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All About Real Estate Blog

Wednesday, May 19, 2021   /   by Grace Katz

Steps To Buying A House

Check Your Credit Score

Before you begin the process of buying a house, you want to make sure that you’re actually in a position to take on this significant milestone. That’s why the first step is to check your credit score and review your finances.

What Lenders Look For

Obtaining a loan is not always an easy feat. All mortgage lenders will look at your credit score and financial history before agreeing to provide you with a loan, so it can be helpful to be one step ahead of them.

Credit Score To Buy A House

It’s also important to understand what credit score is required to buy a house.

To obtain a conventional loan, you’ll need a median FICO® Score of 620 or higher. However, if you qualify for an FHA loan, requires a minimum middle credit score of 580. The VA doesn’t require a specific qualifying credit score, but lenders can set their own policies. We require a median credit score of at least 620.

Your credit and financial histor ...

Thursday, March 25, 2021   /   by Grace Katz

5 Proven Ways to Increase Home Value

Nearly 65% of U.S. homeowners believe the value of their home will continue to rise over the next 10 years, according to a national survey conducted online in August 2018.
That may be optimistic, considering that some factors that determine what a house is worth, like its location and the popularity of that market, are out of your control.
If, like 70% of American homeowners, you believe your house is your biggest asset, taking care of it is probably a top priority. The good news is, keeping up with repairs and making smart improvements are both proven ways to increase home value over time.
Whether you want to build equity or get top dollar when you sell, use the tips below to raise the value of your home.

1. Make it more attractive

Curb Appeal- how your home looks from the street — is your first chance to make a good impression.
A home’s exterior needs to make a prospective buyer want to walk through the front door.
Make sure existing landscaping is well-maintai ...

Thursday, March 4, 2021   /   by Grace Katz

READY TO SELL

Despite the pandemic, house market its strong. In August, the sale of existing homes rose 2.4% to a seasonally adjusted rate of 6 million, according to CAR. Inventory is low and the competition is intense. So if you've been considering listing your property, now might be the time to take advantage.
Today's buyers want a move-in-ready home, real estate experts say. So you'll need to be prepared to have to spend some extra cash to help get yours ready to list.
Here are the top — upgrades you should do before the first potential buyer steps into your house.









Clutter and Dirt
You want buyers to imagine living in your home, not to wonder "How can these people live like this?" when they come through the front door.
It's not too soon to sort through your stuff. Donate, sell, recycle or trash whatever you don't want or need in your next home. Pack up your tchotchkes and other non-essential stuff that you want to keep (store the boxes neatly in your garage or ...

Wednesday, February 10, 2021   /   by Grace Katz

3 Must-Do's When Selling Your House This Year

t’s exciting to put a house on the market and to think about making new memories in new spaces. However, despite the anticipation of what’s to come, we can still have deep sentimental attachments to the home we’re leaving behind. Growing emotions can help or hinder a sale depending on how we manage them.

When it comes to the bottom line, homeowners need to know what it takes to avoid costly mistakes when it’s time to move. Being mindful and prepared for the process can help you stay on the right track when selling your house this year.

1. Price Your Home Right

When inventory is low, like it is in the current market, it’s common to think buyers will pay whatever we ask when setting a listing price. Believe it or not, that’s not always true. Don’t forget that the buyer’s bank will send an appraiser to determine the fair value for your house. The bank will not lend more than what the house is worth, so be aware that you might n ...

Wednesday, February 10, 2021   /   by Grace Katz

Why It's Important to Price Your House Right

Even in today’s seller' market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do. According to theU.S. Economic Outlook by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing home prices nationwide are forecasted to increase by 4.5% in 2021.  

How to Price Your House

When it comes to setting the right price for your house, the goal is to increase visibility and drive more buyers your way. Instead of trying to win the negotiation with one buyer, you should price your house so that demand is maximized and more buyers want to take a look.

As a seller in today’s market, you might be thinking about pricing your house on the high end while so many of today’s buyers are searching harder than ever just to find a home to purchase. But here’s the thing – a high price tag does not mean you’re going to cash in big on the sale. It’s actually more likely to deter buyers.

Right now. ...