The Difference Between a Pre-Qualification vs. PreApproval

There is plenty of real estate terms used in transactions. Needless-to-say it can be confusing for both buyers and sellers trying to navigate the process. The home loan process might feel overwhelming and difficult to understand. Both buyers and sellers find terms like “PreQualification” and “Pre-Approval” used interchangeably, it’s no wonder they find themselves wondering how to proceed.

Pre-Qualification

The first step in obtaining a home loan is to meet with a lender and discussing their financial situation. The lender will discuss income, job stability, debt and credit. Once they have performed a basic review of the qualifications and run credit, they will issue a Pre-Qualification...

10 Ways to Make a Small Bathroom Look Bigger

Small bathrooms don’t have to be dark and dank. Contrary to popular belief, making a small bathroom appear larger is not as hard as it seems. Here are 10 easy ways to quickly make a small bathroom look bigger.

1. Mirrors – Add larger mirrors to reflect light and provide the illusion of space.

2. Lighten Up – Lighting doesn’t have to be harsh, but adequate lighting is a must.

3. Remove Barriers – Open...

Why Millionaires Love Real Estate

Serious investors already know the value of a diversified portfolio. In addition to stocks and bonds, real estate should be included in your investment mix. One way to accomplish this is to purchase, hold, rent or flip actual physical property, as part of your investment strategy. Real estate is a solid asset which can provide annual income, asset appreciation and/or quick profit.

Millionaires understand the value of real estate and how it can be used to increase wealth and as a hedge against the volatility of other investments, such as stocks and bonds. Real estate holdings can provide immediate and long-term benefits:

• Cash Flow - Rental income is one of the primary reasons investors purchase property.

• Asset Appreciation –...

5 Things NOT to do When Staging

Staging a home for sale is the most misunderstood process in home selling. Creating the right atmosphere in the home, one which invites potential buyers to linger is much more than this. When creating the right scene, it’s just as important to know what NOT to when staging the home.

1. Neglecting the Deep Clean – A clean and fresh home is the very first step. If the home smells like last night’s dinner and there is cat hair in the corners, regardless of what else you do, it’s not going to sell.

2. Leaving the Clutter – Of course, you’re still living in the home, but it shouldn’t necessarily look like it.

3. Keeping Too Many Personal Photos In View – Again, the goals is to create a place where the buyers can...

10 Tips to Save Money on your Insurance Costs

Insurance is a vital part of property investment. This is considered to be a big part of it which is somehow overlooked by some investors.It is important that you are investing with proper insurance. However, you want to make sure that the amount you pay in insurance costs will not lead to financial hardship. Whether you already own a home or you're still looking for a home, it's important to know the insurance costs .

Here are some helpful tips on how you can save money on your  insurance costs:

1. The newer the home, the lower the premium.

2. Concrete...

5 Tips for a Smooth Moving Day

Regardless of whether you’re moving across town or across the globe, moving day can be stressful. Often people find themselves scrambling to get everything done and make sure it’s done correctly. By following a few simple steps, you can make your moving day go smoothly and without the typical headaches.

1. Hire the Right Company – The easiest way to ensure your moving day goes smoothly is to do your homework ahead of time. Clearly communicate your needs and expectations, check references and keep a record of all conversations and estimate.

2. Have Your Packing Done Ahead of Time – Don’t wait until the last minute to get your portion of the packing done.

3. Check the Work Order before They Start – Mistakes and misunderstandings...

Real Estate Advice You Should Ignore

Buying or selling your home is a big decision. It’s natural to have questions, but how can you tell if the information and advice you receive is accurate to your situation? Not only can you find bad information online but it might come from unexpected sources, like your friends, your family and even your agent.

Here are a few of the costly real estate advice that you should ignore each and every time.

1. You’ll save money if you don’t work with an agent – Both buyers and sellers fall into this trap, but bottom line, a good agent will save both parties money through their market knowledge and negotiation skills.

2. Determining your price by online estimates – Online home value estimates, such as Zillow’s Zestimates,...

Is it time to move?

Moving is a big decision. It is hard for many to change and often there is emotional attachment for the home. It’s understandable andt yet a home that doesn’t fit your needs any longer can make even the most loved home uncomfortable. Are you wondering if it’s time to move? Here are 6 telltale signs that you should consider putting the “for sale” sign up in your front yard.

1. Your Home is Too Small – One of the most common signs is that you’ve outgrown your home. 

2. Your Home is Too Large – Life changes! Empty nesters often find the home too large and it’s maintenance too much when they finally have time to travel and relax.

3. Your Home is Too Expensive – Are you spending all your extra...

8 Things Buyer Notice in a Home

Buyers notice everything when they walk into a home - good and bad. From the moment they walk in the front door, they are trying to determine if this is the right home for them. If you have your home listed for sale, paying attention to what the buyers notice can mean the difference between an offer and a missed opportunity.

Here are the 8 Things Buyers Notice as Soon as they Walk In

1. Light – A bright home is inviting. Make sure you fill your home with lots of natural light or a soft evening glow. Having clean windows is important when selling a home.

2. Smell – Nothing is less inviting than a strong odor. Even candles and air fresheners can be overwhelming. Less is more and make sure nothing unpleasant is lingering. Vanilla is the scent that most buyers...