Understanding the MLS

The MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, is an online database of homes that are listed for sale. Most real estate agents are members of the MLS, as well as local real estate brokerages. The service works by consolidating information, which allows even the smallest listing brokerages to connect with brokers who have clients looking to buy. Realtors or brokerages will …

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Sell Your Home Without Getting Sued!

There are countless details to stay on top of when you’re trying put your home on the market, and the last thing you need is to deal with legal action. Here’s how to avoid lawsuits of any kind on your journey to sell your house. Provide the proper disclosures You’ll need to provide the disclosure documents after you’ve accepted a …

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Do You Need a Permit for That Home Renovation?

Whether you take on a home improvement project solo or hire a professional, it’s important to make sure all the bases are covered before you even get started. If you forget to obtain the right permits, you risk breaking municipal building code. Yes, permits can cost from about $200 to somewhere in the low thousands, depending on the project. But …

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Don’t Forget These Home Inspections Before Buying

While a general home inspection should always be performed prior to purchasing any home, it may not cover some of the finer details. Here are types of home inspections you’ll want to make sure you have done before making your final decision: Asbestos Although there are home asbestos-testing kits, it’s best if you have a licensed inspector collect fiber samples …

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Getting the Best Mortgage Possible

When looking to purchase a new home, of course you’ll want to ensure you’re getting a great property for a great price. Why not apply those standards to shopping for a mortgage? There are countless lenders out there, and that means you shouldn’t settle for a mediocre loan. Here are a few tips on how to find the best possible …

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Choosing the Right Buyer’s Agent

Do your research   Check your state’s real estate licensing board for any complaints filed against an agent you are considering working with. Ask for testimonials to gauge client satisfaction. If you can, ask for the contact information of a past client. This could provide you with a valuable opinion on whether or not this real estate agent is the …

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Reasons to Remodel

The National Association of Realtors released a new annual report earlier this week called the 2015 Remodeling Impact Report, which examines the results of remodeling for both realtors and homeowners. This report is the first of its kind, and shows how strategic remodeling projects can have a significantly positive impact on home equity— and even bring in more offers! Below …

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Buying a Home in the Winter?

While the real estate market starts to heat up around the spring season, it’s not the only time to find a new home. Here are some surprising reasons why you may want to reconsider putting your search on hold until the warmer months. You might get a better deal The average rate of price increases for homes in the US …

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Highlights from This Month’s HOME Survey

Yesterday, the National Association of Realtors released their quarterly household survey tracking current real estate trends. The Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) survey can be viewed in full here; below are some of the most interesting highlights about homeowner attitude, expectations for the real estate market, and more.   Half of surveyed American households believe the economy is currently …

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