Buyers
Home Buying for Seniors – Considerations for Finding Just the Right Fit
There are multiple aspects to consider when a senior looks for a new home in their older years. Their priorities in a home will likely be very different compared to what was ideal years ago, and there may be some financing challenges to work through. Navigating the process can seem challenging, but there are some…
Read MoreFalling in Love with a Money Pit
There are many of us who dream of owning an older home, full of charm and personality. We imagine gorgeous woodwork, wrap-around porches, arched doorways, ornate fireplaces and sweeping carved staircases. All those hopes may come true, but be careful to evaluate the work and expense that can go along with owning an old house.…
Read MoreYour 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…
Read MoreHousing 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…
Read MoreA 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…
Read MoreChoosing 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…
Read MoreThe Importance of a Home Inspection
An inspection of the physical condition of a house should be included as a condition of closing the sale. Your real estate agent will make arrangements for a professional inspector to look for defects in the roof, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, paint, windows, doors, and foundation. The inspector will also check for dry…
Read MoreGrand Rapids – One of 2017 10 Hottest Real Estate Markets to Watch
Our grand city has made yet another national list! Grand Rapids always seems to be on a top ten list, be it for beer, art, tourism, and definitely real estate. This time Forbes Magazine has named Grand Rapids #4 on it’s list of 10 Hottest housing markets to watch. Grand Rapids is rising up the…
Read MoreMoving during the Holiday season? Here are some tips!
Trading in gift boxes for U-Haul boxes this holiday season? While it’s no one’s secret Christmas wish to move while the fluffy white stuff is flying outside and the stockings are already hung by the chimney with care, there are ways to make moving around the holidays a little less chaotic and a lot more…
Read MoreDo Your Wants Match Your Needs?
A good first step to buying a new home is to prioritize the amenities you really need the most. Be prepared to compromise a bit. Dreams of marble counter tops, gleaming hardwood floors and a pool in the backyard are great, but be careful to prioritize your real NEEDS over the WANTS. Separating the two…
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