By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 01, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 15, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 01, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on February 15, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on February 01, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 15, 2023

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 21, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on October 16, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on June 21, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on June 20, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 06, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 20, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 06, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on February 14, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 29, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 17, 2022

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 04, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on November 15, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on November 10, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on October 12, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on September 19, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on August 05, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on July 21, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on July 05, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on June 15, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on May 18, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 29, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 25, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 15, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on April 08, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 30, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 26, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 17, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 12, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 02, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on February 18, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 27, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 24, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 10, 2021

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 27, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 16, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on November 24, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on November 15, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on October 27, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on October 13, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on October 05, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on September 21, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on September 11, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on August 08, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on August 02, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on July 10, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on June 29, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on May 18, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on May 11, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on March 11, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on February 17, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 20, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on January 12, 2020

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 31, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 16, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 09, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 08, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 07, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty on December 06, 2019

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

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By SaleCore - BHHS Blake Realty

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

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