Many of us take for granted our right to own a home. And most of us are also unaware of how government-backed loan programs help us achieve homeownership. Referred to as "The American Dream," homeownership has become a rite of passage in this country. But history tells us widespread property ownership is a fairly recent phenomenon. Today, owning real estate is still recognized as the best way to build intergenerational wealth while also enjoying a secure place to live. Best of all, the right to own property is protected by our U.S. Constitution. Here's how real estate became a "thing" in the United States: … [Read more...] about How Real Estate Became a “Thing” in the United States
What You Need to Know About Today’s Homeowner’s Insurance
Maybe you think knowing about homeowner's insurance shouldn't be part of your job as a real estate professional. But think again. The ability of your clients to obtain and afford homeowner's insurance has a direct impact on real estate transactions. Between 2021 to 2023, homeowner's insurance has gone up an average of twenty percent and continues to rise. Meanwhile, the ability to obtain new homeowner's insurance has gone down by thirty-five percent. Regardless of whether you are working with buyers or sellers, homeowner's insurance can be an obstacle. You can't get a mortgage without one. And even if the property is an all cash deal, no one wants to take such a risk. Here's what you need to know about today's homeowner's insurance: … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Today’s Homeowner’s Insurance
How to Create a Cozy Backyard Retreat
Creating a cozy outdoor summer retreat is a great addition to any home and helps build equity. It can also be a wonderful way to get out of your house on summer nights and enjoy food, friends, and family - all in the great outdoors. Following is how to create that cozy backyard retreat: … [Read more...] about How to Create a Cozy Backyard Retreat
Easy Ways to Sell for More with these 8 Key Home Upgrades
It is well known that homes that show well sell well. In order to get "highest and best," your listing needs to sparkle. This can often mean executing key upgrades prior to listing the home so that it's rock-star, show-ready right out of the gate. As such, be prepared to guide your sellers along the upgrade path to achieve the best sales price in the quickest timeframe. That being said, experienced agents also know that not all home upgrades are created equal. This is especially true when it comes to cost and time, both of which are critical factors. Following are easy ways to sell for more with these 8 key home upgrades: … [Read more...] about Easy Ways to Sell for More with these 8 Key Home Upgrades
Everything You Need to Know About a Re-Key Service
Being handed the keys to your new home is a big moment. But what the next moment holds may not be as warm and fuzzy. For example, who else might have the very same keys you were just given? And what might their intentions be? Both of these questions are ones you, as a new homeowner, don't want for long. Fortunately, there's something called a Re-key Service that will solve your problem. Following is everything you need to know about a Re-key Service: … [Read more...] about Everything You Need to Know About a Re-Key Service