SPECIAL SECTION REAL ESTATE
2 . Mortgage rates and tax limits .
Unfortunately , not all news is good news for first-time buyers . Mortgage rates are predicted to continue to rise in 2018 , expected to reach 5 percent toward the latter half of the year . In addition , new tax laws that went into effect at the beginning of the year have new limitations . Be sure to look into mortgage interest deduction and other tax deduction limits that may affect your taxes for 2018 .
3 . Agent .
Having a real estate agent in your corner for a first-time purchase is key . Agents will not only help you navigate the home-buying process , but can also be a valuable resource for an inside look at new homes that go on the market . This gives buyers the opportunity to view homes that may not have made it onto real estate websites for public viewing .
4 . Location .
Your dream house may not be in your dream location , and your dream location may not have your dream house . Don ’ t get stuck in a rut if you ’ re not seeing everything you want in your price range . Typically , you ’ ll need to make some compromises with your first home . Keep a few non-negotiables in your back pocket , but otherwise be open to the idea of putting some of your own upgrades and changes into a home that may not have everything on your wish list .
5 . Home .
Don ’ t get stuck in the mindset that you should spend every dollar that you qualify for in your mortgage . This could lead to bigger problems down the road . Look in the market under your max budget and be creative when looking at homes for ways to make improvements or changes that better fit your needs . A little bit of sweat equity can go a long way and will give the home your own personal touch .
6 . Offer .
Once you ’ ve found a house you want to call “ home ,” work with your real estate agent to come up with an offer the seller can ’ t refuse . Whether the house needs some improvements or it ’ s a hot buy on the market , your agent can guide you into making a serious offer to the seller . If you ’ re feeling passionate about the home , write the seller a letter explaining why you ’ re the best buyer for the home . These touches can sometimes be the difference between getting the house of your dreams , or losing it to another buyer .
7 . Moving .
You ’ ve done it ! You ’ ve purchased your first home . Now that you have a mortgage to pay , keep in mind some money-saving tips , like asking your closest family and friends to help you move ! A little pizza can go a long way when looking for some extra help . Make a plan for those personal touches to add to your home . Test out paint colors in each room to make sure you like the color in the daylight . Purchase furniture after making detailed measurements ( you don ’ t want to come home with something that doesn ’ t fit !). Add some curb appeal as a finishing touch and as a way to meet your new neighbors !
Ways to Prepare Your House for Sale
In the market to sell your home ? Follow these tips on how to optimize the home-selling process .
• Make sure your landscaping is appealing to the eye and aligns with the season .
• Add shrubs , plants or flowers to line the front of your home to add curb appeal .
• Use a power washer or a hose attachment sprayer to clean the exterior of your home .
• Clean out gutters and wash windows .
• Make repairs to screens , leaks , and broken windows where possible .
• A fresh coat of paint on the front door , a new welcome mat and an inviting entrance can give a great first impression .
• Add or refresh house numbers to make them visible from the curb .
• Make the entryway valuable by adding a simple coat rack if there isn ’ t a closet .
• Remove shoes , bags , coats and excess furniture from the entryway .
• Make sure the view from the entryway is clear into all visible rooms .
• Remove oversized furniture and organize remaining furniture to make the room look as large as possible .
• Leave just enough furniture in each room to show the purpose of the room .
• Depersonalize rooms by removing photographs of family , personal sayings and artwork .
• Open curtains and blinds to allow as much natural light in as possible .
• Leave countertops clear of small appliances and wipe them down .
• Clean out cabinets , refrigerator and pantry to allow for a roomy look .
• Clean carpets and flooring before showing your home .
• Clean mirrors , countertops and sink bowls .
• Re-caulk tubs , showers and sinks .
• Close your toilet lid .
• Hang fresh towels in the bathrooms in neutral colors .
• Eliminate harsh odors with natural scents or by adding fresh flowers or baking a batch of cookies ( Yum !).
• Paint rooms with neutral colors to appeal to more buyers .
• Declutter closets by removing half of your clothes , giving the illusion of more space .
• Clear out the garage as much as possible to leave extra room for cars .
• Sit back and get ready for some offers ! n
PETERS TOWNSHIP ❘ APRIL / MAY 2018 57