Archive for the 'Buyer Info' Category

Real Estate Tips for 2013

2013 has shown to be a promising year. With real estate movements up, demand is starting to finally catch up with the supply and there have been significantly fewer distressed properties weighing down the real estate system. The real estate market is beginning to thaw out so with a new year upon us, here are some real estate tips for 2013.

Stop Waiting

For those good credit buyers who are currently waiting for the bottom of the market, heads up, it’s already passed. But the good news is that home and interest prices are still very low. For sellers who are currently waiting for market improvements, it’s here! So if possible, get ready to jump back into the game. The rules have changed though. Lenders are currently wanting buyers to put a little more into the game so expect to make a higher down payment than those before. Do note that sellers will more than likely discover that buyers are having a harder qualifying for mortgages.

Buyer Qualifications

Save your time and potential money. Make sure all of your buyers are pre-approved. This means they’ve already had their credit and employment checked and they know how much they can borrow. You should have your agent call their loan officers. Those who are serious will find this acceptable as it shows they are ready to buy.

Impressions

Almost the entirety of home searches begin online. Be wary of bad qualify photos. Consider hiring a professional photographer or videographer to create the best presentation of your home. Think about how to capture the different seasons. When in winter, show how the sun shines down onto the snow. In the spring, show your blooming blossoms. Summer shots could show your shimmering pool or beautiful lawn. Show off those vibrant autumn leaves. Always make sure to think vividly, not deceptively. Photos should always accurately show the true depths. Interiors should be right and uncluttered and highlight the absolute best outdoor views. Debate removing some of your furniture for your photos and brighten up any dark rooms.

Renovations

Sometimes a remodel can help you sell your home but these days it rarely pays for itself. The average remodeling payback has dropped from about 82% down to 57%. Unless your home is a complete disaster, only focus on the smaller things. Sellers will often underestimate the large positive impact from simple home improvements such as repainting or minor fix-ups.

Your Team

Before selecting your team, check out your potentials at the BBB or Angie’s List. Interview at least three different real estate agents, appraisers, title company, and if needed, an attorney, surveyor, or energy auditor. Read their reviews wisely.

Be Logical

Never use false hope. Make sure to price your home correctly from day one. Pricing needs to be based on comparable sales, neighborhood market trends, and an up-to-date appraisal. Never have a bloated price tag. Lower your price if no serious offers come through after the first 30-45 days

We’re working hard on the economy and are all very determined to pull out of our recession. With the home market improvement, this is the first step forward. If you’re looking to purchase a home in the Highlands Ranch area, contact The Kuchar Team today, your Highlands Ranch realtor!

Rightsizing Your Housing

A Personal Perspective

About two years ago we had a huge six bedroom four bath house that met our needs well with three teenagers and a constant flow of their friends visiting etc.  We loved our big house with mountain views, finished basement and large yard and felt very comfortable there with plenty of friends in the neighborhood.  We realized looking ahead that our housing and financial needs would change in coming years and began to make plans for a transition.  Those plans anticipated an increase in expenses as our children entered college along with a decreased need of housing space as they moved out.  We now live comfortably in a three bedroom three bath home about half the total size we once had and couldn’t be happier.

Read the rest of this entry »

Market Sizzles as Summer Winds Down

Despite the anticipated seasonal slowdown usually expected toward the end of summer, the home market remains hot, with Metrolist reporting that the average days on market (DOM) is around 65 days. Just think: in a few months from now, your home could have a SOLD sign in the front yard.

Read the rest of this entry »

Upgrades That Matter When Selling Your Home

It’s no surprise that updated homes sell faster and for a higher price. However, it’s difficult to know which home improvements will give you the best bang for your buck. In general, you should start with any structural, mechanical or electrical issues.

Read the rest of this entry »

Top Ten Reasons to Call Me Today

10. Reduced commissions when you buy and sell through me.

9. I work directly with you throughout the process.

8. Professional home staging help.

Read the rest of this entry »