99% of the population loves spending money if they have it. You might say you don’t, but just remember the adrenaline rush you had when you handed over the cash and carried your last purchase out to the car. It’s even better with your first home because it will be the most expensive thing you have ever bought so far, plus it’s a big leap from your next highest purchase which was probably ...
Grand Rapids has gotten so much attention over the last year. We have been recognized for having one of the best real estate markets, for being a great place to raise a family, and even for our beer. Here is article citing Grand Rapids as one of the most sustainable cities in the U.S. We still have a lot of work to do, but Grand Rapids has made vast improvements over the last few ...
The real estate market officially rebounded this past year. Buyers came out in swarms attracted to the low prices and low interest rates. At the same time, the supply of homes for sale dwindled. Within a couple short months, the market changed from a buyer's market to a seller's market. Most of 2012 we had a measly 3.9 months of inventory, giving sellers the edge. To put ...
FHA 203k loans allow the cost of renovations to be included in your mortgage. It gives buyers the option to buy a property that could use some work, even if they don't have a large sum of money saved.
First, some 203(k) basics:
15- or 30-year term option
ARM or fixed-rate option
3.5% down payment; other FHA loan qualifications apply
Interest rate a tad higher than market
Higher fees compared ...
How to Prioritize Home Repairs
Buying a home can be an expensive endeavor, and many potential buyers choose to shave a couple bucks off the final price by purchasing starter homes or properties that need a few repairs. And while this strategy can be an effective way to save money and, in some cases, personalize the house, knowing which repairs are more pressing can help new homeowners ...
Tired of searching for tools and not being able to find them? Sick of tripping over random items that have collected in your garage? It's easier than you think to get organized...
The Five Best Easy DIY Decorating Ideas
1) Frame fabric for wall art- this is an easy and inexpensive way to have new wall art. Picture frames of all sizes are plentiful at thrift stores. All you need is some spray paint, adhesive, and some fabric to make a cool, modern look. http://www.casacullen.com/2010/03/diy-easy-wall-art-how-to-frame-fabric.html
2) Frost a window- I did this ...
5 Fast Paced Market Tips for Buyers
When prices and interest rates fall, new buyers are itching to take advantage of them and get into a new home. But what happens when buyers find there is little available to them? That's right: bidding wars and multiple offers. When real estate is moving fast, it can pay off big to understand how to move quickly, and take advantage of opportunities ...
Does Staging Really Matter?
The short answer is ABSOLUTELY!!
The goal of prepping and staging a property is to make everything look so nice and perfect, that potential problems do not even cross a buyer's mind. The buyer thinks, "wow, this looks so great, they must take such good care of this home." How often do you hear someone say after they purchase a home, "this house just gave ...
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Market Update- May 2012
The real estate market in Grand Rapids has exploded over the last few months. New listings are down by 7% year-to-date, while closed sales are up by 17%. The future looks even brighter if you look at the statistics for May. May 2012 sales were up by 34.7% compared to May 2011. With less homes for sale and more people buying, we are sitting at a measly ...