By Meghan Belnap

You have an old home to sell. Perhaps you're moving, upgrading, downgrading or selling off property. Either way, you want to attract the most buyers to ensure you get a quick sale. Here are four things you should work on before listing an older home:

Old or Leaky Roofs

You can replace old shingles, seal up the chimney and ensure the fascia and soffits are free of holes from pests or rot. If you have leaks, then it might be necessary for a roofing contractor to come and look at the problem. There might be issues you cannot see like warps in the underlayers or mold. A roof replacement might be necessary if you have too much damage to repair in a small area.

Saggy Walls and Sticky Cabinets

Having these problems in your home may indicate an issue with your foundation. If it's been over 10 years since you had a foundation inspection, then you might want to talk to someone about checking out the slab under the home. Cracks, shifting soil and erosion can remove pockets of dirt, allowing the slab to move out of level.

When your doors and windows are hard to open and stick, then buyers will wonder if there are hidden foundation issues that they should avoid. You may lose bids if you don't fix this problem before putting your home on the market. Plus, anything that shows up in the home inspection will be a surprise and most buyers will ask for concessions, taking money out of your pocket.

Uneven Floors

This problem might be because of the foundation, but it can also be because of old flooring. If there are areas where your feet sink in the middle of the floor, then there is a possibility that this part of your floor is rotting or experiencing water damage. Termites can invade a home and eat away the wood supports if the homeowner doesn't catch the problem soon enough. Pipe leaks can cause water damage that'll worsen over time. Leaks in the wall and condensation issues can also cause rot.

Fixing up an old home is often cheaper if you do the work before listing. If you don't, the buyer may back out altogether,or opt for the most expensive company to do the work, and you have to foot the bill. Fixing electric, roofing, HVAC, flooring and foundation issues before you sell an old home may save you money in the end.

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386-506-8008 | Oceanside@RealtyExecutives.com |  |  |   @REOceanside

By Realty Executives International

When buying a home, a common term that will come up is “title”. Although it’s a common term, do you really know what it means or what a title company does for you and the home seller? Let’s take a look at what to expect from a title company during your home buying process.

What is a title company?

The role of title company spans across a couple different spaces in real estate, but it’s main priority is to verify the title to the property or real estate given to the home buyer is legitimate. To put it simply- the make sure all the bases are covered and the seller has a right to sell the property.

Once the verification is complete, the company will guarantee the property title with title insurance. This insurance protects the owner in the event that someone or multiple people come along and claim

ownership.

What do they look for?

We mentioned the main thing your title company will look for is whether or not other people have rights to the property you are looking to buy. But they also search for other issues including the ones below.

Easements: A large portion of a title search will be looking for easements. These are agreements that have been made on behalf of a previous owner that allows the right of another person/group to use part of the property for a specific purpose. This could include a city claiming part of your property be untouched by landscaping or a neighbor having the right to park in a designated area.

Existing Liens: A lien on a property could include an existing home equity line of credit or an existing loan to pay off for a specific amenity of the home. These will need to be paid before the closing.

Outstanding Mortgage: Any current mortgage tied to the property will need to be paid off completely at closing in order for the title to be transferred to your name.

HOA Dues: This varies based on the existing Home Owner Association contract, but any unpaid dues will need to be addressed before closing.

Restrictions: These are most common in designated age communities, such as 65+ living. The title company will ensure the buyer is not in violation of any area or community restrictions.

What to expect when working with a title company?

To start, you will want to ask your real estate agent if they have a title company they recommend. Oftentimes, they have a trusted title partner they work with and can help you get connected with them quickly and efficiently. Once you choose a title company, you should feel comfortable calling them anytime you have questions or concerns about the property. They are there to protect you! So utilize them.

There are two types of insurances they will offer, lender’s and owner’s title insurance. Lender’s insurance protects the mortgage company, and is required if you are taking out a loan to purchase the home. Owner’s insurance protects the property owner from title issues. Owner’s insurance is usually optional, meaning who pays for it can be negotiated. Lender’s insurance, on the other hand, will be your responsibility as a buyer.

Lastly, your title company may also be responsible for conducting the closing process. They will maintain escrow accounts, which will be used to hold your closing costs until the day you close on your new home.

For any further questions regarding title companies or how they can help you in the home buying process, visit our website and connect with a local expert near you.

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386-506-8008 | Oceanside@RealtyExecutives.com |  |  |   @REOceanside

by Realty Executives Oceanside

Should I stay or should I go? The age old question that got popularized by the Clash in 1981 hits close to home in our current Florida housing market today!   If you're a homeowner, you're probably looking with starry eyes at how much your home could sell for right now.  But how do you know if selling is right for you right NOW?  Here are a couple pros and cons to help make your decision easier:

Pro:  In today's market, sellers currently have the advantage.  Due to high demand, the influx of people wanting to move to Florida, and owners holding onto their homes, inventory is low.  This enables sellers to work with agents and gain the best possible price for your property!  You might start to celebrate when you see a property similar to yours on the market at price that could make you profit! But consider this if you're selling your house...

Con: This same seller's market could make it difficult for you to find a new home.  Those same higher prices apply to you!  You need to be sure you have enough funds for a down payment, a solid offer, and be willing to jump quickly to put an offer in.  Many times, offers come in over asking price and there are anywhere between 3-7 offers on average for any given property you'd be competing with!  But this could also work to your advantage...

Pro: Finding a buyer FAST.  With so many people looking to move or invest, potential buyers have been on the hunt and are willing to pay for what they want.  Buyers are experiencing the inventory shortage - they'll see a property they'd like, ask their agent to put down an offer, only to find that the property is already under contract! Our offices have seen properties go under contract anywhere within a few weeks to the very next day after the property has been listed! Most sellers feel they have their pick of offers available to them, which would be a plus for you!

Con: Moving could prove costly for you since your options could be slim.  If you can't find a home already on the market in Florida, you may think of building your own home. If this is you - pricing for those have increased as well; and some companies have increased their rates as much as $20,000 - $30,000 overnight!  This is largely due to increased lumber, appliance, and glass supply and demand. Renting is another option but just as costly and in most cases, monthly rent rates can be higher than a mortgage! You would have to be sure these 2 alternative options are something that is affordable for you.    

There you have it!  We hope these points help to keep you informed in making the right decision for you. We at Realty Executives Oceanside are here to help every step of the way.  Let our local experts help you with any of your buying or selling needs so you don't have make this big decision by yourself! 

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386-506-8008 | Oceanside@RealtyExecutives.com |  |  |   @REOceanside

By Realty Executives International

Many first-time home buyers or experienced homeowners decide that buying a lot and building their home is the best option for them. Custom building allows for you to design and personalize a space all your own, in a specific budget and timeframe. On the other hand, there is also a lot more work and ongoing decisions that the home construction process requires, with a main one being who is going to build it! Here’s a guide to help you find the best contractor for you.

Make a List

The first step when looking for any professional in your area is to look up your options! With one simple online search you can find tons of potential builders with their websites and contact information. But the internet isn’t always most reliable source, so it may be best to find some potential builders through fellow professionals. Your local real estate agent is a great resource for anything home related, including builders. Another option is contacting your local home builder’s association and asking for a list of members. Lastly, ask friends and family! They might have used a builder or know of someone else who has used one and had a great experience.

Research, Research, Research

Your home is nothing to make a quick decision on. Once you make your list of potential builders in your area, it’s time to do some research and ask a lot of questions. Just as a real estate agent would present you with a listing presentation in an interview type setting, your home builder should be willing to do the same with you. This is a great way to see their previous work, discuss what styles they specialize in and ask any and all questions. Before you leave, ask for the addresses of some builds nearby so that you can drive by and see the work for yourself. If you drive by and happen to see the homeowners outside, it may be a good idea to stop and introduce yourself and ask them about their experience. Most homeowners will be very open and honest about their process, good or bad.

Some Questions to Ask the Homeowner

• Were you happy with the outcome of your home?
• Was your contractor responsive and accessible?
• Would you use this company again?
• Did they deal with problems or obstacles quickly and efficiently?

Value and Quality

Of course you will want to be mindful of your budget when shopping for home builders, but also look carefully at the quality in the details. Little things like the trim, cabinets and paint job will show you a lot about the time and attention to detail the contractor and his or her team takes on each project. This might be difficult to see only in pictures, so look to see if the company is going to be featured in a city home tour or walkthrough soon. A builder that takes the extra effort on these smaller features may be worth a higher price tag. But of course, if a builder is out of your budget, it’s best to move on to your next option. There’s nothing worse than stretching your budget right from the start and causing stress throughout the entire home project.

Building your dream home is an exciting time and you will have the opportunity to create a place all your own from the property lot to the color of the front door. As long as you take the time to research, ask your local home experts and take a thorough look at example homes, you can’t go wrong with your perfect builder. 

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386-506-8008 | Oceanside@RealtyExecutives.com |  |  |   @REOceanside

Hello Neighbors and Welcome Back!

Local events are starting to pick back up just in time for the Spring season!  We've got a fun variety for you.  Don't forget that Bike Week will also be happening at the same time.  If you'd like more information on Bike Week events, please check out our last blog post here! 

-March 12th-

5th Annual NSB Shamrock & Roll Fesitval

Starting Friday, March 12th through March 17th, a variety of concerts will be playing all around Flagler Avenue with a wide range of acts all weekend!  For a complete schedule, visit here! 

-March 13th-

4th Annual Strawberry Festival

Palm Coast is hosting it's 4th Strawberry Festival featuring Art & Crafts, Delicious Food, Free Bounce Houses, Strawberry Shortcake, Live Entertainment, Free Rock Painting, Strawberry Fudge, Pony Rides, Free Strawberry Relay, Face Painting, Free Hula Hoop Contest, Pie Eating Contest, Free Petting Farm, Berry Cute Baby Contest, Free Sack Races, Train Rides, Free Corn Hole, Yummy Treats & Much More! Admission is $6 for adults and free for kids 2 and under.  See their visit their website or bring a canned good for a discount! 

New Smyrna Mac n' Cheese Challenge

Plan your whole weekend for New Smyrna and sample savory mac n' cheeses! Participants will be able to eat different types of Mac and Cheese at host locations on Flagler Avenue.  Participation costs $15!  You can buy your tickets here! 

A Salute to Women: A Pat Benatar & P!nk Tribute Concert

Enjoy a power-packed concert at the Flagler Auditorium!  Purchase your tickets here with an option for dinner and a show at HiJackers! 

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386-506-8008 | Oceanside@RealtyExecutives.com |  |  |   @REOceanside