Category: Buying

Ten years ago, the idea of buying a new construction home often came with a higher price tag, typically around $60,000 more than an existing home. But today, things have changed. New homes and older properties are nearly on equal footing in terms of price, making new construction homes a more accessible option for many buyers.

Here are some reasons why a new construction home might be the perfect fit for you:

1. Modern Materials & Energy Efficiency

New homes are built with the latest materials and technologies, which means they’re often more energy-efficient and sustainable. This can lead to savings on your utility bills and a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

2. Customization Options

One of the biggest perks of buying new construction is the opportunity to personalize your home. From floor plans to finishes and appliances, you may have options to make it your own before you even step inside.

3. Worry-Free Living with Warranties

Most new homes come with warranties, covering major systems and appliances. This means fewer unexpected repairs and costly surprises. With new systems and appliances, you can settle in with peace of mind.

4. Modern Community Amenities

New construction homes are often part of planned communities with built-in amenities. Think walking trails, dog parks, playgrounds, and a community pool or clubhouse. These features add to your quality of life and make it easier to build connections with neighbors.

5. Move-In Ready

While fixer-uppers might sound fun, the reality is that major renovations require time, resources, and effort. With a new construction home, you can move in, hang a few pictures, and call it a day… perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

New construction homes typically take several months to complete, so patience is essential. But if you’re willing to wait, a brand-new home could be an excellent choice for your next move.

Want to learn more about the newest construction projects in our area? Schedule your strategy call today.

Source: “Old homes in the U.S. now cost just as much as new properties. Here’s why.” – CBS News

It might seem counterintuitive, but plenty of people still choose to buy homes even when interest rates are high. Why? Because in real estate, there are factors that sometimes matter more than interest rates alone. Here’s a look at some of the biggest reasons people move forward with home buying, despite higher borrowing costs.

1. Life Milestones

Life doesn’t wait for ideal market conditions. Major changes… like getting married, having kids, or starting a new job, often make a move necessary, regardless of interest rates. In these situations, finding the right home to fit your lifestyle takes priority over the cost of financing.

2. Less Competition

Higher interest rates usually mean bigger monthly payments, which can cause some buyers to hold back. But if you’re in the market, this can actually work to your advantage. With fewer people looking to buy, you’ll likely have less competition and a better shot at securing the home you want.

3. Negotiation Advantage

When there are fewer buyers, sellers are more likely to be open to negotiations. This could mean getting a better price or more favorable terms, like covering closing costs or making repairs. High rates could lead to a market where buyers have more leverage.

4. Hedge Against Inflation

Real estate is often a smart way to protect against inflation. As prices go up across the board, property values typically rise as well. This makes real estate a solid long-term investment, even in a high-interest rate environment. Your property value can grow over time, often outpacing inflation itself.

5. Value Over Cost

For some, the value of homeownership goes beyond finances. Owning a home offers stability, comfort, and a lifestyle that renting might not. If you find a home that truly aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals, it may be worth it, even with high rates.

6. Understanding Market Cycles

Markets have cycles, highs and lows. Buying when interest rates are high (and possibly when home prices are lower because there are fewer buyers) could set you up for gains when the market shifts. As interest rates eventually decline, property values often rise, potentially offering a rewarding return on investment.

In the end, there are plenty of reasons to consider buying, even with high interest rates. Let’s weigh what matters most to you. Schedule your strategy call today.

As the end of the year approaches, you might be wondering if you can still be settled into a new home in time for the holidays. The good news? It’s absolutely possible! If your 2024 to-do list includes “buy a house,” you’ve got just the right amount of time to make it happen before the year wraps up.

Here’s a simple month-by-month roadmap to help you get into a new home by year’s end:

October: Make Your Move

By October, it’s time to narrow down your favorite homes and submit offers. Your agent will help you navigate the negotiation process, ensuring you’re in the best position to get the home you want.

November: Finalize the Purchase

With an accepted offer in hand, November is all about sealing the deal. You’ll work with your lender, the seller, and other professionals to finalize the paperwork and prepare for closing. If everything goes smoothly, you’ll be ready to celebrate by month’s end!

December: Move In and Celebrate

Once the paperwork is complete, it’s time to move in! Deck the halls, settle into your new space, and enjoy the holidays in your very own home.

If you’re thinking about buying a home before the year is out, there’s still time. Schedule your strategy call today.

Ever wonder why some people seem to score incredible deals on homes while others miss out? It’s not just luck—knowing where and how to look can make all the difference.

Here are three insider tips to help you land a great deal on your next home.

1. Target Homes with High Days on Market

You’ve probably seen those homes that have been sitting on the market for what feels like forever. Maybe they’re slightly overpriced, or perhaps the listing photos don’t do them justice. These properties often get overlooked, but with a little patience and a discerning eye, you might uncover a hidden gem. The longer a house stays on the market, the more likely the seller is to be open to negotiations, which could translate into significant savings for you.

2. Look for Homes That Have Fallen Out of Contract

When a sale falls through, it can be a golden opportunity for a savvy buyer. Homes that have recently come back on the market are often owned by sellers who are eager to finalize a deal. This eagerness can give you the upper hand in negotiations, allowing you to potentially secure the property at a favorable price.

3. Consider Quick Move-in-Ready New Construction Homes

Builders are motivated to sell homes quickly—they’re in the business of building and selling, not holding onto inventory. If you come across a new construction home that’s move-in ready, the builder may be more inclined to offer a discount or other incentives to close the sale. This can be a great opportunity to get a brand-new home at a price that might surprise you.

Final Thoughts

Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the housing market. Sometimes, the best deals are just a little off the beaten path. I’m here to help you make the most of your next home purchase! Schedule your strategy call today.

Are you hoping to cozy up in a new home by the time the leaves start changing color? 

The process of buying a house takes a little bit of time, so if your goal is to move this fall, the time to begin your journey is now!

Here’s a snapshot of what to expect from the home-buying process:

Step 1: Pre-Approval | 1-2 Days

Before embarking on your home search, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial first step. This process typically takes between 1-2 days, assuming no credit repairs or additional income verifications are required. Pre-approval not only solidifies your budget but also makes you a more attractive buyer when you’re ready to make an offer.

Step 2: Home Search | 3-4 Weeks

Every home search is unique, and the timeline can vary based on market conditions and your specific needs. However, most of my buyers  find their dream home within a few weeks. This step also includes exploring different neighborhoods, attending open houses, and refining your list of must-haves.

Step 3: Closing The Deal | 1 Month

Once your offer is accepted, the final steps include home inspection, appraisal, finalizing your loan, and closing. This part of the process usually takes around 30 days. Then, the keys are yours!

Keep in mind that this is a general guideline, and the timeline might shift based on your situation.

My role is to guide you through each step, ensuring your home-buying journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Schedule your strategy call today.

Let me show you how I spot inflated home prices for my buyers so that you can feel great about the house you’re getting and the price you’re paying. 

Start with a Comparative Market Analysis. 

A CMA is THE best way to determine a home’s fair market value. Put together by a knowledgeable agent, it’ll compare recent sales of similar properties nearby to paint a picture of what homes are currently selling for. Keyword here? Currently.

Check the time on the market.

A property that’s been sitting on the market for a while may indicate an inflated price. Well-priced ones attract interest — and sell — quickly. (FYI: the Median Time to Contract for June 2024 was 22 days, up 57%) 

Appraisal vs. listing price. 

You’ll be well into the buying process before the appraisal comes back, but it’s critical in confirming a property’s value. If the appraisal comes in lower than the listed price, it’s a serious red flag.

It’s what’s on the inside that counts.

Does the home boast a shiny, new kitchen, or is it stuck in the 90s? Interior and exterior upgrades can add or subtract from a home’s value. If things don’t add up, it’s time to ask some questions. 

There’s no crying in pricing (or, at least, there shouldn’t be). 

Sometimes, sellers get attached to their homes, leading to “emotional pricing” – pricing based on data AND sentimental value. Have compassion, but negotiate with your CMA in hand to avoid paying more than you should.

An experienced agent is your best defense against spending more than you should.


Have a home that’s making you wonder “Is it worth it?”

Schedule your strategy call today.

Here’s the Truth: This Might Not Be the Ideal Time for You to Buy a Home…

Market Conditions

• Prices Are Still Up: Despite some market fluctuations, home prices remain high. This can make it challenging for buyers to find affordable options.
• High Interest Rates: Mortgage rates have remained elevated, making it more expensive to borrow money for a home purchase.
• Housing Inventory: While the housing inventory is gradually increasing, it’s still not enough to meet the current demand.

Feeling the Pressure?

You might be feeling the pressure to dive into homeownership due to these conditions. However, it’s important to remember that buying a home is a significant investment and shouldn’t be rushed. Instead, consider taking a more strategic approach by creating a plan with the help of a professional.

Planning with a Professional

If you’re curious about where you stand financially or what your options and timeline look like, I can connect you with understanding, pressure-free lenders. They can help you assess your financial situation and explore your options without any obligation.

We’re Here to Help

Our goal is to help you understand your options and make an informed plan. Whether you’re ready to buy now or want to prepare for the future, we’re here to guide you through the process. Schedule your strategy call today.

Waiting to buy a home until interest rates drop? 

You might want to reconsider…

While it’s true that lower interest rates make it cheaper to borrow money, interest rates are just one factor that determine affordability.

Let’s talk about demand:

When rates drop, demand increases because more people can afford to buy. As a result, prices tend to inch upward as interest rates dip down.

In other words, if you wait to buy a home until interest rates drop, you may find you can’t afford the home you want because prices have jumped even more.

If you’re serious about buying…

The best thing you can do is to talk to a local realtor to discuss your options.

A knowledgeable agent will point you to a great lender and will be well-versed in various loan programs, and will help you find a home that fits your budget and needs.

Want to talk more about navigating this market? I’m here to help you make the best decision for you and your family. Schedule your strategy call today.

Something we’re all thinking about?

Housing affordability.

June is National Homeownership Month.

If that doesn’t exactly fill you with excitement, I get it. 

Owning a home is an incredible personal goal to have, but there’s no doubt that external factors have made it more challenging than ever before.

Let’s make your plan together. Schedule your strategy call today.