Real Estate Tips

One primary and irreplaceable feature that influences a home’s appeal is its location. Desirable homes are often situated in beautiful geographical settings, with convenient access to jobs, shops and transportation. In preferred locations, homes hold their value over time, even as real estate markets in other, less popular vicinities show evidence of abating.

Some of the most valuable and exquisite homes in America are located in areas that are associated with breathtaking views, fresh air, and enjoyable leisure activities. In such locations, property values tend to remain at a premium because of the fact that there is only a limited amount of precious land, and there is easy access to the pleasures and necessities of life. Existing homes that are well maintained and situated in exceptional natural surroundings often sell very quickly, because people eager to move into the area keep an eye on the listings. There is always competition for homes where the local supply does not accommodate the public demand.

When starting out as a real estate investor, you can choose either the conservative approach of holding a property until it increases in value or the riskier approach of “flipping” – reselling very soon after making some improvements that add value. If you plan on taking the safer approach, keep the following factors in mind when searching for the right investment property.

Look for a house or apartment unit that is close to where you live, so inspecting the property and overseeing maintenance will be easier. Choose an area where there is clear potential for future development, and you will benefit from the inevitable increase in property values. If you have the choice of either buying a newly built or recently remodeled home or a less expensive house in the same neighborhood that needs a cosmetic makeover, buy the bargain property and upgrade it for a better long-term return on your investment.

The quality of the school district is a most important determinant of the market value of a house. For buyers with children, the quality of the local school system may be as critical to their decision as the appeal of the house.

The desire for a quality education usually causes parents who are in the market for a home to ask questions about the local school district. What is the annual expenditure per pupil and the average class size? Are special programs available? What percentage of high school graduates go on to college? What is the physical condition of the schools and the district’s record in handling school bond proposals? Parents may also want to know the school board’s educational philosophy.

A professional real estate agent has the experience and knowledge to help you choose the right community for your family.

There are a lot of “diamonds in the rough” for sale. A property with incredible potential may be in a great location, have large sunny rooms and a big yard, but it may also have dated wall paper, worn carpeting, and uninspired bathrooms. If you can look beyond the surface, you may see a house that could be transformed by a little “elbow grease”, paint, and new carpets.

A house that is structurally sound with all the systems in good condition may be only a few cosmetic repairs away from being fantastic! A home that does not show well is usually priced accordingly. If the price doesn’t reflect the condition of the house, the seller may be more willing to negotiate than a seller who has made a considerable investment in preparing a home for the market.

Bring your imagination with you on your next house hunting trip! You may be pleasantly surprised to find a diamond in the rough.

Are you looking for a home and becoming tired of house-hunting? If so, you may be tempted to buy a bargain-priced home “as is” and forego the home inspection. But without the inspection report, do you know what the “as it” refers to? Wouldn’t it be better to know what condition the home is in before you buy it?

The inspection contingency allows the buyer to enlist the services of a licensed home inspector within three to seven days after the purchase agreement is signed. The inspector will go over the property from top to bottom, evaluating the condition of all the basic systems and structures of the home in order to identify conditions that may be considered material defects and thus may affect the market value or the safety of the home.

The inspector’s report is the only documented proof of the actual condition of the property that is being sold. It is a valuable tool that helps you negotiate the sales contract and gives you information about future maintenance projects. The cost of an inspection is well worth the peace of mind it provides.

The services of a good real estate agent are especially important when you are moving to a new city. You may know very little about the different neighborhoods or the local market conditions in the new area. An experienced agent can help you explore the possibilities in order to find a great house in your price range.

Give us a call if you are planning a move to a new city. As part of a nationwide relocation network, we can put you in touch with a superb real estate agent who can make house hunting a breeze. They will contact you before you arrive to discuss your housing needs, where you will be working, and what features in a new house and neighborhood meet your criteria. They can send you information about transportation, shopping, and community services that are important to you. When you arrive for your first house hunting trip, the agent will be prepared to show you the best homes for sale in your price range that fit your needs.

Moves are right up at the top of the list of stress-producing situations. It is not uncommon to feel a little overwhelmed by the process of relocating. You must sell your old home, pack up, leaving behind many friends and memories, and then get settled in the new area.

Professional real estate agents understand both the difficulties and the rewards of making a major move. By listening carefully to what you want and need, your agent will get a feeling for the style of home, neighborhood location and amenities you are seeking. He or she can also point you in the right direction for information about schools, shopping, public transportation, and groups of people who share your interests. If you are considering a move, call a professional real estate agent for information about the area you would like to live in. Discuss the type of house you are looking for and your price range so that the agent can acquaint you with the available homes that will meet your criteria when you are ready to begin looking.