Leanne's Real Estate News

03/18/2026

APPRAISAL: an unbiased professional evaluation of a property's value. It's typically conducted by a licensed appraiser who considers various factors to determine how much a property is worth in the current market.

🔹 Why it matters:
✅ For buyers – Ensures you're not overpaying for a home by confirming its value.
✅ For lenders – Protects the bank by confirming the home’s value aligns with the loan amount.
✅ For sellers – Provides a realistic price range if you're looking to sell.

🔹 What the appraiser considers:
✅ Location – The desirability and market conditions of the area.
✅ Size and condition – Square footage, layout, and overall upkeep of the home.
✅ Comparable properties – Sales prices of similar homes in the neighborhood (called "comps").
✅ Upgrades – Any renovations or unique features that could impact the value.

Once completed, the appraiser will provide a report that includes their estimated value of the home. If the appraisal is lower than the agreed-upon price, negotiations or adjustments may be needed.

03/14/2026

This cascading stream flows into a gravel bed, not a pond, so it stays clean with little maintenance.

Create a rippling, rock-lined stream with multiple waterfalls in your backyard. Use gravel and stone filters and a heavy-duty pump to reduce maintenance and maintain water clarity.

03/11/2026

How awesome is this home office setup?! 😍🖥️

It’s bright, stylish, and looks like the perfect spot to stay focused and inspired.

03/07/2026

Mortgage Term of the Day:
🏡 Special loan programs designed to help people buying their first home get financing with:

✔️ Lower down payments
✔️ Reduced interest rates
✔️ Down payment assistance
✔️ More flexible credit requirements

These programs make homeownership more accessible and affordable!

03/04/2026

A closet can be more than just a space to store items. Check out what makes these luxurious closets a place to enjoy and relax.

02/28/2026

Preparing to list your home? Before you list, check out these low cost curb appeal improvements you can make!

If your home's curb appeal makes a great first impression, everyone (including potential homebuyers) will want to see what's inside!

Add budget-friendly curb appeal to your home with these upgrades you can do in a day, weekend, or month, from freshening your garden to replacing your mailbox.

02/25/2026

When shopping for a home, it seems like there’s something to pay for at every step of the way. To get your mortgage approved—thereby allowing you to actually buy your house—you’ll have to pay mortgage fees. The most common mortgage fees also fall under the umbrella of closing costs, those expenses you pay when you close on your house that help facilitate the sale (i.e., the appraisal fee, the title search, and the processing fee).

Although it’s difficult to put an exact figure on the mortgage fees (they vary from state to state) you can expect to pay, there are some costs that almost every mortgage has in common. We spoke with Amy Bailey Oehler of PrimeLending about what they are and how much money a home buyer should plan on paying for the loan.

Getting a mortgage comes with a number of costs. Before you can close on your house, these are the mortgage fees you'll have to pay.

02/21/2026

Did you know packing paper can be a better choice for backing dishes than bubble wrap?

Plus, a few other smart tips for packing up your kitchen.

02/18/2026

PRE - APPROVAL LETTER: A letter from the lender indicating you qualify for a mortgage of a specific amount. This step is critical in today's fast paced market!

02/14/2026

Roses are red, pink is my vibe 💗
Sending a little extra love your way today and hoping your Valentine’s Day brings smiles, laughter, and maybe a treat or two.

02/11/2026

Whether you're completely gutting your kitchen, building a new one from scratch, or looking for a project that will add value to your home, choosing the best kitchen backsplash ideas is a crucial step in the renovation process.

A little pattern goes a long way.

02/07/2026

These ceiling paint colors are anything but neutral—they incorporate dramatic hues, high glosses, and pops of color.