The Homeowner's Advice Blog

Buy It, Don’t Blow It

You have found your dream house and the sellers have accepted your offer. It may seem like blue skies with nothing to do but pack and wait for the keys to the front door. However, be aware that there are still pitfalls to avoid so you don’t blow the deal before your closing date. Be […]

A Packing Tip Sheet

“Moving is easy and packing is fun,” said nobody ever! Packing up everything you own is stressful and tedious, so follow a few simple tips to make your move more streamlined. Give yourself time Packing can be overwhelming, so pace yourself to help keep things organized. Pack non-essential or off-season items weeks before your move. […]

The Highest Price May Not Be the Best

Much of the country is currently experiencing a strong sellers’ market. Homes are moving quickly and it’s quite likely a property may receive multiple offers. This is a strong position for you if you have your home on the market, but you need to be wise when judging which offer is actually the best one. […]

Reduce the Stress of Selling

There are many unavoidable tasks to tackle as you prepare to sell your home and move. However, you can reduce some of the stress with this checklist. Use it as a guide to avoid over-thinking and over-doing a few things. You’ve got enough to do already! First: Hire an Agent You want to get the […]

Your Closing Date is Key

There are advantages to choosing a closing date either close to the first or close to the last of the month. Whether you are the buyer or the seller, you have a vested interest in the closing date working for you. The date is negotiable until the contract offered by the buyer is accepted by […]

Housing Market Changes with the Seasons

Spring has sprung, which means the housing market is in full bloom. “For Sale” signs are sprouting up along with azaleas and dogwoods as buyers start to search for new homes. Each year, around 40 percent of real estate transactions occur between the months of May and August, with peak inventory times varying some depending […]

A Backup Offer Could Be Your Secret Weapon

If you are disappointed to find that someone else has already submitted a contract on your dream house, you may want to consider making a backup offer. The housing market has been tight everywhere in recent months, so discuss this option with your real estate agent if you really love the house. Backup offers don’t always work […]

A Seller’s “Love Letter”

Home inspections, sales history and a good school district are the kinds of things that tend to speak to a buyer’s head. A personal letter from you about your home can speak to the heart. A home sale is an emotional choice and a “love letter” about the features that have made your house a home […]

Choosing Between Two Perfect Houses

You’ve searched and searched, finding nothing that suits, when suddenly you’ve found not one, but two homes that would be perfect. What to do? First, remember that your housing market may demand that you come to a decision quickly. You don’t want your dream home to get away. Be prepared to make a prompt, reasonable […]