Swafford's Property Shop

06/04/2026

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become the gold standard for house hacking in 2026 — and there's a reason why. 🏠

As of March 2026, Fannie Mae allows lenders to count projected ADU rental income toward your mortgage qualification — up to 30% of your total qualifying income. That means the income potential of an ADU can help you qualify for a home you otherwise couldn't afford.

ADUs include:
🔹 Detached backyard cottages
🔹 Converted garages
🔹 Basement suites with separate entrances

They're increasingly legal, financially supported, and proven in the rental market. If affordability is your biggest barrier to homeownership, an ADU-eligible property might be the solution.

Read the full article: https://sharonswafford.myagent.site/house-hacking-in-2026-what-the-hype-got-wrong-and-what-actually-works/

06/03/2026

171 Raspberry Dr, Wi******er, TN 37398
3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1544 Sq. Ft, 0.310 Acres
This well maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,544 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space with an inviting open-concept layout. Features include rich walnut flooring, a spacious primary suite with a walk-in closet, beautifully stained wood kitchen cabinetry, and a large 2-car garage. Step outside to enjoy the fully fenced backyard complete with a 12×12 deck — perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Washer and dryer stay with the home. New Photos Coming!
MLS link: https://go.realtracs.com/1iNC00y
Call for details: Sharon Swafford 931-224-4663 or 931-303-0400.

06/02/2026

House hacking isn't about living for free — it's about making homeownership possible when it otherwise wouldn't be. In 2026, the strategy is less about eliminating a mortgage payment and more about engineering one you can actually afford. 🏡

Here's what's working:

✅ ADUs (accessory dwelling units) — Fannie Mae now lets buyers count projected ADU rental income toward mortgage qualification, up to 30% of total qualifying income

✅ Multi-generational homes — 14% of all home purchases in the last year were multi-generational, with Gen X leading at 19%

✅ Small multi-family properties — FHA loans allow up to 4 units with just 3.5% down if you live in one

✅ Realistic expectations — If rental income cuts your $3,800 payment down to $2,200, that's a win

The math has to work. The zoning has to be legal. And the lifestyle has to fit. But for the right buyer, house hacking can turn a closed door into an open one.

Read the full article: https://sharonswafford.myagent.site/house-hacking-in-2026-what-the-hype-got-wrong-and-what-actually-works/

06/01/2026

Now Accepting Applications!
107 Lookout Dr, Wi******er, TN 37398
3 Beds, 2/1 Baths, 2256 Sq. Ft.
$2,450 per month and $2,450 security deposit
MLS link: https://go.realtracs.com/1iIxSCS
Email for information: [email protected]

$2,450/mo 3 Beds, 2/1 Baths, 2256 SqFt

05/28/2026

If you're thinking about selling your home, you've probably heard the term "months of supply" thrown around. But what does it actually mean?

Months of supply measures how long it would take to sell all available homes at the current sales pace. It's one of the clearest indicators of whether we're in a buyer's or seller's market.

Here's the breakdown:
- Less than 5 months = Seller's market (low inventory, more competition among buyers)
- 5-6 months = Balanced market
- More than 6 months = Buyer's market (more inventory, buyers have negotiating power)

Right now, inventory levels are rising in many markets across the country. According to recent NAR data, we're seeing a shift from the extreme seller's market of the past few years. This means pricing strategy, home preparation, and timing matter more than ever.

If you've been waiting for the "perfect time" to list, understanding these metrics can help you make a more informed decision about your specific situation and local market conditions.

Call/text/email us at (931) 224-4663 or [email protected] if you have questions.

05/26/2026

3896 Lynchburg Rd, Wi******er, TN 37398
3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1509 Sq. Ft, 0.900 Acres
Charming Remodeled Home with Extra Garage Space Near Tims Ford Lake! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and location. Recently remodeled, the interior features stainless steel appliances, new light fixtures, stylish finishes including granite countertops and a fresh, modern feel throughout. The home includes a 2-car attached garage with durable epoxy flooring, plus a newly built spacious 23x29 detached two-bay garage—ideal for extra vehicles, a workshop, or storage. Additional upgrades include an encapsulated crawlspace, providing improved energy efficiency and peace of mind. Situated outside city limits, you’ll enjoy added privacy while still being just minutes from Tims Ford Lake and nearby marinas, making this a perfect spot for boating, fishing, and outdoor living. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence or a weekend retreat, this property checks all the boxes!
MLS link: https://go.realtracs.com/1i7UOEu
Call for details: Melissa K. Stewart / (931) 580-4037 or 931-303-0400.

05/26/2026

Not every pre-listing fix needs to be big or expensive. But there are a few small repairs sellers shouldn’t ignore because buyers notice them immediately.

Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Leaky faucets or running toilets
Small issues like these can make buyers wonder what else hasn’t been maintained.

2. Loose handles, hinges, or cabinet hardware
They’re inexpensive to fix, but they affect how cared-for a home feels.

3. Scuffed paint and wall damage
Patches, touch-ups, and fresh paint in key areas can make the whole home feel cleaner and more current.

4. Burned-out light bulbs or outdated fixtures
Lighting has a huge impact on first impressions, especially in photos and showings.

5. Doors that stick, squeak, or don’t close properly
These are small annoyances that can make a home feel older or neglected.

None of these repairs will transform a home on their own. But together, they can reduce buyer hesitation and help your home feel better maintained from the start.

If you’re getting ready to sell, the best pre-listing strategy usually starts with the simple things first.

05/21/2026

301 McKinney St, Estill Springs, TN 37330
5 Beds, 3 Baths, 2451 Sq. Ft, 0.790 Acres
Located in Estill Springs, minutes to Tims Ford Lake, and situated on approximately 0.8 acres, this beautifully updated home offers 3 to 5 bedrooms depending on your needs and flexible use of space. Inside, you’ll find 3 fully remodeled bathrooms featuring new granite countertops, along with an updated kitchen complete with granite countertops, new backsplash, and several new appliances, including the washing machine. The home also features a spacious utility room, welcoming foyer, tile flooring and new LVP flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, and stylish new light fixtures. Step outside to enjoy the back porch with a natural gas hookup for grilling, overlooking a 24x52 above-ground pool with brand-new Trex decking and surrounding fencing — perfect for entertaining and summer gatherings. Additionally, there is hot and cold running water with a shower head to shower before entering the home. Additional upgrades include a tankless water heater for endless hot water and improved energy efficiency and all new pex water lines. A list is attached for all upgrades in the documents. ***The property also includes a 16'x35' batting cage with backstop for children in sports.*** This move-in-ready property combines modern updates, functional space, and outdoor enjoyment all in one exceptional setting. It is waiting for the next owner to make it their own. MLS Link: https://go.realtracs.com/1hzo4BH
https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=aLw7NUCCQNV
Call Melissa K. Stewart for details: (931) 580-4037 or (931) 303-0400.

05/21/2026

Buyers have moved on. Here's what's working against sellers right now:

❌ All-gray and stark white interiors
❌ Shiplap for the sake of shiplap
❌ Matching every fixture and cabinet pull to one metal finish
❌ Open shelving as a kitchen default
❌ The undifferentiated open floor plan
❌ Single-use bonus rooms — man caves, dedicated wine rooms, home theaters that can't flex

None of these will tank a sale on their own. But they can create hesitation — and hesitation shows up in longer days on market and more negotiated offers.

The good news? Most of these are fixable without a contractor. Drop a comment or send me a message and let's talk through what's actually worth addressing before you list.