Virtual reality, artificial intelligence and drone video are just a few of the ways that technology is changing the real estate industry. If you are in the market for a property, understanding these new processes can help you in many ways. Using Artificial Intelligence Doing business with an AI-infused process helps you more quickly identify properties that meet your standards. AI also reduces human error in the closing process. Agents using AI can get you more information about properties more quickly, and they can also cut the fat out of the close, possibly saving you money. Using Virtual … [Read More...]
You have about five minutes to impress (or not) prospective buyers at a showing. For curb appeal, you get about five seconds for buyers to decide whether they want to go inside. Here are four tips to help you get the wow factor from your home's street-facing views. Update Entryway Hardware A wall-mounted mailbox, chic house numbers and a pretty porch light add interest to your entryway. However, dated and dinged hardware impress no one. In a perfect world, all your hardware matches in style, color and finish. Of course, it should also tie-in to the style of your house. Brushed nickel house … [Read More...]
Last week's economic reports included readings on inflation and retail sales. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. Retail Sales Grow, Inflation Unchanged in November November retail sales grew by 0.20 percent in November as compared to expectations of 0.10 percent and October's reading of 1.10 percent growth. Core retail sales, which exclude automotive sales, grew by 0.20 percent and met expectations. Analysts said online stores pushed retail sales growth in November. Inflation held steady in November as expected. Inflation grew by 0.30 percent in … [Read More...]
There's a lot to be said for buying a move-in ready home. All you have to do is put your things away and start living your life. On the other hand, buying a fixer upper has its advantages, too. You can get a great bargain on a fixer upper home. So which one should you choose? Here are some things to consider. You Can Easily Afford To Buy What You Want If money is no object, then a move-in ready home is the best choice. You'll be able to get exactly the home you want with little or no effort decorating it the way you want. If you're the kind of person who can hire an interior decorator, then … [Read More...]
Divorce can be an incredibly emotional and financially stressful time. Questions about what happens to assets and the family home add to the anxiety. Each state has divorce laws that differ and that can complicates decision-making. For example, marital assets are distributed differently in community property states from equitable distribution ones. The idea of 50-50 splits may be a myth because judges have the discretion to deviate from even percentages. That being said, these are three things you should know about homeownership when contemplating divorce. Who Gets The House? This often ranks … [Read More...]
If you have pet, you probably wonder what you can do to keep them safe after you decide to put your home up for sale. With all the disruption going on during a home sale, it's all too easy for pets to get lost, frightened or even injured. Learn how to keep your beloved pets safe during your home sale. Provide An Oasis During Repair Work Most home sellers make a few repairs before allowing agents to show the home for sale. In some cases, repairs can be extensive, leading to a lot of construction materials, tools and strange new items in the home. This can be frightening for pets … [Read More...]