5 reasons buyer do not like homes...

Trulia has put together a list of 5 things that buyers hate about a home.  Sometimes, a buyer's complaint can be overcome.  Sometimes, that is not so easy.  Sometimes, it is completely out of a seller, and their agent's, control.  Fortunately, a skilled real estate agent can help minimize the negative impact of the several of the problem items that Trulia suggests are the biggest obstacles.   Interestingly, some of these items are created by a seller's doing.  While I am always an advocate of loving your home, and living it in so that YOU are happy, there is credence to re-sale.  A dramatic design that varies significantly from current trends and the norm, may be a big turn-off.  Even if you are not thinking of selling your home in the near future, it is probably a good idea to take a minute to read through this quick article. 

5 reasons buyer do not like homes and what your agent can do... http://ow.ly/uJbxO

ARM - let's hope they get it right this time...

The mortgage industry is constantly changing, evolving, adapting and adjusting.  Not only the interest rates, but the programs and opportunities as well.  One of the more difficult decisions some buyers face, is whether to take the traditional financing route of a lower risk fixed loan - or to head down the path of a less conservative adjustable rate mortgage (ARM).  How do you determine which program is the best option for you?  The best first step to take is to educate yourself - research the various loan programs that are available to you.  Find out what your credit score is, and how that can impact your financing options.  Ask yourself what your future plan is, with regards to housing - how long do you plan to live in the residence that you are financing?  And speak with a loan officer.  Someone who can interpret the programs, and explain them so that you have no doubt, misunderstanding, or confusion about which is the best loan for you to secure.

ARM - let's hope they get it right this time... http://ow.ly/uIY6t

2013-14 Cost vs. Value: Remodeling Pays Off Big Time

Considering some home improvements projects this year?  Do you know which ones may yield a better return?  And which may be more of a financial lemon?  Check out this NAR article from REALTOR Mag.  It's pretty sound advice.

I hope that there are some good ideas for mudrooms.  My newly remodeled one needs some help after my lab chewed the built-in bench cabinet beyond repair...

2013-14 Cost vs. Value: Remodeling Pays Off Big Time

Is buying cheaper than renting where you are? Check this list to find out...

In many parts of the country, the rental market has steadily picked up over the past few years.  There are a number of reasons people are renting instead of purchasing.  The burst of the housing bubble caused a significant loss of equity in a home - which translates to a lack of downpayment for many potential buyers.  Other sellers were underwater on their mortgages when they sold, and in addition to losing equity, also had to dig into savings to pay the difference in order to close the sale of the home.  Distress sales have left potential buyers with marred credit, in addition to the lack of funds to use to purchase.  That marred credit has caused mortgage investors and lenders to tighten their strings and be a bit more cautious with loaning money out to prospective homeowners.  And then there are those potential buyers who are "waiting in the wings" for the housing market to stabilize.  Renting, until they feel that the time is right to reinvest in the real estate market.

All of these factors have helped create a rental market with high demand in many areas.  As the law of economics has it - the higher the demand, the higher the price.  Most markets have experienced increased in monthly rents.  Without a checks and balance system, like appraisals in the buying segment, tenants are more apt to pay more for, if a property is in an area that they want to live in, or if the landlord is willing to accept the risks of a tenant's damaged credit.  With that being said - is it time for you to now consider buying a home?  Instead of signing another lease?

Is buying cheaper than renting where you are? Check this list to find out out...


http://ow.ly/uvQ5G

Exactly why are new homes bigger?

Remember the "McMansions" of the 1990's?  Well they are back!  Large homes become increasingly popular in the late 90's and early 2000's.  Smaller homes become more popular in the mid 2000's, as the economy suffered and the national real estate market tanked in many areas.  Larger homes equal greater living expenses - furnishing, landscaping, maintenance, utilities, insurance...you get the idea.  As home values decreased, and jobs suffered, home buyers turned to a more conservative approach, and focused on smaller houses.  That trend appears to be changing, as the average square footage of a home is on the rise - as well as the amenities found in larger homes:  more bedroom, baths, multiple car garages.  And the buyer composition is changing as well.  Buyers with higher credit scores typically manage their money well, and can handle the expenses that are associated with larger homes.

So, it looks like the Jones' aren't off the hook yet.

Exactly why are new homes bigger? http://ow.ly/u1tMu