Spring is in the air, and, with the spring blossoms, we see increased activity with buying and selling of homes. Approximately, forty percent (40%) of the real estate transactions happen between May and August. 
If you are thinking of buying or selling a home soon, make sure you're prepared. A few things to consider…
When Purchasing a home a Home
Buying a home is one of the biggest transactions you'll ever make. No matter if your are a first time home buyer or have experience buying and selling homes there are a couple things you may want to consider:
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Verify your credit score, and fix any inaccuracies you discover ASAP. Errors can impact your ability to get a good interest rate.
- Determine what you can afford. Use a mortgage (affordability) calculator to make sure you're ready for the mortgage payments. One is located on my website.
- Do you have a down payment ready. Most lenders require 5 to 20 percent, and larger down payments can lower the amount you pay each month.
- Be ready for additional closing costs. Plan to have approximately about four percent (4%) of the home’s purchase price on hand to cover taxes, fees and other necessary charges.
- Consider your insurance coverage and update all of your policies, including life and car insurance. In some locations it may be the first thing to consider before deciding on a property since homes in higher risk locations may require going beyond traditional insurance companies at a significant cost.
When It's Time to Sell
Take inventory of what needs to be fixed and make a schedule to complete any updates, such as roof work, new paint or landscaping. It is a good idea to conduct your own home inspections (pest, home, roof, etc.) that way you’ll understand and be prepared for these issues associated with selling your home.
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Clean, pick-up and depersonalize to get your home ready to show. You only have one chance to make a first impression.
- Determine an appropriate selling price. Gather the property comps in your area; it can give you a better idea of your home's value. Remember having a ho
me priced higher than the supporting comps may take longer to sell. If you need help with comps, please give me a call and I’ll assist.
- Clean, pick-up and depersonalize to get your home ready to show. You only have one chance to make a first impression.
- Determine an appropriate selling price. Gather the property comps in your area; it can give you a better idea of your home's value. Remember having a home priced higher than the supporting comps may take longer to sell. If you need help with comps, please give me a call and I’ll assist.