Real Estate 101: Easy and Affordable Home Improvement
One of the questions I’m often asked is what are some inexpensive and easy ways to update a home? Definitely consult your real estate agent before doing any major updating or renovation as he/she will be able to tell you where your money will be best spent.
Two of the easiest and most affordable ways to update your home are by changing paint colors (neutral is best!) and new flooring. Worn and stained carpet or outdated tile or linoleum will make your home appear shabby and neglected. A new, neutral carpet with a good pad will give your home an instant and noticeable boost.
What home improvement projects are you considering? Contact me today to find out what return on investment you can expect.
Ryan Kortan
Broker Associate
Hegg, REALTORS
Sioux Falls, SD
605.212.7981
Real Estate 101: I’ve Found the Home I Want! Now What?
More often than not, buyers don’t know any more about the home buying process than looking at homes and picking the one they like, but there are a few more steps involved after that:
#1 Make an offer to purchase – The buyer’s REALTOR® facilitates this process and helps the buyer determine what price and terms they should request and negotiates on their behalf.
#2 Inspection – once the buyer and seller have come to an agreement and an offer to purchase has been accepted, the buyer should have a certified home inspector look at the home. Inspectors will give the home a thorough examination and point out any areas of concern. Any issues arising out of the home inspection are usually resolved through re-negotiations between the buyer and seller.
#3 Financing – as soon as the home has been inspected and the buyer and seller have agreed on any changes to be made either to the home or to the purchase agreement, the lender begins finalizing the loan process. It is important that buyers make themselves available to and co-operate with their lender in order to insure a smooth and quick closing.
#4 Close and Move-in!
What other questions do you have about the home buying process? I’ll be happy to answer them!
Ryan Kortan
Hegg, REALTORS®
Sioux Falls, SD
605-212-7981
Real Estate 101: Tips for Homebuying or Selling
Buying or selling a home is an involved process and one way to make it easier is to know what your expecations are and discuss them with your real estate agent.
If selling, do you want to move up, move out of town, downsize, etc. Answering this question and discussing your intention with your real estate agent will allow your agent to guide you through the appropriate next steps.
The same advice goes for buyers, especially first time buyers. Those who have owned a home before usually have a better idea of what they want and don’t want in a home and neighborhood. If you’re a first time buyer, however, consult your real estate agent and even talk with friends and family members about why they like their homes in order to get an idea of what attributes you want for your first home. Looking at different home styles and in different neighborhoods is also helpful in determinging what you want in a home.
For a list of things to consider before purchasing your next home, leave a comment below. Thanks for visiting the Hegg Blog! We hope you come back again soon.
Ryan Kortan
Hegg, REALTORS®
Sioux Falls, SD
605-212-7981
