You've compiled a list of all the features your ideal house should have. You spent hours looking through real estate websites and planning the perfect route for a weekend filled with showings.
You're prepared to go into the challenging task of house hunting. There is one minor problem: you could not find a babysitter. Fear not if spending hours touring homes with your kids makes you want to give up before you even start.
Even if it's not ideal, you can effectively go house hunting with your kids if you give it some thinking and forethought. Finding your dream house may be a memorable and joyful family effort if you use these tips on house hunting below.
Here are the seven tips on house hunting you may need to know:
Pack extra clothes, toys, and snacks for your kids. Despite planning your route, you don't know what you'll encounter. You may be stuck at one house or need many rest stops. To avoid boredom, pack some toys or activities for your kids.
Bring a relative or friend along if you can't find a babysitter. When your friend watches your kids, you may concentrate on talking to a realtor about each house. If they get antsy throughout the day, a friend can watch them run around the house's yard instead of chasing them about the house.
If you're bringing kids, driving yourself and following your realtor is advisable. Many agents like to drive potential clients from one home to the next so they may discuss the residences. You won't have to transfer car seats and booster seats in your car, and your kids will feel comfortable.
Not all properties are child-friendly. You may be visiting a childless couple with many expensive antiques. Watch your kids so they don't get into the homeowner's stuff. Additionally, kids must follow the homeowner's no-shoe policy. Before entering, ask whether there are pets so you can watch the children.
House hunting with older kids is possible. Give them a paper and pen with a house-hunting checklist, and then let them check off each property you see. Let them write their house-hunting checklist about each house and discuss it while in the car on the way from one to another. They will be distracted by such a task at each house and feel like they are helping to find the ideal family home.
Despite your best efforts, house hunting with kids will be distracting. Get lots of pictures of each house you visit. To keep the images arranged between each house, take a picture of the mailbox address or the realtor's information page. After touring the houses, review the images as a family and add any missed things to your house-hunting checklist.
Realistically, your realtor and you may have planned the perfect day. Kid-related things do happen. You may need to stop for food or even a diaper change unexpectedly. Start your house hunting with a plan for longer than one day.
Need expert advice on selling or buying your home? Send us a message and we'll assist you!
Nowadays, TikTok has become the most widely used social networking platform. You can create content with this tool that is easy to watch and share with others.
If you use real estate TikTok videos on this social media platform well, you may create a community of fans who are eager to discover more about you as well as your business.
It also gives real estate agents many tools for creating and sharing helpful information. This platform doesn't require influencers to go viral. One relevant piece of content is enough to attract buyers.
Real estate agents are constantly using this platform to assist them in selling homes, as well as keep up with the real estate TikTok trends, learn new skills to generate popular real estate TikTok videos, and increase engagement.
Here are the five best real estate TikTok ideas you may need to know if your business uses real estate TikTok videos:
People appreciate the chance to learn more about you. You can choose from many real estate agents. Therefore real estate TikTok videos explaining why they should engage with you are amazing. Moreover, Tiktok's AI can enhance your real estate TikTok videos.
First-time homebuyers use their work and personality to make intelligent decisions. If they get to know you as a fantastic person, "agents just care about sales" will become "the trendy real estate agent who cares about teaching potential homeowners."
One of the most gratifying social media moments is a first-time homeowner getting their keys. So many videos are shared because they make people feel something. While buying property, don't be afraid to try new real estate TikTok ideas.
Your listings can be turned into virtual tours by adding some taps, no matter the cost. Add real estate TikTok trends, popular music, varying speeds, and cuts to make them more dynamic.
Lead generation can be achieved by showing only a few parts of the home or community and asking viewers to like the real estate Tiktok videos and view the following.
We know many questions about homebuying, so addressing them is a great way to interact with your community.
Add pictures of your most pressing and frequent questions to a video with your response. This way, your followers will know you've read their comments and be encouraged to keep talking.
Furthermore, use hashtags to gain on real estate Tiktok trends and expand your market.
Your followers want to learn about your business's good and bad customers. TikTok's most popular videos are people telling life stories. You offer much as a real estate agent specializing in sustainable living and quality houses.
This real estate TikTok Idea for real estate agents entertains and brings you closer to your audience while teaching new lessons regarding what to do and refrain from doing while buying a property.
Visit our website for more content like this.
Before you begin the home-buying process, having a fundamental understanding of common real estate terms will immediately provide you peace of mind and could save you a lot of money.
Before starting your home search, you should know the following common real estate terms 101.
Here are the ten common real estate terms you need to know before you proceed in the home-buying process:
When buying a home, the "buyer's agent" represents you, and the "listing agent" means the seller. One agent represents both sides in a dual agency.
Fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages are conventional loans. The most popular fixed-rate mortgage is 30 years. Most adjustable rate mortgages have a 5, 7, or 10-year term.
The pre-approval letter from a bank, which estimates how much they'll lend you, should be obtained before you apply for a mortgage or even begin looking for a home. This letter will reassure home sellers that you can acquire a loan when necessary and assist you in figuring out what you can afford.
Real estate agents frequently use the term "listings" to refer to homes for sale. A "listing" on a website provides details about a property, such as the selling price and the number of bedrooms and baths.
After making an offer on a home, buyers must plan an inspection, which usually costs $500–$800, depending on the housing market. The inspector will inspect everything, including the plumbing, electrical, foundation, walls, etc.
Your lender will want an appraisal of the house you intend to buy once you apply for a mortgage. A certified appraiser will estimate the home's value using comparable properties recently sold in the neighborhood and examine the property.
As part of your offer to buy a home, you can include contingencies, which must be met before closing.
The following are some typical examples of contingencies:
In addition, there are many additional kinds of contingent clauses, all of which you and your real estate agent ought to discuss.
Your agent or attorney will assist you in making an offer on the right home. If the seller counters your offer, they normally would like more money or a faster closing date, so you'll have to negotiate. To modify your offer, include a cover letter explaining why you want to purchase the home.
Homebuyers might expect high fees. Closing costs, excluding the down payment, average 2-5% of the home's purchase price. Excise tax, loan processing, and title insurance are common fees.
You might get a home title report about a week after the seller accepts your offer. Most mortgage lenders need title insurance as part of the closing costs. Title insurers check public records to ensure the seller has title rights and no liens on the home.
Finally, we're done discussing the common real estate terms 101 that you need to know before deciding to buy a home. This article may help you a lot by considering real estate terms 101.
Not only is buying a home exhilarating, but it's also one of life's greatest accomplishments. There are many advantages to having your own property, even though it might be difficult at some point.
Renting, on the other hand, can be a terrific short-term option for deciding where you want to live and for accumulating funds for your down payment on a home loan.
So, which one should you choose?
In this post, we’ll help you decide whether having a home or renting out is for you.
There are several benefits of renting a home, some of which include:
Flexibility: Renting a home offers a great deal of flexibility as you are not tied down to a long-term commitment. Most rental agreements are for a fixed period, after which you have the option to renew or move to another location. This makes renting a great option for those who frequently change jobs or move frequently.
Lower Upfront Costs: Renting a home requires a lower upfront cost compared to buying a home. You typically only need to pay a security deposit and the first month's rent, whereas buying a home requires a down payment, closing costs, and other expenses.
No Maintenance Costs: When you rent a home, the landlord or property manager is responsible for any maintenance and repairs. This means that you don't have to worry about unexpected expenses related to repairs, which can be a significant benefit.
Access To Amenities: Many rental communities offer access to amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and laundry facilities. This can be a great perk for those who want to enjoy these amenities without having to pay for them separately.
No Property Taxes: As a renter, you are not responsible for paying property taxes. This can be a significant benefit as property taxes can be a significant expense for homeowners.
No Need To Worry About Resale Value: When you rent a home, you don't have to worry about the resale value of the property. This can be a great benefit if you are not interested in investing in real estate or if you don't want to deal with the stress of selling a property.
Increasing Equity: The value of the property you own represents your equity. When you pay off your mortgage or when the market value of your property rises, equity might naturally increase. Making additional mortgage payments can also help it grow.
If you've made additional payments to your loan, you may be able to redraw it or refinance for a cash-out. The money can then be utilized for remodeling, purchasing a new vehicle, or even as a down payment for a different home.
Living Security: The landlord, who may decide they no longer wish to rent out their property, is in charge of your position when you rent. Relocating is expensive, inconvenient, and emotional, to say nothing of all three. When you own your own house, you can rest easy knowing that you get to choose when to relocate.
Build The Home Of Your Dream: You can opt to completely redo the bathroom with a jungle theme or to paint the walls in vibrant colors without worrying about getting your bond back when you own your own property, giving you total creative freedom. House upgrades can raise a property's value, thus every dollar that your house has appreciated will be yours if you decide to sell. Get our guide to getting your home renovation off the ground.
Cost Management: Your rent may be increased regularly if you rent. While owning a home entails a variety of costs, including mortgage payments, council fees, and strata or property insurance, these costs are not likely to increase significantly overnight.
By selecting a fixed-rate home loan, you might in some cases even be able to keep your rates under control.
Save Cash: Although it may not seem like it, you might save money by making your mortgage payments. Many repayments combine principle and interest, allowing you to contribute some funds to expanding your home's ownership. Although renting could appear to be less expensive, you won't eventually get any of that value back.
Nonetheless, it has its own pros and cons. If you want to learn more about it, feel free to click this link or subscribe to our mailing list.
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Famous actors like Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah Winfrey, and Arnold Schwarzenegger invest in real estate; meanwhile, some celebrities don't just help flip houses but also, get their very own real estate licenses.
Some do this as part of their hobbies while other actors simply want to achieve their dream as real estate moguls. Below are celebrities who are real estate agents, too!
"I got my real estate license because I didn't want to work in a restaurant in New York, as a summer job. So I thought, I'll work in a real estate office," the WandaVision actress shared in an interview with W Magazine. "I was dealing with my sister's friend who was a realtor, and I dealt with his rental clients. And I would mispronounce streets in New York because I had just moved there, all the time."
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 10: Elizabeth Olsen attends BuzzFeed's "AM To DM" on October 10, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Dominik Bindl/Getty Images)
"I got my real estate license today!!!! I really can't believe it!!!," the Dancing With The Stars actor captioned while holding a letter and posing for an Instagram photo. "Not too many people know this but I've been studying for quite a while, and I've had a passion for real estate all my life."
"Real estate broker in training," the Real Housewives of New York actor used as a caption when she revealed that she’s joining Douglas Elliman as a real estate agent. Along with it is a stunning photo of her standing in a glass-walled building showcasing a beautiful New York sunset.
"I found myself in a three-year depression, very, very depressed, and I lost everything pretty much, everything except for my children. It was just me and the kids, and I had to get back up and fight for my life, and I chose real estate...I signed up for real estate to provide for my children. This is a real job for me, this is what I have, and this is what I'm committing myself to," the Former Playmate revealed as she got her license in 2020.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 02: Kendra Wilkinson attends Los Angeles Travel Magazine's Endless Summer Issue Release Party at Penthouse on August 02, 2019 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Tasia Wells/Getty Images)
"I feel very lucky to have such a diverse client base, and now I have the advantage of breadth of experience with Douglas Elliman," the former Real Housewives of New York shared after becoming a real estate agent in August 2019. "They are the strategic partner in all of my real estate endeavors."
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 08: Kelly Bensimon attends QVC presents "FFANY Shoes on Sale" at Waldorf Astoria Hotel on October 8, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for QVC)
"I used to be a real estate agent, that's how I met my late husband, Richard Medley. I got him his townhouse," The Real Housewives of New York City actor shared in a Times Union interview in 2019.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 04: Dorinda Medley attends Woman's Day Celebrates 17th Annual Red Dress Awards on February 04, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Women's Day)
Kyle Richards’ husband did not just sell houses as a real estate agent; he’s also a Founder and CEO of The Agency, a $1 billion brokerage that aids brokers and their clients in achieving their real estate objectives via the use of cutting-edge technology and creative marketing techniques.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 14: Mauricio Umansky attends the 2016 MOCA Gala at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA on May 14, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
"I'm going back into real estate. I've signed up with a luxury real estate agency," the former ROHC star shared in an interview on RealiTea With Derek Z. She claimed she has maintained her real estate license over the years and has made the decision to try her hand at the industry once more after leaving the Bravo series.
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 02: Tamra Judge attends the 2022 MTV Movie & TV Awards: UNSCRIPTED at Barker Hangar on June 02, 2022 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
These are just some of the public figures and celebrities who are real estate agents, too. Do you know anyone else who made a career out of selling real estate? Feel free to share their names in the comments
When thinking of the Hoosier state, many think of Indiana's robust auto industry, corn fields, or Colts. However, real estate investment in Indiana has become popular. This Indiana real estate market guide will show investors why this attractive Midwestern state must be part of their investing plans.
The Circle City, or Indianapolis, blends the buzz of the Big City with the rustic charm of the Midwest. Additionally, it has fantastic cash-flowing assets and a sizable expansion ceiling. Real estate analysts praise its ongoing growth and robust rental market.
Indianapolis homes are in high demand due to investors from other states. According to HousingWire, Indianapolis is where remote real estate investors rank highest for having affordable real estate and larger profits.
Before investing in any real estate, many details need to be figured out, and here is the investing guide for Indiana's real estate that you can consider:
Indiana is not the first place people think of living. If you look deeper, it's no wonder that this state has new inhabitants and property investors seeing Indiana as a place to invest and expand their fortune through real estate. Indiana is worth considering if you want a change of scenery, a new house, or a rental property.
According to the World Population Review, Indiana's population is 6.8 million, up 300,000 from 2010. As the population grows, real estate values will rise. Indianapolis, the 15th largest US city, is also desirable. Fort Wayne, Evansville, Carmel, and South Bend are Indiana's four most populated cities.
A diversified economy can be found in Indiana. Healthcare, logistics, the public sector, and technology are a few sectors that are essential to Indiana's economy. The state is also home to several reliable businesses. However, the 100 most prominent companies in the state include Go Electric, Anthem, and numerous others.
Indiana has a high job growth rate, which is advantageous for those looking for new professional prospects. However, many of these people will also need new homes. In terms of job growth, Indiana is in the lead. The market has increased by 2.5% in the past year, putting the state at 4% over the national average.
Low taxes make Indiana a business-friendly state. Indiana is also a landlord-friendly state. Landlords can raise rent with a 30-day notice. State landlords can levy security deposits, late fees, and deductions. Ten days for not paying rent, landlords can evict tenants, making dealing with the delinquent tenants easier.
Indiana has a high occupancy rate, meaning tenants or their owners occupy most homes. The vacancy rate in Indiana is about 8.7%. A high occupancy rate indicates a steady market in the state, which increases the likelihood that your prospective property will be quickly rented out after you invest.
It's important to remember that Indiana has cost-effective homes, enabling landlords to charge affordable rates and fostering a steady rental market for those looking to invest. Indiana's real estate investing trends encourage expansion for a growing state.
If you are a serious home buyer looking to buy a home in today's market, we have 3 good news for you.
1. More Options
With buyer demand skyrocketing while the housing supply really low, the past couple of years have been very challenging for home buyers. But that's no longer the case this time around. An increase of 39.5% in housing inventory can be seen for the week ending October 28 compared to the same week in 2021, according to a study conducted by Calculated Risk. This means home buyers have more options in choosing the best home that suits their needs.
2. Less Competition
Compared to the last two years' low supply and intense competition fueling record-high prices, the market is finally on track to become more balanced.
With more options available, bidding wars have eased. Now you can enjoy browsing the real estate market without going through the bidding war frenzy.
3. More Negotiation Power
With bidding wars easing, buyers regain their negotiating power. Numerous buyers were willing to waive appraisals or inspections in the past couple of years to avoid being outbid on a home they like. Recently, the percentage of buyers waiving those contingencies went down, as shown by the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Appraisals and Inspections are two essential steps in the home buying process. It provides the home buyer with information about the value and condition of the home. With re-balancing the housing market, buyers now return to the negotiating table. In a survey conducted by realtor.com, data shows that sellers now had to make compromises to close a transaction, like paying for repairs or closing costs, dropping the price to match the appraisal, and being more flexible with the closing timeline.
Challenges are to be expected with any real estate transaction. But if you are a home buyer in today's market. You can be assured that you now have more options, less competition, and more negotiation power as compared to the past years' heated real estate market.
See below to see the September Housing Market Update of a single property type home per County in Indiana.
Located in the Southeastern part of the state, with Columbus serving as the county seat, Bartholomew County lies mainly in the level areas surrounding the East Fork of the White River and its tributaries. The majority of the County's economy is made up of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
Located in the Northwest area of the Indianapolis Region, Boone County is home to great communities, including Zionsville, Lebanon, and Whitestown. A strong member of the corn and soybean belts in the Midwest, it continues to thrive from its agricultural heritage and background.
A County believed to have two histories; Brown County celebrates its past with two known stories. One traces to the founding and development of the Art Colony; the other is focused on the local residents and culture. In truth, it's the beautiful blending of both.
Located at the intersections of Interstate 74 and State Road 3 and Southeast of Indiana, with Greensburg as the County seat; Decatur County is known for its courthouse tower, with a tree growing at the top. Several publications mentioned this tree worldwide, including an episode on the television show" Ripley's Believe it or Not," which inspired thousands of visitors to come to Greensburg each year.
Located on the Northside of Indianapolis, Hamilton County is home to some of Indy's rapidly growing communities including Fishers, Westfield, and Noblesville. Cities of Hamilton County routinely score high marks in quality of life ratings and are regularly recognized as the "Best Place" to live, work, and play.
Located on the east side of the Indianapolis Region, Hancock County embraces growth while preserving the small-town atmosphere which makes its communities unique and vibrant.
Located on the west side of the Indianapolis Region and with parts of the country only a 10-minute drive to downtown Indy, Hendricks County provides a variety of lifestyle opportunities - from rural areas, to vibrant main streets, and so much more.
Nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of South Central Indiana, Jackson County is a thriving industrial center that offers the comfort of safe and friendly neighborhoods with its small towns, family-owned farms, charming local festivities, rich historical sites, and abundant public recreational areas. It is also home to the Medora Covered Bridge - the longest 3-span covered bridge in the world.
Conveniently located in the center of an imaginary triangle and just a 1 1/4 hour drive to between Indianapolis, IN, Cincinnati, OH, and Louisville, KY, there is something for everyone in Jennings County. Natural beauty, local festivals, events, and activities are abundant and year-round.
Located just south of downtown Indianapolis, Johnson County offers a unique mix of suburban and historic neighborhoods, with abundant rural land for country living. Residents and visitors have various activity options, including festivals, arts, and family-friendly activities.
Madison County offers a country living environment rich in history, arts, culture, entertainment, and natural beauty. Various festivals, historical sites, and recreational activities are available in this very relaxing environment in this laidback community.
The largest county in Indiana and home to the state's largest City - Indianapolis, Marion County is one of the best places to live in Indiana as it hosts several thriving communities and vibrant neighborhoods; with numerous family-friendly events, activities, and establishments to choose and enjoy from.
Enjoy Midwestern living in Montgomery County with its award-winning school system, thriving businesses, family-oriented towns, and neighborhoods; while enjoying access to shopping, restaurants, performing arts, youth sports, and other cultural experiences.
Located in the Southwest part of the Indianapolis region, Morgan County is perfect for those looking to be close enough to the downtown city life but who want something more relaxing to come home to. It is where a laid-back, small-town feel and beautiful outdoor scenic vistas come together.
Named in honor of General Israel Putnam, famous during the revolutionary war, Putnam County is an excellent agricultural county. Its county seat is Greencastle, a thriving town of about four thousand five hundred inhabitants with good public improvements and educational facilities.
Located in the Southeast section of the Indianapolis Region, Shelby County is home to family-focused communities. A place where you can enjoy the benefits of the big city and the peace and safety of small-town living with its easy access to parks, trails, shopping, and many local attractions.
For more information about the current real estate market, you can reach us at 317-298-0961 to speak with one of our real estate professionals.
Check-out what homes are available for sale, visit www.indianapolisrealestate.com
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Pets are like children for most pet owners and have played an increasingly important role in shopping for a home. A study conducted by the National Association of Realtors (NARs) last 2021 showed that 43% of pet owners are willing to move to accommodate their pet, while according to a survey conducted by realtor.com, 68% would pass on a house if it didn't meet the needs of their pet.
Here are the Top 5 home Features to consider to keep you and your furbaby happy!
Here are the Top 5 home features to consider to keep your furbaby happy and healthy:
These amenities ensure that pets and people live happily and comfortably together. Comment down below if you think there's an ammenity we should include in our list.
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A home equipped with popular and sought after features is a home that will have multiple offers flying in because it fits the needs of current home buyers. In this article, we are sharing 5 sought after home features that home hunters will find irresistible. Let’s take a look!
EMPTY HEADINGA home that seeks to help reduce its carbon footprint is a home that catches the eyes of many eager home hunters today. Solar panels are a great way to help manage and conserve electricity and heating throughout the home. This lowers a home’s bill and carbon footprint. Solar panels can be purchased at home improvements stores like Lowe’s. If you need help with installation, research solar panel installation companies to handle a job such as this.
EMPTY HEADINGModern home hunters seek a space in their dream home where they can work out. Home gyms are sought after by many, especially since the start of the pandemic. Home gyms offer privacy and comfort, all without a pricey monthly gym membership fee. Don’t be intimidated by the thought of creating a home gym. Any room of decent size could be converted into a home gym fairly easily. Basic home gyms consist of a wall of mirrors and foam or nice rug flooring. To add another level of comfort to this space, installing a tv is a great way to up the appeal of this room. Plants are also a great decor option to add to this space. Be sure to choose a room with windows that invite lots of natural light into the space.
EMPTY HEADINGA chef’s kitchen is a sought after feature in many homes. A chef’s kitchen provides adequate space for all your cooking needs. The appliances are modern, typically stainless steel and are of quality brands. Kitchens with this adored style also offer plenty of storage, the cabinets typically having cabinets with beautiful windows to peak inside.
EMPTY HEADINGQuartz countertops have been a popular feature in homes for a few years now. What makes this material so popular? 3 reasons why people seek this material out for the countertops is that it’s durability, low maintenance and is uniform. You won’t have to worry about your countertops chipping easily with this material and it is easy to clean. What makes the material uniform is that each piece blends into the following or adjacent piece with ease, allowing your kitchen to have a cohesive feel. This kind of countertop material is also praised for its affordability, coming in at $65-$85 per square foot of this popular mid-level countertop material.
EMPTY HEADINGIn the wake of the pandemic, the need for a home office feature has increased greatly as working from home to reduce the chances of catching this virus has become needed for many people, especially those who are immunocompromised. Like the home gym, there are enough spaces in the home to carve out a decent home office. Choosing a room with lots of windows to invite natural rays of sunlight in is crucial for this environment. Choose a space that has a decent amount of space, receives lots of sunlight and is ducked off from other main areas of the home to ensure it’s a quiet space to work.
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