1. A Seller’s Market Means High Demand and Fast Action In a seller’s market, there are more buyers than available homes. This creates competition, drives up prices, and often leads to multiple offers and bidding wars. Homes sell quickly—sometimes above asking price—and buyers need to act fast and come prepared with pre-approval, strong offers, and […]
1. Sellers Love the Certainty of Cash An all-cash offer means you’re not relying on a lender to fund your purchase, which gives sellers one huge advantage: peace of mind. There’s no risk of financing falling through, which can be especially appealing in a competitive market. Your offer could even beat out higher bids—just because it’s
1. A Buyer’s Agent Works for You, the Buyer A buyer’s agent is your advocate from start to finish. Their job is to: Help you find the right home that fits your needs and budget Advise you on pricing, comps, and market conditions Write offers and negotiate on your behalf Guide you through inspections, repairs, and closing Best
1. Flood Insurance Is Often Required—and Can Add to Your Monthly Costs If you’re using a mortgage to buy a home in a high-risk flood zone, your lender will likely require flood insurance. Here’s what to keep in mind: Premiums can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the property’s risk
First-Time Buyer Guide: How Appraisals Protect You (and Your Lender) Before you close on a home, your lender wants to know: is this place really worth the price?That’s where the appraisal comes in. It’s not just a box to check—it’s a critical step that protects your investment and helps ensure you’re making a smart financial move. 1.
1. What Is Dual Agency, Exactly? In a typical home sale, one agent represents the buyer, and another represents the seller. With dual agency, a single agent represents both sides. That means: The agent writes up your offer… …but also advises the seller on how to respond Legally, the agent must remain neutral—but practically, it can be hard
1. A Licensed Appraiser Assesses the Property’s Market Value Once you’re under contract, your lender will order an appraisal from a licensed, independent appraiser. During the visit, they’ll evaluate: The home’s location The size, layout, and features The condition of the home and any upgrades Recent comparable sales (aka “comps”) in the areaThe goal? To estimate fair market value based on data—not emotion. Understanding what you can
Homeowner & Buyers Guide: 3 Reliable Ways to Find Out What a Home Is Worth Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or just curious—knowing your home’s value is a powerful piece of the puzzle. But not all estimates are created equal. Here are three ways to get a solid sense of your property’s worth—plus when to
Relocating to a new state is exciting — it’s a chance to start fresh, build something new, and step into the next chapter of your life. But without the right strategy, it can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare. You’re not just moving your belongings — you’re navigating new laws, new markets, and new timelines,