Real Estate Tips Archives - Lori Blank & Associates

22

Aug

Real Estate Tips

How to Make Moving Day Less Stressful

Moving day can be exciting, but it often comes with a lot of stress and unexpected challenges. Whether you are moving across town or to a new city, careful planning and organization are key to keeping the day running smoothly. With the right approach, you can reduce anxiety and make your move a positive experience. Plan Ahead and Create a ChecklistStart by making a detailed moving checklist weeks before your move. Include tasks such as scheduling movers, packing, transferring utilities, and updating your address. Breaking down the process into manageable steps will help you stay organized and prevent last-minute scrambling.…

19

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Can’t Find a House You Love? Consider These Creative Options

Searching for the perfect home can be frustrating when nothing seems to check all your boxes. Whether it is location, price, size, or style, the market may not always have exactly what you want at the moment. The good news is there are creative strategies you can explore to find a home that works for you, even if it is not exactly what you initially imagined. Expand Your Search AreaSometimes the ideal neighborhood might be just outside your initial target area. By widening your search radius, you could discover hidden gems in nearby communities that offer great value and lifestyle…

14

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Invest in Real Estate with a Limited Budget

Investing in real estate is often seen as a venture for those with significant capital, but that's not always the case. Even with a limited budget, there are still opportunities to enter the real estate market and start building wealth. Whether you're looking for passive income or long-term gains, here are some strategies to consider for investing in real estate on a budget. Start with a House Hacking StrategyHouse hacking is one of the most popular strategies for real estate investment when you're on a limited budget. It involves buying a multi-unit property, such as a duplex, triplex, or fourplex,…

13

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Tips for Buying a Home with a Shared Driveway

When buying a home, many factors need to be considered, and one that may not always come to mind right away is the driveway. If you're looking at a property with a shared driveway, it's important to understand how this shared space can affect your experience as a homeowner. While a shared driveway can be an attractive feature in some situations, it can also present challenges. Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying a home with a shared driveway. Understand the Terms of the Shared AgreementBefore moving forward with purchasing a home with a shared driveway, it's…

12

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Understanding the Process of Selling a Home Through Probate

Selling a home through probate can seem complicated, especially when you're grieving the loss of a loved one. However, understanding the process can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure the sale goes smoothly. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered, and it includes the distribution of assets, including real property. If you’re the executor of an estate or a beneficiary, selling a home through probate requires following certain legal steps and working with the right professionals to ensure everything is handled correctly. What Is Probate?Probate is a court-supervised process where a deceased…

30

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How Earnest Money Protects Both Buyers and Sellers

What Is Earnest Money?Earnest money is a good faith deposit that a buyer submits shortly after their offer on a home is accepted. It is typically held in an escrow account by a third party, such as a title company or real estate brokerage, until the transaction is complete. This deposit shows the seller that the buyer is serious and financially prepared to proceed with the purchase. The amount of earnest money can vary depending on the market and the price of the home, but it generally ranges from one percent to three percent of the purchase price. In more…

25

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Spot a Great Deal in Real Estate

The first step to spotting a great deal in real estate is to understand the current market conditions. Is it a buyer's market with plenty of inventory and lower prices, or a seller's market, where competition is high and prices rise quickly? Knowing the market type helps you identify opportunities. In a buyer's market, you might find undervalued homes or motivated sellers. In a seller's market, great deals might be rare but still possible with the right strategy. Compare Comparable PropertiesResearching comparable properties, often called comps, is essential. Look at recent sales in the neighborhood for homes similar in size,…

24

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Why Your Real Estate Agent is Your Secret Weapon

Expert Market KnowledgeYour real estate agent understands the local market in a way that online searches cannot match. They know which neighborhoods are rising in value, where new developments are planned, and what comparable homes are selling for. This knowledge helps you avoid overpaying and ensures you focus on properties that truly fit your goals. Whether buying or selling, your agent uses their market expertise to help you make informed decisions every step of the way. Skilled NegotiatorNegotiating the best deal takes experience and strategy. Your real estate agent is trained to handle negotiations professionally, without letting emotions affect the…

23

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Research a Neighborhood Before You Buy

Before you begin researching a neighborhood, it is important to identify what matters most to you. Do you prioritize a short commute to work, good schools, or proximity to shopping and dining? Maybe you are looking for quiet streets, larger lot sizes, or vibrant community events. By understanding your personal priorities, you will have a clearer idea of what to look for during your search. Visit the Neighborhood at Different TimesIt is easy to fall in love with a neighborhood based on one sunny afternoon visit. However, a truly thorough evaluation means spending time in the area at various times…

22

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Smart Home Features That Add Value to Your Property

Smart ThermostatsA smart thermostat is one of the most popular smart home upgrades. These devices allow homeowners to control heating and cooling remotely using a smartphone. Smart thermostats can learn your preferences over time, helping you save energy and reduce monthly utility costs. Buyers appreciate the combination of convenience and efficiency that smart thermostats offer, making them a worthwhile investment when preparing your home for sale. Security Systems with CamerasModern security systems do more than sound alarms. Systems with cameras, motion detectors, and remote access features help homeowners monitor their property from anywhere. Potential buyers find these systems reassuring, especially…