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From Start to Furnish…

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Ways to furnish your new home on a budget

 

You say you just moved into a new house? Congratulations! But before you let us bring the champagne you explain that there’s no furniture in your new home yet. Maybe you moved across the country or just flushed out your old stuff since you were moving anyway. Either way, you need some help furnishing your house and adding your own decorative touch.  Have no fear! We’re here to offer ways to fill up your home without emptying your wallet.

 

Blank Slate

Realize that an empty house is a blessing. It gives you the rare opportunity to actually fill up rooms with only the things you want in them without the guilt of donating some ancient family relic in order to free up space.

Take this moment to look at your blank canvas and think about how you want to furnish it. Go through each room and make a list of what you will use it for. From there consider the style or theme you would like to emerge and if a consistent look throughout the house is important to you or not.

Craigslist

By far one of the most economical ways to furnish your home is through the online classified site, Craigslist. With tens of millions of new postings each month, this online venue can provide literally every last thing you need for your new house.

Of course, with used items of any kind, prudence needs to be exercised. The advantage with buying used furniture is that generally the original owners know they are over a barrel when selling. Used furniture depreciates in value very quickly and is difficult to move, adding (or should we say “subtracting” for your cost) to the challenge of selling it on.

In one instance, a friend bought a queen size mattress off of Craigslist for $100, pitched in an extra $20 to have the owner drive it over in his pickup, and that friend enjoyed years of exceptionally comfortable nights. No joke, the mattress he got was probably originally ten times what he paid for it. No stains, rips, or unpleasant bed bug surprises. It was used gently for a year as the owner had claimed.

Obviously, not every transaction story can be as smooth as the one my friend experienced, but with a combination of caution and research you can score amazing deals on your perfect furnishings. Lots of furniture has to be donated and even then, some volunteer organizations don’t have enough room for all of the donations to even accept them. This leaves owners with the option of paying a fee to trash it or offer good deals locally. Leverage this situation with online stores such as Craigslist.

 

Get Thrifty

The other efficient option is to surf your local thrift stores and used furniture places. Thrift shops are often inundated with donations. Usually with reasonable prices, thrifts are great venues to check out furniture in person. Check closely for faded stains or disintegrating edges.

Filing cabinets, book shelves, and desks abound! Furnish your home office with all the accessories you need to be organized and productive. I know several people who have found incredible office chairs at thrift shops for the equivalent of the price of tax on the same chair in a new office supply store. In addition to some savvy searching, let friends and co-workers know you are in the market for furniture. Just be warned that you might get a lot of junk offers. Don’t accept everything even when it is a generous offer because if it isn’t what you really want, then you will be struggling to pass it on.

 

Solid Foundations: Tips for Purchasing an Investment Property

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“A funny thing happens in real-estate. When it comes back, it comes back up like gangbusters.” So says American businesswoman and investor Barbara Corcoran. And it is true. The real estate world is like a series of intense waves, not unlike other investment venues like the stock market. Regardless of the housing tsunami’s up, down, and up again cycles, most experts agree that property is always a solid asset. Here are some excellent tips for surfing the waves of investment properties.

 

Research

If you can find a real estate agent with experience in flipping properties for a profit, that is ideal, but do your own research too. You are the best resource you have in this case. Much of the same information that an experienced investor has is available to you as well. It may be a little difficult to find for first-time property investors, but it is accessible.

Get advice and experience from friends or friends of friends that have ventured into property investment. Find out how they pursued their purchase and if they used any agent that they give the thumbs-up to.

Consider buying locally, as you undoubtedly already have the knowledge of the area from purchasing your first home. Use this experience to your advantage.

 

Budgeting

At the start, determine your financial limits for investing, allowing for unforeseen expenses that may arise from repairs and the like. A good way to do this is to calculate your fixed costs. That is, add up the expenses that you know you will have each month regardless of anything else. Then, you’ll want to create a number that represents the pesky expenses that creep in. Assume there will be maintenance needs every couple months and double that price to keep your wallet covered.

 

The Down Payment

Buying a second property is more challenging than your first home purchase because the down payment is higher. Investopedia.com’s columnist Tim Parker elaborates, “You will need at least 20 percent, given that mortgage insurance isn’t available on rental properties.”  Since the down payment percentage is quite a bit higher on an investment property, this is an expense you’ll want to factor into your budget.

 

Do your own repairs

Wherever possible, perform your own maintenance on your new property. Unless there is a complicated job like an electrical-related repair that is not only advanced but potentially dangerous, a wealth of handyman tutorials are readily available on YouTube. You can find step-by-step repair videos on virtually everything, and it can save you a ton in the long run. Tim Parker says, “Estimate maintenance costs at 1 percent of the property value annually.” Every time you patch up a problem yourself, you are doing your budget a favor.

 

Summary

One of the primary advantages of purchasing an investment property is that the urgency of a place to live is not stressing you like it did with your first home. Not that there isn’t a whole new set of problems with an investment house, but don’t let anyone pressure you into purchasing until you feel good about the decision. Take your time. Weigh your options and negotiate the price down. Remember that every little bit you can deal is financing you can invest in your new property and your future.

Keeping up Appearances

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Fall Yard Beauty Tips

Leaves may be falling, but house prices are staying strong according to a number of real estate-tracking websites. Keep those values high while also keeping your yard beautiful during the autumn season. During the spring and summer it’s easier to maintain the exterior appeal of your home since everything grows more effortlessly with the help of the monsoons. However, the later end of the year poses more challenges to continue the manicured appearance outside. Beautify your home’s autumn look with these useful tips.

 

Yard Clean Up

Raking leaves is the most stereotypical image we think of when we hear the word “autumn”. It’s a cozy activity and more importantly essential care for your yard and lawn. Dead leaves will block necessary sunlight to your lawn so clearing them out is one of the most basic favors you can give to your yard.

 

Great Opportunity to control weeds

The fall is a great time to literally weed out the unwanted things in your garden. Clear out the dry stalks and dead leaves on your floral bushes or climbing vines. Once these are out of the way you can easily identify the pesky weeds that are still squatting in your garden.

Because the ground may be hard at this time of year, you may need a sharp, forked tool to stab into the roots of these weeds before you can comfortably pull them out by hand. Extract these weeds and add them to your compost pile.

 

Autumn Lawn Care

Now is the ideal time to repair damaged patches of your lawn. Whether from dryness or perhaps a dog looking for a lost bone, lawns have a tendency to get thin or completely dead in some areas for a variety of reasons.

Reseed these areas now for the best results. Without as many weeds, fall offers the best time to regenerate the dead patches of your lawn. The mild Arizona autumn weather also gives new seedlings a better chance to root themselves before the blazing summer. For even better results, feed your lawn twice during the fall to support not only the new growth but revive any patches that may be withering from the summer heat. Allow about eight weeks between feeding to achieve the healthiest results.

 

Thoughts to ‘Leaf’ With

Some yard care in the autumn is harder but thankfully nature gives a hand with some of it, such as clearing out the dead wood so-to-speak. Whether it’s just for maintaining an attractive real estate listing or just the satisfaction of a beautiful view while you sip on your hot cocoa, a little outdoor maintenance makes your fall a better experience.

Looking for Dog-friendly Housing

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In an ideal world, you would find pet-friendly apartments or housing in the area you want to be near the job you’ve got. However, sometimes the only area that is practical for your purposes doesn’t welcome pets with open arms. The most challenging scenario is usually finding rentals that allow dogs, so here are some strategies to employ when moving with your canine companion.

Search and Research

When you begin your pet-friendly housing hunt, consider some helpful resources like the local humane society. Animal care facilities such as these will often have some leads on pet-friendly housing available in the community.

If nothing presents itself from these resources, make a list of the most desirable areas you’d like to move to. Some housing will accept a limited range of pets or have a weight limit on dogs such as 20 pounds. Even if a location has specifications that are outside your dog’s size, you are more likely to negotiate your way in if you can prove you are a conscientious pet owner.

One of the most likely places to find some negotiating leverage is in private housing. Approach a potential landlord with the willingness to show them what a responsible dog owner you are.

Dog training

If your dog isn’t already trained, it’s a good idea to find a reputable trainer for your dog. Unless your dog is highly disobedient, trainers can get most breeds up to standards within a few months. A well-trained dog makes a positive impression and also provides useful supporting documentation to show a landlord.

Powers of Persuasion

Consider the situation from the home owner’s or landlord’s position. You wouldn’t want a dog messing up your rental any more than you would want a person to. In this way you have a great opportunity to make the right impression. A reliable pet owner would likely make a conscientious renter too.

Be willing to put down the extra money for a pet damage deposit. This shows the owner that you take responsibility and are serious about making this arrangement work. Lastly, get the agreement in writing.

Get the job… I mean home!

Persuading a landlord to let your dog move in along with you is not so different than a job interview with a company. You need to convince them you’re a safe bet for the position. Just like a job interview, now is the time to boast your (or in this case your dog’s) qualifications. Bring your pet in to meet the landlord and see for themselves how well-behaved it is.

Make a file of all papers relating to your pet and bring it with you when you talk to a landlord. Words are nice, but official documents are always more persuasive. Veterinary records showing a clean bill of health are recommended. Proudly show any training certifications your dog has successfully completed. If you don’t have any relevant documentation, ask a trusted veterinarian to give you a positive statement about your pet’s obedience, health, and great behavior.

Living High – Looking for Luxury Homes

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There’s nothing like moving in to that beautiful 5 bedroom 4 bath tucked away in the woods. Whether you’re searching for a five-star dream home or the ultimate oasis in the desert, this house hunt is an exciting step in your life.

This is also likely the biggest single purchase you will ever make. Obviously, you want to do this right. To aid you in your quest, we’re offering four strategic snippets of advice for your luxury home query.

1) Find an experienced agent

It’s always a good idea to connect with a reliable REALTOR®, but even more important in the luxury home market. Not only do the house prices rise, but so do the price of amenities that come with a high-end home.

When you sit down with a potential broker, bear in mind a few extra questions:

  • Does the broker have a good track record? (i.e. has he or she got a decent number of sales under their belt?)
  • Does the broker know the area you are interested in like a local?
  • Has the broker handled several luxury home sales before?

2) Know what you want

You’re in the realm of luxury homes now. Think big because the sky’s the limit! Okay, unless you’ve got your own oil wells, that might be an exaggeration. However, high-end homes typically boast a multitude of extraordinary conveniences and it’s important to know what you want before beginning your search.

Are you an avid chef? While most luxury homes will have gorgeous kitchens, make sure the layout is to your liking. The best kitchens are beautiful and functional. Having ample counter space laid out in a practical manner allows your culinary skills to shine. You might need your own movie theater to chill in after dinner. After a good work out in your exercise room, there’s nothing better than relaxing in your spa.

3) Learn about the area

I know we use the word “research” a lot on this blog, but it really is important. Find out all you can about the surrounding area of your ideal location. Make sure that beautiful view from the second story balcony won’t be obscured by a high rise development in a couple years. Ask your broker about the zoning and land nearby.

4) Study market trends

Time your purchase when the supply of luxury homes is high and the prices are down. In the luxury home buying game, it is better to not be in a hurry. If possible, take your time in this process and your purchase will be one you can be happy with for years to come.

Summary

Buying a luxury home is an exciting milestone. Prepare for this significant purchase with a solid list of what you want, team up with a knowledgeable real estate agent, and you’re on your way to luxury living.

 

A Model Home: 3 Inexpensive Ways to Increase Your Home Value

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Ways to Increase Your Home Value 

No one wants to see tacky walls and broken drawers. A handful of minor improvements can be the difference between selling or sitting. There are a lot of ways to spruce up your listing even on a tight budget. Here are some cost-effective fix-up projects to boost the value of your home.

 

Get in Sink

Over time water corrodes the seal around sinks and faucets. This not only can cause leaks but lead to icky-looking counter tops. Tubs and their surroundings need some TLC too. Thankfully, resealing sinks and tubs is a relatively easy task. Get some caulk and fill in those deteriorated seals. It goes a long way to sprucing up any kitchen or bathroom. If you are uncertain what kind of caulk is right for your sink, it’s a good idea to inquire at your local hardware store.

Get a Handle on Things

Get a grip on your home’s appeal and purchase some replacement handles for cabinets and drawers. Hardware stores generally have inexpensive options for handles, but whatever style you choose to buy just be sure they all match the same style. Potential buyers will subconsciously like the consistent look in your home and of course a fresher image all around.

Give Your Home a Facelift
Perhaps the most significant improvement you can make to your home is repainting the walls. Nothing infuses a house with new life like a fresh coat of paint. In most cases, you’ll want to go for a neutral tone that gives the house a nice, clean look. Potential buyers will see a bright, blank canvas in which they can picture themselves.

At the same time you do some repainting, you’ll have the opportunity to fill in small holes made by nails and thumbtacks. Unless the hole is really big, most can be fixed with a touch of spackle or similar paste. Most stores carry a specific, easy-to-use nail hole patch which can conveniently be administered through a long-nosed applicator.

You can give your home an additional boost with some wallpaper. Depending on the tone you chose when painting, matching wallpaper can transform any room from ordinary to stylish. If you don’t feel like you have the decorating gene, it’s okay. From plenty of inspirational imagery that can be found online to creative advice from the paint department, there are plenty of ways to get the creative support you and your home need.

It’s Always Good to Ask: Questions for Your Listing Agent

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It’s Always Good to Ask:

Questions for Your Listing Agent

Selling your home? Need a listing agent but not sure what questions to ask? It’s not simple, and you probably already have enough on your plate getting your house ready to sell. So, where to begin? You don’t know what you don’t know. That’s why we’re here today to offer some tips on asking questions once you sit down with your potential real estate agent.

 

Numbers do matter

Don’t be shy. Ask your real estate agent how many sales they closed last year. Don’t judge them solely on this information but at least find out if they have a moderate rate of sales. Additionally, ask about the price of the homes they sold to see if they are similar in range to what you want to sell. It’s better for everyone if you and your agent are on the same page. A better match for you means a better match for them, so it’s a win-win situation.

 

Marketing

Like selling anything today, a good sales plan depends heavily on good marketing. Inquire about your potential listing agent’s sales plan. Do they plan to create a video of your house and surrounding area? Professional photography is a must. While you don’t need to be involved in every detail of this plan, it is smart to be in the loop. Stay informed with these questions:

  • What will I need to do?
  • What marketing materials will you create (i.e. mailers, video, etc.)?
  • Can you give me an estimated time frame for the listing to sell?

 

Credentials

You might wonder why this item wasn’t the first in the list? Well, it’s simple. If you sat down with a real estate agent long enough to discuss the first two points of this post, you’ve likely already identified this agent’s credentials. More importantly, you’ve determined their knowledge far beyond just their credentials. Of course, it is recommended to ask about an agent’s qualifications just to be sure they have the minimum requirements. However, a cursory discussion of your first few questions should say almost everything about a listing agent. Trust your gut. If you don’t feel comfortable with a particular agent after talking about your concerns, move on.

 

How much will this cost?

With all the expenses of fixing up those pesky little issues with a house and moving, it’s a good idea to know how much your listing agent is going to cost you. In some cases, you’ll only pay your agent a percentage when the house sells, but it is smart to clarify that before getting involved with a marketing and sales plan. You don’t need any surprise fees added to your plate. Keep everything out in the open about your budget and avoid unnecessary expenses.

MUST-DO MAINTENANCE:

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The quickest fix is to not have the problem in the first place. Here’s a checklist of items every homeowner should get to regularly.

1. Test your garage door opener monthly to ensure that it reverses when it hits an obstruction or when its sensor beam is interrupted.

2. Vacuum the clothes dryer’s exhaust duct at least once a year. If the duct is plastic, replace it (it’s a fire hazard). Rigid sheet-metal ducting is best.

3. Replace furnace filters quarterly, or as recommended by the furnace manufacturer.

4. Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets monthly. Press the test button and use a voltage tester to make sure the power goes off.

5. Clean leaves and debris from the condenser of a central air conditioner seasonally.

6. Once a year, vacuum the refrigerator coils underneath the appliance.

7. Have the fireplace chimney inspected and cleaned annually.

8. Inspect window and door caulking and weather stripping yearly.

9. Replace the batteries in smoke detectors yearly. And remember, even recent hard-wired smoke detectors have backup batteries that must be replaced. If you have never checked yours, do so.

Finding a Listing Agent

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Finding a Listing Agent

With just a cursory glance, you probably find a dozen different local real estate agents in your area. You want to sell your house, but how do you know which agent is right for you? Like choosing anything, a little research goes a long way in getting better results.

Credibility

The first step in choosing a listing agent begins with credibility. Let’s start with a little information on the types of representatives that are out there. There are real estate agents, brokers, and Realtors, but what is the difference between all of these? And why do Realtors get capitalized?

To put it simply, a real estate broker has completed a broker’s exam and therefore has the right to work independently or with others whereas a real estate agent must work for a broker or Realtor.

Back to the question of why a Realtor gets their title capitalized— well, it’s simple. “Realtor” is a trademark and indicates an individual who is a member of the National Association of Realtors. This distinction does assure that he or she has the extra training and knowledge on realty-related issues beyond a state’s particular laws, but it is not necessarily the criteria by which to choose a reliable agent.

 

Ask Others

When it comes to finding a listing agent, it’s hard to beat good ol’ word-of-mouth. There’s no credibility like first-hand positive experience. Ask your friends or co-workers who sold their houses. This will at least give you a starting point and even if you don’t like the agent your friend used, you’ve got a foot in the door of a real estate office where you can get a feel for the other agents working there.

While not as trustworthy as a friend’s word, testimonials on a website are a great source for determining a listing agent’s reliability. As long as there are more than just a couple testimonials available, it won’t be too difficult to get a cursory idea about someone.

 

Experience

Perhaps more important than anything else, experience says the most about a listing agent. Whether a real estate agent, broker, or Realtor, an individual’s track record conveys the most about them. Find out how long an agent has been licensed and what their typical time-frame is for sales.

Take a look at your house inside and out and consider what kind of potential buyers you might have. Does your property have enough space for an RV lover? Maybe your home is ideally suited for a large family. In whatever way your house can be highlighted, find out what kinds of listings your prospective listing agent has successfully sold. Someone who has proven themselves selling similar listings is likely a good match for you.