Home Buying Tips Archives - Page 2 of 4

21

Aug

Home Buying Tips

Should You Buy a Home Near Your Workplace?

Deciding where to buy a home involves many factors, and proximity to your workplace is often near the top of the list. Living close to where you work can offer convenience and save time, but it also comes with pros and cons to consider. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. Benefits of Living Near Your WorkplaceOne of the biggest advantages is the reduced commute time. Shorter commutes mean less time spent in traffic and more time for family, hobbies, or rest. This can improve your overall quality of life and…

01

Aug

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

The Top Home Buying Regrets and How to Avoid Them

Purchasing a home is one of the most important financial and emotional decisions most people will make. While it can be exciting, it can also lead to disappointment if key factors are overlooked during the process. As a real estate professional, I often hear from buyers who wish they had done things differently. Below are the most common home buying regrets and what you can do to avoid them. 1. Underestimating Total CostsOne of the most common regrets is failing to account for the full cost of homeownership. Many buyers focus solely on the mortgage payment, overlooking additional expenses such…

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,…

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…

15

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

How to Tell If a Home Purchase Price Is Truly a Good Deal

Buying a home is one of the largest investments most people will make. It is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to decide whether the home you love is priced fairly. So how do you know if you are getting a good deal? The answer involves more than just looking at the listing price. Here are the key factors to consider. Compare Similar Homes in the AreaThe best way to evaluate a home’s value is to compare it to recent sales in the neighborhood. These are often referred to as comparable sales, and they…

06

Jun

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

What is a Pocket Listing?

A pocket listing is a property that is for sale, but not publicly advertised. It is not listed on major real estate websites or even MLS. Instead, the agent keeps the listing "in their pocket," only sharing it with trusted colleagues, buyers, or clients they know are serious. These homes are still for sale, but they are sold more quietly, behind the scenes. Why Would a Seller Choose a Pocket Listing? Privacy: They may not want a lot of people walking through their home, especially if they are still living in it. Testing the Market: Some sellers want to test…

05

Jun

By Lori Blank

Home Selling Tips

Why You Should Think Like a Seller When Buying a Home

When you are buying a home, you are likely thinking about how it fits your life. Is the kitchen big enough? Does it have a home office? Is the backyard right for pets or kids? But what if I told you that thinking like a seller can make you a smarter buyer? It might sound backward, but approaching your home search with resale in mind can help you make a better investment, avoid future headaches, and even save you money in the long run. Here’s why you should always have your future resale value in mind, even on day one:…

14

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Tips For Buying a Home With a Small Backyard

A small backyard can still offer a wealth of potential and charm when you approach it with the right mindset. If you’re looking for a home with a smaller outdoor space, don’t dismiss the idea just because of the size. Assess Your Priorities for Outdoor SpaceBefore buying a home with a small backyard, consider what you truly want from your outdoor area. Do you dream of hosting large gatherings, or would you prefer a private space for relaxation? By clearly defining how you plan to use your outdoor space, you can better assess whether a small yard will meet your…

13

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

The Benefits of Buying a Home with a Fireplace

A fireplace is often considered a symbol of comfort, warmth, and charm in a home. While it may seem like a luxury feature, buying a home with a fireplace can bring numerous advantages that go beyond just providing a cozy ambiance. Whether you're looking for a functional addition or a way to increase your home's value, a fireplace can offer both. Enhanced Comfort and CozinessThe most obvious benefit of having a fireplace is the comfort it adds to your living space. During the colder months, a fireplace becomes a natural gathering spot for family and friends. The warmth it provides…

16

Apr

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

Beyond the Basics of Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial and lifestyle decisions you'll make. While most buyers focus on location, price, and size, there are several overlooked factors that can impact your long-term satisfaction. Here’s what to keep in mind when searching for the perfect home. Neighborhood and Community Research the Area: Investigate crime rates, school districts, and future development plans. Visit at different times of the day to get a real feel for the neighborhood. Noise Levels: Consider proximity to busy roads, train tracks, or nightlife. What seems peaceful during a showing might not be the case at night.…