Tuesday, May 28, 2024 / by Shane Kilby
How do I get the most bang for my buck when it comes to home improvements? Spring is a time when flowers bloom and home sales peak, but it’s also a time when we can shake the dust off of our home improvement projects. It’s a time when you’ll find homeowners out renovating their gardens and inside painting their walls to refresh their homes for the new season. But, for those who are interested in selling this spring, what kind of home improvement projects will net them the biggest return on their investment? It's a crucial consideration, as not all improvements will significantly enhance your home's value. Today, I'll go over what projects to avoid, what repairs to make, and how to select a good contractor to do the work.
1. Avoid these upgrades. While upgrading is a great way to build on your home’s existing value, there are plenty of upgrades that aren’t worth your time or trouble. Upgrading your kitchen to top-of-the-line or professional grade, or mak! ...
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Tuesday, May 21, 2024 / by Shane Kilby
In case you don’t know, the real estate world was flipped on its head recently. A lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors is challenging how buyer agents get paid, and it’s left a lot of people confused. Here’s the short version: A court recently ruled that the current structure of buyer’s agents’ commissions was illegal and needed to change. In the past, the seller would pay full commission to their agent, and the seller’s agent would then split that commission with the buyer’s agent. In this way, the buyer wouldn’t actually need to put any money down for their representation. Now, the buyer commissions are negotiated separately from the seller side.
So, do you still need to pay the buyer’s agent’s commissions when selling your home? If you want the best representation possible, yes, and there are a few key reasons why:
1. Setting a rate upfront avoids negotiations. Since buyer commissions are ...
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Thursday, April 18, 2024 / by Shane Kilby
Three important things to disclose before your home is sold.
When making an offer on a house, a property disclosure is one of the first things buyers get from the seller. This is also referred to as a real estate disclosure form or a home disclosure. The specifics vary by state, but most states require some type of seller disclosure. The goal is to add transparency to the transaction. In this disclosure, a seller provides written information about known things that could impact the property's value. While there are many different things a seller must disclose, I’m going to highlight three of the most forgotten (and impactful) items:
1. HOA information. If the home is located within a homeowners association, you should disclose that fact. Associations generally impose monthly fees on homeowners, and they can impose rules on their membership that a prospective buyer might or might not find acceptable. You also need to know about the HOA's financial health and provide this . ...
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Wednesday, April 3, 2024 / by Shane Kilby
Here’s what you need to know about preparing your home for sale.
Selling your home can be a significant undertaking, but with careful preparation, you can enhance its appeal and increase the likelihood of a successful sale. Whether you're a first-time seller or have experience in the real estate market, taking specific steps to prepare your home is crucial. Today, we'll explore three key points to help you get your home ready for the market.
1. Enhance curb appeal. When potential buyers arrive at your property, the first thing they notice is the exterior. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior creates a positive first impression, setting the stage for a successful home tour. To enhance your home's curb appeal, invest time in landscaping to create an inviting atmosphere. Inspect your home's exterior for any needed repairs. Address issues such as peeling paint, cracked siding, or damaged roofing. Upgrade your front door and entryway to make a lasting impression.! ...
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Monday, March 25, 2024 / by Shane Kilby
Three useful strategies to help you determine your home’s value.
Whether you're considering selling, refinancing, or simply curious about your property's value, understanding how to determine your home's worth is crucial. Today, we'll explore three essential strategies to help you unveil the mystery behind your home's market value.
1. Research comparable sales (comps). Analyze recently sold properties in your neighborhood that are similar to yours in terms of size, features, and condition. Look for properties that have sold within the last six months. They provide the most accurate reflection of the current market. Pay close attention to factors such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and overall condition. Adjust the value of your home based on any significant differences. Take into account the proximity to amenities, schools, and public transportation.
"Determining your home's worth is a crucial step."
2. Get a professional appraisal. While research. ...
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