Buying a Home Archives - Page 2 of 6

June 22, 2023 by changescapeweb

Finding a Top Real Estate Agent in St. Charles County

If you’re thinking about buying or selling your property, finding the right real estate agent can mean the difference between a frustrating, second-rate experience and a smooth, successful transaction. When it comes to finding the right agent, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the number of real estate agents available. But settling for an inexperienced real estate agent can leave you wishing you’d taken more time to find the perfect fit. That’s why knowing what to look for in a top real estate agent in St. Charles County, Missouri is essential.

Don’t Settle for Less

Here are four reasons why finding a top local agent is so important:

When buying or selling property, elevate your real estate experience with an experienced agent with thorough knowledge of the area. Working with an agent who provides outstanding service ensures you will make the most of your investment.
Working with a top local agent will also give you access to the best opportunities in the market. A top real estate agent will have extensive connections within the industry and know where to find the best properties for sale.
They’ll also have the experience and expertise to negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the best possible price for your property.
Another significant advantage of working with a top real estate agent is that they’ll have access to the latest market data and trends. This information is invaluable when making a buying or selling decision, as it helps you determine the right time to buy or sell.

Experience, Expertise, and Excellence

When finding your ideal real estate agent in St. Charles County and St. Louis County, the key is to look for experience, expertise, and excellence. These qualities will ensure the most successful and stress-free buying or selling experience possible. One of the best ways to find the right real estate agent is to research agents.

Look for agents with a proven track record of success and an excellent reputation within the industry.
Look for an agent who is a Licensed Real Estate Sales and Marketing Specialist.
Ensure they are members of the Missouri Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
Make sure they have positive client reviews and testimonials.
Ask friends, family, and colleagues for referrals, as well.

Property and Area Expertise

It’s also essential to look for an agent who specializes in the type of property you’re looking to buy or sell. This could include single-family homes, multifamily properties, commercial real estate, or land. Look for experience in the local area to guide you through the buying or selling process and help you avoid common pitfalls. Working with an agent specializing in your property type will ensure they have the expertise to guide you through the process and achieve your goals.

Top-Notch Marketing Skills

Another essential quality to consider when selecting a real estate agent is their marketing skills. A great real estate agent will have a comprehensive marketing plan to promote your property to the broadest possible audience. Top real estate agents may also have access to exclusive marketing tools and platforms, such as virtual tours and 3D imaging, further increasing the visibility of your property.

Outstanding Customer Service

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of personal compatibility and high customer service. You want to work with someone who you feel comfortable with and can trust. A great real estate agent will take the time to get to know you, your needs, and your priorities so they can provide you with the best possible service and results. A great real estate agent will keep you updated throughout the buying or selling process and be available to answer any questions. Working with a friendly, trustworthy, and professional agent is essential.

In Conclusion

When it comes to finding the perfect real estate agent in St. Charles and St. Louis counties, don’t settle for mediocrity. Take the time to research and find an exceptional agent who can elevate your real estate experience and help you achieve your goals. With the right real estate agent on your side, you’ll have the confidence and support you need to make the most of your investment and enjoy a smooth, successful transaction.

Work With a Top Rated Real Estate Professional

Sandra Meranda has extensive knowledge as one of the top real estate agents in the St. Charles & St. Louis county areas. With the resources of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alliance Real Estate, she makes selling or buying your St. Charles or St. Louis county home as “Stress-free” as possible. Sandra has been a Licensed Real Estate Sales and Marketing Specialist since 1999. She is also a Member of the Missouri Association of Realtors, the St. Charles Association of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors. Whether you are buying or selling a home in St. Charles County, Sandra Meranda can help. Call 314-691-1320 to schedule a consultation and a free market analysis of your property.

February 1, 2023 by changescapeweb

Home Buying Tips for 2023

Home Buying Tips

If a new home is on the 2023 wish list, now is a great time to start planning. Buying a home is a big decision, and being prepared will make your home search more successful. Follow these home-buying tips to make the process easier.

5 Tips for Buyers

1. Figure How Much House You Can Afford

Before you start shopping, figure out how much you can safely spend on a house. A variety of free online home affordability calculators can help set a price range based on your income, debt, down payment, credit score, and preferred neighborhood. NerdWallet and Zillow both have easy to use online calculators.

2. Check Your Credit Score

It is not uncommon to find errors on a credit report. If you find any errors, get them corrected immediately. Take the time to boost your credit score and pay down debts. This allows you to qualify for the best mortgage rate. Don’t make any large purchases before you close on your home. Lenders will typically pull your credit report one last time before closing to ensure there are no changes to your credit score.

3. Get Pre-Approved

Before you start house shopping, get pre-approved by a local and reputable mortgage lender. The approval significantly strengthens your offer when you find a home to purchase. Take time to evaluate mortgage options and decide which will be most advantageous to your long-term financial goals.

4. Interview Real Estate Agents

An experienced agent can give you the upper hand in a seller’s market, from assisting with a competitive offer to expediting your search. The right agent will help with the entire process, point out issues with properties, and negotiate better contract terms. You will likely spend a lot of time with your real estate agent, so make sure you choose someone easy to communicate with and whom you trust.

5. Vet Several Neighborhoods

When searching for a home, be mindful to consider your daily commute to work, schools, grocery stores, and other necessities. The location of a home can significantly impact your daily life and schedule. Once you’ve narrowed your focus to two or three neighborhoods, go and get a feel for what it might be like to live there. Are the homes tidy and well-maintained? Are the streets busy or quiet? Do you feel safe during the day and night? Drive through the area at different times during the day and evening. Whether you have children or not, research the local school system because it will impact the long-term value of your home.

6. Understand All of the Costs

Just because you can afford a mortgage doesn’t mean you afford the long-term costs associated with a particular home. One of the most important steps to buying a property is understanding the total cost of ownership. There are a lot of fees that come with a home purchase beyond the mortgage. Insurance, necessary repairs, property taxes, and homeowner association (HOA) fees should all be considered. Before buying a condo or house with a homeowner’s association, thoroughly read the HOA’s bylaws. The HOA’s bylaws should spell out how responsibilities are divided between the HOA and members of the community.

Today Is a Great Time to Start Your Home Search

Following these home-buying tips will make the process smoother and less stressful. Having an experienced local realtor on your side is essential. Whether you are buying or selling a home in St. Charles County, Sandra Meranda can help. Call 314-691-1320 to schedule a consultation.

March 4, 2022 by changescapeweb

9 Ways to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Creating a great first impression starts from the outside. If a home has good curb appeal, that means it’s attractive to the eye and inspires confidence. Curb appeal is an effective way to get potential buyers in the door. Great curb appeal helps sell a home faster and often for more money because of its positive impact on buyers.

Even in today’s low-inventory housing market, it’s essential to evaluate your home’s curb appeal before putting it on the market. Not putting some effort into ensuring your home’s exterior looks its best can deter potential buyers and drive down the perceived value of your home. It often doesn’t take much time or money to improve your home’s curb appeal.

Nine Ways to Improve Your Curb Appeal

1. Declutter and Clean
Keep your driveway, walkways, and lawn free of unnecessary clutter. Gather and store toys, yard tools, old newspapers, garden hoses, and excessive lawn ornaments. Simplify so that your home’s architecture and landscaping are what people notice.

2. Wash the Siding and Windows
If your home’s exterior is dirty, use a pressure washer to remove dust, grime, mold, mildew, and algae stains from the siding. Make sure to thoroughly clean windows both inside and out. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure your windows are free from streaks, dirt, and dust.

3. Upgrade Your Mailbox
If your mailbox has seen better days, replace it. Choose a mailbox that blends in with others in your neighborhood. Add flowers at the base for a pop of color. Remember to place easy-to-read house numbers on the new mailbox.

4. Replace Your House Numbers
Nothing is more frustrating than not being able to locate an address when you’re house hunting. If your house numbers are faded, too small, or out of style, replace them. Look for modern house numbers made from aluminum, brass, or steel. If possible, match the finish on your home’s exterior light fixtures.

5. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Overgrown yards not only block the view of a home, but they also look uninviting to neighbors and potential buyers. Overgrown landscaping can damage the siding on your home and act as a natural bridge for squirrels, raccoons, and mice that might try to gain access to your home. To keep your home from looking unkempt, regularly trim shrubs and trees.

6. Clean Driveways and Sidewalks
Too often, it’s easy to focus on the landscaping and forget about the hardscape areas, including concrete sidewalks and driveways. Use a pressure washer to clean off dirt and grime and give these areas a fresh, clean appearance. Ensure paver stones, stepping stones, or bricks are secure and create safe footing for visitors walking to and from your home.

7. Stage Your Front Entrance
Your home’s front entrance is the focal point of your curb appeal. Thoroughly clean the entrance and add a new doormat. Make a statement by giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. If your door is outdated or damaged, replace it with a new entry door. Liveable outdoor space is in high demand. If you have a front porch, add furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere. Even a small chair or table can boost an entrance area’s curb appeal.

8. Replace or Paint Shutters
Shutters are a focal point on homes, so paint or replace them if yours are faded, chipped, or look outdated. Updating your shutters with a fresh coat of paint will give your home an instant upgrade for minimal cost. Replacing dated or damaged shutters is a low-cost upgrade that will instantly improve your home’s appearance.

9. Clean and Repair the Roof and Gutters
Your roof makes up a large percentage of your home’s exterior. If your roof is damaged, dirty, or missing shingles, it can hurt the value of your home. Sometimes a thorough cleaning and minor repairs are all that is needed to make your roof look new again. Make sure gutters are clean and properly attached to your home as well.

First Impressions Matter in Real Estate
You only get one chance to make a first impression. Buyers often assume that a home with good curb appeal has been well maintained and is worth more than similar homes. A few simple upgrades can improve your home’s curb appeal and make it more appealing to prospective buyers when it’s time to sell your home.

June 23, 2021 by changescapeweb

8 Tips for Buying a Home In a Seller’s Market

Buying a home can be an emotional process. Searching for financing, setting a budget, attending open houses, dealing with home inspections, appraisals and more can make the entire process stressful at the best of times. But when you’re trying to purchase a home in a seller’s market, the challenges increase dramatically.

A seller’s market is one where there are more people wanting to buy homes than houses for sale. Low home inventory pushes up prices and bidding wars have become common in some areas of the country. In addition to higher prices and the need to make quick decisions, homebuyers face stiff competition from other buyers who are often ready to waive all contingencies. These tips can help make the home buying process less stressful:

Set a Realistic Budget

Taking the time to determine exactly what you need and can afford before you start house hunting is important. It’s best to limit house shopping to properties that are within your established budget. People who look at homes outside their budgets often end up in the dangerous position of trying to stretch beyond their means or end up feeling unsatisfied with what they can actually afford.

Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan

By obtaining a preapproval for a mortgage before you start your home search, you’ll know exactly how much buying power you have. To obtain pre-approval, a borrower has to submit basic financial information and provide access to their credit report. Sellers are more likely to accept an offer from a pre-approved buyer because it means there will be fewer issues finalizing the mortgage.

Be Patient and Flexible

It’s not unusual for buyers to submit numerous offers before they finally have one accepted. When inventory is low, homebuyers often can’t afford to wait for the perfect house to hit the market. Distinguishing between what is fixable and what is not is a key part of house-hunting. If a home meets your needs in terms of location and size, small cosmetic imperfections should not be a deterrent to making an offer. Adjusting your expectations can expand your options but don’t compromise on true essentials. For example, you shouldn’t buy a two-bedroom home if you know you need three bedrooms to comfortably accommodate your entire family.

Make a Cash Offer

For sellers, an all-cash offer is very appealing and leads to a higher likelihood of your offer being accepted. If you don’t have to use a mortgage lender, there’s no financing contingency, which shows sellers you aren’t likely to pull out of the deal due to financial problems. Cash sales can also happen quicker and lead to a smoother home sale.

Waive Extra Contingencies

In a seller’s market, many buyers submit an offer without certain contingencies as a way to stand out from competing offers. Waiving contingencies gives the sellers an advantage by taking away protections from the buyer and should only be done with the recommendation and oversight of an experienced real estate agent. Skipping home inspections can be risky for buyers, so it’s important to understand exactly what you are forfeiting as a homebuyer if you decide to waive contingencies.

Be Willing to Negotiate

Both buying and selling are stressful, so being willing to work with a seller is important. A vital aspect of successfully negotiating a home purchase is understanding what the seller wants and it’s not always the highest offer. For example, if a seller needs extra time to vacate due to another home purchase or construction, you may be able to grant them additional time in exchange for something you want – like having the home repainted. With houses selling quickly, some homebuyers are agreeing to rent the seller the house for 30 days after purchase, so they have time to look for a new house, in exchange for a discounted purchase price.

Work With An Experienced Agent

Buying a new home is stressful even in the best of times. In a seller’s market, homebuyers need all of the help they can get. An experienced real estate agent can save both time and money by helping you find the right property and negotiating with the seller on your behalf. They can help you determine if your budget is realistic for the area and point you to nearby neighborhoods that might also meet your needs. Agents can also refer you to other professionals like home inspectors, contractors, appraisers and title companies during the home buying process.

Don’t Rush the Process

Finally, don’t feel pressured to buy a property you don’t feel good about – even in a seller’s market. Buying a house that you really don’t like or that doesn’t fit your needs is never a wise decision. Purchasing a home is the single biggest financial transaction most of us ever make so it’s important to take your time and make the right decision – even in a seller’s market.

August 14, 2020 by changescapeweb

Go Big and Go Home

Source: New City Movers