22
Jun
By First Rate Financial Group
Homeowner Tips

The Pros and Cons of buying new VS Pre-Owned

The Pros and Cons of buying new VS Pre-OwnedBuying a home is a significant investment, and one of the most important decisions to make when buying a home is whether to purchase a new or pre-owned property. Here are some pros and cons of each option:

Pros of buying a new home:

Customization: With a new home, you have the ability to customize and personalize the space to your liking, including choosing finishes, colors, and layouts.

Energy Efficiency: New homes often come with energy-efficient features, such as double-pane windows, modern insulation, and energy-saving appliances, which can save you money on utility bills.

Warranty: New homes usually come with a warranty that covers defects and repairs for a certain period of time.

Low Maintenance: Since everything in a new home is brand new, there is less need for repairs and maintenance in the early years.

Cons of buying a new home:

Cost: New homes are often more expensive than pre-owned homes due to the cost of land and construction materials.

Location: New homes are often built in new developments, which may be further away from established neighborhoods, schools, and other amenities.

Lack of Character: New homes may lack the charm and character of older homes, which may have unique architectural details and historic features.

Pros of buying a pre-owned home:

Affordability: Pre-owned homes are often less expensive than new homes, especially if they require some updates or renovations.

Established Neighborhoods: Pre-owned homes are often located in established neighborhoods with mature trees and amenities like parks, schools, and shops.

Character: Pre-owned homes often have unique features, such as original hardwood floors, fireplaces, and architectural details, that give them character and charm.

Cons of buying a pre-owned home:

Repairs and Maintenance: Pre-owned homes may require more repairs and maintenance, especially if they are older and have not been well-maintained.

Lack of Customization: Pre-owned homes may not be as customizable as new homes, and you may have to live with features that you do not like.

Energy Efficiency: Pre-owned homes may not have the same level of energy efficiency as new homes, which can result in higher utility bills.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a new or pre-owned home depends on your priorities, budget, and personal preferences. It is important to consider all factors and work with a reputable real estate agent to find the right home for you.

18
Feb
By First Rate Financial Group
Homeowner Tips

3 Reasons You Might Decide to Retire to a Tiny Home – and Why You’ll Love It!

3 Reasons You Might Decide to Retire to a Tiny Home - and Why You'll Love ItMany people romanticize the idea of paying off their home mortgage early so they can enjoy their home in retirement, but when it comes to the later years of life, a big house can actually be too much to handle. If you’ve started to consider a smaller home and are wondering why it might be a good decision for you and yours, here are a few things you may want to consider.

It’s Much Easier To Maintain

It is often the idea of the palatial estate with a pool that homeowners get excited about, but when it comes to reality, the larger the home, the harder it is going to be to take care of and maintain. If you don’t have a maid or a butler, a smaller home will enable you to spend a lot more of your free time doing things that you love instead of being bound to a house that is full of repairs and maintenance that needs to be completed.

Save On The Big Home Bills

One of the worries associated with getting older is having the ability to maintain your lifestyle in old age, and a smaller home can actually alleviate many of the high costs that go along with having an oversized home. A smaller home will not only minimize your insurance and taxes, it can also positively impact the amount you pay each month for heating and electricity, so you’ll notice the savings right off the bat.

The Freedom Of A Downsized Lifestyle

One of the best things about downsizing to a smaller home is the huge sense of responsibility that can be left in the dust. Instead of being held back by all of the stuff required to fill a big house, a small home means there is less to worry about. This may mean you’ll have the option to go on longer vacations or can even relocate to a hot climate for the summer months, and you’ll only need someone to come by and water the plants every once in a while!

There are plenty of people that decide to downsize later in life since it can actually be a great way to save money and have a lot more freedom. If you’re considering your smaller home options and are curious about what’s available on the market, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information.

10
Dec
By First Rate Financial Group
Homeowner Tips

Smart Ways To Create Equity Within Your Home

Smart Ways To Use The Equity In Your HomeHome equity is the difference between what your home can sell for and what you owe on it. Generally, the longer you own your home, the more equity you build.

This is money you can use before you sell your home through a home equity loan. Just keep in mind that a home equity loan is secured with your home. If you can’t make the payments, you can lose your home.

Use Your Home Equity In Smart Ways:

  1. Remodel Your Home – If you’ve wanted to add on a family room or modernize your kitchen, consider using your home’s equity to fund the project. Home improvements usually increase your home’s marketability and value.
  2. Make Needed Major Repairs – Your home’s equity can be a funding source for major repairs like plumbing problems and re-roofs. Once again, this is an improvement for your home that will help keep its value up.
  3. Buy Another Property – Real estate is still a safe investment. You can use your home equity to buy a second property when home values are down. When the market recovers, you can sell the investment property for a profit. This also works if you have to move out of town and are still trying to sell your home. If you can afford the payments, use your home’s equity to purchase your new home until the current one sells.
  4. Pay For Unexpected Medical Expenses Or Job Loss – You never know when a medical emergency or job loss will leave you in debt. A home equity loan can give you the money you need to get through this difficult time.

It’s easy to build equity in your home when you find the right deal. Let me help you find your perfect home and negotiate a great price and terms for you. Contact your mortgage professional today.