Whether you're buying your first house or your third, purchasing real estate will always be stressful. Why? Because there will always be a challenge in the real estate market, such as home prices that are beyond reach, increased mortgage rates, and a shortage of inventory.
Knowing what is ahead and surrounding yourself with experienced individuals who can offer guidance are the keys to making it less frightening.
In recent years, there has been a great deal of fluctuation in the property market. If you're attempting to purchase a property, it's crucial to understand the current status of the housing market since it will affect your capacity to make a successful bid. That said, before you start your journey to buying a home, take some time to educate yourself about the current state of your local market.
A rise in the supply of homes would lessen the pressure on home prices to rise by counteracting the demand from buyers. In addition to lowering the entire upfront costs, a lower home price may also result in a cheaper mortgage payment.
List the things you need and want in your dream home as well as the community you want to live in so you can focus on your search.
Use reputable real estate websites, such as Realtor.com, Redfin, Zillow, RE/MAX, and Trulia to get a sense of the kind of homes that fit your requirements. Take note of the home prices to see if they are within your means. If not, you might have to narrow down your search parameters or make some compromises.
One of the largest financial commitments you will ever make is purchasing a home, so before you start looking at properties, keep your finances in order.
Understand your current financial situation. To assess whether you can afford to make monthly mortgage payments, mortgage lenders will examine your cash reserves, income, and debts as well as obtain a copy of your credit report. A FICO score of 620 or above is typically required by lenders to approve a conventional loan.
You may check your credit report for free from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian every week at AnnualCreditReport.com. Requesting reports from each agency is a good idea, and you should carefully check over them as there may be inconsistencies or errors in the material.
Look for local real estate brokers and arrange for introductory calls or meetings. It's a good idea to interview a few and choose the agent that is educated about the area you're looking to buy into and suits your personality and communication style. A good real estate agent will assist you learn about the home-buying process, highlight discrepancies between pricing and expectations, and provide you with previously unconsidered information.
Don't just get prequalified, get pre-approved. What's the difference, you ask?
A mortgage pre-approval is a comprehensive process where a lender verifies financial information, such as W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs, assets, and credit to determine what loans you could be approved for, the amount you can borrow, and what your interest rate could be. Prequalification is more similar to an approximate estimate of what you can borrow. This might assist you in determining how much you can pay and show home sellers your seriousness about making the purchase.
In difficult economic times, having a solid credit history and financial profile is especially crucial, as lenders are less inclined to take on customers who pose a larger risk of loan default.
Along with encouraging you to search online for additional properties you might be interested in, your real estate agent will probably show you listings that fit your needs and budget. Although in-person tours are preferred by most buyers, if you are unable or unwilling to see the property, you can still obtain a virtual tour.
No matter what you choose, virtual or personal home viewings, start looking early to stay ahead of the competition. Once the prices decrease, home buyers will start to go out, look for homes, and close deals if you haven't started yet, someone else might have the home you always wanted.
It's time to discuss placing an offer with your agent when you've located the place you want to call home.
To help you decide how much you think the house is worth, check the sale prices of nearby comparable homes that have previously sold. A list of real estate comparables (comps) that illustrate the prices paid by buyers for comparative, previously sold properties in the same neighborhood can be compiled by your agent. This may help you determine the appropriate amount to offer.
When you submit your offer, the seller has three options: accept, reject, or counter. During the pandemic, buyers could not afford to negotiate and sellers maintained control. The good news is that the market is currently somewhat more balanced now compared to the previous years.
Buyers can bargain more to get the best deal possible within their budget, but note that the price of the listings—especially the expensive ones—determines the outcome.
Earnest money is deposited with a third party, such as a real estate broker, law firm, or title business, once your offer is accepted. This money is kept in escrow until closing and can be used toward your down payment or closing fees. Known as a good faith deposit, earnest money signifies your seriousness as a buyer and is often between 1% and 5% of the total cost of the home.
Now that the sale is on hold, it's time to start the due diligence procedure, which includes the home inspection. A house inspection is a qualified inspector's visual evaluation of the property's condition, and the results can assist buyers in making better decisions.
If your purchase offer contains a condition for a house inspection, you may choose to walk away from the deal entirely or bargain for repairs.
You should submit your mortgage application as soon as possible after you get into a contract. Choose a lender who best meets your needs by shopping around and comparing mortgage offers. Your interest rate and the amount you qualify for will be estimated by your lender.
After you're pre-approved, your lender might also provide you with a mortgage rate lock, which is normally good for 60 days or occasionally longer. When interest rates are expected to rise, a rate lock is an excellent idea. However, you cannot simply switch to a lower interest rate if rates fall.
To make sure the agreed-upon sale price is equal to the property's market value, your lender will usually need an appraisal of the asset. The appraisal is frequently included in the overall amount of closing expenses for a house.
A few days before closing, conduct a final walkthrough. This will help you verify that the house is in good condition and/or in the same condition as when the offer was made. For homes that have issues, this will also help confirm if the agreed repairs have been made.
The actual closing process is quite simple and calls for signatures attesting to the ownership transfer. Depending on your state, you may sign documents in person with a representative of your title insurance firm or electronically, if that is permitted.
The actual closing procedure only requires signatures attesting to the transfer of ownership and is rather straightforward. You may sign documents electronically if allowed by your state, or in person with a representative of your title insurance company.
We hope that we've helped you understand the process you need to go through when buying a home. As always, our team at RE/MAX Advanced Realty is here to help. Just send us a message or leave a comment if you have questions about purchasing a property.
One of the most important phases in the home-buying process is closing because it's at this point that the buyer and seller exchange possession of the property. Unless they are performing a dry closing, the seller will often get payment for their house.
When a real estate closing is finished without any money being transferred—including closing costs—it is referred to as a "dry closing." Generally speaking, when the funds are approved but non-transferable, dry closings expedite the closing process for a home or property.
A dry closing will be started by the seller or the buyer, and it commonly happens when the funds are delayed. For instance, the buyer may still need to fulfill a last requirement, which could take some time to accomplish, even though the money for the mortgage has been authorized.
Alternatively, there can be a problem with the property that the seller is attempting to resolve. The buyer and seller decide on a dry closure as an alternative to postponing or canceling the transaction.
A wet closing involves paying the money for the sale of the house all at once and completing the real estate deal. Every real estate contract is signed, and the money is distributed right away. All 50 states allow this kind of closing, which is the most popular.
A dry closing, on the other hand, allows the buyer and seller more time to finish the real estate transaction. They proceed through closing, but until the money is sent, the deal isn't finished. Furthermore, a dry closing is only permitted in some states.
These are the states that allow dry closing:
There are times when a dry closing is more convenient for all parties. However, consenting to a dry closing entails a certain level of risk. This could consist of:
Is it ever a good idea to have a dry closing, assuming that's legal in your state? Perhaps, in light of your circumstances. Dry closings are a way to keep the real estate deal going forward in the event of problems.
Accepting a dry closing offers the lender an extra few days to smooth things out if the money transfer is taking longer than anticipated. Please ensure that you understand the dangers before consenting to a dry closing.
There's no guarantee that the real estate deal will fail if you're contacted regarding a dry closing. In fact, a dry closing can keep things going so that everyone concerned gets what they desire. However, you have to understand what it really means first, what to expect when you choose it, and if it’s the right choice for your situation.
"Make money buying real estate."
"Now's the best time to buy a home."
"Buy houses for pennies on the dollar."
These are the kinds of remarks that people typically relate to foreclosures on real estate. In reality, foreclosures on real estate rarely result in instant financial success. Of course, there are great deals to be taken advantage of but still, it's not gonna offer easy money to anyone. Nonetheless, you can get those possible benefits through a lot of effort and devotion.
In this post, we'll answer the following questions:
What does foreclosure mean?
What are the pros and cons of buying a foreclosed property?
What are the steps in buying a foreclosed property?
So without further ado, let's get started.
Homeowners rarely buy a home outright or in cash. To finance the purchase, they typically obtain a mortgage from a bank or other lender. After that, it is the buyer's responsibility to pay the lender on time.
However, buyers occasionally miss these installments. The University of Illinois lists the following as typical causes:
Divorce resulting in financial strain
Huge medical expenses, especially when the homeowner is uninsured or underinsured
Death of the primary income earner
Loss of source of income (example: job or business)
Liens are legal devices included in all mortgage transactions. The lender's monetary interest in the house is safeguarded by a lien. If the borrower defaults on the loan, it enables the institution to take possession of the asset.
Banks typically assist financially troubled homeowners in attempting to resolve their issues. If those don't work, the bank will use the mortgage contract's lien to foreclose on the house and seize possession of it.
The bank will then either sell the house directly or put it up for auction. There are situations where the present owner will close a short sale. Through this procedure, a buyer can purchase the house at market value, even if that sum is insufficient to pay off the remaining mortgage balance.
Now, the event where the lender or the banker seizes the home, that's is called foreclosure.
Buying a foreclosed home has the following advantages:
Without a doubt, foreclosures typically come with a lower price tag or are priced below market value than other types of real estate. This is because the lenders who set their prices just want to get rid of the property faster.
Compared to regular residences, foreclosure properties may have a different bidding and purchasing procedure. But if the property isn't being sold in a cash-only auction, you might be able to get a loan to buy a foreclosed home.
One may obtain a traditional loan or one backed by the government through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Federal Housing Administration (FHA), or S. financing from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) if the house is livable.
Lending secured by the government helps lower the cost of becoming a homeowner. However, the property needs to match the loan's minimal property requirements to be eligible for the loan.
Buying a foreclosed home has the following disadvantages:
There might be a chance that the foreclosed home you're buying has been neglected by its former owners. If that's the case, you might need to not only check the problems but also, spend money to fix them.
Take Note: The primary goal of the lender is to get their money back as soon as possible, which nearly always entails an as-is selling.
If you don't have a lot of money to spend on repairs, you shouldn't purchase a foreclosure.
Just because a house is foreclosed upon legally does not mean it is abandoned. Squatters may be drawn to foreclosed properties since they are sometimes vacant for months or even years. You have the right to evict a squatter who occupies the house if they do. However, evicting them may not be easy. Sometimes, it might take months to complete the eviction and you have to spend thousands of dollars for legal costs.
Here are some questions people commonly ask before purchasing a foreclosed property:
Purchasing a repossessed property comes with risks related to neglect, damage, and property degradation. On the other hand, buying a foreclosed home is beneficial since it lets you save money because you are getting the house at a reduced price.
When determining whether a foreclosure is the best option for you, consider your financial circumstances and ability to make repairs. Because the property might require more work than you anticipated, weigh the risks involved in your investment. Consider all the options carefully before determining if purchasing a foreclosed home is a wise move for you.
Whether purchasing a foreclosed home is a wise investment depends in part on your real estate investing objectives.
For those looking to purchase a home at a reduced price or below market value or keen to restore and customize a property, purchasing a foreclosure may present a special opportunity.
However, you should also consider the disadvantages it might have, such as the amount you might spend fixing the property.
Nonetheless, knowing whether it's the right property for you or not depends on your real estate goals and circumstances. If you decided to pursue a foreclosed property, we’ve written a detailed guide on what to expect when buying a foreclosed home.
No-wake lakes in Indiana offer peaceful boating for water enthusiasts. Flint Lake, Lake of the Four Seasons, and others have "no-wake" policies to keep boat speeds low for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
The limits protect the ecology, reduce shoreline erosion, and provide a peaceful setting for residents and visitors to enjoy the scenery and pleasure without high-speed watercraft.
The calm charm and conservation efforts of Northwest Indiana's no-wake lakes attract nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more relaxing boating experience in dramatic scenery.
In the first and second parts, we discussed what are the lakes in northwest Indiana and the Indiana all-sports lakes. So, in this last part, we will tackle what are the no-wake lakes in Indiana.
No-wake lakes, such as Fish Lake in Walkerton, Indiana, give prospective homeowners the chance to live near water and take in the tranquil serenity of the outdoors.
The advantages of this are that no-wake lakes in Northwest Indiana, like Flint Lake and Lake of the Four Seasons, are ideal for kayaking, row boating, or pontoon rides, offering a tranquil, serene environment, making them better suited for individuals seeking a peaceful and quiet setting rather than those desiring high-speed recreational activities, providing better options for those who want to enjoy fishing on a calm lake.
The disadvantage of this is that the popular no-wake lakes such as Flint Lake and Lake of the Four Seasons restrict boating to non-motorized boats, trolling motors, or slow pontoon boats, typically situated in more rural areas, often featuring lakefront homes for sale, making them highly sought-after destinations for those seeking a serene, rural lifestyle within a no-wake lake community.
The following is a list of lakes in Indiana that are considered to be no-wake zones;
Upper and Lower Fish Lakes make up Fish Lake, which is two lakes. Both Upper and Lower Fish Lakes are 273 acres. No-wake lakes prohibit motor boats: trolling or low-horsepower outboard bass boats and pontoons. Lake fishing is permitted.
Few amenities near Fish Lake. This is because the lake is rural. Laporte, 9 miles northwest, and Walkerton, 7 miles southeast of Fish Lake, have various facilities.
Two-bedroom, one-bathroom homes with 1,200 square feet are common in Fish Lake. Those houses offer great value for a Northwest Indiana riverfront home.
© www.lakehouse.com/fish-lake-lagrange-county-indiana-lake-homes-for-sale-b5765.html
Three lakes comprise the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes, located on the northern edge of Valparaiso, Indiana. There are no wakes in any of these lakes. On the lake, pontoons, non-motorized watercraft, and bass boats with small motors are permitted.
Lake fishing is allowed. Despite being close to one another, the three lakes are not connected. Only two miles north of Valparaiso is the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes. With a population of over 35,000, Valparaiso is a thriving city where you may enjoy all the conveniences of a lake property.
Valparaiso Chain of Lakes waterfront properties are priced widely. Walden, a Valparaiso lakeside luxury area, is famous. Larger, luxurious residences with many bedrooms, bathrooms, and features are available here. Buyers might discover a Valparaiso Chain of Lakes house within their budget.
(c) valpolakes.org/our-lakes/
So, where in Northwest Indiana is the ideal place to purchase a lake house? Well, just like when choosing a location or property, you have to determine what kind of lake life you want to have. Consider the unwritten rule in purchasing a home, which is to buy a house that meets your needs and preferences and will serve you the best. Nonetheless, here are the most common desired lake life you can check out:
If you've always wanted to live by the lake, Northwest Indiana has many lakefront properties to choose from. The price range, atmosphere, and features vary greatly so if you need help zeroing in on the best options for you, our team at RE/MAX Advanced Realty is here to help!
Call us today or send us a message to get started!
Choosing to become a homeowner might be one of the most thrilling experiences of your life. It's crucial to reflect on a few things and learn how to strike a balance between your requirements and goals as well as your budget before moving forward. To help you choose the ideal property at a price you can afford, we've put together important tips on house hunting that helped our clients find their dream homes.
Following these house-hunting tips can help you start and feel assured. Here are the five best tips when house hunting you may consider:
Determine how much you can afford to spend on a home before you start looking. To determine how much of a mortgage payment you would be comfortable with, use a budget calculator. Remember that there are other expenses you will have to pay each month as a homeowner besides your mortgage. Don't forget to include the following in your budget:
To determine your monthly payments depending on variables such as the cost of the house, the down payment, the length of the loan, and the interest rate on the mortgage, use a mortgage calculator.
Make sure you obtain a preapproval letter—as opposed to a prequalification letter—to receive first mortgage approval. Examining prequalified versus preapproved is important.
Prequalification letter: Based on an oral confirmation of your income and credit score, a lender will tell you roughly how much you can pay when they declare you're prequalified for a given amount.
Preapproval letter: A mortgage lender's preapproval letter outlines the maximum loan amount you are eligible for. Because lenders base their calculations on official documentation, such as your bank records, W-2s, and credit reports, it carries more weight than a prequalification letter.
Many real estate agents won't work with you until you have initial mortgage approval, even if you have a prequalification letter.
Prioritizing may be necessary when looking for a home to ensure you get off to a good start. We advise you to start making a list of every space you envision for your home. After that, list the characteristics you wish each room to have, room by room.
These qualities could be divided into three groups: deal-breakers, nice-to-haves, and must-haves. After you've finished designing each area, think about the essentials and luxuries for the entire house.
A must-have is something you absolutely cannot live without in your house and is one of the items you will use to weed out properties that are unfit for habitation. For example, you might require plenty of garage space for extra storage, a well-lit room for your remote home office, or three bedrooms to accommodate your family.
You'll be able to sort through real estate listings more quickly if you have a list of necessities. Perhaps you've found what appears to be the ideal house in every sense, but it's miles away from the closest school and lacks a backyard. For those who have a large family, small children, and a dog, having access to outside space and being close to a school will be essential.
However, you might want to keep the house on your list as a prospective alternative if it doesn't currently contain one of your must-haves but has the room or remodeling potential to make it happen.
Goodies are desires, not necessities. These are the kinds of characteristics you'd like to have in your house but aren't really that important. A spiral staircase, a firepit, modern appliances, or a backyard pool may be features you'd like to see in your new house, but overall, these are probably not must-haves.
Having a list of desirable features is advantageous since it can aid in your decision-making process once you've reduced the number of residences on your shortlist.
Get a sense of the local real estate market by looking through homes for sale on the internet or via a mobile app. Websites dedicated to house hunting can help you get a closer look at what your area's typical home sells for and a more accurate notion of the kind of property you can afford.
You can investigate possible communities for schools, shops, crime rates, and other factors by conducting online research on properties. Applications can facilitate process optimization by offering arranged access to listings.
Make a price comparison between your budget and what you see in the market. Next, jot down a few addresses and get in touch with your realtor or the real estate firms that represented the houses you've had your eye on.
A reputable real estate agent, often known as a REALTOR®, is an authority in your community and can ease the stress and anxiety associated with house hunting. In addition to helping you focus your search and show you more properties than you could possibly see on your own, they may also assist you make the most financial decisions.
Instead of only attempting to steer you toward the largest sale and commission, a competent real estate agent or REALTOR® will also carefully examine your unique needs when they select properties to show you.
A professional who has completed the required licensure exams to conduct real estate business in your state is known as a real estate agent.
On the other hand, Members of the National Association of REALTORS® are licensed real estate brokers or REALTORS®. They have to be in the market, have a current real estate license, follow a tight code of ethics, and have a spotless record of professional conduct.
Both can be quite beneficial while looking for a home. Collaborate with a real estate agent that holds the designation of Certified Buyer Representative (CBR) or Accredited Buyer's Representative® (ABR®). A professional with a real estate broker license, which indicates they have completed further real estate coursework, is another option for you to think about.
Prior to making a decision, interview a few prospects and request recommendations from prior house buyers. Given the amount of time you will be spending together, pick an agent whose personality complements yours and be up forward about your wants and expectations.
A lot of sellers let anyone to come inside and take a tour of their homes during open houses. Additionally, you can schedule in-person showings with your preferred real estate agent.
Be a little curious when you're looking at a house. Verify the functionality of kitchen appliances, showers, toilets, and outlets. If you choose to purchase the house, make a mental list of any repairs or replacements you might wish to request from the seller.
Finding the right house takes time and effort. However, you can make it seamless and less stressful by considering the basics, such as determining your budget, acquiring mortgage approval from your lender, and even working with a real estate agent.
If you need help with house hunting in Indiana, our team at RE/MAX Advance Realty is just a message away! Call us now at 317.298.0961 or leave a comment to get started.
For lakefront living, northwest Indiana Lakes has beautiful Lake Michigan waterfront houses for sale that you can consider. These properties along the shoreline offer quiet and recreation along with stunning views. Meanwhile, lakeside life provides boating, water sports, and sunset strolls.
From modest cottages to magnificent houses, the region's real estate market offers a distinct seaside experience. However, if you're looking specifically for Indiana all-sports lakes, this post is made specially for you!
Boaters often find their nirvana on Indiana all-sports lakes like Pine Lake, located in LaPorte County, Indiana. However, it might be a living hell for people who are looking for nothing more than peace.
Therefore, it's important to weigh its pros and cons first before moving to this area.
The disadvantages of living on Indiana all-sports lakes are that Northwest Indiana Lakes, featuring lakefront homes for sale, offer vibrant recreational opportunities; however, they might experience congestion during high-traffic summer weekends and holidays, potential interruptions due to varying lake usage, and noise from boats and bustling lake activity.
Below are the Northwest Indiana Lakes that offer water sports and activities;
Pine Lake is clean, public, and allows boating. It has many shoreline real estate opportunities. Pine Lake is open to boating, non-motorized watercraft, and fishing. Pine Lake is an all-sports, recreational lake with faster motorboats.
Parks, parking, and the lake are near LaPorte, Indiana, a thriving 22,000-person community. In LaPorte, you may find lake house amenities. Pine Lake waterfront homes usually have docks in the back. Rent dock space at a small marina on the east side of the lake. Lastly, the lake's south end has a public boat launch.
© www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=NH1po0vfyYE
Being further east than Pine Lake, Hudson Lake is an all-sports lake that won't be as crowded as others. This lake allows motorboats, bass boats, and pontoons. Water skiing, tubing, kayaking, and fishing are lake activities.
Also prohibited: motorized watercraft. A 1,200-person town, Hudson Lake. Around 1,800 people live in nearby New Carlisle. Hudson Lake is a South Shore Commuter Rail stop. This link connects this hamlet to downtown Chicago and South Bend.
Hudson Lakefront residences exist. Some homes have five or more bedrooms over 5,000 square feet, while others have two bedrooms and one bathroom.
© www.southbendtribune.com/story/sports/2019/05/18/hudson-lake-soon-to-get-a-public-boat-launch/46365729/
Shorewood Forest near Valparaiso, Indiana, has upscale houses and Lake Louise, a private lake. Shorewood Forest is great for daily boating recreation. Private Lake Louise. Lake access is available to residents and guests with a residency.
The lake is all-sports with careful management. Bass boats, jet skis, pontoons, and motorboats are allowed. Kayaks are permitted, but not motorized boats. A bustling 35,000-person Valparaiso, Indiana, borders the area. Every city amenity is in Shorewood Forests. Additionally, the community offers a splash pad, pool, sports courts, walking trails, beach, and dog park.
Shorewood Forest seems like home, not lake life, despite the lake being the neighborhood jewel. Year-round inhabitants predominate. Many enormous homes are in this neighborhood. Homes average four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and approximately 3,700 square feet.
© nadinephilips.com/shorewoodforest
Central Lake County, Indiana's Cedar Lake is an all-sports public lake. Closer towns with additional facilities include Crown Point, Indiana. Cedar Lake is a lake for various activities. Motorboats, bass boats, jet skis, and pontoons are allowed. Lake non-motorized boating is allowed. Fishing is permitted. Several medium-sized cities nearby provide greater shopping and other facilities.
Cedar Lake homes for sale vary in size, features, and price. The range of Cedar Lake homes available year-round includes two-bedroom, one-bathroom homes on 1/10 acre lots to luxury homes with over five bedrooms and over 5,000 square feet. Most Cedar Lake, IN homes have three bedrooms and three bathrooms.
© www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g36996-Cedar_Lake_Indiana-Vacations.html
The Lake Dalecarlia Property Owners Association manages the private, all-sports reservoir lake. Motor boats, pontoons, and bass boats are allowed on Lake Dalecarlia. Everyone must follow the property owners association's boating restrictions.
Crown Point, 7 miles north, is a medium-sized city with all amenities. Lake Dalecarlia prohibits non-resident boating. The Lake Dalecarlia Property Owners Association requires watercraft registration.
Searching for Lake Dalecarlia, Indiana, lakefront homes only yields residences. Homes ranged from 1,000 square feet of two-bedroom, one-bathroom to 3,440 square feet of six-bedroom, four-bathroom Lots averaging 6,000–12,000 square feet.
© www.yelp.com/city/lake-dalecarlia-in-us
Lake Bass is a public all-sports lake. Motorboats, pontoons, jet skis, and non-motorized watercraft are allowed. Fishing is permitted. Bass Lake is rural; therefore, shopping and conveniences are scarce. About 4,000 people live in Knox, Indiana, 4 miles north of Bass Lake.
Knox, Indiana, has Bass Lake lakefront houses. Bass Lake waterfront homes often include three or four bedrooms and two to three baths. Homes average 2,100–2,400 square feet. There are also many smaller and larger homes. Lots are more significant than in many lakefront communities.
© www.pinterest.ph/pin/266979084129903956/
The second-largest lake in Indiana is Lake Maxinkuckee. This NW Indiana public all-sports recreation area has homes for sale. Motorboats, pontoons, jet skis, and non-motorized watercraft are allowed on Lake Maxinkuckee, an all-sports lake.
Culver, Indiana, has 1,353 residents. The village has restaurants, parks, and a marina. The town hosts the world-renowned Culver Military Academy. Plymouth, Indiana, 13 miles north of Culver, has additional amenities.
Northwest Indiana's most costly lakefront residences are on Lake Maxinkuckee. The most prominent homes can cost more than Lake Michigan lakefront residences. Lake homes vary in size and features. East-side Lake Maxinkuckee homes are among the most expensive.
© www.city-data.com/picfilesc/picc4339.php
These are just some of the all-sports lakes you can check out when you want a lakefront property as your next home. We’ve created another post with all the information you need about no-wake lakes in Northwest Indiana so be sure to visit our website today!
Planning to move to Indiana or do you just want to know the Hoosier State even more? If yes, then allow us to give you more idea of what Indiana is like.
Other than The Indy 500, its vast farmlands, agricultural products, and the University of Notre Dame, Indiana is also home to beautiful lakes.
So if you're planning to relocate to a lakefront property, it's good news as there are tons of locations to choose from.
Life on a large lake is risky, and getting on the water may be difficult. However, it comes with some advantages too, so before you decide to buy a lakefront property, weigh its pros and cons first.
If you're eyeing a home along Lake Michigan in Indiana, there are various communities in the Northwest to choose from, each offering something unique:
About sixty miles southeast of Chicago's downtown lies the 32,000-person city of Michigan City. Along Lake Shore Dr., waterfront real estate buyers can find beachfront Michigan City homes for sale.
Only seven Lake Michigan lakefront home transactions, ranging in price from $725,000 to $3,000,000, have been recorded to the GNIAR MLS since 2021.
From west to east, there are three distinct neighborhoods in Michigan City, Indiana, that provide waterfront real estate for sale: Sheridan Beach, Shoreland Hills, and Duneland Beach.
Washington Park and the Michigan City Marina are the nearest locations to Sheridan Beach. Homebuyers may anticipate a completely beachside setting here, along with easy walking access to parks, the marina, the Michigan City Zoo, and a few local eateries.
Shoreland Hills is located further east and is not close to any amenities by foot. Still, there are actually very few lakeside residences that are listed as being in Shoreland Hills.
Last but not least, purchasers might discover a Michigan City lake house in Duneland Beach for sale. Except for one thing, all of the properties in Duneland Beach are waterfront. Indeed, they are lakefront, but they are situated on the south side of Lake Shore Drive since the beach is owned by the neighborhood association, which has a building prohibition. Duneland Beach lakeside homes are, well, lakefront, but you have to cross the street to get there. From properties along Lake Shore Dr., there are unimpeded views of the lake since you see across the bare beach that you and approximately 150 other residents jointly own.
© www.britannica.com/place/Lake-Michigan
In the Indiana bedroom community of Long Beach, buyers can find homes for sale that are located on Lake Michigan. This community also has 2.3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. This encompasses Moore Road and Lake Shore Drive from about west of Blanchard Ct. Michigan City, which encircles Long Beach to the west, south, and east, has all the amenities that are required. Long Beach is a good place to seek a lakeside house for sale in Michigan City.
Six Lake Michigan beachfront Long Beach houses, with prices ranging from $1,225,000 to $2,290,000, have sold through the GNIAR MLS since 2021. Long Beach waterfront properties for sale usually offer 2,300 to 5,000 finished square feet, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The dimensions of lots vary from 7,000 to 25,000 square feet.
© www.realcedar.com/blog/project-of-the-week-long-beach-residence/
Beverly Shores in north east Porter County offers Lake Michigan lakefront residences. This 600-person bedroom community is called Beverly Shores. Connected to downtown Chicago by the South Shore Commuter Rail Line, it has minimal amenities; however, Michigan City and Chesterton have everything.
Purchasing a waterfront property in Beverly Shores, Indiana, is less expensive than Long Beach or Michigan City. The waterfront in Beverly Shores was selling for between $522,000 and $875,000; however, this is not true lakefront real estate.
The houses near the lake in Beverly Shores are all located on the south side of Lake Front Drive, which runs parallel to the lake. You must therefore go across the beach and cross the roadway to get to the ocean. In essence, residences on the lake do not actually own the lakefront.
A marina is not present in Beverly Shores. Alternatively, locals can take a boat out from Michigan City's marina, which is about four miles distant. On the other hand, Beverly Shores is close to several protected areas, such as Indiana Dunes National Park. For those who enjoy the outdoors, this adds significantly to the value of Beverly Shores, Indiana, real estate.
© www.chicagotribune.com/2024/01/14/historic-beach-home-in-beverly-shores-on-market-for-25-million/
About 1,200 people live in Ogden Dunes, Northwest Porter County, 40 miles from downtown Chicago. A bedroom community surrounds Lake Michigan, Ogden Dunes has trails, parks, and protected places nearby. The South Shore Commuter Rail Line stops at Ogden Dunes. Chesterton and Portage, Indiana, offer more amenities.
In Ogden Dunes, Indiana, real estate buyers can acquire lakefront homes on Lake Michigan. Recently, the price range for beachfront properties in Ogden Dunes was $860,000 to $1,250,000.
Shore Drive runs parallel to the shoreline, and on its northern side are lakefront residences. However, in Ogden Dunes, erosion has reduced the amount of beach in recent years.
Ogden Dunes does not have a marina where one could launch a boat onto Lake Michigan.
© www.atproperties.com/398806/5-shore-drive-ogden-dunes-indiana-46368-nwi
In Gary, Indiana, there is a neighborhood called Miller Beach on the northeast side. This is where purchasers may find beach houses for sale in Miller.
The population of Miller Beach ranges between 9,000 to 10,000. Because Miller Beach has so few amenities in reality, Gary and Portage, Indiana, subsidize the region. There is a stop on the South Shore Rail Line that connects Miller Beach to downtown Chicago. The Loop is 35 miles southeast of Miller Beach. The Miller Beach marina is nonexistent.
Depending on its size and amenities, lakefront Miller Beach real estate often sells for between $600,000 and $1,400,000.
These are just some lakefront locations in Indiana. Watch out as we list down the All-Sports Lakes in Northwest Indiana.
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Are you ready to upgrade your kitchen into a haven for anybody who enjoys cooking? If yes, do not look any further!
If you're considering renovating your kitchen, you should know what styles are trendy right now for this room that serves as the center of your home. Whether you want to make significant changes to your kitchen or a few adjustments, these creative renovation kitchen ideas will motivate you to think outside the box.
Here are nine renovation kitchen ideas you can think of if you want to upgrade your kitchen:
In recent years, many homeowners are choosing to open up the space in their kitchens. An entirely open-concept kitchen, where no wall divides the kitchen from an adjacent space, is the preferred design for 64% of homeowners remodeling their kitchens. Enhancing entertainment potential and increasing functionality are the two most often mentioned reasons for designing an open-concept area.
There are a lot of renovation kitchen ideas that involve substantial structural work, but most of them are centered on changing the room's design. 45% of homeowners upgrading their kitchens redesign the layout, and 43% modernize their systems. Alterations to the ceiling height and reorganization of the flooring are two examples of these modifications.
Appliances that are equipped with high-tech features are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Some homeowners upgrading their homes prefer home appliances connected to Wi-Fi.
In comparison, some choose devices that can be operated using a smartphone or tablet. Meanwhile, some homeowners would replace all their appliances simultaneously during a makeover rather than just a handful.
The most frequent reason given by homeowners renovating their kitchens is to meet the needs of elderly family members. A few suitable kitchen modifications for the age include rounded counters, pullout cabinets, more lighting, broad drawer pulls, and non-slip flooring.
During a renovation, many homeowners change the backsplash in their kitchen. Engineered quartz is the most preferred material for backsplashes, followed by ceramic or porcelain tile. However, natural stone materials like granite, quartzite, and marble are equally popular among homeowners.
A larger kitchen island gives you more room for cooking and hosting guests, so many homeowners choose to expand their islands. Forty-two percent of homeowners remodeling their kitchens design seven-foot or longer kitchen islands.
More color will be in the kitchen this year, especially on cabinets. Kitchen cabinets in wood and green are growing, but white is still the most popular. Wood tones are most famous for bottom cabinets, followed by blue for island cabinets.
Organization is becoming increasingly important because people desire kitchens that are functional for them. Cutlery and utensil organizers, spice racks, and cookie sheet organizers are among the features that are becoming more and more popular.
Your kitchen's lighting creates a mood. Recessed lighting is still homeowners' first option when remodeling their kitchens. Some homeowners choose pendant lights, although under-cabinet lights are also trendy.
Check out these best kitchen renovation ideas to turn your kitchen into a gastronomic paradise. Elegant rustic themes to sophisticated modern designs fit any taste. Prepare to maximize the renovation kitchen ideas' beauty, functionality, and personal style.
Many buyers today ask themselves, "What are the things to think about when purchasing a home?" Because of the changing housing market trends and unstable economic situations, choosing wisely can be challenging.
Planning things well is important, especially since buying a home is a huge decision and investment. Here are things you need to know when purchasing a home in the current market and things you need to consider before signing a contract.
Acquiring a home involves more than just choosing the ideal layout and style—it also involves fitting in with the overall real estate market conditions. Understanding the subtleties of the ever-changing housing market of today can help you differentiate between a profitable investment and a possible risk.
The decision-making process is heavily influenced by the personal circumstances of the majority of prospective homeowners. Making sure your monthly payments are within your means is crucial because mortgage rates fluctuate.
However, in addition to monthly mortgage payments, these are the things to think about when purchasing a home such as the closing expenses, property taxes, and possible changes in house prices all impact your choice.
In these situations, your credit score plays a crucial role in figuring out what kind of mortgage loan you might be eligible for. Lenders typically offer more favorable terms to borrowers who have higher credit scores.
This implies that their purchasing power in the current market may be further increased by their eligibility for better loan options and reduced mortgage payments. You can also strengthen your negotiating position by making sure you pay your credit card bills on time and use credit cards sparingly.
Some locations have seen pressure on median home sale prices to rise, while others have an abundance of housing options as a result of a boom in inventory. Before agreeing to a contract, prospective buyers should investigate the housing inventory in different neighborhoods.
It may be quite helpful to have an experienced RE/MAX Advanced Realty real estate agent on your side, particularly while navigating the complexities of the housing market. Our team provides excellent service, making sure that prospective buyers are aware of everything from mortgage rates to credit score criteria to the current pace of the market.
Before buying a home, you must understand that there are a lot of things to think about. Knowing the real estate market and your finances can make all the difference.
Here is a brief guide to help prospective homeowners navigate the complex process.
Having a solid foundation of financial security is the first step on the path to house ownership.
It is essential to have a solid understanding of the real estate market to guarantee the success of your investment.
When deciding to purchase a home, your personal life and your goals for the future are important considerations.
An extensive local real estate market knowledge is essential to making the right decision.
Regarding the potential for appreciation of your investment, selecting the appropriate neighborhood can have a significant impact.
With their extensive market knowledge and expertise, real estate agents can help when you purchase a home.
Before purchasing a home, you must understand your lender's position.
Real estate may appear like a good investment, but personal investment techniques must be considered.
Buying a home is a big financial decision that can greatly impact your life. That said, it's important to learn about the current housing market trends and prices can influence your purchase in a buyer's or seller's market.
If you want to learn more about the real estate industry, we have a lot of resources you can use. Just visit our website or better yet, call us at 317-316-8224 so we can help answer your questions.
If you want to remodel your home by taking a loan, make sure to spread payments according to your paying-off capability.
After you decide that it’s time to look into some home improvements as well as upgrading your living environment, you can do so in many ways, from bathroom repairs to adding an extension to your current space of living.
But first, let's tackle the basics.
A home improvement loan is a type of personal loan specifically used for repairs, home maintenance, and other esthetic or functional enhancements.
Loans for home renovations can be used for everything -- from minor upgrades like changing the kitchen sink to major renovations like redoing every room. For homeowners, obtaining a home repair loan is a desirable alternative since it typically has fixed interest rates and repayment schedules. While keeping up with your loan repayments, you can forecast and control your monthly financial flow.
Like other kinds of loans, you get a lump sum that you can use for renovation-related expenses, such as:
You will then repay it with a fixed interest rate over some time. That said, you have to know if borrowing a home improvement loan is what you need at the moment. It can be expensive, depending on the interest rate you'll get, but if it will improve your quality of life, it can be worth it.
Remodeling is not just a small change that is going to make you temporarily happy, but a strategic step towards raising the value of your home, especially if you are planning to sell your property shortly.
We should notice the difference when it comes to the financial side of home improvement. While decorating the home can be done without so much financial investment, some major technical improvements such as central heating could cost you significant investment.
So before signing up for a home improvement loan, figure out how much you need first. Make sure that the amount you’re going to borrow is enough to cover your estimated expenses; however, don’t go more than what you need or can afford to avoid being trapped into debt.
If you have some experience in home remodeling that would be beneficial in the sense of saving some money, while it is highly advised to hire a good tradesman and have a walk-through with him to see what needs to be done in the house.
He will be able to provide you with a quote for the job that you guys are planning to get done. It is also important to know the difference between a “quote” and an “estimate”. Quotes are a more set type of investment evaluation, with précised amounts for each part of the job, including material and labor, while estimates can only give you an approximate amount. Do not limit yourself to only one tradesman, but have at least a few of them come over and give you their offers.
Once you have offers from contractors in writing and you know how much it takes to get the job done - it is time to look for funding. Since most of us do not have substantial savings for these types of projects, we decided to go with loan providers that offer loans that are going to be put toward home improvements.
As well all know, they do not work for free, so interest will be applicable in this case. Since this is going to be an important financial decision, make sure you can afford the loan before you take one on. While there are many different types of loans available on the market, when it comes to a home improvement loan, it is typical that this type of loan is an unsecured personal loan, which means that is not secured against an asset such as your property and most of the time should be repaid within 24 to 48 Months.
For larger home improvements that need an increased amount of funding, some homeowners consider tapping into their property’s equity to fund home improvement.
When you apply, lenders will check your employment status and income. Having the necessary paperwork together in advance helps expedite the application process. Unlike a home equity loan or home equity line of credit, a home renovation loan does not require a home evaluation because there is no home equity involved.
Once you’re done selecting a lender, you must fill out an official application. While most loan providers allow you to apply online, you may need to apply in person at smaller banks or credit unions. After submitting your application, you can hear back the same day and get funded in as little as one to seven business days.
A home repair loan typically does not qualify for tax deductions for interest paid.
On the other hand, you might be able to lower your tax liability by updating your home with energy-efficient improvements. A 30% tax credit, up to $1,200 a year, is offered to homeowners who upgrade their homes with energy-efficient features including windows, doors, and central air conditioning as part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, or IRA. A 30% extra tax credit is available for the purchase and installation of solar panels.
These are the basic things you need to know about home improvement loans. If you have more questions on this topic or any home-related inquiries, we are more than happy to answer them. Leave a comment or send us an email at dennis@indyhomepros.com so we can assist you!
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