The Hidden Reasons Homes Linger on the Market

When a home sits on the market longer than expected, the price is often the first thing blamed. While overpricing can be a major factor, it's far from the only one. One of the most common culprits is poor presentation. Buyers today form opinions within seconds, often based on online photos before they even step foot inside.  Homes that are cluttered, outdated, poorly lit, or in need of deep cleaning may leave a negative impression. Listing photos that are dark, grainy, or unprofessional can stop interest before it starts.  Accessibility and Showings Another big reason homes don’t move quickly is limited…
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Inspecting Foreclosures Before You Buy

If you have been thinking about investing in a foreclosure property, you will want to make sure the home you choose does not have major hidden issues. Before hiring a professional inspector, you can do a preliminary check by looking out for some of these common problem areas: CeilingsCeilings are typically made of plaster or plasterboard. Keep an eye out for: Cracks, holes, or uneven areas Dampness or mold growth Crumbling surfaces Bulging or cracked spots WallsWalls may show similar signs of damage as ceilings, but also look for: Loose skirting boards Dampness or rot Discoloration, blisters, or peeling wallpaper…
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What Do Points Have to Do With Real Estate?

You may have heard of points when looking for real estate. Maybe your loan officer told you that you can trade points for a better interest rate. That sounds good, but just what are points? We'll give you a better idea of just what points are and how they work. What Are Points?Points, more specifically discount points, are a percentage of the total loan amount for the house that is pre-paid to the lender. Each point is worth one percent. Your lender may offer a lower interest rate for your mortgage loan if you buy discount points.  What do Discount…
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