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Interviewing Architect’s When Building A New Home

June 30, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

How To Interview An Architect When Building A New HomeMaking the decision to build a home might be one of the biggest you make in your life. You’ve found the perfect plot of land and have a vision of what type of home you want, but you need someone to bring your dream to life.

That means it’s time to start interviewing architects. Hiring an architect isn’t as simple as just calling up a few and seeing who might have the time. You’ll want to ensure you choose a professional that understands your design aesthetic, communicates well, can design on budget, and has an upstanding reputation. Below are a few key questions to ask when deciding whom to hire.

Do You Have A Specific Design Style?

When interviewing architects, be sure to ask each one if they have a specific aesthetic and if you can see a portfolio of his or her work. While most are adaptable, they usually all have design themes that recur in their projects.

Whether you want a minimalist structure or LEED certified construction, you’ll want to know they have the experience.

What Is Your Fee?

You’ll need to inquire whether they charge a flat fee for their designs or a percentage of the total building cost. Most architects charge a percentage of the overall cost of your home, usually ranging from 5-20 percent.

This is important to know because it means that for every floorboard installed, you’ll need to add on the architect’s additional percentage.

Do You Provide Project Management Services?

There are many services that architects should include within their contract, such as checking the contractor’s work, making adjustments as the construction moves forward and obtaining lien waivers.

Get a list of what each architect you interview includes in his or her fee. Additional charges can add up and might play a part in who you choose.

Interviewing architects and finding the right professional can make all the difference when it comes to building exactly what you want. One you work well with can make the construction experience extremely pleasant, while a negative relationship can leave you hating your new home.

So do your research and be sure to get references.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Builders, New Home, Real Estate

How to Help Your Dog Adjust To A New Home

June 28, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

How to Help Your Dog Adjust To A New HomeMoving to a new home can be a stressful time for both you and your dog. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a new environment can be overwhelming for them. However, with the right approach, you can help your dog adjust to their new home smoothly.

Let The Dog Get Familiar With The Moving Supplies

If you’re moving to a new home, your dog may be curious or nervous about the moving supplies and boxes around the house. To help your dog adjust to the upcoming move, it can be helpful to let them get familiar with moving supplies. Introduce the moving supplies gradually by introducing one or two boxes or pieces of packing material at a time. Allow your dog to sniff and investigate the items, but make sure to supervise them to ensure their safety.

Stick To A Regular Schedule

Sticking to a regular schedule can be very beneficial for both humans and dogs. For dogs, having a consistent daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve behavior, and promote overall wellbeing. Set a regular feeding schedule: Dogs thrive on routine and feeding them at the same time each day can help them feel more secure. Schedule daily walks or playtime sessions at the same time each day, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for your dog to run, play, and explore.

Here are some additional tips to help your dog adjust to a new home:

Create a safe space: Designate a specific area of the house where your dog can feel safe and comfortable. This can be a crate or a cozy bed in a quiet corner. Make sure to include familiar items like their favorite toys and bedding.

Provide lots of love and attention: During the adjustment period, your dog may be feeling anxious or stressed. Provide them with plenty of love and attention to help them feel more at ease.

Schedule regular potty breaks: Most dogs need to go potty every few hours, so it’s important to establish a regular potty schedule. Take your dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime, and make sure to reward them for going outside.

Stick to a consistent bedtime: Dogs need plenty of rest, and a consistent bedtime routine can help them settle down for the night. Aim for a regular bedtime and stick to a consistent routine, such as taking your dog for a walk, providing a bedtime treat, and settling them into their crate or bed.

Stay patient and positive: Adjusting to a new home can take time, and every dog is different. Stay patient and positive and avoid punishing your dog for any accidents or unwanted behavior. Instead, reward positive behavior and reinforce good habits.

By following these tips, you can help your dog adjust to their new home and settle in comfortably. Remember to be patient and understanding, and your dog will soon feel right at home.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: New Home, Pets, Real Estate

Buying Vs. Building a House

June 7, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

Buying Vs. Building a HouseDeciding whether to buy or build a house can be a complex decision that depends on several factors. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of Buying a House:

Convenience: Buying a house is generally quicker and more convenient than building one. You can move in as soon as you close the deal, without having to wait for construction to be completed.

Location: When you buy a house, you have the opportunity to choose a home in an established neighborhood with existing amenities such as schools, parks, shopping centers, and other essential services. You can choose a location that is convenient for your lifestyle.

Cost: Depending on the location, buying a house may be less expensive than building a new one. You can often find great deals on homes that have been on the market for a while, or in areas where the real estate market is more favorable to buyers.

No Hassle of Design and Construction:
When you buy a house, you don’t have to worry about designing the home or supervising construction. You can focus on personalizing the house according to your taste, rather than starting from scratch.

Resale Value: Buying an established home often means it already has a resale value, making it easier to sell in the future.

Cons of Buying a House:

Limited Customization: When you buy an existing house, you may have limited options for customization. You’ll need to accept the home’s layout, features, and design unless you’re willing to invest additional time and money to make renovations.

Unpredictable Market: Real estate markets can be unpredictable, and the value of your home may fluctuate depending on economic conditions. There’s always a risk that the value of your home may decrease in the future.

Maintenance: As a homeowner, you’ll be responsible for maintaining and repairing the home, which can be costly. Older homes may require more maintenance than newer ones, which can add up over time.

Hidden Problems: Even with a thorough home inspection, there may be hidden problems with the house that you only discover after moving in, such as foundation issues, electrical problems, or water damage.

Pros of Building a House

Customization: You can design the house to your exact specifications, ensuring that it meets your unique needs and preferences.

New materials and technology: You can take advantage of the latest building materials and technology, which can make the house more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

No hidden problems: Since the house is new, there should be fewer hidden issues or problems to deal with.

Cons of Building a House

Cost: Building a house can be more expensive than buying an existing one, especially if you choose high-end materials or features.

Time-consuming: Building a house can take months or even years to complete, which means you’ll need to be patient and flexible.

Uncertainty: There may be unexpected delays or complications during the construction process, which can be frustrating.

Buying a house can be a smart and practical option for many people, especially those who prioritize convenience, location, and cost savings, buying a house is a big decision that requires careful consideration of both the advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to do your research and weigh your options before deciding.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Buy Vs Building, New Home, Real Estate

When Buying Land to Build a New Home, Don’t Forget These Important Factors

June 6, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

When Buying Land to Build a New Home, Don't Forget These Important FactorsBuying land for a new home is a significant investment, so take your time, do your research, and make an informed decision. It’s essential to do your due diligence and research before buying land to build a new home. Here are some important things you shouldn’t forget:

Determine your budget: Before you start your search, it’s important to have a clear idea of your budget. This will help you narrow down your search to properties that are within your price range.

Choose a location: Consider the location where you would like to build your new home. Look for areas that are safe, have good schools, and are close to amenities like shops and restaurants. Also, consider the proximity to your work or other important places you regularly visit.

Check zoning laws: Make sure that the land you’re interested in is zoned for residential use and that you can obtain the necessary building permits.

Evaluate the site: When evaluating a potential site, consider factors such as the size of the lot, the topography, and the soil type. Also, consider the orientation of the lot in relation to the sun, wind, and views.

Get a land survey: A land survey will help you determine the exact boundaries of the property and identify any potential issues, such as easements or encroachments.

Utilities and Services: Before you buy the land, make sure you research the availability of utilities and services such as water, electricity, gas, sewage, and internet connectivity. If these services aren’t readily available, it could add significantly to the cost and complexity of building your new home.

A real estate agent can help you find suitable land and guide you through the buying process. They can also help you negotiate the price and advise you on any potential issues with the land. By keeping these important considerations in mind, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision and ensure that your new home is everything you want it to be.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Buying Land, New Home, Real Estate

What To Know About Property Lines

March 14, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

What To Know About Property LinesIf you are in the process of buying a new home, you know that there are a lot of moving parts involved. You need to know everything you can about a potential house before you decide to purchase it, and that includes the property lines. What do you need to know about property lines, and why are they so important?

How Are Property Lines Drawn?

While property lines are the borders that separate one property from another, they are also legal boundaries. Essentially, property lines determine what you do and do not own. There is a chance that someone may place a fence directly on top of the property line, but there is no guarantee that the fence is in the right place. Usually, property lines are determined and drawn by a surveyor who takes a look at the land, refers to any deeds or records related to the properties involved, and lets you know exactly where the boundaries are located. 

How Can You Find Your Property Lines?

When you are looking at a potential property, finding your property lines should be close to the top of your list. You are purchasing not only the building but the land around it, and you need to know where your land will end. This could determine potential projects you have in mind for the property. If you are building a house, there might be stakes in the ground clearly showing your property lines. If you are purchasing an existing property, you may have to pull legal records to figure out where the boundaries are located.

How Property Lines Play A Role After The Purchase

There are several situations where property lines could play a role after you purchase the property. For example, if you need to trim a tree, or if a tree falls on the property line, you may need to know who is responsible for getting rid of it. Furthermore, if there is a home improvement project coming up, you need to know the limits of that construction project. 

Know Your Property Lines

You need to know the boundaries of any property you are thinking of purchasing. An experienced real estate professional understands how to look up documentation and let you know exactly where the property lines are before you move forward with the purchase. 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: New Home, Property Lines, Real Estate

Navigating A Market With Higher Interest Rate

March 9, 2023 by Rhonda Costa

Navigating A Market With Higher Interest RateEven though interest rates have gone up significantly during the past few months, there are still opportunities for you to find a home at a great price. The high interest rate can be discouraging for some people, but as long as you know how to navigate the market, you can still put yourself in a position to be successful.

Put More Money Down

The easiest way to combat a high interest rate is to reduce the amount of money you borrow. That means that you might need to put more money down. Of course, this means that you might need longer to save up a down payment, but there are other benefits you might notice as well. For example, if you are willing to put 20 percent down or more, you no longer have to purchase private mortgage insurance, which can help you save some additional money.

Increase Your Credit Score

You may be able to secure a lower interest rate if your credit score is higher. Remember that the lender will give you a lower interest rate if you are of less risk to them. If you increase your credit score, you improve your financial health, which means that the lender may offer you a lower interest rate. You can increase your credit score by correcting mistakes on your credit report, paying down your existing debt, and reducing your credit utilization ratio.

Consider an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

You may even want to consider going with an adjustable-rate mortgage, usually shortened to ARM. This means that the interest rate on your loan will change with the market. If you feel like the interest rates are going to go down, this may be a way to save money; however, keep in mind that you may end up owing more money if the interest rates go up.

Refinance Your Home Loan Down The Road

If you are not willing to take the risk with an ARM, keep in mind that you can refinance your home loan later if interest rates go down. You might need to pay closing expenses again, but it could save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan if you decide to refinance. 

 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Interest Rates, New Home, Real Estate

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Rhonda & Steve Costa

Rhonda & Steve Costa

Call (352) 398-6790
Sunrise Homes & Renovations, Inc.

Contractors License #CBC 1254207

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