Blog - Page 2 of 124 - Lori Blank & Associates

25

Sep

Home Buyer Tips

How to Tell If a Seller Is Desperate to Sell and Use It to Your Advantage

Buying a home can be stressful, especially in competitive markets. Knowing when a seller is motivated to sell can give you a strategic edge, allowing you to make offers that are more likely to be accepted while potentially saving money. Understanding the signs of a motivated seller and how to approach the situation can help buyers navigate negotiations confidently. Common Signs of a Motivated SellerSellers who are eager to move often exhibit certain behaviors. Homes that have been on the market for an extended period with little interest may indicate a willingness to negotiate. Price reductions or flexible terms, such…

24

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Turning Tiny Homes into Big Opportunities

Tiny homes are more than just a trend; they represent a lifestyle choice that prioritizes efficiency, affordability, and sustainability. For many buyers, these smaller spaces provide a way to own a home without the financial burden of a traditional property. Understanding why people are choosing tiny homes, how to finance them, and ways to customize them can help you decide if this approach fits your lifestyle and goals. Why Buyers Choose Tiny HomesTiny homes appeal to buyers for several reasons. Lower purchase prices mean reduced monthly mortgage payments, making homeownership accessible to first-time buyers or those looking to downsize. They…

23

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Finding Your Dream Home When Nothing Seems Right

House hunting can be exciting, but it can also be frustrating when you cannot find a home that meets your needs, budget, or lifestyle. Many buyers feel stuck, unsure whether to settle, wait, or consider alternative solutions. Understanding creative options can help you navigate a competitive market while still finding a home that works for you. Consider Off-Market or Pocket ListingsSome of the best properties never make it to public listings. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can give you access to off-market homes or pocket listings that fit your criteria. These hidden opportunities can reduce competition and allow…

22

Sep

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 22nd, 2025

It has been a relatively light week following the recent rate changes, as the Federal Reserve has felt the need to drop the current rate by 25 basis points. They have also mentioned the possibility of two additional rate cuts within this year. This follows the recent sharp criticism from the current administration, which condemned the Federal Reserve’s insistence on maintaining existing interest rates. This development coincides with the Leading Economic Indicators, which have shown that the U.S. economy remains in decline, a trend that began in August. With further rate cuts on the horizon, the broader market reaction has…

19

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Choosing Between a Condo, Townhouse, or Single-Family Home

Deciding what type of home to buy is one of the most important steps in the home buying process. Condos, townhouses, and single-family homes each offer unique benefits and considerations, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Understanding the differences can help you make a confident decision. Condo Living and Convenience Condos often appeal to buyers looking for convenience and low maintenance. Exterior upkeep, landscaping, and many shared amenities are handled by the homeowner’s association, allowing owners to focus on their daily lives. Condos are typically located near city centers, offering easy access to shopping,…

18

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Trends

What to Expect from a Final Walkthrough Before Closing

The final walkthrough is one of the last steps before closing on your new home. It may feel like a formality, but it serves an important purpose. This is your chance to confirm that everything is in the condition you agreed to and that the home is truly ready for you to move in. Knowing what to expect can help you approach this step with confidence. Confirming Repairs Were Completed If the seller agreed to make repairs after the inspection, the walkthrough allows you to verify that the work was done properly. Bring a copy of the repair agreement so…

17

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Making a Winning Offer Without Overpaying

In today’s competitive real estate market, making a strong offer on a home can feel like walking a fine line. You want to stand out from other buyers, but you also want to avoid overpaying and stretching your budget too far. With the right strategies and guidance, it is possible to write an offer that is both competitive and smart. Getting Pre-Approved Early One of the strongest ways to show sellers you are serious is to have a pre-approval letter from your lender. This document demonstrates that your financing is secure and gives the seller confidence in your ability to…

16

Sep

By Lori Blank

Home Seller Tips

Coping with the Stress of Selling Your Home

Selling a home can be an exciting step toward new beginnings, but it often comes with a level of stress that catches many homeowners off guard. Between preparing for showings, managing offers, and planning a move, the process can feel overwhelming. As your real estate partner, I want to share strategies that can help reduce stress and keep the experience as smooth as possible. Creating a Showing Routine Sellers often find it stressful to keep their home constantly ready for buyers. Setting up a simple routine makes this easier. A quick checklist for tidying up, storing personal items, and making…

15

Sep

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 15th, 2025

Both the CPI and PPI came in precisely within expectations. Under the current circumstances, there is now a very high probability that the Federal Reserve will implement a quarter-point rate cut, a view widely shared by industry analysts. There is also a strong possibility of another cut to follow. Meanwhile, Consumer Sentiment has hit another low in the last 4 months, as many have growing concerns about the state of the job market in addition to inflation continuing to grow. It is unknown how much the rate cuts will impact inflation, but so far the Federal Reserve has managed to…

11

Sep

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

Everything You Need to Know About Home Appraisals

Your home is likely one of your most valuable investments, which is why understanding home appraisals is essential. Whether youíre buying, selling, or refinancing, knowing what an appraisal involves can help you make informed decisions. What is a Home Appraisal and Why Does It Matter?A home appraisal is a professional estimate of your property's value. It's often requested by lenders to ensure that a home's price aligns with its fair market value. Appraisers evaluate factors like the property's condition, size, age, layout, and features when determining its worth. It's important to note that an appraisal is not the same as…