ceo-stories

  Before you buy a home, it’s important to  plan ahead . While most buyers consider how much they need to save for a  down payment , many are surprised by the closing costs they have to pay. To ensure you aren’t caught off guard when it’s time to close on your home, you need to understand   what closing costs are and how much you should budget for . What Are Closing Costs? People are sometimes surprised by closing costs because they don’t know what they are. According to Bankrate: “Closing costs are the fees and expenses you must pay before becoming the legal owner of a house, condo or townhome . . . Closing costs vary depending on the purchase price of the home and how it’s being financed . . .” In other words, your closing costs are a collection of fees and payments involved with your transaction. According to Freddy Mac, while they can vary by location and situation, closing costs typically include: Government recording costs Appraisal fees Credit report...

  Cynthia  Eastwood - President/Broker of Bello Sol Inc-West USA Realty of Prescott states.  You may be reading headlines and hearing talk about a potential housing bubble or a crash, but it’s important to understand that the data and expert opinions tell a different story. A   recent survey   from   Pulsenomics   asked over one hundred housing market experts and real estate economists if they believe the housing market is in a   bubble . The results indicate most experts don’t think that’s the case   (see graph below) : As the graph shows, a strong majority (60%) said the real estate market is not currently in a bubble.  In the same survey, experts give the following reasons why this isn’t like 2008: The recent growth in  home prices  is because of demographics and low inventory Credit risks are low because underwriting and  lending standards  are sound If you’re concerned a crash may be coming, here’s a deep dive in...

  If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’re likely balancing several factors.  Michael Eastwood - Published Author/Chief Executive Officer of Bello Sol Inc-West USA Realty of Prescott states.  Because both   mortgage rates   and   home prices   have risen this year, it costs more to buy a home than it did even just a few months ago.   But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans on hold. If you partner with a trusted real estate advisor and hone your strategy, you can navigate today’s market and find the home you’re looking for. Here are two tips to help you get started. Work with a Professional To Prioritize Your Wish List If you’re having trouble finding a home in your budget that checks all the boxes, it may be worth taking another look at your lists of what you want and what you really need.  According  to the latest  First-Time Homebuyer Metro Affordability Report  from  NerdWallet , your  wish list ...

  If your lifestyle has changed recently and you’re ready to make a move, taking advantage of today’s   sellers’ market   might be just the answer for your   summer plans  states Michael  Eastwood - Published Author/Chief Executive Officer of Bello Sol Inc-West USA Realty of Prescott.  With homes continuing to get   multiple offers , this could be your moment to get the contract you’re looking for on your house if you’re ready to sell. And here’s the thing – you need an expert on your side to ensure you make all the right moves when you do, especially when it comes to pricing your house. Even in this  competitive market , you can’t stick just any price tag on your home and get the deal you want. A key piece of the puzzle is  setting the right asking price  so you can help buyers notice your home (and get excited about it) from the very first time they view the listing. That’s where a real estate professional comes in. Why Pricing Yo...

  June is   National Homeownership Month , and it’s the perfect time to reflect on how impactful owning a home can truly be states  Michael Eastwood - Published Author/Chief Executive Officer of Bello Sol Inc-West USA Realty of Prescott . When you purchase a house, it becomes more than just a space you occupy. It’s your stake in the   community , an   investment , and a place you can put your stamp on. If you’re thinking about buying a home this year, here are some of the benefits you’ll experience when you do. The Emotional Benefits of Homeownership Because it’s a place that’s uniquely yours, owning a home can give you a sense of pride and  happiness  in several ways. Your Home Can Reflect Your Tastes and Personality Investopedia  puts it like  this : “One often-cited benefit of homeownership is the knowledge that you  own your little corner of the world. ” That knowledge can lead to a powerful,  emotional connection  to the p...