way to make the most bang for your buck. Although this may be true to an extent, having a real estate professional on your side to help you sell your home is invaluable. In these scenarios, buyers often overpay, or sellers undersell their property because they do not have a complete picture of the market. Realtors are trained to understand the full extent of the industry better than anyone else; trust them with your purchase or sale. 

5. Myth: The only cost of buying a home is the down payment amount. 

Often, when first-time homebuyers decide on buying a home, they don’t realize the costs associated with the large purchase outside of the price of the actual property. Along with the down payment cost, buyers often incur other costs such as a home inspection fee, termite inspection, and closing costs which typically range from 3% to 5% of the total purchase price. Make sure that you are in a healthy financial state with substantial savings to cover all costs associated with a home purchase. If you are unsure of what other fees may be involved, don’t hesitate to talk with your lender or realtor to learn more.

 

We understand that navigating the real estate market can feel like driving for the first time. A lot of uncertainty comes with diving headfirst into a home purchase, whether it’s your first or tenth time. We are here to help you understand the process from start to finish and guide you through the entire journey, allowing you to make informed decisions and secure the home of your dreams. Contact us today if you’re in the market to sell your home or want to take the next step in your homebuying journey. We can’t wait to help you.

House Numerology 101

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When it comes to buying (or selling!) a home, numbers are everything! From the price of the home, closing costs, mileage from your preferred location, and square footage to the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and parking spaces, numbers rule. Whether you’re in the process of buying your first home or looking into upgrading your current home, numbers play a pivotal role in deciding whether a home is right for you. House numerology may be another numbers-based item you want to consider before signing on the line for your next big purchase. 

We want all the good karma when it comes to your new home, so learn more about how house numerology can help you decide if the energy and essence of a potential home is right for you… or, if the home you’re living in now fits into your soulful vibration.

 

What is numerology?

In the most basic terms, numerology is the study of numbers and their effect on your life. It has been said that numbers have a universal language that can be decoded into different levels and types of energy. The main idea is that everything in the universe is made up of certain numbers and when we break the numbers down to the core numbers we can best determine their main purpose or soul path. This is true for both living and nonliving things. 

Everyone has a life path number. You calculate this number by using the entirety of your birthday and then simplifying it to a single number that provides you with a deeper look and understanding into your soul’s purpose. For example, if your birthday was March 15, 1988, your life number would be 3 (month of birth) + 15 (day of birth) + (year broken down into single digits) 1+9+8+8 = 44. Then, take 4+4 = 8. Your life path number would be eight. 

Each life path number, from 1-9, has a specific set of personality traits and characteristics that represent each person and thing that belongs within that path number. By knowing your life path number and diving deeper into understanding it, you may learn more about yourself and the path you are on in your life. 

 

Why is house numerology, in particular, important?

For those who are innately curious about their own life path number, discovering your home’s number may be another way to determine if you and your home are in sync. The main idea behind house numerology is that each street address, and house number, has a specific energy and tone tied to it. Determining what that is helps you understand whether the home is compatible with you. 

 

How do I find my house number?

Calculating your house number is simple and handled the same way you would your own life number. You take the number within the address and add all the numbers together. Then you add the numbers within the sum together until you get one digit. For example, if you lived on 1234 Main Street you would calculate it by adding 1+2+3+4 = 10, then add 1+ 0 = 1, so your house number, in numerology, would be one.  If your normal address has a letter after the house number, say 1234B Mainstreet, you would treat the letter as an additional number. Going through the alphabet, each letter has a corresponding number. A=1, B=2, C=3, D=4 and so on. In this example it would be 1+2+3+4+2= 12, then 1+2 = 3, so your house numerology number would be three. 

 

Understanding Home Numbers

Now that you’ve calculated your house number’s numerology, it is time to understand exactly what energy and traits your home holds.

Number One Homes

In basic numerology the number one represents a creative side, along with standing for innovation and the drive to fulfill a purpose. People who live in a number one home can tap into their creativity with ease and explore all that is available to them with the latest innovations. These homes are especially wonderful for entrepreneurs and those who work from home.

Number Two Homes

The number two represents a high level of sentiment and compassion, making these homes ideal for couples, families and close knit friends. Overall, these homes are perfect for a sense of bonding and togetherness.

Number Three Homes

The number three is the most social of all numbers. These homes are great for entertaining, socialization and overall welcoming interactions. These homes are ideal for hosting parties, both big and small, and being the leader in the neighborhood for general entertainment.

Number Four Homes

The number four is a grounded number that lends itself to a high level of practicality. These homes thrive on a constant sense for structure and organization, making them good fits for small businesses or quaint organizations. 

Number Five Homes

Like three, the number five is a very social and outgoing number. These homes are rooted in celebrations and socialization, so gatherings are a must. People in these homes are often found to live more in the present moment, letting go of things of the past with ease. Number five homes are ideal for holiday celebrations and the most robust gatherings. 

Number Six Homes

The number six is one of compassion, grace, security and generosity, making their homes an ideal fit for children, families and pets. These homes are often very warm and welcoming to all who enter. 

Number Seven Homes

The number seven represents peace and reflectivity. Often, these homes are treated as solitude sanctuaries for those who live within them. They are the perfect place for those who love yoga, meditation, quiet reflection and mindfulness. 

Number Eight Homes

Eight represents wealth and prosperity. This is  the perfect home setting for those looking to grow in their career or business. Growth is the main focus within this home. 

Number Nine Homes

The most loving of the numbers, nine represents outward love, happiness and acceptance. This is a home where everyone who enters instantly feels welcomed upon each visit. This makes it a social place filled with positivity and understanding. 

Determining your home numerology number can be a great tool in deciding if a home is the right fit for you and your family. We would love to help you score the home of your dreams. One that checks off all of the items on your dream sheet, including fitting into your home numerology goals. Learn more about home numerology or set up a consultation with one of our realtors today. 

Renting vs Buying

Renting vs. Buying: Deciding What Option is Best for You

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We’ve always been told that purchasing a home is one of the pillars to life’s success. We run through a checklist in our heads of what we hope to have by X age to make us feel accomplished. From marriage and children to a stable job that provides sufficient income and a nice car, a house is one of those achievements that tops the list for most. Rightfully so! Owning a piece of property that we can call our own is no small feat and should be an achievement we celebrate and strive for. Understanding when the right time to buy is key to getting the most out of your purchase. If your waffling between the ideas of buying and renting, consider these factors before making the leap. 

 

Location, Location, Location

 

Are you comfortable in your current location? Is this spot somewhere you can see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? Reflecting on your location is key to deciding whether you should buy or rent in your current area. If you are unsure whether you want to stay put or take up space in another locale within the next 5 years or less, buying may not be right for you at this stage. Often we hear that renting is about pouring money into something that doesn’t belong to us, but in turn for the rent we pay we can get a pretty nice pad to stay in, so it’s not a total loss, especially if you don’t plan to be in the area forever. In contrast, if you feel as though you want to stay where you are for the long run it may be best to start the buying process so that you can invest in a property that belongs to you for years to come.

 

Purchasing power is key

 

Before you can make a sound decision on whether or not purchasing a house works for your lifestyle, you need to gage your overall purchasing power. There are various factors that play into your purchasing power including credit score, savings amount, down payment, debt to income ratio and payment history on major debts such as past mortgages, credit cards and car loans. When determining your pre-approval amount, a loan processor will look at these factors to determine whether or not you are sound enough to purchase a home, along with providing the amount of loan you will be allowed to borrow for your new mortgage. If you don’t meet all of the criteria requirements, or are on the lower end of the spectrum, when it comes to purchase power versus your wish list, renting may be the best option until you are able to bring all aspects to pristine health. During your rental period, focusing on cleaning up your credit and saving money diligently for your down payment are key aspects of growing your purchasing power. 

 

The future is now

 

If you’ve decided that the home purchase route is the right one for you, consider what the future may hold for you. Reflect on questions such as:

  1.     Will I be married or have roommates now or in the future?
  2.     Do I plan to grow my family?
  3.     Do I want pets?
  4.     Do I plan to host holiday gatherings, events or guests at my home often?
  5.     Do I want to build on or renovate a home or do I prefer a move-in ready type?
  6.     What floor plan layout works best for my plans now and in the future?

Although you plan to purchase now, or in the near future, you must contemplate your wants and needs that may arise in the future. This way, your home will fit your changing lifestyle as you, and your family, grows and changes. If you are uncertain of your future plans or prefer not to completely reflect on them at this time, renting would be the best option as you can, oftentimes, choose between a long-term or short-term lease agreement.

 

When deciding whether renting or buying a home is the right option for you, there are many different factors to reflect upon before jumping headfirst into your option. Consider factors such as your financial buying power, your debt to income ratio, your savings and purchase plan and your future personal goals. Understanding the full picture will allow you to make the best choice for you now. Still not sure what the best option is for you? Contact me today, I would love to help walk you through the process to determine the best route for you.

Fall Home Decor

Fall Home Decor Ideas

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As we delve into a new season filled with changing leaves, pumpkin spice, cooler weather, and the unofficial start to the holiday season, we should outfit our home to match. One of the most exciting things about being a homeowner is decorating your home for the holiday, or season, at hand. As we embark on all the changes that come with fall, our homes should be a beautiful autumn-styled extension of who we are. Add little touches here and there to make your home pop this autumn.

 

Create a grand entrance

One of the most impactful, and easiest, ways to decorate our home for fall is to outfit the exterior. Whether you’re expecting more guests or looking to give those passing by your home a glint of the magic of the season, starting on the outside is the way to go. Choose a wreath or door hanging that uses fall-themed colors. Rustic elements and pops of orange, red, and yellow hues are the best options. Add some hay bales, decorative pumpkins, and mums to spice up your front steps. If you are planning on being the go-to spot for trick-or-treaters include fun lights or Halloween décor to excite the little ones. Halloween décor can be pulled out once the holiday passes and replaced with some Thanksgiving-themed items.

 

Add pops of plaid

Plaid is the unofficial pattern for fall, right? Add touches, outside of your wardrobe, to your fall décor. Buffalo plaid, white and black checkered, is the go-to pop to add between your reds, oranges and yellows. Consider adding plaid placemats or centerpieces to your Thanksgiving table, or an easy runner to your dining table for the entirety of the season. Add pops throughout your living and guest rooms with throw pillows or blankets.

 

Warm up the feels indoors

Nothing says falls like cozy interior touches. Now is the time to pull out the extra throw blankets for the sofa. If you have an interior fireplace consider decorating the mantle in a subtle, but eye-catching fall theme. Fall scented candles add an extra bit of ambiance to a cozy space by transporting us back to our best memories of fall. Consider scents like warm apple pie or spiced pumpkin to add to your living room table, for both the scent and color palette. Don’t forget to add fall flowers in rustic vases throughout your home to pull the outdoors in.

 

Add fall flair to your interior wall décor

Seasonal changes should be transitional pieces that speak to the particular holiday or season at hand without requiring a full interior makeover. When changing up your décor for the season, don’t forget the wall hangings. Add rustic touches to staple year-around wall pieces to accentuate your current décor while also adding a pop of holiday flair. Consider changing out your focal piece in key rooms to match the season and rotating them throughout the year.

 

Fire up the outdoor sitting area

With a change of season comes a change in the weather. While the temperatures are dropping don’t feel like you need to lose your outdoor space. Cozy up outdoors by changing out your outdoor set-up. Opt for throw pillows and blankets for your outdoor furniture. Add in a few heat lamps throughout your outdoor space along with a fire pit, gas or wood, in the center of your seating area. This added feature can add fun to your fall activities, including s’mores making and wine nights by the fire. Add in some string lights throughout your backyard oasis to set the mood and light up the dark nights. Pull in pops of fall by including some fall décor in the backyard deck or porch. Jack-o-lanterns don’t just have to outfit the front porch.

 

A new season brings about a sense of renewal for us. Carry that same sentiment and approach into your home. Enhance your interior and exterior to fit the mood of the season. The seasonal touches will bring forth a sense of change and refresh in your home that you will look forward to for seasons to come.

The Benefits of a Home Inspection

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So, you think you’ve found the home of your dreams! All that stands in the way of your dream home becoming a reality is some paperwork, a plethora of signatures and a few meetings, right? How exciting! Before you decide to dive headfirst into this impending purchase, you need a home inspection. The benefits to this extra step far outweigh the small additional time it may take to secure your home. Not to mention the peace of mind that comes with knowing the full ins and outs of your potential purchase.

 

Inspections save you money and unneeded surprises

 

Home inspections, based on the findings, can pay for themselves. Home inspectors detect things such as water leaks, roof damages, foundation issues or unseen safety hazards that could be extremely costly, for the new buyer, once noticed. Knowing, up front, what potential problems lie ahead allows you to plan for repairs or, even, ask the sellers to chip in for or make repairs prior to your purchase agreement.

 

You may be able to bid less on your prospective home

 

Once a home inspection is complete the potential buyer receives a full, and thorough, list of suggested repairs and findings. Depending on the size (and number) of repairs proposed by a home inspector’s report, you may be able to negotiate a lower price on the cost of the home should you agree to take on the issues and fix them yourself once purchased. 

 

Sellers can make needed repairs

 

As part of your home buying agreement, you may ask the seller to make the outlined repairs noted by the home inspector. You can negotiate on having them handle the larger repairs while you agree to take care of the smaller, less hazardous issues. If they agree to make the repairs, you may have to agree to asking cost for the home (or higher) to appease them based on the additional out-of-pocket money they have to fork over for the repairs. The good news with that is it should still be within your purchasing budget, so don’t stress it too much! 

 

Confidence in your purchase is established

 

There is nothing quite like reassurance when making a large life-changing purchase. Knowing the intricate details of your potential home is priceless when it comes to buying power. This is, most likely, the largest purchase of your life, so details definitely matter. Review the report with the home inspector, in detail, and ask any questions you have for clarification. It is important to understand the report in its entirety so you can make sound decisions on the next steps in your potential purchase. 

 

When it comes to buying a home, it is vital that you understand the full scope of your purchase, even if that includes some not-so-great but needed repairs. Knowing details from the structural makeup to the appliances current standings helps you make an informed decision on your purchase. Working alongside the home inspection and seller will, more than likely, lead you to a collaborative decision on closing. If you are in the midst of house shopping and want more advice on home inspection don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I would love to discuss this more with you!

Preparing Your Home for a Seller’s Market

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As you prepare for the adventure of selling your home, there are certain tips to follow to ensure you entice potential buyers and get offers that excite you to sign on the dotted line. Oftentimes, because we’ve been living in our homes for years, we overlook little details that potential buyers may be looking directly at. Following these tricks of the trade will ensure your home is ready to sell quickly allowing you to move on to your next purchasing journey quite seamlessly.

 

Make necessary repairs

 

This one seems like a no-brainer when it comes to getting your home ready to sell, but don’t overlook the small stuff. Patch up any holes in the wall, replace any broken windows, clean the gutters and ensure there are no leaks in your roof. Buyers are extra particular when it comes to checking for repairs, especially if they are not the fixer-upper type.

 

Clean up the exterior

 

The outside of the home is the first thing that potential buyers see when pulling into the driveway for the first time. Make sure that your landscaping is up-to-date, and your lawn is mowed neatly. A clean appearance sets others at ease almost instantly. A messy exterior can give potential buyers the impression that you are slacking off and immediately push them to question whether you are neglecting the inside of the home too. Create trust with a clean exterior. Bonus points if you clean up garden beds, prune the shrubs and replant window boxes to keep everything in tip-top shape. Curb appeal is key, even to potential buyers. 

 

Depersonalize and neutralize

 

Everyone’s style is unique. If your home is over personalized with bright wall colors, custom wall hangings and eclectic furniture, consider switching things up and toning it down a bit. While some unique features may be considered selling points, an overabundance of personal style may become off-putting to some. Creating a color palette that is inviting and neutral will attract and retain more potential buyers. The wider the range of buyers, the better the options you have when accepting an offer.

 

Organize closets and storage spaces

 

Potential buyers will scan your house meticulously. Ensuring all areas, including closet spaces and storage rooms (such as an attic or basement) are organized is key to a successful showing. This tactic also helps with personal privacy as numerous potentials are scouring through your belongings to see if your spot is the one for them. If you notice, while organizing, that you have a lot of excess clothes, belongings or furniture that you’d rather keep out of the house during the showings, consider renting a temporary storage unit to safely house your things. 

 

 

Clean the interior from top to bottom

 

This seems like common sense, I know, but it’s something that can be overlooked with all of the other checkboxes on your home selling list. Vacuum and shampoo carpets and shine wood floors. Dust ceiling fans and tops of cabinets. Deep clean countertops, appliances and bathrooms. Make sure your house looks pristine for your potential buyers. Afterall, you want them to love the place as much as you did when you purchased it, right?

 

Preparing your home for a successful sale takes a lot of work and planning, but it’s worth it to find buyers who pay the price tag. Pay attention to the details within your home and set it up to sparkle. You want your home to stand out from all the others that they may be looking at, so following these simple, yet effective ideas will knock your home out of the park. Need a bit of extra guidance on your current home’s condition along with ways to get it ready for sale? Contact me today! I would love to walk you through the process to sell your home.

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