Merry Christmas and Happy 2015 !

Six Common Real Estate Mistakes

Buying and selling real estate in the market today is certainly NOT for sissies! The competition is steep, and the stakes are high. Making small mistakes can end up costing you thousands of dollars.

Be on the look-out for issues, such as:

1) Not Getting the Price Right: Your first line of defense is to hire a home appraiser who can accurately gauge the worth of a property. This service might cost you a few hundred dollars, but it is an investment that can, in the long run, save you money.

2) Overlooking "Pretty Is As Pretty Does": Tidy things up! Before you put a property on the market, be sure that everything is well-tended and looking its picture-perfect best.

3) Hiding Problems from the Buyer: Be up front from the get-go. Disclose any problems—in writing—so there will be no cause for dispute or litigation after the sale goes through.

4) Wrecking Your Credit at the Last Minute: Home buying and selling doesn't happen overnight. Be mindful of other purchases made during the process, such as buying a new car or missing credit card payments. Remember a pre-approval does not guarantee a finalized mortgage.

5) The Trap of Bidding Wars: Buying property can be an emotional process. Therefore, make sure you have an experienced agent in your corner who can advocate and negotiate the best deal on your behalf.

6) Not Taking the Inspection Seriously: Many buyers and sellers don't put enough credence in this step of the process. Take advantage of the home inspection and leverage the results to drive the price in your favor.

In the end, be mindful and proactive. Knowledge is power! To read more about each factor listed above, link HERE

Source Material: "6 Real Estate Mistakes That May Cost You" by Adam Verwymeren (Published 10/22/14 via FOX News) 

Home Repair for Buyers

Once a home inspection is completed, buyers usually receive a list of suggested improvements and repairs. Most issues outlined will be for upgrades, while others may be more specific and recommended to ensure peace of mind and comfort. 

Repairs of some kind will always be necessary - on new construction and older construction, as well. Keep in mind, however, that it is unlikely a seller will repair the tens (or hundreds) of line items often outlined on the home inspection report. Buyers need to maintain reasonable expections.  

Link HERE to read a comprehensive article that offers some great tips on home repair requests and how to leverage those repairs to benefit your home buying purchase.

Top 10 Kitchen Remodeling Trends

Photo: RIS MEDIA

According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly half of new homeowners undertake a home improvement project within three months of buying a new residence, and the first order of business is usually focusing on a kitchen overhaul.  

In an article written by Marilyn Kalfus (of The Orange County Register), she outlines the Top 10 Kitchen Remodeling Trends, and she includes information on:

Chef's Stoves

Eco-Friendly Features

Granite and Quartz Countertops

Tile Backsplashes

Floors (esp. hardwood)

Stainless Steel

Islands

Blending Contemporary and Traditional Styles

White Cabinets

Gray Color Schemes

Link HERE to read the article in its entirety. 

It's worth a look!

Happy Valentine's Day

Why not make the 

"Day of Hearts"

extra special this year?

February 14th 

is the perfect day to

treat your sweetheart 

to 

a new home or condo!

Contact me, and I'll help you find the perfect place in Pinellas, Hillsborough and/or the neighboring Tampa Bay counties of Florida.

Planning to Buy a Home in 2014?

photo source: athomesense.com

As of January 10, 2014, the mortgage industry will be undergoing significant changes. In order for home buyers to be fully prepared for a home purchase, I'm sharing an article to bring buyers up to speed on the new regulations.  

Link HERE to read the article, which addresses what, exactly, is changing and offers tips and strategies to help when making mortgage decisions.

If you have any questions, contact me. As an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®), I work with an extensive network of professionals who can offer guidance through all phases of the buying process.