Tag Archives: buying a home

The School Effect: How Proximity Boosts Home Values

Children running into a school.

From assertive parents’ power to the value of a good education, The School Effect has long had a positive effect on an area’s property prices. When buyers and renters get a sniff of the notion of a high-quality educational system, the lure of great neighbors, kids to engage and grow up with, and high-value connections to their social networks, it can add a few extra percentage points to any property deal.

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Suburb vs City: Pros and Cons for Modern Homebuyers

A suburban neighborhood next to a city neighborhood.

The age-old tug-of-war between suburban serenity and urban buzz still shapes the choices of today’s homebuyers. Dreaming of quiet streets, roomy backyards, and neighborhoods where kids ride their bikes till dusk? Or are you drawn to the culture, convenience, and fast-paced rhythm of city life? For many, it’s a hard call to make.

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How to Position Yourself for Prosperity in the 2025 Real Estate Landscape

Small houses stacked on top of coins, symbolizing real estate prosperity.

As the year ends, the 2025 real estate market comes into focus. Identifying experts’ predictions and knowing how to navigate the market is essential, especially if you want to set yourself up for success. The market outlook shows some encouraging signs for buyers. For homeowners keen to sell, prices might increase but at a lower rate than anticipated.

These trends mean that careful planning and a smart strategy can make a huge difference regardless of whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate.

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New Year, New Home: Real Estate Resolutions for 2025

A couple achieving their real estate resolutions in 2025.

The new year often inspires fresh starts and bold decisions. For many, 2025 could be the year to take big steps toward buying, selling, or upgrading a home. Setting smart real estate goals early in the year can lead to exciting opportunities and meaningful progress. Let us explore practical and achievable resolutions for anyone navigating the real estate world this year.

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5 Essential Steps to Take Before Building Your Home

A wooden house on top of building specs symbolizing the work needed before building your home.

Building your dream home is an exciting but daunting journey. Proper preparation makes the process as smooth as possible. Before breaking ground, consider factors that will lay the foundation for your project.

Turn your vision into reality by following five simple steps. Let us explore what to do before embarking on your home-building adventure!

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How to Reduce Stress Before, During, and After Moving

A family sitting near unpacked boxes in their home.

Moving into a new house is exciting – and, like most major life events, incredibly stressful. You have to pack, clean, and hire movers, all on a timeline and budget.

According to a survey conducted by OnePoll, 64% of respondents consider their latest relocation one of the most challenging experiences they have ever had.

Moving comes with many different parts: planning, budgeting, and figuring out how to get your precious belongings into your new home. While procrastinating may be tempting, you can take a few simple steps to make your move less stressful.

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The Psychological Impact of Homeownership

A couple happily standing in front of their home, signifying the benefits of homeownership.

Homeownership is a significant milestone in many people’s lives.

It signifies financial stability, independence, and the start of a new chapter.

The journey towards homeownership, however, can be filled with challenges and uncertainties.

Let us delve into the intricate interplay between owning a home and the human psyche.

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RESPA- What Should You Know Before Buying a House?

A blue book with "RESPA" on the cover.

The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) was enacted in 1975. The federal statute was introduced to stop malpractice and restrict the usage of escrow accounts in the real estate settlement process.

Who regulates RESPA?

Once RESPA became effective in 1975, it was under the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) jurisdiction. Ever since its inception, the Act has undergone several amendments and changes. However, after 2011, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau monitored RESPA due to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection legislation.

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What to Know About Contract Contingencies

A realtor and buyer talking about the real estate contract and contingencies to include.

There are many steps to purchasing a new home. After the initial offer is made, buyers and sellers often negotiate before they come to an agreement. Buyers then deposit earnest money to show they are serious about the purchase, and both parties begin the closing process.

However, a lot of things can go wrong between signing the contract and closing on a house. To protect buyers, several types of contract contingencies may be included in the contract. These allow the buyer to legally back out of the sale if necessary.

Many home contract contingencies are accepted by sellers, but some may weaken offers on a home. Here are four common types of home contract contingencies and how to tell which ones may be right for you.

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