Selling your home in Montgomery County doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies and support from the Shaina McAndrews Team, you can navigate the process with confidence and achieve a quick sale at the best possible price. Contact them today to embark on your selling journey and unlock the full potential of your Montgomery County property.
Are you on the hunt for the best real estate team to help you buy or sell property? Look no further than the Shaina McAndrews Team at eXp Realty, LLC. With Shaina McAndrews' extensive experience and a dedicated newcomer, Jess Slaughter, this team brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the real estate industry. Backed by a skilled Team Administrator, Shyrine Asuncion, and an Inside Sales Agent, Lou Veneracion, the Shaina McAndrews Team is your go-to choice for an exceptional and personalized real estate experience. Their commitment to excellence, innovative technology, and active community involvement make them the ideal choice for your real estate needs. Don't miss out on the opportunity to work with the best; contact the Shaina McAndrews Team today!
Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it often comes with a significant financial commitment. Two key aspects you need to plan for are the down payment and closing costs. In this blog post, we'll break down what these terms mean, what's included in closing costs, and how The Shaina McAndrews Team can help you get closer to your homeownership goals.
Ah, winter. The season of cozy sweaters, hot cocoa by the fireplace, and... real estate? That's right! While many associate winter with holiday festivities and staying indoors, it's also a hidden gem in the world of real estate. If you're considering buying or selling a home, winter might just be the perfect season for you. Let's dive into the snowy landscape of winter real estate and uncover its many benefits.
Less Competition
Winter is often overlooked by potential homebuyers, making it a less competitive market. With fewer buyers on the prowl, you're less likely to encounter bidding wars, giving you a better shot at securing your dream home.
Motivated Sellers
Sellers who list their homes in winter often have a pressing reason to sell, whether it's a job relocation or personal circumstances. This urgency can work in your favor, leading to more negotiable terms and potentially better deals.
See Homes at Their Coziest
There's something magical about touring homes in winter. With the fireplace roaring and holiday decorations up, you get to experience the warmth and coziness of the property, helping you envision your life there.
Availability of Professionals
Winter is a quieter season for real estate professionals, from agents to lender to title agent to home inspectors. This means they can offer you more personalized attention, ensuring a smoother buying process.
Serious Buyers Only
While there might be fewer buyers in winter, those who are house hunting are typically more serious. This can lead to quicker sales and less time spent on the market.
Stand Out in the Market
With fewer listings in winter, your home has a better chance to shine. Plus, the snowy backdrop can make for stunning property photos, capturing the beauty of your home. That is, if we get snow this winter!
Control Over Your Schedule
With fewer homes on the market, you have more flexibility in scheduling showings, open houses, and other selling activities, making the process less stressful.
Highlight Unique Features
Does your home have a state-of-the-art heating system? A cozy fireplace? Winter is the perfect time to highlight these features, making your property even more appealing to potential buyers.
Preparing Your Home for Sale
Winter demands a different approach to home staging. Ensure walkways are clear of snow, add warm lighting, and consider seasonal decorations to make your home inviting.
The Importance of Virtual Tours
Given the chilly weather, virtual tours become even more crucial in winter. Offering potential buyers a chance to explore your home from the comfort of theirs can boost interest.
Negotiation Strategies
Winter can shift the dynamics of negotiation. Understanding the motivations of buyers and sellers during this season can help you secure the best deal, whether you're buying or selling.
The Beauty of Snow
A blanket of snow can transform the look of a property, highlighting its architecture and surroundings. This winter wonderland aesthetic can be a significant selling point.
The Warmth of the Indoors
Winter allows sellers to showcase the warmth and coziness of their homes, from crackling fireplaces to snug reading nooks, creating an inviting atmosphere for buyers.
Bring a shovel!
Whether you are a buyer or an agent, make sure to bring a shovel with you for snowy time showings!
Winter, with its serene beauty and unique advantages, offers a fresh perspective on the real estate market. Whether you're a buyer seeking a dream home or a seller aiming for a quick sale, winter presents opportunities that other seasons simply can't match. So, as the temperature drops and snowflakes start to fall, remember that the real estate market is still hot. Embrace the winter wonderland of real estate, and you might just find your happy ever after. Reach out to me today to get started!
You've heard it before: "Location, location, location." But what if I told you that one of the most coveted locations isn't necessarily near a bustling city center, a serene beach, or a picturesque mountain range? It's near a top-rated school district. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, "But I don't have kids, why should I care?" – stick with me. This isn't just about school bells and parent-teacher conferences. It's about savvy real estate decisions and reaping unexpected benefits.
Now, how are we defining a top school district? For the purposes of this article I mean a school district that is sought after the most by parents highly focused on the education of their child. Is a top school district the best kind for every kid? Absolutely not. Kids all need different things and excel in different areas- what is probably most important is that the learning environment suits the child. I moved from a very small ‘private like’ school district to one of the largest ones in the area. Sports were 100% more competitive in the larger school and there was much more diversity and opportunities that I simply wouldn’t have had at the smaller school which typically ranks slightly higher because of their testing scores.
Let's talk numbers. Homes in good school districts tend to have higher property values. Why? Because demand is high. Parents are always on the hunt for the best education for their children, and they're willing to pay a premium for it. But here's the kicker: even if the whole 'parenting gig' isn't your scene, this demand can work in your favor.
Homes in these areas not only retain their value but often appreciate faster than homes in lower-rated school districts. This means that when it's time to sell, you're likely to get a higher return on your investment. It's like having a golden ticket that keeps on giving.
Remember the 2008 housing market crash? While no area was truly immune, neighborhoods within top school districts were notably resilient. These areas tend to recover faster and more robustly than others. The reason? Again, it's demand. Even in economic downturns, parents prioritize their children's education. This consistent demand provides a safety net of sorts, making your investment more stable and less prone to market fluctuations.
Good schools often equate to active communities. Think about it: schools are hubs of activity, from sports events to theater productions, community meetings to weekend fairs. Even if you're not attending PTA meetings, you can benefit from the amenities and events these schools bring to the community.
Furthermore, areas with good schools often boast better libraries, parks, and recreational centers. The community vibe is palpable, with residents actively engaged in neighborhood upkeep and local events.
Safety first, right? Neighborhoods with good schools often report lower crime rates. A community that prioritizes education often values other essential aspects of a cohesive society, like safety and order. Plus, with active parent groups and community engagement, there's a sort of informal neighborhood watch in play. It's peace of mind, whether you're a parent or not.
Life is unpredictable. Maybe right now, you can't fathom the idea of having kids. But who knows where you'll be in 5, 10, or 15 years? Investing in a home in a good school district gives you flexibility for whatever the future holds. And if kids are a definite 'no' for you, think about potential buyers when you decide to sell. Your buyer pool is significantly larger, including both families and savvy investors like yourself.
Schools are melting pots of culture and activity. Living near a top-rated school often means access to cultural events, from art shows to musical performances. Enjoy theater? Check out the school's drama productions. Love sports? Local school games can be thrilling to watch. And let's not forget about adult education classes, often hosted in school facilities. From pottery to poetry, salsa dancing to software coding, there's a world of learning and culture right at your doorstep.
Good school districts often prioritize environmental initiatives, from tree planting events to community clean-ups. This focus on the environment can lead to cleaner streets, well-maintained parks, and a more sustainable community overall. Plus, with schools promoting walking or biking to school, there's often less traffic and pollution.
Choosing where to live is a multifaceted decision. While the quality of nearby schools might not be at the top of your list, especially if you're child-free, it's worth a second glance. Beyond the obvious educational benefits, being near a top-rated school district offers a plethora of advantages, from financial gains to cultural experiences, safety, and community engagement.
So, the next time you're house hunting, don't dismiss the school ratings too quickly. You might just find that the best place for you is right next to the sound of school bells and the hustle and bustle of a schoolyard. Because, in the world of real estate, it's not just about the here and now; it's about smart, future-proof choices.
You've done your homework on the house you're looking to buy. You know the area, the schools, and you're already picturing yourself Barbecuing in the backyard on warm summer nights. There's just one last thing you need to do: Review the HOA (Homeowner's Association) documents. It's important to know what sort of restrictions the HOA might have on purchasing a home. The buyer has to ensure the rules will not interfere with their lifestyle but once they become homeowners, often these same people do not pay attention to bylaw changes over the years which can cause them to be caught off guard.
Can an HOA force a homeowner to get rid of their pet? Often they can.
Let’s talk briefly about the Pennsylvania Agreement of Sale and the language built into the contract about Condo and Home Owner’s Associations. IN MOST CASES, The seller has 15 days to order the resale package which includes the most up to date information from the association on bylaws, the resale certificate for the specific unit, rules and regulations, and financial information for the association at large. The association is obligated to provide this packet within 10 days of receiving the request. The buyer can void the ratified Agreement of Sale up to 5 days after the receipt of these documents or the settlement of the property- whichever comes first.
So, it is unlikely you will have a chance to read through the rules and regulations prior to making an offer on the HOA or COA property. If there is a specific concern (dog breed or weight for instance), it is best to call the association directly for an immediate answer.
Oftentimes, when an HOA forces a homeowner to get rid of their pet, it's because they are in violation of a bylaw the owner wasn’t aware of. An HOA has a duty to create and enforce restrictions to ensure the well-being and safety of the homeowners in the association. If they operate within the guidelines of federal anti-discrimination laws, HOAs have broad latitude to create their bylaws, including the complete restriction on having animals in one’s home or on HOA property.
One exception to any restriction is the ability of an owner to have a service animal. Another situation that may allow a pet in contradiction to a bylaw is a member who has already had a specific animal when the rules changed. In most cases, these animals are allowed to remain.
Most HOA communities welcome pets, but an HOA does have significant power to influence the standard of living within the community. There may be type of pet restrictions, breed or weight restrictions, limits on quantity. Those are common in the Greater Philadelphia HOA and COAs.
If you are looking at a condominium community or building, they tend to have the most restrictions so make sure your furry friend is allowed and narrow down your home search to pet friendly communities.
Careful understanding of the HOA and climate of a community will avoid painful issues and ensure a pleasant homeowning experience.
Tips for Buying and Selling at the Same Time
Either buying or selling a home can be extremely stressful, it can be even more overwhelming if one is trying to do both at the same time. The good news is that this happens all the time and by following a few simple tips, both buying and selling can be a seamless process.
Tips for Buying and Selling at the Same Time
The good news is that you’re planning to move any way. Before you list your home for sale, why not start packing now? Take personal items and excess furnishings and pack them up and move them to storage. Not only will your home look larger and neater, you are getting a start on the move.
Next make sure your agent, or agents, understands the timeline and requirements. There are many standard contingencies which can protect you from owning two homes at once, or none at all. Not only can the purchase of your new home be contingent on successfully closing on your current one but you can also reverse the process and ensure you find a replacement before the close as well.
Finally, get the entire family involved. Be excited about the change and create a moving plan in which everyone has a task and there is a plan for the move itself. By taking a few initial steps, moving can be fun and easy.
Top Reasons you Need Your Own Agent When Buying New Construction
Have you ever walked into the model home showroom of a brand new housing development? There is nothing more exciting than the prospect of building a home from scratch and starting absolutely fresh in a new space. You get to pick the colors of the carpet, choose the countertops and flooring and watch as the home goes up. The nice sales people in the showroom are happy to help you through the process, but did you know that you can bring your own real estate agent to represent you? Yes you can and here are the top reasons why you should have your own agent.
Choose the Right Development – It’s not enough to find a lovely development; understanding the neighborhood and schools play a big part of home values.
Choose the Right Lot – You might love the corner lot, but your agent can help you consider resale before you buy.
Consider the Cost of Upgrades – Not all upgrades should be handled through the sales office; your agent can help you understand customary costs for upgrades.
Contact Negotiation – Did you know that the price and terms of new construction homes can be negotiated? Your agent can get you the best deal.
Contact Review – Your agent will ensure everything is written correctly in the contract.
Home Inspection – Your agent will arrange a professional home inspection.
Your Agent is Free – All this representation and help, yet the home development pays their commission.
New home construction is fun! Take advantage of all the benefits having your own agent representation brings and let the housing development pay for it. For most builders, you will have to bring your agent at first meeting in order to be able to work with her!
The Internet Can’t Replace Your Agent
We live in the information age; the Internet offers advice on every topic and real estate is no exception. With more and more home buyers starting their home search online, they are bombarded with advice and information – it can be easy to think that you can learn everything you need to know just by reading articles online.
The truth is your real estate agent does much more than answer your questions and open doors with a special key. A professional real estate agent will be there every step of the way. They have the experience necessary to navigate the complicated home buying process and solve common hiccups that present themselves in every real estate transactions.
Your real estate agent is a local professional. They will start by presenting themselves to the buyer’s agent as someone who will work with them to see the transaction through to a successful conclusion. They have a network of professionals who will work as a team to help you through the process. These include such professionals as: lenders, title reps, escrow officers, transaction coordinators, home inspectors, contractors and handymen, among others.
Most importantly, your agent is your ally in the home buying process. They negotiate on your behalf – armed with experience and understanding of customary charges, costs and terms.
They will ensure that the price you pay for the home is fair for the condition and neighborhood. They will negotiate repairs, if needed and make sure you are protected with the proper contingencies.
The Internet offers lots of great information, but the most important step you can take when buying a new home, is hiring a local professional real estate agent. Their knowledge and expertise can’t be found by reading an article or two online.
Contact me today with your questions, concerns, or anything else.
Is a Bigger House Really Better?
If you are looking for your next home, it’s naturally to assume that you should buy the biggest home you can afford. Certainly if you need a big home, then this is the right decision, but if not then there are other ways to maximize your investment that doesn’t include more square feet.
Bigger isn’t always better. If you don’t need 4 bedrooms, then why spend your money on that? There are many other ways to spend your money.
· View – View homes will always command higher sales prices than those without. If you enjoy a distant vista, use your money for a view and enjoy better returns when you sell.
· Space – Space is not only counted in square footage, lot size also adds value and enjoyment to a home.
· Amenities – Ask anyone who has looked at upscale retirement communities about amenities and how they contribute to qualify of life. Golf courses and lake front homes increase value as well as value.
· Location – The old adage of location, location, location is true. From the craftsman cottage in the historic downtown to a trendy urban loft, choosing a home in the right location is critical to building value.
Choosing the right home is not simply about resale value, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about it. First and foremost choose a home that fits your needs and lifestyle, but if that’s not a huge house on the hill, there are other options that are just as good. The bigger house is not necessarily the best choice.
Tips for a Buyer of a Fixer-Upper
Over the last few years weekend warriors have been delighted to find an abundance of television shows devoted to fixing up homes. More specifically, they show viewers how to take a fixer upper and turn it from an ugly duckling to a special property that they can call home. It sounds so easy but before you grab a sledge hammer and head out to buy that cheap bank- owned building on the corner, there are things to consider.
First and foremost, how handy are you really? Fixer-uppers can vary from cosmetic paint and carpet, maybe changing a countertop or fixtures; then there are fixers which have electrical problems and slab leaks. It’s important to understand what you are capable of handling – either yourself or supervisory level.
Tips for a Buyer of a Fixer-Upper
Do Your Research – Don’t assume anything. Check for local ordinances and zones to make sure the plans you have for the property are truly available to you.
Hire a Professional – Regardless of your level of “handiness” you need professional help. Start with a professional home inspection and understand the true condition of the home.
Know Your Limits – A great deal is only a deal if you can take on the project. Be honest with yourself. If you need to, hire a General Contractor to handle the renovation.
Fixer-uppers can be great investments. These properties can be converted to beautiful homes or flipped for quick profit, but either way, handled well these ugly ducklings will live up to the best episode of HGTV.
Priority Tasks Before Moving In
You did it. You moved into a new home you love and now you’re dreaming of how you’re going to decorate it. But before getting into all of that, there are still some other tasks that need to be at the top of your priority list.
Double check them even if you’ve been told that there are new locks installed. It’s better to take safety measures and know that no one else has keys to your home. Call in a locksmith if you want to spend a little money or it can be done yourself.
A great exterminator can take care of any pests that have been lurking in your home.
If it isn’t already, clean out the refrigerator, wipe down counters, cabinets, oven if needed, and plumbing fixtures. Prior occupants might have had pets or young children so it’s best to steam clean. This will free your floors of any junk or allergens.
Getting your heating and cooling systems cleaned is crucial and make sure to get a service contract just in case it stops working suddenly.
Keep in mind of where everything is going to get placed so it can be accommodated in your closet space. A shelf or a coat hook can go a long way for making room or organization.
You want to reach out to your neighbors as soon as possible. It’s good to establish yourself within the community and you can get advice on some home repairs like which plumber to use.
Having these as priorities will help you move into a clean, working home. And then, you’re ready to move in with all your belongings and start making it yours!
How To Lower Closing Costs
Closing costs help facilitate the sale of a home and both buyers and sellers pitch in. Some closing costs can be paid before the home is officially sold and others are paid at the end.
However, closing costs aren’t set into stone and they can be negotiable. You can ask your real estate agent or lender with help in estimating your actual closing costs. Look over everything to make sure all the numbers are right and then you plan accordingly in how you’re going to lower them.
Some banks offer assistance to buyers when they use them to help pay for the purchase. It’s a way for a bank to reward loyal customers. Unfortunately this is not very common in today’s market.
Schedule your closing at the end of the month so you don’t have to pay the per diem interest for so many days.
Get estimates from different lenders because you’re looking for the best package of closing costs and interest rates. There might be something better out there. Please note that comparing lenders true costs on mortgages is not as simple as choosing between interest rates or APRs.
There may be some fees a lender charges that may be negotiable, such as origination fee, processing fee, or application fee. Make sure to ask if what you are being quoted is the best they can offer.
Sometimes title insurance and settlement are bundled together. You may be able to find a title and settlement company that is less expensive.
You can try to negotiate with the seller in paying for some of your closing costs. Buyers can ask for credit or to cover lender expenses during the offer and negotiation process. This should be covered with your real estate agent in your initial consultation.
Top Tips for House Hunting Online
Hunting for a new home online a is a great place to start your search but keep in mind that you don’t see everything. Real estate agents are great at highlighting the features of a house listing online but to make the most of your time, keep these three things in mind:
Preferences are important when house searching. A house may not have everything you want but it will have most of the things. Be realistic about pricing and keep in mind the must-have items that will definitely be needed because this will help narrow your search.
When you start your search, make sure you go to sites with up-to-date listings directly from the multiple listing service. Realtors post their most current homes for sale through this. Many sites fail to remove listings that are already off the market, and this can lead to you trying to sort through them and find the recent ones. Also note that Pre-foreclosure is not a property for sale so avoid website with properties not actually for sale.
Photographers capture listings at their best. They use different strategies and tools to boost the appeal of the home like creative editing and expensive camera equipment known for its effects. What they don’t show is unappealing parts, like an undone bathroom or small closet.
After you have chosen a house that’s appealing to you, schedule a showing with your real estate agent. This is the opportunity to see every part of the house in person and see if it’s a good fit.
Searching online is a great way to learn more about the house you’re looking for. Even if you’re still unsure about moving, house hunting online gives potential sellers the basic information.
Fill out my Buyer Survey and I will be able to customize a search for you with up to date information.
Qualifying for a Loan – What do I need to qualify?
Before you start searching for your new home, the first step is to speak with a lender and determine your budget. This is being pre-qualified for a loan. Once you find the right home, then your lender will order an appraisal of the property and complete your financing. If this is your first home purchase, or if it’s been awhile since you’ve purchased, understanding how to prepare for the qualifying process is the first step to success.
When preparing for your meeting with the lender gather all the pertinent documentation and bring them with you. Most lenders will want to see 2 months of employment pay stubs and bank records as well as the past 2 years of tax returns. After reviewing your income and savings, the lender will also order a credit report which shows all your recurring debt and payment history. This will be used to determine your ability to pay the proposed mortgage.
There are a variety of loan programs available. From 0% down VA loans to traditional 20% down loans, your lender will review all your options with you so you can determine the best program. Some government guaranteed loan programs, such as the VA or FHA, are more lenient with your credit score requirements as well as other qualifications, such as debt to income ratios.
Qualifying for a home loan might feel overwhelming, but your lender can walk you through the process and requirements. After learning your options, you can make the best financial decision for your new home loan.
Foreclosures – What is a Foreclosed Property?
Unfortunately since the mortgage meltdown, foreclosed properties have become more common. Many home buyers see this as an opportunity to find a great home for a bargain price. While foreclosures can offer some nice discounts, understanding how foreclosures work and how this affects the buyer is critical to ensure you are getting a good deal and not a disaster.
First it’s important to understand what qualifies as a foreclosure. A foreclosure is a property which has been taken back by the lender in order to satisfy an unpaid mortgage debt. It is owned by the bank or lender and they have now listed the property for sale.
Yes and no! It’s true that lenders do not want to hold onto their foreclosed properties longer than they need to, but they also understand the value of the home in its current condition.
While deeply distressed properties might be listed at very low prices, good homes in decent condition might not be listed below comparables in the same area.
The actual buying process is the same; you write an offer, obtain financing and close. The differences lay in the protections and opportunities for negotiation during the process. Most foreclosures are sold “as is” and the lender will not negotiate repairs of any kind. There could also be clauses which remove other contingencies, such as financing or appraisal. The buyer needs to read the agreement very carefully.
Buying a foreclosure can be a great way to find a nice property at a discounted price. Not all properties are a good deal however. Understanding the foreclosure market and reading the contracts very carefully is the key to buying a foreclosure – this way you get the most home for your money without buying a problem.
Ask me for more advice as to whether foreclosures should be part of your home search.
Tips to Save for a Down payment
Are you thinking about buying a new home? Gone are the days of 100% financing with zero down payment. So if you are not sitting on a pile of cash, the idea of finding the money to pay the down payment might feel daunting. But there are simple ways to raise the cash needed to get into a new home.
Assess Your Current Assets - The first step is to determine what cash you might have available right now. Do you have a savings account or perhaps a 401k*? Are you nursing a pet project, like a vintage car or motorcycle, which could be sold for additional cash?
Explore Loan Options - Not all home loans require the typical 20% down payment. FHA and VA loans are available for qualified buyers which allow a very low/no down payment.
Ask For Help - Some loans allow you to use gift funds from relatives for the down payment. There are also local and state programs which offer down payment assistance and second loans.
Employment Incentives – Some cities and counties offer help with buying a home for teachers and first responders. If you fall into one of these categories, speak with your lender about options for down payment assistance.
Government Programs- If you qualify, there are grants at the county level in our area which can be applied to your purchase of a home. There are many restrictions so reach out and we can discuss if you would be a suitable candidate!
Buying a new home is a great way to add to your financial security. Building equity with a property is one way to build wealth while providing for you and your family. Finding the down payment might be easier than you think. If you are ready to explore home ownership, meet with a lender and discuss your unique situation.
Ask for my Home Buyer’s Guide which offers local lenders recommended by previous clients
Shaina McAndrews Team
EXP Realty, LLC
630 Freedom Business Ctr Dr.
King of Prussia, PA 19406
Broker: 888.397.7352
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