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MOVE ME TO JACKSON TENNESSEE

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:25:43 GMT

MOVE TO JACKSON TN GUIDE

https://movetojacksontn.com/

The 2025 Ultimate Home Sellers Guide

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 01:36:44 GMT

Have Questions? I Have Answers.

Download my Sellers Guide!

Attention Sellers!

Fri, 17 May 2024 19:11:10 GMT

The Top Three Questions Home Sellers Ask Before Choosing a Realtor

Selling your home is a significant milestone, and choosing the right Realtor to guide you through the process is crucial. As a seasoned local Realtor, I understand that you have important questions that need clear, honest answers. Here are the top three questions home sellers like you ask before deciding on a Realtor, and my detailed responses to help you feel confident in your choice.

1. How Will You Market My Home?

A robust marketing plan is essential to attract the right buyers and secure the best price for your home. Here’s how I ensure your property gets maximum exposure:

- Professional Photography and Videography: High-quality visuals are the first impression buyers will have of your home. I work with skilled photographers and videographers to showcase your home’s best features.

- Staging Services: Whether virtual or in-person, staging can make a significant difference. I offer staging consultations to present your home in the most appealing way.

- Online Listings and Social Media: Your home will be featured on major real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and MLS. I also leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach a broader audience.

- Email Campaigns and Open Houses: Targeted email campaigns to potential buyers and real estate agents, along with strategically scheduled open houses, ensure your home gets the attention it deserves.

By implementing a multi-faceted marketing approach, I aim to attract serious buyers quickly and effectively.

2. What Is Your Experience and Track Record?

Experience and a proven track record are paramount when choosing a Realtor. Here’s what you should know about my background:

- Years of Experience: With over 3 years in the real estate industry, I have successfully closed numerous transactions, ranging from starter homes to luxury estates. I have personally been investing in Real Estate for over 20 years.

- Local Market Expertise: As a longtime resident of West Tennessee, I have an in-depth understanding of the local market trends, neighborhoods, and schools. This knowledge allows me to price your home competitively and market it effectively.

- Client Testimonials: I am proud of the positive feedback from past clients who commend my professionalism, negotiation skills, and dedication. Here’s what one satisfied seller had to say: “Brandie is the consummate professional. Every aspect from listing to close was seamless as a result of her efforts. Thank you!”

- Sales Statistics: My sales statistics speak for themselves. Over the past year, I have consistently achieved sales prices above the market average and reduced the average time on the market for my listings.

My goal is to provide you with a seamless selling experience, leveraging my expertise to ensure your home sells for the best possible price in the shortest time frame.

3. How Will You Communicate With Me Throughout the Process?

Effective communication is key to a successful real estate transaction. Here’s how I ensure you stay informed and confident throughout the selling process.

-Regular Updates: I provide regular updates on the status of your listing, feedback from showings, and any market changes that might impact your sale.

- Preferred Communication Channels: Whether you prefer phone calls, emails, texts, or in-person meetings, I will tailor my communication style to meet your preferences.

- Availability: I understand that questions can arise at any time. I make myself available to address your concerns promptly, ensuring you never feel left in the dark.

- Detailed Reports: You will receive detailed reports on marketing efforts, buyer interest, and any offers received. I believe in full transparency, so you always know exactly where we stand.

By maintaining open lines of communication, I aim to build a trusting relationship and provide you with peace of mind during the selling process.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right Realtor can make all the difference in your home selling experience. By addressing your key concerns—marketing strategy, experience, and communication—I strive to provide exceptional service that meets your unique needs. If you’re ready to sell your home or have more questions, feel free to contact me. Let’s work together to achieve your real estate goals.

Thank you for considering me as your Realtor. Your satisfaction is my top priority, and I look forward to helping you sell your home successfully.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact me at 731.695.2785 or 731.574.9340.

XO, Brandie

Don't have 20% to put down on a home or a perfect credit score, No Worries.

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 15:53:31 GMT

No Down Payment? Low Credit Score? No Worries. There are options!

If you're looking to buy a home but don't have 20% to put down or a perfect credit score, don't worry! There are plenty of loan options available to help you achieve your goal of homeownership. Here are a few alternative loan options to consider:

FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans are a popular choice for first-time homebuyers. These loans require a lower down payment, often as low as 3.5%, and have more lenient credit score requirements.
VA Loans: Available to military veterans and their eligible spouses, VA loans offer 100% financing with no down payment required. These loans also have more relaxed credit score guidelines and offer competitive interest rates.
USDA Loans: If you're looking to buy a home in a rural area, a USDA loan might be the right choice for you. These loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and offer 100% financing with no down payment required. They also have flexible credit requirements.
Conventional Loans with PMI: While conventional loans typically require a 20% down payment, you can still get a conventional loan with as little as 3% down. However, you will be required to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) until you reach 20% equity in your home.
State and Local Homebuyer Programs: Many states and localities offer programs and grants to help first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance and closing costs. These programs vary by location, so be sure to research what's available in your area.

Remember, it's important to do your research and speak with a mortgage lender to understand all of your options and determine which loan program is the best fit for your financial situation. With the right loan, homeownership can still be within reach, even if you don't have a large down payment or perfect credit score.

Don't let a lack of knowledge or resources hold you back from achieving your dream of homeownership. Let a local real estate agent, like myself guide you towards the right mortgage company and help you make the best decisions for your future.

#TotalRealtySource #JacksonTN #YourPetFriendlyAgent #TNRealestate #TNRealtor #JacksonTennessee #YourLocalAgent #MortgageOptions #VALOANS #USDALoans #ConventionalLoans #HomeBuyerPrograms #FHALoans #BrandieBassett

Housing Statistics West TN Buyers and Sellers Should Know

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 00:10:43 GMT

Housing Statistics 2022-23

Housing Statistics West Tennessee Buyers and Sellers Should Know

If you're looking to purchase or sell a home in West Tennessee, then it's crucial to understand the housing market and the published statistics about it. The housing market is ever-changing, so it's crucial to understand the most up-to-date information that is available

We are well into 2023, but for now, The National Association of Realtors has only published the data from the 4th quarter of 2022. Let's discuss what we know about the housing market in West Tennessee, using the information that the National Association of Realtors has published.

The State of the Market in 2022

Housing Costs

The median cost of a home in West Tennessee is $254,000. This is a little more than $100,000 less than the median cost of a home in the United States, which is $372,667. In quarter 3 of 2022, the median price of a West Tennessee home increased, but in quarter 4, the median price went down by a small percentage.

Equity Accrued

Homeowners in the United States have gained an average of $21,777 in equity on their homes in quarter 4. However, the figures in West Tennessee differ greatly from this average, as the average homeowner in the area has lost $1,832 in equity. This should not be too alarming of a statistic, as this figure is directly related to the steady post-recession home equity market and will likely change.

Local Economic Outlook

The housing market is directly correlated to the employment and economic outlook in the West Tennessee area. The current rate of unemployment in West Tennessee is around 3.7%, while the national average is 3.5%. in 2021, the unemployment rate was 4.2% in West Tennessee, and the national unemployment rate was 3.9%.

Although the unemployment rate in both West Tennessee and the country as a whole is decreasing, the job growth rate is concerning in West Tennessee. The 12-month job growth rate is 2.4% in West Tennessee, so we could benefit from this figure increasing.

New Housing Construction

The 12-month summary of new 1-unit building permits in West Tennessee reports that there were 3,510 permits obtained in the area. This is about 5.4% above the area's long-term average, which means that more people are building than expected.

However, new construction projects that focus on building single-family homes are decreasing. There has been an 18.1% decrease in the amount of single-family homes that have been built in 2022 when compared to the year prior.

Affordability

Oftentimes, West Tennessee homes are considered more affordable than most other homes in the United States. This remains true, but still, mortgages in West Tennessee are a little bit less affordable in 2022, when compared to past years. The mortgage payment to income ratio is historically 8.7% in West Tennessee, but in 2022, this figure was 11.7%.

When compared to the national average, which is 17.8%, and the United States' average figure in 2022, which is 23.3%, West Tennessee homes are very modestly priced.

Mortgage Prices

As we might expect, mortgage prices were on the rise in 2022. There was a slight dip in mortgage prices starting in 2019, but as we entered into the beginning of 2022, the prices began to rise and continued to rise throughout the entire year.

How Have Things Changed in 2023?

We have a lot more information about the market in 2022, but we do have some information about how the real estate industry is faring in 2023. As of April 2023, the median list price of homes in West Tennessee was $189,900. This number is just above the median sold price of homes in West Tennessee, which was $186,250. However, these numbers vary drastically depending on the neighborhood.

Moreover, the average number of days that a home was on the market in April 2023, was 35. This figure shows that homes are selling quicker than they were in 2022. Finally, in April, there were 2,543 homes up for sale and 1,546 homes available to rent.

Total Realty Source Can Help

These figures can be complicated to figure out when you're in the process of selling or buying your home. If you're looking for clarity, then Brandie Bassett, a local Realtor, can help. In order to be as confident in the home buying and selling process as you can be, it's important to find a realtor you can trust. For more information about the West Tennessee housing market, contact me at 731.695.2785 or 731.574.9340.

The Ultimate Home Buying Guide

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 20:51:51 GMT

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The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Homebuyers in West Tennessee

Are you a first-time homebuyer in West Tennessee seeking home-buying advice? Congrats on taking the first step toward becoming a homeowner! We recognize, however, that the process can be intimidating and perplexing, mainly if you are unfamiliar with the real estate industry. That is why we prepared this comprehensive guide to assist you in navigating the home-buying process with ease.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know as a first-time purchaser, from getting preapproved for a mortgage to making an offer on your dream house. So, let's dive in and start your journey towards becoming a homeowner in Jackson, TN, with the help of Total Realty Source and our experienced local agents.

Getting Preapproved with a Local Mortgage Company

Before starting your house search, the first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage . This can help you determine how much you can afford to spend on a property and narrow your search to homes within your price range.

What to Expect from the Pre approval Process

When you visit a local mortgage business, they will inquire about your income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio. This information will be used to decide how much money they are willing to lend you. Pre approval can be time-consuming, but knowing how much house you can afford is worth it.

What the Mortgage Lender Will Need from You to Proceed

The mortgage lender will want paperwork to verify your income and assets throughout the pre approval process. These are examples of pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and tax returns. It is critical to have this documentation prepared to ensure the pre approval procedure runs smoothly.

Working with a Local Realtor

While it's possible to buy a home without the help of a realtor, working with a local realtor can make the process smoother and more efficient .

The Benefits of Working with a Local Realtor

A local realtor, such as Brandie Bassett, can guide you through the home-buying process and provide vital information about the local real estate market. We can assist you in finding houses that suit your specifications, negotiating with sellers, and navigating the closing process. Our objective is to assist you in finding your dream home and make the house-buying process as simple as possible.

Finding the Right Local Realtor for You

When selecting a local realtor, look for someone with experience in the local real estate market and with whom you feel comfortable dealing. Take the time to interview possible realtors and inquire about their experience, communication style, and local market knowledge.

The Process of Putting an Offer in on a Home

Once you've found the perfect home, the next step is to make an offer. This can be an exciting but nerve-wracking process, as you want to ensure you're offering a fair price while also getting a good deal.

Understanding the Home Offer Process

When you've discovered a home you like, it's time to make an offer. This might be a stressful process, but your local realtor will walk you through it step by step. Your offer will include the purchase price, any contingencies, and the closing date. The seller can accept, reject, or counter your offer.

Negotiating with the Seller

A regular phase of the home-buying process is negotiating with the seller. Your local realtor will assist you in negotiating the price and any other aspects of the offer. To establish an agreement that works for you and the seller, you must be flexible and willing to compromise.

Take the First Step Towards Your Dream Home with Total Realty Source

Buying your first home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming. By working with a local mortgage company and a realtor, you can confidently navigate the home-buying process. Remember to take your time, ask questions, and be patient. With the proper guidance and support, you'll be on your way to finding your dream home.

If you are a first-time homebuyer in West Tennessee, take the first step in your home-buying journey by meeting with a mortgage specialist to determine what actions need to take place to get a pre approval and to know what price range home you need to be looking at. Connect with local realtors like Brandie Bassett, Jay Grant, and Jackie David , who have the experience and knowledge to guide you through the home-buying process and help you find your dream home. Don't hesitate to reach out and start your home-buying journey today.

Sincerely,

How to buy your first home

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 20:36:38 GMT

Attention First Time Home Buyers

How to Buy Your First Home

As a first-time homebuyer, the process of purchasing a home can seem overwhelming and intimidating. However, with the right guidance and support, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience. In this guide, we will cover the essential steps to help you navigate the home buying process

Getting Preapproval with a Local Mortgage Company

The first step in the home buying process is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This process will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on a home and what price range you should be looking at. To get preapproved, you will need to meet with a mortgage specialist from a local mortgage company.

During the preapproval process, the mortgage lender will review your financial information, such as your income, debt, and credit score, to determine how much they are willing to lend you. You will need to provide documentation such as pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns to support your financial information.

Working with a Local Realtor

Once you have been pre-approved for a mortgage, the next step is to work with a local realtor like myself. A local realtor can help you find homes that meet your needs and budget, provide guidance on the local market, and negotiate on your behalf.

A local realtor will have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is a database of homes for sale in your area. By working with a local realtor, you will have access to properties that may not be listed on popular home search websites like Zillow or Realtor.com.

The Process of Putting an Offer in on a Home

Once you have found a home that you want to purchase, the next step is to put in an offer. Your realtor will help you determine the appropriate offer price based on the local market and the condition of the home.

When you put in an offer, you will need to provide an earnest money deposit, which is typically around 1-3% of the purchase price. This deposit shows the seller that you are serious about purchasing the home.

If the seller accepts your offer, you will move forward with a home inspection and an appraisal. The home inspection will identify any issues with the home that may need to be addressed before closing. The appraisal will determine the value of the home to ensure that you are not overpaying.

Closing on Your New Home

Once the home inspection and appraisal have been completed, and all contingencies have been met, it is time to close on your new home. Closing is the final step in the home buying process, and it involves signing all of the necessary paperwork and paying closing costs.

Closing costs typically include fees for the loan, title search, and title insurance. These costs can vary depending on the location and the cost of the home.

The home buying process can be challenging, but by working with a local realtor and getting preapproved for a mortgage, you can make the process more manageable. If you are a first-time homebuyer, it is essential to do your research and seek guidance from professionals to ensure that you make informed decisions throughout the process.

If you are interested in buying a home in West Tennessee, contact us . As a local realtor with Total Realty Source, I have the knowledge and experience to help you find your dream home. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards homeownership.

Sincerely,

Brandie Bassett

Top 4 Reasons Why You Should Move To West Tennessee

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 16:03:15 GMT

West Tennessee

Top 4 Reasons Why You Should Move to West Tennessee

If you've been researching the best states to relocate to, Tennessee is most likely on your radar. Visitors keep returning to the Volunteer State because of its pleasant weather, vibrant cities, and cheaper housing , including low cost of living and taxes. Tennessee is well-known for its lively music scene, high-quality drinks, and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Many famous country music singers and artists like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton call the southern and soulful state home. West Tennessee combines small-town charm with an urban "can-do" attitude to provide extraordinary experiences and diverse culture. Here are the top four reasons to negotiate an offer for your dream home and move to Tennessee.

1. Great Communities to Live In

Never has there been a better time to move to the county seat of Madison County because you'll be spoiled for choice in the many remarkable places to live in. The key is to work with a local realtor who can help you find the ideal locale. Jackson, Tennessee, for example, is a bustling city in the heart of West Tennessee. This delightful community boasts multiple museums, historic sites, and attractions.

The strong economy, enthralling parks, and stunning attractions make it appealing for many people eager to call West-Central Tennessee their home. If farming interests you, West Tennessee, with its miles of lush farmland, is the place to be.

2. You Can Start a Thriving Career

Moving to Jackson could provide opportunities to work with well-known brands for anyone looking for a career change. Tennalum, a manufacturer of aluminum rods and bars for aerospace, automotive, and general industrial applications, is a well-known company enjoying success in the region.

Also located in Jackson are the Carlstar Group, Kellogg Company, Delta Faucet, Stanley Black & Decker, UGN Automotive, and TBDN manufacturing company. BlueOval City is Ford Motor's latest project, expected to create thousands of new jobs for West Tennessee residents.

3. A Leading Destination for Retirees

Tennessee is an excellent retirement destination with a mild climate and breathtaking landscapes to enjoy year-round. Various parks and lakes are at your disposal to hike and fish to your heart's content. This state is a cost-effective place to live compared to others across the country. Collierville, particularly, is an ideal area to retire in West Tennessee City.

Located just 20 minutes away (drive) from Memphis, Collierville has all the amenities of suburban living and a charming downtown area boasting plenty of shopping and dining places. Find a home with the help of a Tennessee realtor and start enjoying some of the following benefits:

Access to exceptional healthcare
Affordable housing and cost of living
Many historical and cultural attractions
Favorable tax rates (no capital gains tax and state income tax)

4. A Booming Real Estate Market

The overall economy may have had a few difficult years, but that hasn't stopped the Tennessee real estate market from thriving. Some primary reasons the state maintains an accessible economic threshold are inexpensive homes, affordable living costs, and low taxes. Many modest options exist in rural Tennessee if you have dreamed of having that perfect piece of land or farm.

Make no mistake; the state also has some seriously affluent communities with access to prestigious services, schools, and amenities that are perks of living among the wealthy. Visitors who come for a weekend quickly realize they want to make Tennessee their permanent home. Numerous reasons are available to relocate to Tennessee, including the low cost of living, awesome job opportunities, countless outdoor activities, mild weather, and more.

Tennessee has become a desirable option for natives, out-of-state investors, retirees, students, and working-class individuals looking to simplify their lives. Don't hesitate to contact Brandie Bassett in case you're considering moving to Tennessee. I will happily assist you with your entire home buying and selling process.

How to Prevent (Home) Buyer’s Remorse

duda@secondgen.com — Tue, 31 May 2022 19:51:39 GMT

By: Lynn Ettinger

You can make a successful offer on a home even in a competitive market — with the right information and help.

When you’re house hunting, the pressure of competition can move you from “Hmm, I like that, but it’s too pricey,” to “I have to have that!” You think, so what if paying for this house will put me way over budget? I can cut back somewhere else, right? But that kind of thinking can get you into trouble. Trouble that’s totally avoidable.

Whether you’re in the middle of a home bidding war or facing down a list of must-haves, don’t lose sight of your budget and the risks. That way, you can own a house without home buyer’s remorse. And you’ll have money left to enjoy things like new furniture, entertainment, and just plain having fun.

Who Has Home Buyer’s Remorse and Why?

A competitive real estate market can set buyers up to purchase a home that’s either beyond their budgets —sometimes hugely beyond — or doesn’t meet their needs, according to a 2021 survey by Bankrate and YouGov. The survey found that recent home buyers, including 64% of millennials, had regrets about their home purchase. The top reason? They were unprepared for maintenance and other home ownership-related costs. On top of that, 13% percent of millennials said they think they paid a higher sales price than they should have.

“Things in homes always break down, so people should put aside a budget for anything that will need fixing,” says Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®. “A rule of thumb is to anticipate 1% or 2% of the home price for potential maintenance,” he explains. “So, for a $300,000 home, that means setting aside $3,000.”

One reason home buyers may be tempted to go over budget is they’ve been influenced by the beautiful homes on TV, according to an NAR report on home staging. “The shows can create unrealistic expectations for the home buying process and how homes should look,” says Brandi Snowden, NAR director of member and consumer survey research. In time, buyers can view features that used to be luxuries as necessities. They believe everyone has them and they should too. One solution: Work with a REALTOR as early as possible in the process. “Make sure your agent knows your budget, so they can help you set expectations and stick to them,” she advises.

How to Navigate House Hunting in a Competitive Market

In addition to pressure to exceed their budgets, buyers are facing hurdles like these five:

1. Requests to Waive Contingencies

Tamara Suminski, a real estate agent at Beach Real Estate Group in Manhattan Beach, Calif., is seeing not only bidding wars but also sellers wanting buyers to waive contingencies. “With an appraisal contingency, if the appraisal comes in low, the buyer has choices. They can choose to try to renegotiate with the seller, bring in the difference, or cancel. When they remove that contingency and its protection, and if the home doesn’t appraise at the right level, the seller is not very likely to renegotiate with them. And the buyer has waived their right to cancel. If they cancel anyway, they’re risking their deposit.”

Some buyers are also waiving contingencies related to home inspections. These investigations are an opportunity to have a home inspector view the home based on disclosures and for the buyer to use findings as a bargaining tool, Suminski says.

Eliminating these protections can end up costing money for buyers. And the more offers the buyer writes and loses, the more risk they will tolerate. So, they may waive contingencies and regret it later, says Suminski. Talk to a buyer’s agent who will guide you through this and explain the risks of removing protections and unknown variables, she advises.

2. Speed Showings and Decisions

Bryan Yap recently bought a home in an expensive and highly competitive market — Orange County, Calif. He found that with the pandemic, each showing lasted only 15 minutes. That was one of the biggest hurdles. “We’d see three, four, or five homes in one day. It’s hard to keep track of what you like and don’t like with each house. What I would do differently is take notes immediately after viewing a home. If you’re able to prepare beforehand, create a list of wants and requirements in priority order. Immediately after seeing each home, rank it based on the list.”

3. Focusing on the Top of Your Price Range

“If you’re looking in a micromarket where listings are achieving multiple offers and homes are going above asking price, don’t set your on the houses at the top of your price range,” Suminski says. If $300,000 is your upper limit, look at houses priced at $250,000 or $275,000. Otherwise, you’re going to be outbid from the gate every time.”

That was the process Yap used when he was looking. “I would look for homes $25,000 under my max budget. I went on Zillow and looked at homes that were sold recently and tried to calculate the average over-listing price those homes were being sold for and factor that into my offer price.”

4. The Need to Compromise

Yap’s must-haves were three bedrooms, two baths, and being closer to the city center of Anaheim. “I was able to get three beds, two baths, but I did have to compromise on location. I also had to compromise on price, which was doable because I could still afford it. To compete with all the potential buyers, I knew that we had to either offer an over-list price or remove some contingencies.”

Suminski advises adjusting your search outward geographically, even if it means a longer commute. Buyers might also have to compromise on property types and features. In addition, they should consider doing some DIY projects instead of wanting everything to be move-in ready. “They may have to be willing to look at townhouses instead of single-family homes or install carpet and paint on weekends.”

5. Information Overload

In the two years before he started searching for a home, Yap did a lot of reading. “It was a massive plan I had to come up with and stick to so that I’d be able to afford buying a home.”

Because of how hot the Orange County market is, agents scheduled showings as soon as a house was listed or showed “coming soon” status. Yap treated the home search as “almost a second job,” using lunch breaks and evenings to check emails, do online searches, and text his real estate agent about what he wanted to see. “I had to make a lot of sacrifices. People wanted to set plans with me for the weekend, but I said, ‘Sorry, I have to go view homes that day.’”

He primarily credits his real estate agents, including Sumiski, for keeping him informed. “They made all this possible. I learned a lot from them.”

Some agents, like Suminski, hold an accredited buyer’s representative designation but usually work with sellers as well as buyers. “An [agent with an] ABR has taken extensive buyer’s representation training,” Suminski says. “They’ll provide education to buyers so that they’re learning as much as they can about the market, including the risks involved with different negotiations. If buyers are going to shorten terms or remove protections, they need to be well informed about the pitfalls.”

Learn from Experiences

That access to information and guidance will help buyers making an offer on a home especially in a competitive market. “Today’s buyer has seen and written offers on many properties before they get their offer accepted,” Suminski says. “That’s common across the country. Each is a learning opportunity for buyers about what information they might need to be researching so they can move more quickly.”

When you act on advice from recent buyers and agents, you can stay well informed and get good results even in a tough market. And that’s the best way to prevent home buyer’s remorse.

It’s been a rough ride for homebuyers lately, as prices have hit the roof with little respite. All of that looks to change soon.

7 Easy DIY Home Projects That’ll Make You Say, “Yes I Can!”

duda@secondgen.com — Tue, 31 May 2022 18:51:39 GMT

By: Leanne Potts

Beautiful you-can-do-it inspirations for easy DIY projects.

As anybody who’s been inspired by HGTV can tell you, DIY home projects on TV look amaaaazing.

But DIY renovations in real life: kiiiinda the toughest thing ever. And, yet, these rookie craftsmen did beautiful, jaw-dropping work that will totally inspire you. Check out these easy DIY projects for your home:

#1 Pinterest-Worthy DIY Window Seat

An empty recess in a room is a ripe spot for a DIY project, as home improvement blogger Britt Kingery can tell you.

She and her husband, Justin, built a window seat so ridiculously Pinterest-worthy you’ll want to make one for yourself (like, right now).

It’s a roomy 10-foot beauty, so you can seat a houseful of guests without dragging chairs all over the place. And (bonus!) there’s storage underneath for stashing lots of stuff out of sight.

You can custom-create your own for about $250 if you’ve got a few essential DIY tools.

Or you can do an Ikea hack to get the same result. Just attach one of their long, horizontal storage systems to your walls. Then add cushions and preformed molding for the same custom look.

The big reveal doesn’t happen overnight, and a renovation almost always looks worse before it looks better.

Britt Kingery, home improvement blogger

#2 Miracle Makeover With Just Paint, Stain (and Patience)

“The Brady Bunch”-orange wall and abused floors in the before photo are homely enough to strike you blind.

But what a miracle paint, sanding, and stain can do! Lighter shades on the walls, trim, and floor reflect natural light, making the space so much brighter. And for very little money (about $150).

The key to such an amazing transformation, Kingery says, is to be a tortoise, not a hare.

Sanding, taping, patching holes, and waiting on stain, paint or polyurethane to dry takes care and patience if you want professional-looking results.

“The big reveal doesn’t happen overnight, and a renovation almost always looks worse before it looks better.”

#3 Instant Open Floor Plan

Cramped, dark kitchens are so very 1981.

Sarah Lemp of the “All Things With Purpose” blog turned her dated kitchen into an open, light-filled space that feels and functions like a larger room.

The cost? $300. Yep. For less than the cost of a set of countertop canisters at Williams Sonoma, Lemp worked magic.

The biggest fix? She just removed a set of overhead cabinets that blocked light and the view into the dining area, making an instant open floor plan.

Then she turned to paint, the budget remodeler’s friend. She used a soft griege (designer-speak for grayish beige) for the walls of the kitchen and dining area.

She painted the remaining upper cabinets white, and the bottom ones dark gray.

“I love the look of white cabinets, but figured a darker color was more kid-friendly,” she says.

Lemp skipped the requisite subway tile backsplash and went with peel-and-stick shiplap instead. “It was easier and cheaper,” she says.

#4 Brighter Bedroom With Paint and Wood

This may be an ugly room, but we’re not sure because it’s so dark all we can see are cheap blinds and a poofy valance that hasn’t been fashionable since the Olsen twins were toddlers.

It needed major help.

Ashley Rose and Jared Smith of the blog “Sugar and Cloth” pulled off a weekend makeover by painting the walls a lighter color and replacing the window treatments with wispy, white drapes that practically pull sunlight into the room.

A pair of wall-mounted reading lamps added a second layer of light, because a lonely overhead fixture can’t light the whole room all by itself.

And that wall behind the bed? It’s strips of reclaimed wood with an adhesive backing. Peel, stick, and you’re done. No nails. No glue. And just one tool: a level to make sure you stick the wood strips in a straight line. Awesome.

#5 An Easy-Peasy Backyard Patio

Dirt’s ugly. It’s also a pain, turning into mud when it rains, dust when it doesn’t, and sneaking into your house on the feet of dogs and kids.

Covering it with a paver patio is a great fix. Chelsea Foy of the blog “Lovely Indeed” built this one in a neglected flower bed in just 10 hours.

She used patio stones molded to look like several individual bricks, because leveling one large stone is tons easier than leveling a bunch of bricks.

Those arcs of large river rocks just off the patio make a natural-looking transition between the factory-perfect pavers and the rest of the yard. They’ll also give you less lawn to mow or flowers to tend.

#6 Fancy Wall Molding for a Bargain Price

Wall molding makes a room look so custom, so finished, so much better than boring old drywall. But it costs around $25 a square foot just for the materials.

Mysha Barton of the blog “Remington Avenue” pulled it off along her stairs for just $30 — total.

The secret? She used MDF (medium density fiberboard, aka fake wood) to keep it cheap, and didn’t mount it in the traditional way with board panels on the wall.

Instead, she put thinner “chair rail molding” directly on the wall, and painted everything white, including the wall to get that rich look of molding.

The toughest part was cutting all those angles, Barton says.

She got it done with a miter box and a handsaw. “My advice is to use scrap wood to practice your angled cuts before taking on your expensive molding pieces.”

Barton did this project in just eight hours with three small children in the house, so even if 10th-grade geometry made you cry, you can do this.

#7 A Space-Saving Workbench

A DIY workbench is a gateway project, one that can lead you to harder projects and possibly, a home improvement addiction. Make this workbench your very first project and you’ll have room to do scads of projects — money-saving ones.

It’ll fit in a small space because it’s actually a door mounted on door hinges, so you can fold it flat against the wall when you’re not using it. Be sure to buy a solid wood door, not a hollow one, so it’s sturdy enough to stand up to years of projects.

7 Easy DIY Home Projects That’ll Make You Say, “Yes I Can!

8 Simple Rules for Negotiating Your Offer and Getting That House

duda@secondgen.com — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:13:34 GMT

By: HouseLogic

You and your agent are going to use everything you’ve learned to seal the deal.

Here’s the dream: Your offer is perfect, you don’t need to negotiate, and you can spend the next few weeks addressing more pressing home-ownership questions, like “Why is it called wainscoting?” and “Do I want a new couch in blush or emerald green?”

And it could happen. Many sellers accept the best offer they receive, and for a variety of reasons.

But sellers are also known to reject offers for a variety of reasons. Or make counteroffers. This is especially likely if you bid low, or when you’re up against multiple competing offers.

If you do receive a counteroffer, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to accept the new contract, negotiate the terms, or walk away.

In cases such as these, look to your agent. He or she is your spirit guide. If you decide you want to negotiate — that is, make a counteroffer to the seller’s counteroffer — your agent will use their negotiating skills to help get you the best deal. This is what agents do every day.

But you’re not just going to sit there. If you understand what negotiating tactics your agent may deploy — they depend on the local market and your position — you can back them up. And cheer them on.

Here are eight rules every buyer should know before they — and their agent — start negotiating:

#1 Act Fast — Like, Now

When you receive a counteroffer, you should respond quickly — ideally within 24 hours. The longer you wait, the more space you leave for another buyer to swoop in and nab the property. Also? If a seller senses hesitation, they may decide to withdraw their counteroffer before you even have a chance to respond.

#2 Raise Your Price (Within Reason)

While you obviously don’t want to overpay for a house, you may have to up the ante — especially if you initially made a lowball offer. Lean on your agent’s expertise to determine how much money you should add to the sales price to make it more enticing to the seller.

Then, through their powers of persuasion, your agent can make the counteroffer look even more attractive by pointing out similarly priced “comps” — recently sold homes in your area that are comparable in terms of square footage and features.

As your agent negotiates, it can feel like things are escalating quickly. It’s stressful. You may feel a sudden urge to do whatever it takes to win.

Before you go overboard, there are two things you must keep in mind:

You can’t exceed the monetary confines of the pre-approved mortgage you received from your lender.
You shouldn’t overextend your budget.

Because your counteroffer has to be an amount you’re comfortable spending on a home. You want that new house and to keep living your life. Plus: You’re not out of options yet.

#3 Increase Your Earnest Money Deposit

Increasing your earnest money deposit (EMD) — the sum of money you put down to prove to the seller you’re serious (i.e., “earnest”) about buying the house — is another way to show the seller you have more skin in the game. A standard EMD is typically 1% to 3% of the sales price of the home. Making a counteroffer with a 3% to 4% deposit could be what you need to persuade the seller to side with you.

#4 Demonstrate Patience About Taking Possession

Depending on the seller’s timetable, changing your proposed possession date — the date you take over the property — could butter them up, too. If the seller wants to stay in the home for a few days after closing, try offering a later possession date. You could also draw up a “rent-back” agreement, meaning the seller pays you rent for staying in the home for a set period of time after the closing date.

#5 Let Go of a Few Contingencies — With Care

Want to give your counteroffer an even bigger boost?

Reduce the number of contingencies you’re asking for. It’s your way of saying, “Hey, look, I have fewer ways to back out,” which gives the seller more reassurance that the deal will close.

But be selective: Some contingencies are too important to give up. A home-inspection contingency — the right to have a home inspection and request repairs — gives you an out if you spot major problems with the home (and protects you from buying a total money pit).

You might waive a termite inspection if you’re in a state where the risk is lower.

But ultimately, waiving contingencies depends on your market, your loan program requirements, your risk tolerance, and the circumstances of the house in question. And if you waive contingencies and then you find a problem, the seller isn’t responsible for fixing it.

#6 Ask for Fewer Concessions

At a mortgage settlement, home buyers have to pay closing costs for taxes, lender’s fees, and title company fees. Closing costs vary by location, but you can expect to shell out between 3% and 4% of the home’s sales price. The seller pays an additional 1% to 3%. (Smart Asset and Nerdwallet have simple calculators you can use to get a rough idea of what your closing costs might be.)

When making an initial offer, you have the option to ask the seller for concessions — a settlement paid in cash to help you offset your share of the closing costs. (This move is less feasible if you’re going up against multiple offers.)

Concessions effectively lower the seller’s net proceeds from the sale. Making a counteroffer that removes the concessions you would have otherwise received at settlement puts cash back in the seller’s pocket — and can improve your bid.

#7 Pick Up the Cost of the Home Warranty

Sometimes sellers offer prospective buyers a home warranty. This is a plan that covers the cost of repairing major home appliances and systems, like the air conditioner or hot water heater, if they break down within a certain period (typically a year after closing).

A basic home warranty costs about $300 to $600 a year, according to Angie’s List. If it seems like waiving the home warranty can sweeten negotiations, but you still want the peace of mind of having one, tell the seller they don’t need to cover it — then buy it yourself.

Just keep in mind, whether you or the seller buy the warranty, you’ll need to pay the service fee (typically between $50 and $100) if something does, indeed, need to be repaired while under warranty.

Also, FYI: A home warranty is entirely separate from homeowners insurance. Homeowners insurance — the security blanket that covers your home’s structure and possessions in the event of a fire, storm, flood, or other accident — is required if you take out a mortgage. It can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 per year.

#8 Know When to Walk

When negotiating with a seller, trust your gut — and your agent. If he or she says a deal is bad for you: Listen.

And if you don’t want to make any more trade-offs — and the seller won’t budge — it’s smart to walk. That can be a tough decision to make, and rightfully so! Negotiating is tough. It’s draining.

And losing something you’ve worked hard to get can be disappointing. But don’t worry. There’s a better deal for you out there. And after those strong feelings of frustration pass, you’ll realize: Now I know how to do this.

Choosing the proper agent will ensure you make the best decisions in your new home purchase. Call me! Brandie