Real Estate Information Archive

Blog

Displaying blog entries 1-10 of 40

Before You Remodel...

Friday, November 4, 2022
by Scott Darling

Depending on whether you are planning to sell your home in the next year or if you are in your forever home, remodeling is a great way to get what you want out of your home, or what buyers want.  There are things to consider before you jump into remodeling. 

 

  • - Decide on a budget, and how you’ll pay for the upgrade.  Consider hiring a financial planner who can help you choose which way is best. 
     

  • - If you decide to do this project yourself, and you’re not in the construction business, plan on taking much longer than a professional.  Be realistic about your skills and hire help if you need it. 
     

  • - Acquiring an architect or designer is a good idea if you’re making major changes.  You don’t want to run into major structural or electrical issues and not know what to do.
     

  • - Think about how long you want to stay in your home before you invest in big ticket items, like a six-burner range for the kitchen, or expensive hardwood flooring throughout the house.  If your sole plan is to make money from a sale, or if you want and can afford the upgrades, go ahead. But if you’re not going to enjoy those items while you’re living there, consider a simple refurbishing or using what you have if it’s in good working order and won’t look out of place. 
     

  • - When looking for a contractor, price isn’t necessarily the important thing.  Ask for references, check their license numbers, and call the former clients and ask to see the work that was done, either in photos or in person. The research will be worth it in the end.
          

  • - Once you hire your contractor, start getting your paperwork in order.  The contractor has their own responsibilities, and the homeowner has to take care of other items--check this list from realtor.com to see who is responsible for what. 
     

  • - Planning a timeline with your contractor is especially important, and make sure you leave room for possible unexpected issues. 
     

  • - Sit down with your family and figure out logistics, especially if you’re remodeling the kitchen or one of the bathrooms in your home.  Remodeling can cause a lot of stress, but if everyone knows what to do before it all happens, things can flow better. 
     

  • - As with moving, clean out the room before the renovation, giving away, selling or throwing out what you haven’t used in months.  Wrap and store any items you’re keeping in a spare room. 
     

  • - Before the construction team comes in to begin the project, sit down with your contractor to set location boundaries for the crew and your family, along with other logistics. The crew doesn’t want your children playing around with tools, and you don’t want your good bathroom towels used for grimy hands.  Everyone needs to know what is okay, and what isn’t.   

 

A home remodel is a big undertaking; watching renovation shows on television can give the idea that everything goes off without a hitch.  It takes planning, communication and good all-around management to make the process go smoothly, even if you hit a few bumps along the way. 
  

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: www.wormuthconstruction.com

Add Comment

House Hunting Homework

Tuesday, May 24, 2022
by Scott Darling

There is plenty to do to prepare for buying your new home, and once you’re actively touring homes or stopping into an open house, you can draw a blank when it comes time to ask specifics.  Have some questions ready to prepare yourself so you won’t forget! 

 

Open House and Walkthrough 
 

  • - How long has the house been on the market, and are there any current offers? The length of time it’s been for sale can mean savings for you, or you may not want to bother if there are already multiple offers. 
     

  • - Why is the current owner selling?  This may seem like prying, and you may not get the exact answer, but it can add flexibility to price negotiations if the owner is ready for a fast sale. 
     

  • - Ask for a seller’s disclosure before you think about making an offer. Check this list for your state’s info about what the seller must tell you before buying the house. 
     

  • - How old is the roof? An older roof that has issues can either cost in the long run, or give you a discount on the sale price if it need replacing. 
     

  • - If it isn’t obvious, ask when the house was last updated.  With people living longer, some could have lived in the same home for fifty years and done nothing else besides redecorating. 
     

  • - Condition of the home’s systems are important, so inquire about the age of the water heater, electric, plumbing, security and climate control systems.
     

  • - How is the home heated and insulated, including the attic?  You need to have a good idea of what your utilities will cost, and heating can be expensive, whether it’s propane, electric, or geothermal if the insulation needs improving. 
     

  • - Has the house been treated for pests on a regular basis?  This can keep a lot of headaches at bay in the long run. 
     

  • - What is included in the sale price, and are any warranties still active?  You don’t want to be surprised when you start moving in and find out you have to buy all new appliances. 
     

  • - You may be moving in the same general area, but a different city or county.  Property taxes vary per location, so make sure you know how much you will be paying if you eventually purchase the home. 
     

  • - If your prospective new home is in a historic district or homeowner’s association, there will be restrictions on how you renovate or build an addition, and fees for HOA.  Ask your realtor for these details. 

 

Pay Attention 
 

  • - While you’re on your walkthrough, pay attention to traffic and nearby surroundings.  Spend several minutes outside in the front and back yards and listen for any traffic noise, or a noisy possible neighbor. 
     

  • - Is your prospective new home on a busy shortcut street in the mornings and evenings?  Make time to discover for yourself and drive through on your way to or from work. 
     

  • - Look closely at fresh paint jobs for cracks or possible mold.  Sometimes, that new paint is covering up a problem. 
     

  • - Check your mobile phone for signal strength.  Different areas can be dead zones.
     

  • - Drive through the area one evening after most people are home from work.  Is there plenty of parking available? 

 

Using these opportunities to find all the information you can about a potential new home is imperative when you know you’ll be looking at many different homes on the market.  Do your homework--keep a list of questions on your mobile phone’s notepad app so you won’t forget anything, or use a clipboard if you’re looking at multiple houses, keeping this information better organized. Since buying a home will most likely be your biggest investment, you want to be certain your money will be spent wisely. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling. 

Photo credit: www.greenspringenergy.com

Add Comment

Spring Maintenance Check List for Your Home

Friday, May 13, 2022
by Scott Darling

Spring cleaning has likely already become underway in your household.  What you may not have given much thought however is spring maintenance for your home.   There are several things that folks generally check around their homes before the winter months but there are also a few things you need to check in the early spring months.  Below is a spring maintenance check list for your home. 

  

  1. Springtime means it is time to start mowing your lawn again.  If your lawn mower has been outside all winter due to lack of storage space you may need to do a bit of maintenance on it before you get it going.  Sharpening the blade is always a good idea before a new season so that you get a nice clean cut on the grass.  It’s also a good idea to check the oil on your lawn mower before beginning to use it for the warm season.  
     

  2. Spring is a great time to check your house for worn paint areas such as your shutters.  If you find worn or chipped paint on your house what better time to fix that than in the typically perfect weather of spring.   
     

  3. Be sure to check your crawl space vents for any debris that may have accumulated there over the winter months.  Also you want to keep your eye out for any animals such as snakes or rodents that may have made their home in your crawl space over the last few months.  Get rid of anything that doesn’t belong and repair anything that may be broken such as the vent covers. 
          

  1. Get your flower beds and any garden areas ready by cleaning out any debris that may have accumulated and trimming back any old growth.  It is also a good time to add mulch to your flower beds and fertilizer to your garden.  
     

The above list of spring maintenance ideas is just a start in the right direction.  There is certainly much more that you need to do in and around your house before the summer time approaches.  Once you get started with these, you will likely find and think of more things that need to be done.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Add Comment

Home Buying Made Easy

Tuesday, April 26, 2022
by Scott Darling


If you are currently in the market for buying a house, then you are likely already aware of just how difficult it can sometimes be.  There are many stressors throughout the process that can make the home buying process seem anything but easy.  Below are a few ways that home buying can be made a bit easier if you do your part to put them into action.  

 

  1.  The first and most important thing you need to do before looking for a home to buy is to find an agent.  The reason this part is the most important is because buying a home is a huge financial obligation and you want to choose the right person to help you with such a big decision in your life.  A good way to find an excellent Realtor is to talk with your friends and family members that you trust to see whom they have used in the past.  Once they give you a few suggestions, you can meet each one and see which one best matches your personality wishes.  You will be spending quite a bit of time with this person so you want to make sure that you get along beautifully with them. 
          

  1. The next step in home buying made easy  is to find a lender.  Many times you can find out from your Realtor about what lenders they tend to use or who they think can be the best match for you and your particular situation.  If your Realtor doesn’t lead you to the best match, again you can talk to your friends and family for suggestions.   
     

  1. You then need to make sure your credit is as clean as it can possibly be.  Lenders can many times give you a bit of guidance in this area so that you can get approved for a loan.   
     

  1. It is important that you get pre approved for a loan before you go out searching for the home of your dreams.  The lender that you choose will help you to know exactly how much of a house you can comfortably afford before you get your heart set on one.  
     

  1. Lastly, figure out exactly what you are looking for in a house.  Make a list of your wants and desires in order of their importance.  This will help to guide you in your home buying adventure and will help avoid wasting precious time.  
     

These are just a few ideas on how to make the home buying process a bit easier.  Once you do your part to put all of these in motion you will be well on your way to finding the home of your dreams.   

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: Connor Homes

Add Comment

Do I Need a Home Warranty?

Wednesday, February 24, 2021
by Scott Darling


Choosing to purchase a home warranty is something any homeowner, house hunter, and even seller should think about. While different companies offer home warranties, the purpose of a home warranty is generally the same. Let this guide help you decide if you need this service: 
 

  • A home warranty covers what homeowner’s insurance does not. When one of your home’s systems or major appliances breaks down or is damaged from normal wear and tear, a home warranty will help you with the costs. 
     

  • Homeowners pay a monthly fee, on average $300-$600 per year, according to Consumer Affairs. Most service calls through the company will require the homeowner to pay a set service fee to the technician when making a claim. 
     

  • A home warranty can be purchased at any time, which is great for someone who is selling their home.  Sellers can spend a good amount of money prepping the house for sale, and a warranty will help considerably if something breaks down during the selling process. Warranties can be transferred to the buyer, as well! 
     

  • A newer home may not necessarily need a home warranty, so stash an amount equal to a monthly warranty payment into your savings account!  You can build emergency savings and have the funds for unexpected repairs. 
     

  • Research home warranties for prices and coverage available. Your Realtor® will be able to direct you to companies they are familiar with, and you can trust you are working with a reputable home warranty company. 
     

  • Current homeowners who do not have a home warranty can find a company that is registered with the Service Contract Industry Council. Scroll to the “Home Service Contract Companies” for a complete contact list. 

 

There are so many different decisions to make when it comes to homeownership, it can feel overwhelming. Making good decisions depends on how much time you put into researching and asking questions.  Inform yourself by doing your research and having a discussion with your Realtor® and/or warranty agent to help make the best home warranty decision for your home and wallet. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: homewarrantyreviews

Add Comment

How to Know You Have Found the Right Home

Friday, February 12, 2021
by Scott Darling


Buying a house is a huge commitment and saying it must be “right” is an understatement! Whether you are looking for a new beginning, have a growing family, or are simply buying your first home on your own, buying a house that is not the best choice can have you looking for another or even losing money.  How do you know you have found the one? Here are a few tips to help you with your house-hunting: 

 

  • The listing photos and layout have you wanting to see it in person as soon as possible! When the photos appeal to you in some way and the layout is to your liking, it is hard not to send your agent a “Put this house at the top of my must-see list” text!  
     

  • At the showing, you feel at home when you get out of your car and walk in the door. You know when you feel welcome in a house when you go inside, much like when you visit someone’s home for the first time.  
     

  • As you go from room to room, you can see your belongings in each, and know exactly how you would arrange them.  The outside matters as well, and envisioning your kids playing in the back garden, or wanting to refurbish the flowerbeds are sure signs of the house being the right one.
     

  • Your house-hunting day has ended, and that one property seems to be calling your name, but minor things (like having to remove wallpaper or carpet) have you questioning if that is the house for you. When you are truly smitten, being concerned about a few flaws and having to put in some work once you move in could cost you the perfect home. 
     

  • When the showing is over, and you pause on the outside of the door and have no desire to look at any other houses, it is time to talk to your agent about making an offer. 
     

  • Does the house fit your needs? All the warm fuzzies do not count unless the house has the right amount of space, is in a great community, and, most importantly, within your budget. 

 

House hunting can be tiring, especially if you have looked at several in one day. If all the factors are in line, you may not want to wait to act on making an offer!  Waiting to see if you can find a more perfect house may cause you to lose out on the house that embraced you as you walked in and had you telling friends and family about. Your Realtor® knows about your needs, wants, and budget, and will be ready as soon as you say “I love this house. Let's make an offer!” 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: shutterstock

Add Comment

A Guide for the Final Walkthrough

Thursday, February 4, 2021
by Scott Darling


As closing day approaches, it is so exciting to think about the move to your new home! There is one thing that is keeping you in check, however, and that is the final walkthrough. This is the last step in the home-purchase process and should not be skipped. What takes place in the final walkthrough, and what part does the homebuyer play? Here is your guide to this essential step: 

 

Your agent will schedule a time meet at your new house, usually after the seller has moved out and before or on closing day. 
 

  • What should you have on hand with you?  

  • - the final contract with all the specifics about the sale 

  • - home inspection report 

  • - any written agreements between seller and buyer 

  • - a notepad and pen 

  • - a camera or use your smartphone camera 

  • - a nightlight to test electrical outlets 
     

  • Inside the house, everything should be in perfect working order: 

  • - Turn on every light switch and check every outlet. 

  • - Check the faucets in the kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor spigots, utility room, and any other room there is running water by turning on each one. Flush all toilets as well. All toilets should flush completely, and drains should flow freely. 

  • - Inspect every area where agreed repairs should have been made. If there have been extensive fixes made, you may want to shell a bit extra out of your wallet to have someone with you that can be certain the job was done correctly. 

  • - Inspect every appliance that is included in the sale to be sure it is running properly. 

  • - Open and close all doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers. 

  • - Pay careful attention to carpets and floorcoverings, every floor and wall for weakness, cracks, mold, mildew and do not forget to look for signs of pests. 

  • - Turn the climate control off and on, and check heat as well as air conditioning. 
     

  • Outside inspection: 

  • - roof, gutters, shutters, or any other structural issues 

  • - garage doors functioning properly 

  • - debris or trash left by the seller 

  • - lawns and landscaping should at least be trim and neat 

 

Hopefully, your final walkthrough will go perfectly, and closing can proceed. If you run into any adverse issues, however, note them, and have your agent contact the seller. Final walkthrough problems are just another reason to have a Realtor® represent you as a buyer, as they can handle the not-so-smooth issues that come with buying a home.  

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Bankrate.com

Add Comment

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

Add Comment

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

Add Comment

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

Add Comment

Displaying blog entries 1-10 of 40

Syndication

Categories

Archives