Agent Crate – Linen

Your Tax Refund Can Get You One Step Closer to Homeownership

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 19:14:00 GMT

Saving money each month toward a long-term goal is increasingly difficult for
most people. Even committed savers can get thrown off track when unexpected
problems or opportunities arise. It can be difficult to envision how $200 a month
can add up to a new home; the dream of home ownership continues to get
pushed back in favor of more immediate needs.

For many of these potential homebuyers, their tax refund can be a big step
forward in their saving goals. Received in a lump sum, a tax refund is easier to see
as a meaningful dollar amount. The average IRS refund in 2019 was almost
$3,000. This, added to an already growing savings account, can be a great bonus.
In addition to adding to your down payment fund, a tax refund can also be used
to increase your credit score. Debt accumulation and use is the largest factor in
determining a borrower’s credit score (FICO). A low FICO score can result in
thousands of extra dollars in interest and origination fees when getting a home
loan.

Working with a lender, strategically reducing the debt ratio can add
borrowing power to a potential buyer; lowering the cost of the loan and allowing
more of the monthly payment to go toward the home itself instead of interest.
It’s tax refund time. Before you head to the electronics store to put that money
toward a bigger TV, consider how your tax refund can help you achieve your
home ownership goals.

Say What? Home-Buying Lingo You Should Know

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 18:48:00 GMT

If you are a first time home buyer or even a repeat buyer, you quickly realize that real estate has a language all its own. Understanding some of the lingo can help you navigate the process a little easier. By learning a few critical terms, you will be in a better position to ask the right questions and make the best decisions.

These are just a few of the common terms used in real estate. If you are involved in a real estate transaction, learning a bit of the common lingo will help you understand the process better and make your home sale or purchase a smooth one.

Choosing the Right Offer

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 14:22:00 GMT

Congratulations, you have multiple offers on your home listing. It’s exciting to hear that you have a choice in buyers. Yet how can you make sure that you choose the right offer? With varying sales prices and terms, comparing offers might be harder than you expected. Still – it’s a great problem to have.

If you find yourself in a multiple offer situation, the first step is to meet with your agent to discuss each offer in detail. What are the actual differences? It’s easy to see what price they offer, but what about the other items – the terms, the financing, the contingencies.

Working with your agent, consider all the elements which go into an offer; then you’ll be in the best position to determine the best option for your financial goals, timeframes and needs.

Latest Kitchen Backsplash Trends

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 14:13:00 GMT

Summer is upon us and home designers are hard at work showcasing the upcoming trends for 2020. This year, kitchen design shows are filled with new materials, patterns and colors as enthusiasts look for the latest trends and styles.

As we leave the dark granite countertops behind, kitchens are getting lighter, brighter and more streamlined looks. These new backsplashes are design statement pieces in their own right, creating a uniquely modern feel to the space. With a focus on sleek surfaces and natural elements, here are the latest trends for kitchen backsplashes.

2020 design trends are contemporary and exciting. After years of cozy kitchens and dark woods, these kitchens are light and bright; mixing soft natural stone and wood with hard, urban features for a modern, functional kitchen that suits any home style.

Moving With Pets

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 17:56:00 GMT

Make the Move Easier on Your Furry Friends Moving day can be stressful on everyone. Regardless of how carefully you plan your move, the day itself is still filled with activity and unexpected issues which can cause anxiety. If you have pets, imagine how unsettled they feel as their environment is packed up and taken […]

#1 Reason Listings Expire

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 17:55:00 GMT

Nothing is more frustrating to a home seller than to have their home sit on the market without an offer. Selling a home is a big decision and an emotional one. By the time a homeowner determines the time is right to sell, they are ready to move. In addition, keeping a home show-ready is […]