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Real Estate General Information

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Recent blogs on Real Estate General Information
By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Why are so many people moving to The Villages, Florida?  Great Weather? We got that other than a hurricane occasionally.  Great homes?  There are many places in Florida with great home.  The lifestyle is why people are moving here!   What does lifestyle have to do with the Four Pillars needed for a long and healthy life, let me explain:The Four Pillars of aging well are physical, social, emotional, and cognitive health let’s see what The Villages has to offer for those pillars.  Physical, we got exercise pools with all kinds of activities, clubs that feature exercise, golf, Pickleball and the squares for dancing.  Social, oh we got that covered 3,100+ clubs, parties for about any reason, this place is social heaven.  Emotional, I had to look that one up, being able to talk to someone, f...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Lets give thanks for different perspectives in life this month. After all, life would be rather boring and stagnant if we did not have different thoughts (than our own) to contemplate or discuss over coffee.For example, have you considered the same subject and had a completely different perspective as an adult than as a child? Again, the exact same event.OK, if someone showed you the following image, and asked you to explain what you are seeing with your eyes, what would you say?Image Perception Descriptions1. Adult: "Exercising after the big Thanksgiving meal"2. Child: "So that's why Mom says to never swallow bubble gum!"Never swall bubble gum, (Photo: Petra, Pixabay)Okay, so there you have it different perspectives on the same observation in life.You know it is the same with real esta...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Don't OVERTHINK the pros and cons of buying your first home. Time to take that leap. JUST DO IT!Don't OVERTHINK it, JUST DO IT! (photo: JerzyGorecki, Pixabay)It is the TIME  to take the LEAP to buy your first home and build your personal generational wealth before being priced out of the market in the Phoenix Arizona metro as prices continue to rise. Image JUST DO IT Leap, Gerd Altmann, PixabayHave you been reading articles, studying mortgage rates and rising home prices? It is difficult to time the market and have everything come together in a crystal ball. NOW is the time to move into your very own Sunny Phoenix Arizona metro home.Real Estate Crystal Ball by Brandee Pember, PixabaySure, you have been thinking about the LEAP into Real Estate but now is the TIME to purchase a home in th...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Lakewood, COThu Nov 14 2024This week the median list price for Lakewood, CO is $695,000. Median List Price $695,000 Median Price of New Listings $639,900 Per Square Foot $341 Average Days on Market 68 Median Days on Market 49 Price Decreased 58% Price Increased 2% Relisted 3% Inventory 169 Median Rent $2,663    Want to look for a home, call me I am free all day on Friday. 
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By Joe Mojica, Your Home Adds Value to You
(Laer Realty Partners Bowen)
For many coffee enthusiasts, coffee isn’t just a beverage, it is a morning ritual. It is the time when you delight in the aroma and taste of your favorite morning beverage.  Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or someone who enjoys a good cup of coffee, a designated coffee bar can make coffee brewing and coffee drinking a gratifying coffee experience. Let’s indulge in how you create the perfect coffee bar or station that suits your style and coffee brewing preferences.SIGNIFICANT LOCATIONWhere you place your coffee station has several possibilities. You can choose a place in your home office, a corner in the kitchen, a special place in your breakfast area, or a nook in your family or living roomDESIGN – AN APPEAL TO THE EYEThis special station should reflect your personal taste and compl...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
What? You don't like mountain climbing? Well many people don't. No, there is nothing wrong with you. You just need a single level home.Mountain climbing not for you? Image by _luisambros from PixabayYou may be "One Story" or "Single Level" Ranch home lover. Well that's OK! Come and SEE! Here are ALWAYS UP TO DATE and always desirable Phoenix Arizona Metro Single Level Detached Homes for sale on the MLS especially for 'One Level' minded people not always interested in climbing to the top or stairs for that matter.  As your Buyer's Realtor, I love to track the single or 1 story single family detached homes for sale in the Phoenix Arizona metro area for my clients because I think they are great for those that do not like to go up and down the stairs.If you like to wander around he house an...
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By Bob Force (REALTOR®), The FORCE in Maryland Real Estate
(Weichert Realtors - Aspen Hill)
Today’s View –  Nov. 14, 2024 – New Market, Md. 21754 – TownhousesThis is a market report for Townhouses in New Market 21754.  At the time of this report (11/14/24) there are 4 townhouses on the market FOR SALE, 4 that are currently under contract, and 2 that have successfully completed the sales process in the last 30 days. Clearly a seller’s market.There is also 6 that have a status of Coming-Soon. Three Bedrooms HomesThere are 2 three-bedroom townhouses in New Market currently on the market for sale.  The current list price of these home being 410,000 after being on the market for 1 day, and $549,000 after being on the market for 3.5 months (112) days. There is 1 three-bedroom townhouse in New Market that is currently under contract.  The last known list price of this home is $410,00...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Aurora, CO 80017Wed Nov 13 2024This week the median list price for Single Family homes Aurora, CO 80017 is $475,000.  Condos is $308,500.Single family homes: Median List Price $475,000 Median Price of New Listings $466,950 Per Square Foot $275 Average Days on Market 166 Median Days on Market 77 Price Decreased 65% Price Increased 2% Relisted 2% Inventory 49 Median Rent $2,200 Call me if you are interest in the aurora area of 80017
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By Joe Mojica, Your Home Adds Value to You
(Laer Realty Partners Bowen)
WHAT IS STATE DOCUMENTARY STAMP?Just as buying most things in life involves paying state taxes, real estate transactions also involve the payment of state taxes at closing. Any time you transfer a property deed to another owner, the state requires the payment of a tax on the deed, therefore, the state will impose taxes on the transfer of title of real property. In some states it may be referred to as a State Transfer Tax.  You will find the fee reflected in your U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT SETTLEMENT STATEMENT received prior to your closing date. The fee is usually assessed at the rate of a certain amount of cents for each $100 of the full purchase price.  In some states, the fee is assessed at the rate of a certain amount of cents for each $500.  It makes no differ...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
 Colorado has already had a taste of winter weather this month, but some things still need to be done annually.  Homeowners should have already unhooked their hoses, as we have had a few nights below freezing.   Anytime we see overnight temperatures below freezing, this could damage the spigots. Here are a few items you should winterize  --  Fertilize lawn for its last feeding Check for drafts - use a candle around doors and windows Blow out sprinklers (may be too late) Check fire extinguisher Check all windows for broken seals and be sure they shut & lock Give the deck one last coat of sealer Inspect your roof for shingle damage, or call a roofer Clean rain gutters and downspouts Check around the foundation for any pipes/ducts coming from the house to see if there is additional caulkin...
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By Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
 Anna Chroscicki with RE/MAX Masterpiece RealtyCall me at 772-485-4188 with any Real Estate Questions. Web-site:www.annasellsrealestate.com1775 SW Gatlin Blvd Ste 101, PSL, FL, 34953
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
Increased 203k Loan Limits for 2024This is for the Limited 203k, which allows self-help and up to 5 subcontractors. If the borrower wants or needs no structural work on the project, they are the contractor. You can update the kitchen and bathrooms, but you can't remove a bearing wall to "open up the floor plan." Instead of the old $35,000 limit, it is now $75,000, but it still has to cover the contingency reserve and costs and fees of the loan (typically about $800.00). Each lender may be different. The lenders don't have to require a contingency reserve, it is up to them. I still think a consultant should be the eyes and ears on the ground at these projects. Whenever a Limited 203k project exceeds $15,000, it is supposed to have an interim inspection. Many times, this is done by the le...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
The October market data showcases a tale of two markets. In the first half of the month, buyers were lured back into the market by a brief break in interest rates. Leading up to the highly anticipated Fed rate cut, mortgage rates hit a 19-month low in September at 6.1 percent bolstering sales into October. How­ever, with stronger-than-expected economic data throughout October, rates continued their upward climb, crossing the seven percent threshold by the end of the month. The swift rise in rates created a "pause" effect, amplifying the anticipated election-related paralysis among buyers in the latter half of the month. As such, the following data reflects a more optimistic picture of where the market currently stands.  Closed home sales rose 2.35 percent to 3,443, likely due to the dip...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
This Thanksgiving season, we’re excited to give back to the community through our Thanksgiving Food Drive, supporting Anna Sudha Community Kitchens. With your help, we can make a meaningful impact for families and seniors in need. Our food drive is an opportunity to come together and ensure that everyone in our community has the food and support they need this holiday season.How You Can HelpWe're accepting donations at our drop-off location in Sterling, VA, and are in need of essential items. Here’s what you can contribute to make a difference: Food Staples: Rice, dry beans (garbanzo, black, kidney), salt, sugar, pasta sauce, pasta, and cereal boxes. Cooking Essentials: Canola oil, masa flour, and all-purpose flour. Nutritious Additions: Unsalted butter, vegetable oil, shredded cheese, ...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
What do MEN want? (Photo Man: Hubert Rams, Pixabay)Answers (top 5, not necessarily in this order):1. Wife2. Family3. Children4. Good Employment or Business5. Man CaveWell, since I am a REALTOR® let me focus on #5. Do you feel at times that you just need to GET AWAY without really going anywhere and possibly avoid the temporary "Family Feud"?  This thought was inspired by this sign I saw at Hobby Lobby. Think about it. Do you feel like you need to ESCAPE/GET AWAY occasionally from the duties and chores of your main house to the refuge of your own MAN CAVE attached to your home? After all Men need to fix things, compete in Sports (or watch them on big screeen at minimum), play with their cars and toys...right? Where do you do that stuff....well in your MAN CAVE!  Hey some men may have bee...
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By Philip A. Raices, 1 of the Most Knowledgeable Brokers on the Net!
(Turn Key Real Estate)
Sold median prices for residential property from August through September saw a modest increase of 1.2% month over month from $760,800 to $770,000.  However, year over year prices are up 10%.  It appears that the demand is still insatiable for those who still have the need or as some call it fomo (fear of missing out) in purchasing a home. However, the number of homes sold decreased from 8915 to 8,254, a 7.4% decrease.  The lack of inventory can be directly attributed to these statistics. Although interest rates are lower than last year, the decrease in the Fed rate by ½% (overnight lending rate between banks) did not affect mortgage rates.  The week after this decrease, rates increased to 6.9% for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. The chart below provides a clear picture of the residentia...
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By Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
If you’re in the real estate business, you know that buying or selling a home can get stressful. But who says we can’t lighten the mood with a few dad jokes?Here’s a collection of real estate-inspired dad jokes that are sure to get a chuckle—or at least a good eye roll—from everyone in the room!Real estate can be a serious business, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have a sense of humor! Enter real estate dad jokes—the groan-worthy, eye-rolling one-liners that bring a little levity to property talk. From open houses to the dreaded closing paperwork, there’s a joke for every part of the process, and these dad-approved quips help break the ice and make everyone feel at home.For agents, these jokes can be the perfect way to connect with clients, easing nerves during what can be a high-stakes...
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By Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
Nestled in the heart of Phoenix's vibrant arts district, Sparrow’s Nest Tattoo is more than just a tattoo parlor—it’s a hub for art, individuality, and community. Located at 118 E Roosevelt St, this locally owned and operated studio has become a trusted spot for residents and visitors looking to express themselves through body art. From its unique range of tattoo styles to a dedication to creating custom designs, Sparrow’s Nest Tattoo stands out in the Phoenix tattoo scene.One of the key features of Sparrow’s Nest Tattoo is the variety of styles offered by its talented artists. Whether you’re looking for a classic black-and-grey piece, bold traditional American tattoos, or intricate Japanese designs, Sparrow’s Nest has an artist skilled in each style. Here’s a quick look at some of the ...
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By Susan Isaacs | DC Real Estate Consultant, Partnering with: DOMOofCompass
(Compass | 1313 14th St NW DC 20005)
In Washington DC, the real estate market has been considered a market of steel due to its government workforce and cachet as the nation's seat of power, but a second Trump administration may prove to be its Kryptonite.A second Trump presidency is an unwelcome disruption in the District, a city so blue the only red you see is on the Nationals’ jerseys. Residents are still recovering from the last one. And don't even think about interfering with their federal workforce or real estate values. But that's exactly what Trump plans to do.Here are the main ways the new Trump administration will impact the District of Columbia's real estate market: The Fed Mortgage Rates Home Prices DC Home Rule Schools Federal Workforce Tariffs Tax Cuts And Exemptions Immigrant Deportations Read about the ways ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
5 Don’ts in Real Estate That Could Cost You BigBeing successful in real estate isn’t just about knowing what to do—it’s also about knowing what NOT to do. Here are five critical mistakes to avoid if you want to thrive: Don’t Neglect Phone Calls and EmailsI’ve worked with buyers who were interested in a property but couldn’t get the information they needed because the listing agent never responded. They moved on to another house. Communication is key—always be responsive! Don’t Cheap Out on Photography and MarketingFirst impressions are everything. Buyers see photos first, and if your marketing is lackluster, they may never even step foot in the house. Invest in professional photos, videos, and staging if possible. Don’t Be Too SalesyNobody likes the pushy “salesperson” vibe. Be genuine,...
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