Busting 3 Common Home Buying Myths



Today I’m busting three common home buying myths that can sometimes deter people from buying.

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 There are a few common myths that exist around the subject of buying a home.

First of all, many people falsely assume that mortgage payments are unaffordable.

In fact, the tax savings you gain from a mortgage actually makes up a large portion of the difference between a rent payment and a mortgage. Mortgages are a lot more affordable than many people think.

The second myth I’d like to bust is that buying a home is too complicated. Though the process does involve some fine details, working with a quality Realtor will alleviate any confusion. The job of a Realtor is to walk you through the transaction from start to finish.

From helping with the pre-approval, talking about your goals, all the way into guiding you to the best home, Realtors are here to help.

Third, there is a common misconception that buying a new home requires a substantial down payment. This is simply not the case. Many programs exist, such as the VA program for veterans, that require zero money down.

There’s also the FHA program, which allows first-time homebuyers to put as little as 3.5% down. Conventional loans can also be as low as 5%.

It’s a great time to buy a home.

Rates are still low right now, so it’s a great time to buy a home.

If you’d like to hear how I can help you buy a home, have any other questions, or would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
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Location: Saco, ME, USA

Things to Do to Get Ready to List Your Home



Today I’ve got a list of five inexpensive things that you can do to get your home ready to sell.

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I’m often asked what homeowners can do to get their homes ready for listing. Today I’ve got a list of five things you can do to your home without breaking the bank:

  1. A tile backsplash in the kitchen. This is a relatively inexpensive thing to do and Home Depot offers classes on how to create the look if you’re a DIY’er like myself. This simple project can completely update the look and feel of your kitchen without having to spend the money on an entire remodel.
  2. Painting rooms. Fresh paint really goes a long way without costing too much money. Be sure to choose neutral colors that will help the buyer visualize themselves in the room and give them a fresh canvas on which to work if they want to personalize the home once they’ve moved in.
  3. Replace kitchen and bathroom faucets. Updating these items throughout the home gives everything a fresh look without having to replace the cabinets in a larger remodel. You can find new fixtures for a great price at Home Depot.
  4. Spruce up your entryway. Adding a few simple decorations inside, as well as some potted plants outside your front door will go a long way towards adding positive curb appeal to your home.
  5. Add a fresh layer of mulch to your gardens. Doing this simple thing will give your yard a cleaner, more put-together look and do great things for your curb appeal.

These simple things will go a long way to adding value to your home, and you don’t have to break the bank to do it.

If you have any other questions or you’re looking to buy or sell a home in our area, give me a call. I would be happy to help!
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Location: Saco, ME, USA

What to Ask Yourself Before Listing



Before you put your home on the market, there are four key questions that will help you make the most out of your listing.

Selling a home? Click here for a FREE Home Price Evaluation
Before you sell your home, there are four key questions you should ask.

1. How does your home size and layout compare to other homes on the market? One of the first steps you can take in answering this question is going online to look at properties in your area. When you examine your home using other comparable homes as a point of reference, you’ll get a better idea of how to value your property. In addition, you might also find that this will help you decide on which upgrades, if any, might help your listing.

2. What are the key selling points of your home? Your property is unique. Along with looking at other properties to see what sets them apart, you should also be considering what is special about your own home. Do you have a security system, a fenced in yard, or other unique amenities? Determining these items will help you to better market your home.


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 Consider what is special about your home.

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3. What are small upgrades and improvements you can do prior to putting your home on the market? Before you list, your home should be in the best condition possible. Small improvements like painting can make a big difference. But also don’t forget to take care of any repairs, as well. The front entrance is going to be especially important. Make sure it looks attractive in terms of curb appeal.

4. What type of buyer should you be looking for? Having a target demographic for your listing will make the process of marketing much easier. If you have a multi-family home you’ll most likely seek investors or an owner-occupied person looking to supplement their income. If your property is on the water, you might be looking for buyers who are seeking out a second home.

If you are thinking of selling, even if you aren’t planning to do so in the immediate future, I would love to help. I’d be more than happy to visit your property and help you answer each of these questions about your property.

If you have any other questions or would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you, soon.
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Location: Maine, USA
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