Blog
Protecting Your Identity When Buying a Home
Thieves are using ever-more sophisticated scams to steal your identity and ultimately, your down payment. To help protect yourself, consider these suggestions: * Install malware protection software on your computer to help block online attacks. * Create strong passwords for your computer and smart devices and change them regularly. * Add lock-out software that blocks... Read More
8 Factors that Enhance a Home’s Value
Looking for the best return on investment on the home you’re buying? Consider these factors, which Realtor.com identified by analyzing millions of sales nationwide: 1. Small Size. Over the last five years, homes under 1,200 s/f. favorites of retiring boomers and first-time buyers have appreciated by an average of 7.5% per year, while homes 2,400... Read More
Top 10 Home Trends for 2021
These top 10 trends will not only add comfort but might even add extra value to your home. 1. Zoom Room: A Zillow survey found a desire for a home with a dedicated office tops the list of reasons why Americans working from home say they would consider a move if they were to continue... Read More
16 Questions To Ask When Choosing A Lender
Loan terms, rates and products can vary significantly from one lending company to the next. Plus, how do you handle closings in the age of COVID-19? General questions: What are the most popular mortgages you offer? Why are they so popular? Are your rates, terms, fees and closing costs negotiable? Do you offer discounts for... Read More
11 Home Features That Help You Sell Faster
Thinking of upgrading your home before you sell? Here are the features buyers want most. 92% Laundry Room 90% Energy Star Appliances and Windows 90% Exterior Lighting 86% Patio 86% Cooling Fans 83% Full Bath on Main Level 82% Hardwood Floors on Main Level 81% Storage Space 81% More Insulation than Required by Code 80%... Read More
6 Tips for Pet Owners Selling Their House
When selling your home, Fido shouldn’t be seen … or smelled. Here are the top recommendations Realtors® make to pet-owning clients putting their house on the market (in order of most-suggested): 1. Take animal out of home for showings (78%) 2. Replacing anything damaged by pet (72%) 3. Cleaning home to remove animal scent (70%)... Read More
Remodeling Projects With The Greatest Return
Which remodeling projects will pick up the greatest return when a home is sold? Remodeling Magazine asked Real Estate professionals, and here are their estimates for the South Atlantic States. 94% Manufactured Stone Veneer 88.7% Garage Door Replacement 80.5% Siding Replacement (fiber-cement) 77% Deck Addition (wood) 76% Siding Replacement (Vinyl) 76.3% Minor Kitchen Remodel 73.2%... Read More
Protect Yourself From Wire Fraud
You’re finally buying your dream home. It’s time to wire your closing costs to the title company. You follow the directions of an email that came to your inbox. Only, the email was fraudulent, and you just lost your hard-earned cash and the house of your dreams. It’s called wire fraud, and it’s happening all... Read More
AVOID THESE 7 THINGS BEFORE CLOSING ON YOUR NEW HOME
STOP! AVOID THESE 7 THINGS BEFORE CLOSING ON YOUR NEW HOME You’ve found your dream home, your offer is accepted and your closing date is 20 days away. We know your mind is on furnishing your house and buying supplies. And you’re probably a little overwhelmed with all that goes into moving. Don’t jeopardize your... Read More
The Hidden Value of Home Ownership
Owning a home doesn’t just help you build wealth. It also impacts your life and your children’s lives. Here are some of the specific benefits homeowners may enjoy over renters: 1. Homeowners are healthier and live longer 2. Owning a home reduces the likelihood of divorce 3. Homeowners are less likely to suffer from depression... Read More