According to the latest report from Black Knight, Inc., a well-respected provider of data and analytics for mortgage companies, 6.48 million households have entered a forbearance plan as a result of financial concerns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s where these homeowners stand right now: 2,543,000 (39%) are current on their payments and have left the program 625,000 (9%) have paid off their mortgages 434,000 (7%) have negotiated a repayment plan and have left the program 2,254,000 (35%) have extended their original forbearance plan 512,000 (8%) are still in their original … Continue reading...
What’s the Difference between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection?
If you’re planning to buy a home, an appraisal is an important step in the process. It’s a professional evaluation of the market value of the home you’d like to buy. In most cases, an appraisal is ordered by the lender to confirm or verify the value of the home prior to lending a buyer money for the purchase. It’s also a different step in the process from a home inspection, which assesses the condition of the home before you finalize the transaction. Here’s the breakdown of each one and why they’re both important when buying a home. Home Appraisal The National Association of Realtors (NAR) … Continue reading...
Why Moving May Be Just the Boost You Need
As we look back over the past year, we’ve certainly lived through one of the most stressful periods in recent history. After spending so much more time at home throughout the health crisis, some are wondering if they should move to improve their mental health and well-being. This is no surprise since the U.S. Census Bureau reported an increase in the percentage of adults with symptoms of anxiety and depression in a recent Household Pulse Survey. There’s logic behind the idea that making a move could improve someone’s quality of life. When people change their scenery, they often feel happier. … Continue reading...
Financial Fundamentals for Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights When you’re thinking about buying a home, there are a few key steps to take before you even start to look at houses. From saving for your down payment to getting pre-approved for a mortgage, you’ll want to make sure you keep your financial plan on track from the beginning. Let’s connect today to make sure you have an introduction to a trusted lender and the best possible real estate guidance as you begin your homebuying process. … Continue reading...
Search Properties on ClearLakeIARealtor.com
Did you know you can search properties on my website? Click here to check out our full MLS search on my website! Simply enter the qualities you want most in a home and instantly view homes that match your criteria! … Continue reading...
PROPERTY WATCH: Be the First to Know
Did you know the hottest homes on the market often sell within days of being listed? By signing up to receive email alerts you can stay on top of the hottest homes! Click here to create a custom search and set up unlimited Property Alerts! … Continue reading...
Search Available Homes for Sale by Interactive Map
See available homes for sale by Interactive Map! My Advanced Map search can show you properties using several advanced tools. Zoom in on any area to see homes for sale, draw boundaries around a particular area or select a radius around a certain point. … Continue reading...
Three Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Dream Home
If you are debating purchasing a home right now, you are probably getting a lot of advice. Though your friends and family will have your best interest at heart, they may not be fully aware of your needs and what is currently happening in the real estate market. Ask yourself the following 3 questions to help determine if now is actually a good time for you to buy in today’s market. 1. Why am I buying a home in the first place? This truly is the most important question to answer. Forget the finances for a minute. Why did you even begin to consider purchasing a home? For most, the reason has … Continue reading...
10-Step Guide to Buying a House
Check out this great Realtor.com resource! You'll find 10 great articles here to help guide you through the home buying process! Are You Ready to Become a Homeowner? Whether you’re becoming a homeowner for the first time or you’re a repeat buyer, buying a house is a financial and emotional decision that requires the experience and support of a team of reliable professionals. 6 Habits All Successful Home Buyers Have in Common Here's a breakdown of home-buying habits to adopt now, especially if you hope to start looking once home-buying season is in full swing come spring. These … Continue reading...
Seller Advice from the Experts
What is Dual Agency? When a buyer is represented by the same brokerage firm that has the listing, it is called dual agency. When one agent represents both the buyer and the seller in a real estate transaction. Listing Agent vs. Buyer Agent: Who Works for You? It may seem perfectly logical to call the agent on the yard sign while driving around your dream neighborhood searching for your next house. 6 Creative Open House Ideas To Sell Your Home Fast It’s easy to see the value of an open house—a designated time for prospective REALTORS® and buyers to scope out your home while on … Continue reading...