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Say What? Home-Buying Lingo You Should Know

Katie Broskey • January 1, 2023

If you are a first time home buyer or even a repeat buyer, you quickly realize that real estate has a language all its own. Understanding some of the lingo can help you navigate the process a little easier. By learning a few critical terms, you will be in a better position to ask the right questions and make the best decisions.

  • Buyer’s Market – A real estate climate where the number of listings outnumber qualified buyers.
  • Seller’s Market – A real estate climate when there are very few desirable properties listed for sale.
  • Contingencies – Specific conditions included in an offer to protect the buyer against unexpected situations, such as inspection, loan approval, and appraisal value.
  • Earnest Money – Money deposited when the offer is accepted. Subject to any contingencies, this money protects the seller from a buyer who simply changes her mind.
  • Escrow Agent – A neutral 3rd party who manages the paperwork in a state where attorneys are not used to conclude the contract.
  • Closing Costs – Fees that must be paid by both buyers to conclude the sale.
  • Conforming Loan – A conforming loan is a loan limit by which the loan can be sold on the secondary market; a jumbo loan is one which is higher than this limit.
  • PMI – PMI, private mortgage insurance is a fee paid by the borrower of a loan that they obtained with less than a 20% down payment.

These are just a few of the common terms used in real estate. If you are involved in a real estate transaction, learning a bit of the common lingo will help you understand the process better and make your home sale or purchase a smooth one.

By Katie Broskey April 22, 2024
Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home with some exciting do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. Whether you're looking to add a splash of color, enhance your outdoor space, or update your interiors, there's a DIY project for everyone. In this blog post, we'll explore some creative and budget-friendly ideas to help you spruce up your home this spring. Fresh Paint for a Fresh Start Give your walls a makeover with a fresh coat of paint. Choose light and airy colors like pastels or soft neutrals to brighten up your living spaces. Consider an accent wall or painting your front door for a pop of color that welcomes the season. Create a Cozy Outdoor Retreat Transform your outdoor space into a cozy retreat where you can relax and enjoy the spring weather. Add comfortable seating, such as outdoor sofas or lounge chairs, and incorporate decorative elements like throw pillows, rugs, and potted plants to create a welcoming ambiance. Upgrade Your Garden If you have a green thumb, spring is the perfect time to upgrade your garden. Plant colorful flowers, herbs, or vegetables in raised beds or containers. Create a DIY trellis or garden markers for a personalized touch. Declutter and Organize Spring cleaning isn't just about cleaning – it's also about decluttering and organizing your home. Donate or sell items you no longer need, and invest in storage solutions like shelving units, baskets, and bins to keep your space tidy and organized. DIY Art and Decor Add a personal touch to your home with DIY art and decor projects. Create your own wall art using canvas, paints, and stencils, or repurpose old items into unique decor pieces. For example, turn mason jars into candle holders or use old pallets to make a rustic wall shelf. Upgrade Your Lighting Update outdated light fixtures with modern and energy-efficient alternatives. Install new pendant lights over your kitchen island or dining table, add LED strip lighting under cabinets for a contemporary look, or hang string lights outdoors for a charming ambiance. Revamp Your Front Entrance Make a great first impression by revamping your front entrance. Paint your front door, add a new welcome mat, and incorporate potted plants or seasonal wreaths for a welcoming and inviting entryway. Create a DIY Herb Garden Grow your own fresh herbs by creating a DIY herb garden indoors or outdoors. Use containers, planters, or hanging baskets to cultivate herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, and thyme. Not only will you have fresh ingredients for cooking, but it also adds a natural and aromatic element to your home.  Remember, the key to successful DIY projects is proper planning, preparation, and patience. Take your time, gather your materials, and enjoy the process of transforming your home this spring. Happy DIY-ing!
By Katie Broskey May 24, 2023
As a realtor, I understand the importance of making a positive first impression when selling a home. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior can significantly enhance a property's curb appeal and attract potential buyers. The good news is, you don't need to break the bank to achieve a stunning exterior transformation. In this blog post, I'll share valuable tips and insights on how to boost your home's curb appeal on a budget. From landscaping tricks to simple upgrades, let's explore affordable yet impactful ways to make your home shine.
By Katie Broskey May 24, 2023
When it comes to selling your home, staging plays a vital role in attracting potential buyers and creating a lasting impression. By strategically arranging and presenting your home, you can enhance its appeal, highlight its best features, and increase the likelihood of a quick sale. In this guide, we'll provide you with practical tips and techniques to stage your home effectively. Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to maximizing your home's marketability and securing a swift sale. Declutter and Depersonalize: Start by decluttering your home to create a clean and spacious environment. Remove excess furniture, personal items, and unnecessary decorations. Depersonalize the space by minimizing family photos and unique personal belongings. This allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Focus on Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so pay attention to your home's exterior. Ensure the front yard is well-maintained, with trimmed landscaping, a freshly painted front door, and a clean driveway. Add some potted plants or flowers to create an inviting entrance. A well-kept exterior sets the stage for a positive buyer experience. Clean and Refresh: Thoroughly clean your home, including windows, floors, carpets, and surfaces. Pay attention to details such as grout lines, light fixtures, and baseboards. Consider a fresh coat of neutral paint to brighten up the space and make it more appealing to a wider range of buyers. Create a Welcoming Ambiance: Set the stage for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light, and ensure all rooms are well-lit. Use strategically placed lighting fixtures or lamps to create a cozy ambiance. Consider adding fresh flowers or scented candles to create pleasant fragrances throughout the home. Arrange Furniture for Flow and Functionality: Proper furniture placement can make a room feel more spacious and functional. Create an easy flow by arranging furniture to allow for smooth movement throughout each room. Consider removing oversized or unnecessary pieces to make the space appear larger. Aim for a balanced and harmonious arrangement. Highlight Key Features: Draw attention to the unique selling points of your home. Showcase architectural details, such as fireplaces or crown moldings. Arrange furniture to emphasize focal points and create inviting conversation areas. Use tasteful and eye-catching artwork or accessories to enhance visual interest. Neutralize and Depersonalize Colors: Painting rooms in neutral colors can help potential buyers visualize their own style in the space. Neutral tones create a blank canvas that appeals to a broader range of buyers. Consider repainting bold or vibrant walls with soft, neutral shades that complement the home's overall aesthetic. Maximize Storage Space: Storage is a significant selling point for many buyers. Organize closets, cabinets, and storage areas to showcase their full potential. Remove excess items to create a sense of ample storage space. Potential buyers will appreciate seeing well-organized areas that convey the home's storage capabilities. Stage Outdoor Areas: Don't forget to stage outdoor spaces, such as patios, decks, or gardens. Arrange outdoor furniture to create inviting seating areas and highlight the potential for outdoor entertaining. Add cozy cushions, outdoor rugs, and potted plants to create an inviting oasis.  Staging your home for a quick sale requires careful attention to detail and a focus on creating an appealing environment for potential
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