What to Expect from a Potential Contractor

Most homeowners do not have the expertise or interest in tackling a large home project, so they find a contractor to handle it for them. Hiring a contractor is very different from finding a handyman or gardener. A contractor must adhere to strict guidelines set out by the state or jurisdiction they operate in. Here are the basic requirements that a contractor should address when you meet with them:

· Licensing Requirements – You should always use a licensed contractor. Not only have they met and maintained specific standards, but this protects you in the event something goes wrong. In many states, you have no legal recourse if the worker is not licensed. Every state has a licensing board where you can check the validity of the license.

· Deposit Limits – It’s common for contractors to ask for a deposit prior to starting work. The amount of deposit is limited by the state in which you live. For example, in California a contract cannot ask for more than 10% of the job or $1000, whichever is less.

· Disclosures – Your contractor should provide you with a list of written disclosures prior to starting the project. These discuss the scope of work, materials to be used, timelines, total cost, and change procedures.

· Right to Cancel – Your disclosures should also clearly state your right to cancel within the regulations laid out by the local authority. Typically, this is within three days and the contract must clearly state how the cancellation is to be received.

Specific laws and regulations vary by state, but they can be found on the state licensing board’s website. Before hiring or starting any project, familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure you’re hiring the right company and protected.

How to Spot Roof Issues Before it’s too Late

Your roof is one of the most essential elements of your home. It guards you, your family, and your home from wind, water, and other harsh conditions. However, it is also part of the home that is often overlooked until it’s too late. Detecting roof damage early can prevent costly repairs down the line. But do you know what to look for? Here are a few signs it’s time to call a professional roofing company.

· Leaks and Water Stains – The most obvious sign that you have an issue with your roof is dampness. But water stains should never be ignored. They could be due to water intrusion during storms that dry once it’s over.

· Missing or Damaged Shingles – This may be harder to spot from the ground, but it’s important. Consider hiring a drone company to perform a visual inspection of your roof on a regular schedule and after major storms.

· Granules in Gutters – Over time, roof shingles deteriorate. If you notice excess granules in the gutters when you clear them, it may be due to older shingles that need replacing.

· Moss or Algae Growth – You may think that this kind of growth is quaint, but it can also be evidence of trapped moisture and should be researched. Finally, any water intrusion in the home should be investigated immediately. Issues caught early are normally easy to correct. Taking proactive steps can extend the life of your roof and prevent damage both inside and outside the home.

First-Time Sellers – 5 Things You May Not Know

First-Time Sellers – 5 Things You May Not Know

Selling your first home is an exciting journey that comes with its unique set of challenges and learning curves. Even if you feel well-prepared and have partnered with a skilled real estate professional, there are several aspects of the home-selling process that might surprise you. Here are essential insights to help you navigate your first home sale effectively.

1. Pricing is Critical

Setting the right price for your home is crucial. Tempting as it may be to start with a high asking price, this can deter potential buyers and lead to a longer wait time in selling your home. Overpricing can necessitate significant price drops later on, which might give buyers the impression that there's something wrong with the property. A competitively priced home, on the other hand, is more likely to attract interest and sell quickly.

2. Preparation is Key

Before listing your home, take proactive steps by addressing repairs and any deferred maintenance. This not only enhances the appeal of your home but also prevents potential buyers from being put off by the work they would need to do. A well-maintained home generally sells faster and possibly for a higher price, as buyers perceive the care you've taken over time.

3. Understanding Disclosure Practices

Transparency about your home's condition is generally expected in the home-selling process. Sellers often share details about the property's history and current state, which can include past repairs and any existing conditions. Providing this information can foster trust and facilitate a smoother transaction by ensuring buyers are well-informed about what they are purchasing. This approach is widely regarded as a best practice in real estate sales.

4. Anticipating Closing Costs

Understanding potential closing costs is crucial when selling your home. These costs can vary and might include fees such as title insurance, transfer taxes, and other related expenses. It's important to be aware that these costs are part of the transaction and can sometimes be negotiated with the buyer. By familiarizing yourself with these potential expenses, you can better estimate the net proceeds from your home sale and approach negotiations with a more informed perspective.

5. Negotiations

Negotiating the sale terms is more complex than just agreeing on a price. As a first-time seller, it’s crucial to understand that nearly every aspect of the offer can be negotiated, including closing dates, contingencies, and even appliances included in the sale. Having a flexible strategy and an experienced real estate agent on your side can significantly benefit this process. Whether it's negotiating repair responsibilities or adjusting the closing timeline to fit your needs, being well-prepared to discuss these aspects can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable sale.

Navigating your first home sale can be daunting, but with the right information and guidance, you can successfully manage the transaction and look forward to your next steps in your real estate journey. Being informed about these key aspects will not only help you feel more confident but also position you for a successful and smooth sale. Remember, the best resource at your disposal is a knowledgeable real estate professional who can provide insights and expertise tailored to your specific situation.

What to Expect From a Listing Agent

You already know that the best way to sell your home, and for the most profit, is to hire a listing agent. The fact is that people who sell using a real estate agent make more profit and have a smoother transaction than those who try to do it themselves. Yet often consumers don’t know everything the listing agent does. Listing a home properly entails so much more than putting a lockbox on the front door and slapping a sign in the yard.

The listing agent is your advocate and partner in the selling process. They help guide you through the transaction, negotiate on your behalf, and work with the buyers’ agents to get you the best deal possible. A good listing agent will provide you with regular updates and input from showings. The most important thing is to discuss and set expectations at the beginning.

Some sellers ask that their agent attend all showings. This is typical with luxury properties, for example. But often they do most of their work behind the scenes, encouraging offers, negotiating counter offers, working with lenders and appraisers, handling loose ends and hiccups.

Once in a while, things don’t go well. The partnership becomes difficult or impossible. Since almost all listings involve a reasonable time limit, you may feel trapped or hopeless that there is a solution. In this case, you do have options. First, if your agent works for a brokerage, call the managing broker who can mediate, or if necessary, reassign your listing if needed. Your agent is your partner. Be honest and open with your needs and expectations. In this way, you can work together to sell your home quickly and for the best price and terms possible

Ask the Right Questions: Tips for Getting Moving Quotes

Buying and selling a home can be stressful. Once you’re ready to move, the relief can leave you vulnerable to scams. Frankly, you’re so happy to be “done” that you can overlook red flags in your excitement. To protect your belongings and avoid extra costs or loss, learn the signs of scams when moving.

The first step is to do your research. Always make sure the moving company comes to physically inspect your belongings and gives you a firm quote. Some companies may try to give you a quote based on the size of your home or number of bedrooms, then charge you more based on time or weight. Do not hire these companies. A reputable company will spend the time to come to your home.

Next, it’s critical to check references. Ask for local references and call them. Online references and reviews can also be a good way to learn more about service and their response to problems. Ask about how they handle damage and check reviews for the insurance they offer. Ideally, you want a third-party insurance company and you may even have coverage with your own homeowner’s insurance.

Finally, get multiple quotes. Read the contracts carefully and make sure you ask about anything that can change during the move, such as delay fees, storage fees, or weight charges. Never make a large upfront payment and most companies only require a small deposit at the time of the move.

It’s natural to relax after the close of a new home, but you can avoid moving scams by staying vigilant and trust your instincts. Ask about anything that doesn’t make sense and check references. The lowest cost provider is likely low cost for a reason.

Don’t Overdo It When Decluttering to Sell Your Home

If you’re preparing your home to sell, you already know that it’s important to declutter. A clean, tidy space allows potential buyers to see the beauty of your home and to imagine themselves living there. But there is a fine line between decluttering and denuding – removing too much can leave your home looking cold and uninviting. Learn the difference and make sure your buyers feel “at home” in your property.

Decluttering involves carefully removing excess personal items and décor to create a clean and appealing space. On the other hand, some home sellers go too far and end up with sterile rooms that lack any warmth or personality. Buyers aren’t attracted by stark white walls with minimal furnishing any more than they are by wall-to-wall clutter. Buyers want a home with style and energy.

As you prepare for showings, start by removing extra “stuff.” Remove excess items from tabletops, countertops, shelves, and personal items. You do want a lived-in feel but allow some empty areas that make rooms look larger and brighter. Once you’ve removed unnecessary items, strategically return special décor and the occasional family picture or two.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a balance between decluttering and maintaining the charm and personality of your home. Your buyers are searching for a family home, so keep some “family” in the mix.

7 Ways to Save Money on Home Insurance

Home insurance is critical for homeowners. It protects you from unexpected damage due to fire, wind, flood, and more. Unfortunately, the cost of these policies can be very expensive and over the past few years, some premiums have doubled or even tripled as more natural disasters hit the country. Fortunately, there are a few ideas on how to save money on premiums. Here are 7 possible ideas to save money on your home insurance.

1. Bundle Policies – The easiest way to save money is to use the same company for both auto and home. Most companies offer significant discounts for doing all your business with them.

2. Increase Deductibles – Raising your deductible on all policies, even just a little can save money overall. Consider how much you are able to spend before relying on insurance and see how much you can save.

3. Home Security Systems – Most companies offer a nice discount for home security, plus you have the added benefit of greater safety for you and your family.

4. Good Credit – A higher credit score will likely give you a lower premium. Be sure to ask your insurance company to review your score at each renewal period.

5. Review Coverage – Do you have health insurance at work? Then maybe you don’t need medical coverage through your auto policy? Review your policies and make sure you need everything you’re paying for and always seek the advice of your insurance agent.

6. Claim Free – Insurance is there to use, but you may not want to use it for everything. If you have a $1000 deductible, for instance, it does not make sense to submit a claim for damage that totals $1150. Staying claim-free saves money.

7. Finally, shop around. At each renewal period, take the time to compare leading companies and make changes when necessary. Switching companies is very easy and can save you hundreds of dollars. Consult with your insurance agent to find out if any of these ideas might work for you.

Real vs Personal Property in a Real Estate Transaction

When buying or selling a home, often misunderstandings occur over the distinction between “real” and “personal” property. Real estate agents across the nation frequently end up playing referee in situations fueled by misconceptions, which can create tension and sometimes even kill a sale. Understanding the difference is important to anyone engaged in a real estate transaction.

In simple terms, “real” property is the land and anything permanently attached to it, while “personal” property are items that are moveable. In this sense, real property obviously includes the home itself, along with other structures, such as a detached garage or barn, etc. It typically includes fixtures inside the home, such as lighting, faucets, built-in appliances, garage storage or racks, even curtain rods.

“Personal” property, being moveable, would usually include everything else. A refrigerator that is not considered a built-in could be included on this list. So would a free-standing BBQ Island, or a mounted TV. As you can see, some of these items may be controversial if there is not a clear understanding about what the seller intends to take with them when they move in the contract.

The best practice is for a seller to provide a list of any item they intend to keep that could be confusing and ensure it’s spelled out on the contract. This way, both parties have a clear understanding of the sale and the buyer does not plan a family BBQ on move day and find it gone.

10 Questions You Need to Ask Your Contractor Before You Hire Them

Hiring the right contractor can mean the difference between a successful remodeling project and a nightmare. The contractor is responsible for hiring the best tradesmen, budgeting, ordering raw materials, timing, and much more.

Before you meet with a contractor, it’s important to prepare. Not only should you be clear about the scope and goals for the project, but you also need to have questions about their business and these 10 questions can help you ensure you are hiring the best person for your needs.

1. Are you licensed and bonded? Can you provide information about your insurance coverages and exclusions?

2. What kind of project management system do you use? What is your communication cadence with your team and with me?

3. What is your policy regarding the cleanliness of the job site? How do you ensure employee safety on the job site?

4. Do you have a portfolio of similar projects and recent work with photos and/or videos?

5. Will you give me some references of recent past clients?

6. Can you provide me with a sample contract in advance for review?

7. How are selections and allowances handled?

8. How are payments handled? Will you provide a payment schedule?

9. What is the estimated time frame for planning, start date, and completion?

10.What penalties will you pay for delays caused by your team? How is fault defined for delays? Is this in the contract?

Remember, a home remodel can cause a great deal of upheaval, weeks or months of workers, delays, and adjustments. While you can’t plan for all contingencies, you can hire the best possible contractor. This puts you in the best position for a successful project.

The Real Reason Your Agent Wants You Gone During Showings

There are several good reasons for homeowners to make themselves scarce when potential buyers come to view their house. While one motivation is avoiding problematic comments, there are other benefits to giving prospective buyers space during showings.

For one, an empty home allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. With the sellers out of the way, buyers can move freely through the rooms and picture where their own furniture and belongings could go. An unoccupied house becomes a blank canvas for buyers to mentally customize to their own lifestyle and needs.

Leaving also allows buyers privacy to discuss their impressions and point out pros and cons to each other candidly. They may feel more comfortable critiquing elements of the home or debating if it meets their wish list when the sellers are not present. This facilitates an open dialogue between potential buyers.

Finally, an empty house also provides a neutral atmosphere for buyers to evaluate it objectively, without sellers unconsciously influencing their perspectives. Buyers can take their time forming their own opinions when touring alone, without chatting with sellers or feeling pressured in any way.

Vacant showings also enable buyers to visualize a future there, speak freely, and decide independently. These benefits make it advisable for sellers to make themselves scarce during viewings.

Don’t Let Small Problems Become Big Insurance Issues

Home maintenance is important for homeowners. Small issues like a loose shingle or minor leak may seem minor, but they can turn into bigger problems over time if left unaddressed. Poor home maintenance can potentially lead to insurance claims being denied if the damage arises from deferred maintenance. Insurance policies generally cover unexpected damage, not issues that developed from lack of home upkeep.

Some insurance companies are increasing home inspections during the renewal process to check for maintenance issues. Homeowners may receive a list of items needing repair, or in more serious cases, a non-renewal notice requiring them to find a new insurer. This demonstrates how critical home maintenance is for continuing coverage.

In summary, staying on top of home repairs and maintenance is key for homeowners. Minor issues should be addressed before they worsen and potentially affect insurance coverage. Homeowners who are not diligent with upkeep may need to enlist the help of professionals to keep their homes in good shape. Maintaining your home protects your investment and helps avoid problems with insurance down the road

Avoid Short Term Rental Home Mistakes Before You Bu

The short-term rental (STR) market has exploded since the Covid-19 pandemic. As America’s workforce raced home, people realized that they could work from anywhere. This, coupled with the desire to isolate oneself and family from other people during vacations, created a strong demand for STR properties. As the trend boomed, large and small investors jumped into the stream and bought properties to market as short-term rentals.

Owning an STR can be a great investment. In addition to the incremental income, the home appreciates in value, and the owner may even find time to use the property themselves. But owning this kind of rental isn’t as easy as putting a lockbox on the door and washing the sheets. Before investing in a STR, consider these 5 things.

1. Local Zoning and HOA Rules – This may seem obvious, yet every year people buy homes with the intention of using it as a STR only to find that the local authorities prohibit that kind of rental. Often, one must rent the home for 30+ days as part of an HOA or local zoning law.

2. Property Management – The wrong property management company can cost the homeowner time and money. Bad reviews, property damage, and mismanaged funds are just a few of the problems caused by the wrong manager.

3. Property Condition – While it’s important to buy a home the owner can handle. Simple cosmetic changes are easy to fix for a home in the right location.

4. Personal Taste – One of the biggest mistakes investors make is to buy what they like, instead of the right property for a short-term rental. They should consider why someone would come to a STR in that area and find a property that appeals to that.

5. Part-Time Manager – Regardless of how handy the owner is, owning a vacation rental is a full-time job and should be managed by a professional management company.

Renters of short-term rentals are choosing the privacy and intimacy that an STR offers, but they expect to have hotel-quality service. This is a high bar and before buying a home to use as a STR, investors need to carefully consider all the aspects of this kind of ownership

Prioritizing Lifestyle Amid Rising Interest Rates

The real estate market has changed over the past year. One of the biggest issues facing anyone considering a home purchase or sale is rising interest rates. After enjoying years of mortgage rates in the 2-3% range, many borrowers are shocked to see a conventional 30-year fixed loan offering rates as high as 7 per cent. While historically reasonable, this increase is having an impact on the real estate market. If you are considering a move, it’s important to remember that your lifestyle still needs to take precedence over these temporary changes.

First, your mortgage interest rate is just one aspect of your overall financial situation. Taking a more holistic view of the potential move, including lifestyle and personal needs, may provide a more favorable picture. For example, if the move is a downsize, what is the savings in loan amount (less expensive home), maintenance and repair costs, utility costs, property taxes, etc.? One must also consider the potential tax deduction difference that mortgage interest might provide.

Another important consideration is that property values may have dropped in some areas as rates have increased. While one may not completely balance the other, it can make the increase more palatable. Additionally, rates fluctuate and if interest rates decrease, you might have the option to refinance down the road. Meanwhile, home values have historically been a great vehicle for wealth building as values rise over time.

Finally, and most importantly, if your lifestyle has changed and you want to move, then that should be your priority. Quality of life is the single most important aspect of health. While rising interest rates may change your decision, it should not keep you from moving if that’s what’s best.

Small Design Changes that Have Big Impact

With the change of seasons, attention turns from the backyard to our indoor spaces. With the cooler months ahead and more time spent indoors, who wouldn’t love a quick living space refresh? Fortunately, you don’t need to completely revamp everything to have a new look. Small changes can have a big impact as well.

Paint is one of the easiest ways to change the look of any space. Paint fads quickly and designers recommend repainting every 5-7 years. This is an opportunity to use new colors. Dark and warm to create a cozy, relaxing space or go bright and bold to add energy or inspiration. If a larger project is too daunting, then adding a single accent wall provides drama and interest.

Look at updating lighting and other fixtures. It’s surprising how quickly a lamp can change the tone of a room. Don’t be afraid of mixing traditional furniture styles with modern fixtures. Use lighting in a new way. Highlight a special picture or piece of art. Light a dark corner or use variable light bulbs to provide flexibility in intensity.

Another great tip is to hit the local farmer’s markets and fairs. Style does not need to come from the chain stores or design magazines. Add some eclectic pillows, candles, baskets, or anything else that interests you. Personal style is just that – personal. With fall on the horizon, spruce up your living spaces with a few small changes.

7 Common Homebuyer Regrets You Want to Avoid

7 Common Homebuyer Regrets You Want to Avoid Most homebuyers don’t regret becoming homeowners. In fact, owning a home is one of the biggest contributors to lifestyle satisfaction. But this doesn’t mean that these homebuyers don’t have regrets about their buying choices. Most new homeowners will happily share some of the mistakes they made and how they could have avoided them. Fortunately, you don’t need to learn from your own mistakes. Here are the 7 most common homebuyer regrets.

1. Spending Too Much – There’s nothing wrong with stretching a little but overpaying for what you really need is the largest regret most new homebuyers have.

2. Not Shopping for a Mortgage – With interest rates on the rise, it’s important to take the time to look at all mortgage options before choosing.

3. Rushing into the Home Purchase – In a competitive market, it may feel like you need to move quickly, but some homeowners later regret the house, the neighborhood, or the city later.

4. Miscalculating the Cost of Homeownership – There are a lot of extra costs to homeownership: maintenance, repairs, upgrades, taxes, insurance, etc.

5. Underestimating the Time or Cost of Renovations – Oh those HGTV shows that make renovations and upgrades look easy. Often, new homeowners find they are incapable of doing the work and wind up with half-finished or poorly completed work.

6. Choosing a Home that Doesn’t Fit – It’s easy to fall in love with a great view or chef’s kitchen, but if you need 4 bedrooms, then buy a home with 4 bedrooms.

7. Not Using an Agent – It’s more common than you think for a homebuyer to walk through an open house and use the seller’s agent to “save money.” They may get a small credit due to lower commission, but they lose having their own advocate in the process.

No one wants to look back at their home purchase and have regrets. Consider these common mistakes before you head out, so you can buy the right home at the right price for your needs.

Buyer’s “Love Letters” – Should You Read Them When Selling Your Home?

Selling a home can be an emotional experience. As the seller, you want to make sure that the buyer loves the home as much as you do and will take care of it. In other words, you’re looking for the perfect buyer with the perfect offer. Home buyers understand this, and in the recent seller’s market, some buyers have written heartfelt letters to the sellers about how much they love the home, hoping it will tip the scales in their direction. But as a seller, making decisions based on these “love letters” could cause problems, leaving us with the question, “should you read them?”

Buyer love letters can provide valuable information to the seller. With properties receiving multiple offers, it can be difficult to choose the best one. By reading these love letters, you get a sense of the buyer and their connection to the home. A well written letter can ease the concern that a buyer will change their mind and can occasionally overcome a slightly lower offer.

However, simply reading the letter can introduce bias into the decision-making process and cause serious issues. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on factors such as race, religion, or family status. If a love letter reveals personal information that falls into any of these categories, just knowing the information may open up the seller to potential issues. I

t’s natural to want your home to go to a “nice family” who will love the property as much as you do. It’s just as natural to want to ensure the new owner will fit into the neighborhood. Yet, it’s just this goal that might also cause headaches. So, if you do choose to read the letters, focus on the practical and financial aspects of the story and make the best choice for you and your goals.

Is It Finally Time to Ditch Design Trends and Embrace Your Personal Style?

Almost 3 decades ago, HGTV launched its line-up of home improvement and design shows. Since that time, consumers have had access to the latest trends in home style and millions of viewers have enjoyed trying new designs in their own homes. Unfortunately, this has also led to the pressure to conform to the latest fad. Inexpensive big box home stores have made changing style more affordable, but these cookie-cutter rooms have left many homes lacking any sense of personal style.

Design trends can be inspiring. It’s fun to add a new color or texture to a room. Style magazines and TV programs offer fresh ideas and aesthetics to try. The goal should be to try one or two new things to add spark to the space. We’ve all seen the result of design overload, whether it is a farmhouse-styled urban loft or a slick Scandinavian modern located in the country. Little about these homes reflects the style and personality of their owners, much less the neighborhood in which they are located.

Capturing personal style is the key to a warm and inviting home. By designing a space that incorporates lifestyle, there’s always room for the fascinating vase found on vacation or a bright, bold rug that caught the eye. Rather than chase the latest update, building a timeless environment offers a home that the owner will love and appreciate for years to come.

It may finally be time to ditch the trend-driven approach to decorating and embrace our personal style. A beautiful and welcoming home is the best design there is.

5 Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Fixer-Upper Home

Purchasing a fixer-upper property can be an exciting and rewarding experience. HGTV is filled with programs of amateurs knocking down walls and tiling bathroom floors. The fact is that this is much harder than it looks and before diving headfirst into this kind of project, it’s critical to consider whether you are prepared for the venture. 5 Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Fixer-Upper Home

1. Financial Planning – The first step in buying a fixer-upper home is to establish a realistic budget. Include the purchase price, repairs costs, and any expected expenses for renovation or restoration. Once you have created a “known” list, then add extra for unexpected issues that will arise.

2. Time and Effort – Renovating a fixer-upper takes time and effort, even if you hire a general contractor to oversee the project. Consider the overall scope of the project and evaluate your skills and level of time commitment.

3. Structural Condition – Before making an offer, thoroughly inspect the property’s structure and foundation. Recognize the impact of any issues uncovered and make sure to budget for the proper corrections.

4. Real Estate Market and Location – Even a beautiful home in a terrible area is a bad investment. Consider such factors as property values, market trends and the potential for future appreciation. Work with a financial planner to make sure the investment fits your long-term goals.

5. Legal Considerations – Before writing the offer, familiarize yourself with local building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations. Ensure the changes you anticipate align with local requirements.

Purchasing a fixer-upper home can be a wonderful investment and worthwhile project. By evaluating your budget, time commitment, property condition, and potential appreciation, you can be sure to choose the right situation for your goals and experience.

5 Common Lawn Mistakes

Summer is made for the outdoors. When the weather turns warm, the backyard becomes the central focus for family fun. After a long, cold winter, homeowners around the country turn their attention to their lawn. Yet, these weekend warriors could be sabotaging their lawn by making these 5 common mistakes.

1. Overwatering – Watering is vital for a healthy lawn, but overwatering can prevent that lush green homeowners seek. Instead of frequent light watering, aim for more infrequent waterings for a longer, deeper soak. This allows the moisture to penetrate deep down to the roots.

2. Over mowing – Cutting the grass too short weakens the root. Every type of grass has different requirements, consult a local gardening center to understand the needs of your lawn. Avoid cutting more than a third of the grass blade height in a single mowing session.

3. Ignoring Soil Health – Regular soil care ensures a strong foundation for your lawn. Test for the proper pH level and any nutrient deficiencies. Use fertilizers throughout the growing season and consider an aeration rotation for better water absorption.

4. Neglecting Weed Control – Weeds and other pests can damage lawns quickly and make it difficult to recover. Implement a regular weed and pest control program. Be careful using pesticides around pets and children. Watch that you do not overuse pesticides as that can deprive the lawn of essential nutrients.

5. Forgetting to Feed Properly – In addition to soil health, the lawn itself needs regular feeding. Choose a fertilizer based on the type of grass and environment, then create a regular cadence for use. Ensure a healthy and vibrant lawn all summer long by avoiding a few common mistakes homeowners make each year.

10 Most Common Home Buyer Questions

Buying a new home is exciting and confusing. There are a lot of steps to buying a home, and people have questions. These are the most common questions home buyers have, and the answers.

1. How do I get started? – The first step is to speak with a lender and get a pre-approval. This will tell you, and potential sellers, how much you can afford.

2. How long does it take to close on a home? – Typically, it takes about 30-45 days once contracts are signed to complete the lending, appraisal, and inspection processes.

3. What does my agent do? – A buyer’s agent will negotiate terms and manage the closing process from start to finish.

4. How much do I pay for a buyer’s agent? – Nothing. The seller’s agent gives the buyer’s agent a portion of their commission from the seller.

5. What credit score do I need to qualify? – A 620 FICO score or higher is required for most home loan programs. Talk to a lender for other options for lower scores.

6. How much money do I need for a down payment? – It varies. FHA loans start as low as 3% and most lenders offer standard programs for a 5% down payment.

7. What other fees will I need to pay? – Closing costs and loan origination fees will add another 2-4% to the costs.

8. What if I change my mind? – Your agent will work with you to build in contingencies for conditions, loan terms/approval, and other protections to allow you time to evaluate the home during escrow.

9. When do I get the keys? – Unless you’ve negotiated extra time for the sellers to move, you’ll get the keys at the closing.

10. What’s the best advice for home buyers? – Trust the experts and ask lots of questions.

Buying a new home is exciting. Reduce any anxiety by finding a good buyer’s agent who can help you make the best choice for your needs. COnnect with Stacy Borroto, Broker at The OC Nest specializing in Orange County Real Estate since 2007.