Buyer Information
October 17, 2017
Buying a house for a great price, fixing it up, and then reselling it sounds pretty exciting, which is why there are so many shows on HGTV about doing just that. In Miami, there is certainly a cottage industry of people that dedicate their time and money to flipping homes. If you’re thinking of buying a flipped house, you may need to do a little extra homework before making an offer. Before you buy a flipped house, be sure to ask these questions to make sure its in great shape and that all repairs were done professionally. Who’s Selling? Whenever a home is selling for $100,000 (or more) over its previous sale less than a year ago, you need to […]
October 11, 2017
When you’re trying to put a price tag on your home, determining its value is a given. But, what is value exactly? Two types of “value” will come up in the conversation around selling your home: assessed value and market value. They may seem similar but the numbers can be different, and they’re used in distinct ways. Understanding the two will give you an advantage as you sell your home. What Is Market Value? Market value refers to the likely price that a property will sell for, or what a buyer is willing to pay for. Market value can be based on many factors, like location and exterior and interior aspects, including lot size, condition of the home, energy efficiency, […]
September 5, 2017
So, you’ve found your dream home, and your offer was accepted. Congrats! Now, it’s time for the home inspection. A home inspection might seem worrisome. But, it’s a necessary step in the home-buying process, ensuring that you know exactly what’s going on within the bones of the house. Not all homebuyers fully understand how inspections work. Here are nine things you should know about them: Inspections Are (Technically) Optional. It may come as a surprise, but home inspections are not a required part of the real estate process. But, they are a great idea. You obviously want to know what you’re getting into, and an inspection will give you an idea of the home’s problems (whether it be a roof […]
August 29, 2017
Buying a home is a huge commitment. If you’re a commitment-phobe or just new to the process, it can seem incredibly overwhelming—maybe even terrifying. The most important first step is finding the right realtor to help guide you through the process. You can rely on your realtor’s expertise, but you also need to educate yourself on the home-buying process so that you understand what’s happening at every stage. These tips will help you get through the process of buying your first home like a pro. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage If you’re planning to take out a loan to buy your house, you need to talk to a lender about getting preapproved for a mortgage. Preapproval provides credibility to your […]
August 22, 2017
Hosting an open house is a great way to get lots of potential buyers through your door. You just need to make sure your home is ready to be seen. It’s important for buyers to envision how they will use your space. Sometimes the best way to prepare is to stage your home so that it looks inviting but not too lived in. To get ready for an open house, use these tips: Clean Up Too much stuff on the kitchen counter or other surfaces can turn buyers off. Clutter makes it hard for visitors to picture themselves and their stuff in your home. You should consider putting some of your excess things in storage. A thorough cleaning should be […]
August 15, 2017
The appraisal is one of the most intimidating parts of selling a home. It can also be one of the most confusing. Buyers and sellers rarely understand the purpose of an appraisal. Appraisals, which determine the value of a home, are usually required by mortgage companies and typically take place after a listing price has been determined and an offer has been made. The appraisal takes away any emotional attachment that the seller and buyer feel toward the house, because it assigns an unbiased value. If you’re a little unclear or confused about appraisals, here are five myths explained: The Appraisal Vs. the Inspection The appraisal and home inspection are often used as a safeguard for the buyer, but they […]
August 8, 2017
Selling your home can be daunting. Markets fluctuate and demand can be sluggish. But, sometimes – and bear with us – but sometimes it can be you that gets in the way of your own sale. When it comes time to selling your home – you hire a real estate agent to list your home and work for you to get it sold. But the sale of your home is not entirely dependent on the agent. Sellers have many responsibilities in the process in order to make it a success. If you’re making any of these mistakes, you could be keeping your home from selling – and stuck on the market. You’ve overpriced and are sticking to it. Everyone wants […]
August 1, 2017
Location is the biggest factor for homebuyers. And, there’s so much to consider when choosing the best location: schools, commuting, and local amenities. Two of Miami’s neighborhoods—Palmetto Bay and Pinecrest—have a lot to offer buyers. They feature a variety of housing options, and depending on what you’re looking for, they are both great choices. Here’s an overview of the neighborhoods’ best features. The Benefits of Palmetto Bay From a wealth of amenities, to a community feeling and a range of real estate options, Palmetto Bay has so much to offer homebuyers. 1. More Space for the Money Palmetto Bay is more affordable compared to other Miami neighborhoods, but still offers luxury. The neighborhood offers many housing options, both with waterfront […]
July 25, 2017
An experienced realtor can save you time and money, whether you’re buying or selling. They need to be neighborhood experts and understand the current real estate market and how it affects both buyers and sellers. To make sure your realtor knows their stuff, be sure to vet them before selecting one. Ask about their experience, past sales, and contact references. Here are some signs that your realtor truly knows what they’re talking about. They Always Communicate The best agents respond to your calls, texts, or emails in a timely manner. They answer all of your questions and listen to your wants and needs. They understand your budget and timeline. They offer realistic guidance and keep you informed about the market. […]