Andrew Watson-The First Response Realtor

01/03/2024

If your listing has expired and your house didn’t sell, it's completely normal to feel a mix of frustration and disappointment. Understandably, you're probably wondering what may have gone wrong. Here are three questions to think about as you figure out what to do next.

Did You Limit Access to Your House?

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when selling your house is restricting the days and times when potential buyers can tour it. Being flexible with your schedule is important, even though it might feel a bit stressful to drop everything and leave when buyers want to see it. After all, minimal access means minimal exposure to buyers.

Did You Make Your House Stand Out?

When you're selling your house, the old saying matters: you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Putting in the work to make the exterior of your home look nice is just as important as how you stage it inside. Freshen up...

01/02/2024

When it comes to selling your house, the expertise of a trusted real estate agent can make a big difference. They’ll explain what’s happening today, what that means for you, and how to price and market your house. They’re also skilled negotiators and well versed in the contracts and disclosures involved. DM me so you have expert advice throughout the entire process.

01/01/2024

If buying or selling a home is your goal for 2024, it’s important to understand today’s housing market, know your why, and work with industry experts to bring your homeownership vision for the new year into focus.

1. Know Your Why

You’re dreaming about making a move for a reason – what is it? No matter what’s happening in the market, there are still many compelling reasons to buy a home today. Your needs may have changed in a way your current house can’t address, or you could be ready to step into homeownership for the first time. Use your why and your motivation as a guidepost in partnership with an expert advisor to make sure your move gives you a lasting sense of accomplishment.

2. Figure Out What Your Next Home Needs To Look Like

You know you want to move, but how would you describe your dream home? The number of homes for sale has grown recently, and that could mean more options to choose from when you...

If buying or selling a home is your goal for 2024, it’s important to understand today’s housing market, know your why, and work with industry experts to bring your homeownership vision for the new year into focus.

12/31/2023

If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, it’s a good time to consider if your current house is still a good fit for the next chapter in your life.
Fortunately, you may be in a better position to make a move than you realize. Here are a few things to think about as you decide whether or not to sell and make a move.

How Long You’ve Been in Your Home

When you live in a home for a significant period of time, it’s natural for you to experience a number of changes in your life while you’re in that house. As those life changes and milestones happen, your needs may change. And if your current home no longer meets them, you may have better options waiting for you.

How Much Equity You’ve Gained

Additionally, if you’ve been in your house for more than a few years, you’ve likely built-up significant equity that can fuel your next move. While home price growth varies by state and local area...

If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, it’s a good time to consider if your current house is still a good fit for the next chapter in your life.

12/30/2023

If you’re thinking about buying a home, getting pre-approved is an important first step. Want more information on buying a home? Let’s connect.

12/29/2023

If you’re planning to buy a home, knowing what to budget for and how to save may sound intimidating – but it doesn’t have to be.
Here are just a few things experts say you should be thinking about.

1. Down Payment

Saving for your down payment is likely top of mind as you set out to buy a home. But do you know how much you’ll need? While every buyer’s situation is different, there’s a common misconception that putting 20% of the purchase price down is required.

To understand your options, partner with trusted real estate professionals to go over the various loan types, down payment assistance programs, and what each one requires.

2. Closing Costs

Bankrate explains: “Closing costs are the fees you pay when finalizing a real estate transaction, whether you’re refinancing a mortgage or buying a new home. These costs can amount to 2 to 5 percent of the mortgage so it’s important to be financially prepared for...

If you’re planning to buy a home, knowing what to budget for and how to save may sound intimidating – but it doesn’t have to be.

12/28/2023

Homeownership remains the symbol of the American dream, valued above even a comfortable retirement, a thriving career, or a college degree. That’s because, for so many, your place doesn’t feel like “home” unless you own it. If you're ready to begin your journey to homeownership, let's connect.

12/27/2023

Pricing your house right is critical this winter. An appropriately priced home not only draws in more potential buyers, but also paves the way for a quicker sale. Skip the price guessing game. Don't let your home sit on the market by over or underpricing. If you're ready to sell, let's chat and figure out the right price for your house.

12/26/2023

There’s no denying the long-term financial benefits of owning a home, but today’s housing market may have you wondering if now’s still the time to buy. While the financial aspects of homeownership are important, the non-financial and emotional reasons are too. Here’s why.

1. You Can Be Proud of Your Accomplishment
Buying a home is a major life milestone. Whether you’re ready to buy your first home or your fifth, congratulations will be in order once you’ve achieved your goal. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end of your journey will truly make your home feel like your special place.

2. You Have Your Own Designated Happy Place
Owning your home offers not only safety and security, but also a comfortable place where you can relax and unwind after a long day. Sometimes that’s just what you need to feel refreshed and recharged.

3. You Can Find the Space To Meet Your Needs
Whether you want more room...

12/25/2023

If you're thinking about selling your house on your own, called “For Sale by Owner” or FSBO, there are some important things to consider. Going this route means taking on a lot of responsibilities by yourself – and that can be a bit of a headache.

A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found two of the most difficult tasks for people who sell their house on their own are getting the price right and understanding and performing paperwork.

Getting the Price Right

Setting the right price for your house is important when you're trying to sell it. If you're selling your house on your own, two common issues can happen. For starters, you might ask for too much money (overpricing). Alternatively, you might not ask for enough (underpricing). Either can make it hard to sell your house. To avoid these problems, it's a good idea to team up with a real estate agent.

Understanding and Performing...

If you're thinking about selling your house on your own, called “For Sale by Owner” or FSBO, there are some important things to consider.

12/24/2023

Does your house tick all the boxes a pet owner would be looking for? From pet-friendly communities and dog parks to easy vet access, the needs of their pets play a crucial role in many homebuyers' decisions. If you're considering selling and your place has what a pet owner desires, let's chat.

12/23/2023

As you get ready to sell your house, there are a few things you should add to your to-do list to make it inviting and boost curb appeal. To name just a couple, it’s a good idea to declutter, take down personal photos and items, touch up any scuffs on the walls, and tidy up your landscaping. Connect with a trusted real estate professional for advice on what else you may want to do to get your house ready to sell this season.

As you get ready to sell your house, there are a few things you should add to your to-do list to make it inviting and boost curb appeal.