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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for December 2020

Monday, January 18, 2021
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for December 2020

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 15.1% in December 2020 when compared to December 2019. 731 homes sold in December with a median sales price of $385,000.  The average days on the market fell by 15 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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Settling in Your New Home

Tuesday, January 12, 2021
by Scott Darling


Moving is such a huge task, and not only takes a physical toll on you and your family, it takes an emotional toll as well. While those unpacked boxes are staring at you, it is very easy to feel overwhelmed, and wonder when the new house will feel like home.  After making a few decisions, then getting to work, it will not take as long as you may think;  follow these tips! 

 

  • Before you move, think about how you want to set up and decorate your new home.  Here are a few factors you can focus on: 

  • - If you love the layout of your current home, do the same in your new house as closely as you can.  Use the same furniture placement, arrange your focal wall close to what you are familiar with, and keep your kitchen arranged as you do now. 

  • - Is there something you really dislike about where you are now? Switch things up in the new house for a completely different look that you love. Paint and furniture slipcovers go a long way if a total overhaul is not in the budget. 

  • - Those who thrive on change are going to have an easier time of moving to a new place.  Many go from one decorating extreme to another: farmhouse rustic to sleek and modern or from mid-century decor to a cottage style.    
     

  • If it is in your plan to do any painting or other work, have that done before moving, or get it completed as soon as possible.  The longer it takes to unpack and put your personal things in place, the longer you will feel unsettled. 
     

  • Getting unpacked as quickly as you can; no one feels at home having to maneuver around boxes that are stacked up around the house. If there are storage items that need to be put away, get them in the attic. Some rooms can be set up easily, such as the kitchen and eating areas, as well as bedrooms.  
     

  • Forgo the take-out food after a couple of nights.  If you simply do not have time for cooking, at least seat everyone at the table with your usual dishes and silverware.  
     

  • Having younger children’s rooms arranged with all their favorites will help them settle in.  Is there a family clock that chimes the hour? Get it unpacked and chiming as soon as possible.  Whatever is an “expected thing” in your home, the sooner it is in place, the more comfortable everyone will feel.
     

  • No matter the season, get your landscaping and outdoor items placed where you would like them. Personalizing with a monogrammed flag, your favorite flowers (in pots, as that is easier to care for after a recent move), and outdoor furnishings. 
     

  • Get into your normal routine as best you can, and if there are new jobs or places to be, go about them as you would have in your former home.  Keeping everything, you need for the everyday running of life in the same general way and area they were in before will make for some normalcy. 

 

Even if you are happy and excited about living in a new place, wanting to make it feel like home is important to everyone involved. Whether approached with a casual “whenever,” or a planned out unboxing and setting up, the comfort of home may take a few weeks or months to achieve.  Taking care of the little things will certainly get you on your way to feeling some home, sweet home. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Domain

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Your Home's Inspection = Pass or Fail

Thursday, January 7, 2021
by Scott Darling


All your pre-home sale jobs are finished, you and your RealtorⓇ are getting the details ironed out and are ready to start marketing your home for sale.  Now is the time to think ahead to the home inspection after an offer has been made and accepted.  You need to be certain the behind-the-scenes part of your sale is as good as the new flooring and fresh paint on the walls! There technically is no “pass or fail” with the home inspection but doing your own “home” work will keep any surprises at bay. 

 

  • Pest damage and/or infestation is important to check for, as there are health and structural issues with either situation.  You could be completely unaware that critters are living in your home, so have an extermination service do a thorough inspection and take care of any extra guests you may have stowing away. 
     

  • Check for leaks turning on each faucet and watching closely under the sink for drips. Inspectors do not like dripping faucets, either.  Do not forget to test each toilet for running water, and clear any clogged or slow drains. 
     

  • Be on the lookout in tight dark spaces for mold or mildew, especially the attic space and on the underside of the roof. 
     

  • Outside, look at your roof carefully, taking note of missing shingles or sagging areas. 

  • Call your HVAC to set up a service call to make certain everything is running properly, as any issues will be flagged by an inspector. 
     

  • Make sure working bulbs are installed in every light fixture.  Inspectors need to make sure the electricity is working and blown light bulbs can throw that off. 
     

  • Repair cracks in windowsills, as leaky windows do not normally get high points during an inspection. 
     

  • If there are any cracks on walls, inside or outside, or in your foundation, have them checked out by a foundation expert, and if necessary, taken care of as soon as possible.   

 

When you are highly motivated to sell, consider hiring an inspector to conduct a pre-listing inspection.  If problems arise, you decide to make the repairs before the sale or offer incentives to prospective buyers with repair credits.  Showing buyers that you have or are willing to make repairs before the sale offers them the peace of mind that they are getting what they pay for when purchasing the property.  

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Moving.com

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Down Payment Savings Savviness

Monday, December 21, 2020
by Scott Darling


When you have started considering buying a new home, the first thing you will need to work on is a down payment. While many lenders offer different programs with variable down payment amounts, saving as much as you can is necessary.  Check out these tips and start saving now! 

 

  • It is important to know, realistically, how much house you can afford, and start shooting for a 20% down payment of that amount.
     

  • Turn your $4.50-per-day cup of coffee into $90/month in the piggy bank. Add up similar purchases, decide what you can live without, and move that money (set up automatic transfers) every day from your checking to a hands-off savings account.
     

  • Put your savings egg into a nest of high-yield savings or money market account. 
     

  • Sign up with your employer to deposit a portion of your pay into a down payment savings account.  Most of the time, if you do not see it, you do not miss it. 
     

  • If a pay raise comes your way, save that unexpected pay:  stay on your old budget, and have the difference in old and new pay direct deposited into your down payment account. 
     

  • When non-salary payments such as bonuses or even a tax refund come in, sock them away and give your savings a boost. 
     

  • Did you know that family members can gift money towards your down payment? Make certain you document these gifts correctly for your lender and the IRS.  Mortgage Reports shares more information about down payment gifts. 
     

  • A part-time job may provide enough each week to add to your down payment savings. Your well-being is important, however, so do not go into a second job unless you are certain it will be a benefit. 
     

  • If you have investments in stocks or bonds, plan on liquidating those assets when the time comes to purchase your house.  Make sure you document these sales. 
     

  • You can always borrow from your 401k or IRA, but make sure you will not have to pay penalties.  Talk with your account holder before making any withdrawals. 

 

Do not let that 20% ideal down payment stop you before you even get started. However, if it seems impossible for you, do your research.  There are many first-time buyer programs available, as well as lower-than-20% down payment options through the USDA, the VA, and state-specific programs.  Learn more about low down payment guidelines and opportunities to help you get started. Planning will help you keep your eyes on the prize of homeownership! 


Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: 7th Level Mortgage

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for November 2020

Thursday, December 17, 2020
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for November 2020

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 15.3% in November 2020 when compared to November 2019. 691 homes sold in November with a median sales price of $375,000.  The average days on the market fell by 20 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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What NOT To Do After Buying a New Home

Wednesday, December 9, 2020
by Scott Darling


There is always excitement in buying a new home! While the up-front expenses can be stressful, the visions new homeowners see for their house can cause them to forget about necessary situations that should take precedence.  Let these helpful tips keep you on the right track after becoming homeowners: 

 

  • While your new house has had a thorough inspection, you may want to go through that list and begin planning for items the inspector may have noted would need repair soon. Get estimates for the fixes and begin saving now. 
     

  • Assuming the former owner kept everything in tip-top shape and not performing your own monthly or seasonal inspection is never a good idea. Print this handy checklist, and use it for DIY inspection and maintenance so you stay a few steps ahead of a major repair need. 
     

  • Beginning any major work as soon as the moving truck leaves the driveway may be too soon!  Live in the home for a while and learn its quirks and possible trouble spots before drawing plans and hiring a contractor.  Finding an unforeseen issue with the house after work has begun can cause more financial burden. 
     

  • Renovation television shows make DIY tempting, to say the least.  If you have no experience in a major remodel, leave it to the pros.  Paying the right person to do the job could save you thousands in “mistake” money. 
     

  • A total overhaul of your decor as soon as you move in can put a dent in your wallet. Personalizing your home is best done room-by-room or whatever is easiest on your budget. Living space furniture with new slipcovers, new stylish pillows, and a fresh coat of paint on the walls should satisfy anyone who is itching to make their home “theirs.” 
     

  • Probably the furthest thing from new homeowners’ minds is their future tax returns, but not keeping receipts and all other financial forms related to your home purchase could hurt come tax time. Consider hiring an accountant or tax preparer when the time comes. 

 

Getting used to your new budget should be your priority.  Utility bills and other expenses may be more than you have ever experienced and getting behind at the beginning is not the way to start your home-owning journey.   


Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: HouseLogic

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Pros of Living in an HOA Community

Friday, December 4, 2020
by Scott Darling


Today, when news travels about a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), the news is not positive.  Owning a home in an HOA has many benefits, however!  Home hunters must remember that living in any managed property is a choice, so doing the “home” work is vital to being certain you are in the right home for you and your family. 

  

  • - When you purchase a home in an HOA, an organization that creates and enforces rules in a subdivision or condominium, by default you are a member of that HOA and must pay fees and follow their bylaws. 
     

  • - HOAs have rules and bylaws in place to protect property values, as well as to maintain a certain quality of life for the homeowners.  
     

  • - Do not think about living in an organized community as a place that keeps homeowners from expressing themselves in their landscaping or house’s exterior.  It is more about protecting your investment because of the home-maintenance regulations. You will appreciate this if you ever decide to sell the home. 
     

  • - While searching for houses online, read the listing information carefully, and if the property is in an HOA, you will find the association’s name as well as the neighborhood’s fees. HOA fees can be high, but in comparison with what amenities they offer, it could save you money in the end. 
     

  • - Performing an internet search for the specific name of a community should result in finding their website, complete with photos of homes and amenities.  Some HOAs offer a readable file with more specific information, such as the community bylaws, covenants, restrictions, and fees.  
     

  • - Not all HOAs are the same:  amenities vary from community beautification, playground, swimming pool, or tennis courts to a neighborhood walking path or gym. 
     

  • - Some associations provide security, trash pick-up, pest control, as well as street sweeping and snow removal.  
     

  • - Choosing to live in a condominium community may be more to your liking: the HOA usually handles all landscape maintenance, as well as exterior home maintenance.  You are responsible only for the interior of your home.  
     

  • - The organization’s board members live in the neighborhood, so they are aware of needs specific to the area and can better handle solutions to any problems. 

 

Do not pass on a home just because it is in a homeowner’s association community. Do careful research, talk to residents in the neighborhood, and ask your Realtor, as they are your first source for community information. There are many different aspects to different organizations and finding the right one for you and your family just takes a little research and thought. 


Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: Pinterest

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A List to Create for Potential Buyers

Monday, November 23, 2020
by Scott Darling


Selling a house usually involves so many things, decluttering, deep cleans, moving belongings to storage, and many more tasks. Once the big jobs are done, and the For-Sale sign is staked out, sit back, and put yourself in the shoes of a prospective buyer. Some questions cannot be answered in photos and home description, so why not jot a few things down to make it easier for someone who would like to buy your property?  

 

Best in the Neighborhood Provide addresses, phone number, and emails for the “best of” the community: 

  • - pizza, veggie burgers, coffee shop, or other places to eat 

  • - nearest parks and recreational areas; include neighborhood sports organizations for children 

  • - lawnmower or auto repair, neighborhood teen that mows grass, local handyman, tree service 

  • - HVAC repair, plumber, electrician, pool care,  

  • - banks, dry cleaners, salon, and barbershop 

 

Necessities List the companies in your area that provide the following services: 

  • - electricity, cable, satellite, internet, phone providers, heating fuel 

  • - sanitation pick up, local municipality office, water/sewage, emergency management, health department 

 

Work Performed on Property 

  • - additions, renovations, foundation repair, painting, floor work, roof repairs, snaked/cleared drains 

  • - plumbing, electric, septic/sewer, water pump, well water testing, ductwork repair/cleaning, added insulation, HVAC service 

  • - Cleaned gutters, window/door repair/replacement, tree work, lawn care, garage door opener  
     

Utility Information List average cost of monthly expenses, as buyers sometimes are  curious about them: 

  • - Electric, water, phone/internet, cable/satellite, landscaping/pool care, waste removal/recycling, heating fuel 

 

Finally, create a list of the fun things that happen in and around your community! Share information about local festivals, any farmers’ markets, the annual neighborhood cook-out--anything you would think useful to someone new to the area. Creating these lists may not be necessary, but the information will be ready in case a potential buyer asks. You can never make too much effort to sell your home. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: wordpress.com

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for October 2020

Wednesday, November 18, 2020
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for October 2020

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 24.5% in October 2020 when compared to October 2019. 757 homes sold in October with a median sales price of $395,000.  The average days on the market fell by 16 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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Build vs. Buy

Wednesday, November 11, 2020
by Scott Darling

It is time for a new home, but there is a dilemma:  a new neighborhood is in development in an area you love, and the model home is calling to you! On that same note, in an older, established community, you see several houses that would be a great fit for your family. Should you buy an already-built, older home, or go with the brand-new construction, tailor-made for you? Let this guide help you make that decision: 

 

  • Buy: Buying an existing property isn’t an instant process, but it does not take long to get pre-approved for a mortgage, go house hunting and find the house you love, close on the deal, and move in.  
     

  • Build: According to the latest research from the US Census, new construction takes an average of seven months from planning to moving in.   
     

  • Buy: Negotiating is key to many home purchases and if a house needs some work or repairs, the seller usually makes exceptions and changes to reflect reasonable inspection findings. 
     

  • Build: Model homes will be shown with upgrades that can add thousands to the base selling price.  Customizing your dream home, however, cannot have a price tag. 
     

  • Buy:  What you want in landscaping, such as trees, a garden, or an established lawn, are ready for you to enjoy. Personalizing it with your favorite plantings will cost much less than starting a new lawn and landscaping. 
     

  • Build:  You may see a brand-new yard as a canvas and plan your own landscaping design.  Where you want trees or outdoor structures are all according to your imagination--the possibilities are almost endless! 
     

  • Buy:  An earnest money deposit generally starts at 1% of the price of the home.  Closing costs can sometimes be part of the sale negotiations, but not always. 
     

  • Build: Many builders prefer an earnest money deposit to be at least 5% of the sale price and closing costs do not vary as much unless the builder is offering to cover those costs as a purchase incentive. Just ask--you might receive!  
     

  • Buy:  Buying an older home may require some work to update wall colors/coverings flooring or fixtures.  Keep in mind that if any of those jobs can be DIY, costs will be significantly lower, and can be done when you have the extra money in the budget. 
     

  • Build:  A new build may not always be maintenance-free. Whether you are considering a new development or building on your own land, contact owners of the builders’ completed homes and make certain you will be paying for a quality home without new construction issues. 

 

What matters most in the end is your happiness with your new home!  The best thing you can do, however, is contact a RealtorⓇ to represent you as a buyer!  The agent in a builder’s office is there as a service to the builder/seller. Finding a buyer agent is key to helping you decide what is best for you, your family, and your budget! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Raj Architects

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