How long does it take to buy a house? So you’re ready to buy a house, but you aren’t sure how long this whole process is going to take. While each deal is different and can vary in a multitude of ways, for the most part, buying a house is pretty straightforward. Assuming that you […]
We’re currently experiencing historically low mortgage rates. Over the last fifty years, the average on a Freddie Mac 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has been 7.76%. Today, that rate is 2.81%. Flocks of homebuyers have been taking advantage of these remarkably low rates over the last twelve months. However, there’s no guarantee rates will remain this low much longer. Whenever we try […]
Here’s what happens if your home appraisal comes in low When you go to buy a home, your mortgage lender will almost always order a home appraisal. The purpose? They want to verify the home’s worth. Specifically, they want to be sure it’s worth the money they’re lending you and, most importantly, that they’ll recoup their investment […]
The stock market is a funny game. Not the kind of game that the rookie Game Stop investors are used to playing, but a real-life, action-packed, form of entertainment that toys with millions of Americans’ emotions and finances every day. You know what isn’t a game, and can also provide oh-so-sweet returns? Investing in real estate. […]
Prepare for the investment opportunities to come after the pandemic passes Although coronavirus vaccines are being distributed throughout the U.S. and life is expected to slowly start getting back to normal in 2021, we are still quite a while from the old status quo. That is, if life ever truly returns to normal after living […]
Changes in tax laws have resulted in more complications, and owners of rental properties should invest more time and resources on tax planning. Real estate properties generate income for investors, but taxes play a factor in returns. OWNING REAL ESTATE produces steady income for investors, but the sale of residential and business properties can generate a […]
According to the latest report from Black Knight, Inc., a well-respected provider of data and analytics for mortgage companies, 6.48 million households have entered a forbearance plan as a result of financial concerns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s where these homeowners stand right now: 2,543,000 (39%) are current on their payments and have left the program […]
If you’re planning to buy a home, an appraisal is an important step in the process. It’s a professional evaluation of the market value of the home you’d like to buy. In most cases, an appraisal is ordered by the lender to confirm or verify the value of the home prior to lending a buyer money for the purchase. […]
Some Highlights When you’re thinking about buying a home, there are a few key steps to take before you even start to look at houses. From saving for your down payment to getting pre-approved for a mortgage, you’ll want to make sure you keep your financial plan on track from the beginning. Let’s connect today […]
Earlier this month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released their most recent Jobs Report. The report revealed that the economy lost 140,000 jobs in December. That’s a devastating number and dramatically impacts those households that lost a source of income. However, we need to give it some context. Greg Ip, Chief Economics Commentator at the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), explains: “The economy […]
If spending more time at home over the past year is making you really think hard about buying a home instead of renting one, you’re not alone. You may be wondering, however, if the dollars and cents add up in your favor as home prices continue to rise. According to the experts, in many cases, it’s still more affordable […]
Both sellers and buyers need to understand the risks A mortgage might be the the most common way to finance a home, but not every homebuyer can meet the strict lending requirements. One option is owner financing, where the seller finances the purchase for the buyer. Here are the pros and cons of owner financing for both buyers […]
Historically low mortgage rates are a big motivator for homebuyers right now. In 2020 alone, rates hit new record-lows 16 times, and the trend continued into the early part of this year. Many hopeful homebuyers are now wondering if they should put their plans on hold and wait for the lowest rates imaginable. However, the reality is, […]
What is a cash-out refinance? A cash-out refinance replaces your current home loan with a new mortgage that’s higher than your outstanding loan balance. It allows you to take advantage of equity you’ve built up in your home by withdrawing the difference between the two mortgages in cash. Then, you can put the money toward […]
In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and determination, he sparked interest, ambition, and courage in his audience. Today, reflecting on his message encourages many of us to think about our own dreams, goals, beliefs, and aspirations. For many Americans, one […]
Opulent, customized factory-built homes offer huge savings and an attractive alternative to rebuilt Malibu “trailers” (like the one in the center), as pending legislation seeks to close a tax loophole. Malibu, CA — When does a “mobile home” get snapped up for a cool $4 million before it even hits the market? Answer: When it occupies […]
Some Highlights There are a few key things to make sure you avoid after applying for a mortgage to help make sure you still qualify for your loan at the closing table. Along the way, be sure to discuss any changes in income, assets, or credit with your lender, so you don’t unintentionally jeopardize your application. The […]
The year 2020 will be remembered for many reasons, and optimism is one thing that’s been in short supply since the spring. We’re experiencing a global pandemic, social unrest, an economic downturn, and natural disasters, just to name a few. The challenges brought on by the health crisis have also forced many homeowners to reevaluate […]
Some Highlights Experts project an optimistic year for the 2021 housing market. With mortgage rates forecasted to remain low, high buyer demand is expected to fuel more home sales and continue to increase home prices. Let’s connect today to determine how to make your best move in the new year.
Once you’ve found the right home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. You’re undoubtedly excited about the opportunity to decorate your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, consult your lender – […]
Over the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point, hitting a new historic low 15 times. This is a great driver for homeownership, as today’s low rates provide consumers with some significant benefits. Here’s a look at three of them. 1. Move-up or Downsize: One option is to consider moving into a new […]
At King & Cradle Properties, we talk a lot about why it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not, we’re drawn to the emotional reasons for homeownership. No matter the living space, the feeling of a home means different things to different people. Whether it’s a certain scent or a favorite chair, […]
It may seem hard to imagine that the home you’re in today – whether it’s your starter home or just one you’ve fallen in love with along the way – might not be your forever home. Many needs have changed in 2020, and it’s okay to admit if your house no longer fits your lifestyle. […]
Even in today’s sellers’ market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do. According to the U.S. Economic Outlook by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing home prices nationwide are forecasted to increase by 4.5% in 2021. This means experts anticipate home values will continue climbing next year. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist for realtor.com, notes: […]
This year challenged us to reprioritize everything – from the way we use our time to where we work, how we socialize and gather together, and our needs at home. For many, this also meant making decisions about how to best support and engage with our extended families, near and far. In some cases, we […]
As a landlord, you wear a lot of hats. You are the property owner so all the financial responsibility is legally on you. You might be the plumber, handyman, rent collector and property manager. Being a landlord isn’t for the faint of heart, that’s for sure. But how do you know when it’s time to explore […]
This year’s record-low mortgage rates sparked high demand among homebuyers. Current homeowners, however, haven’t put their houses on the market so quickly. This makes finding a home to buy today challenging for many potential buyers. With an obstacle like this, those searching for their dream homes may be pressing pause on their searches as we […]
n a year when we’re learning to do so much remotely, homebuying is no exception. From going to work to attending school, grocery shopping, and even seeing our doctors online, digital practices have changed the way we live. This year, rather than delaying their home purchases, buyers – alongside their trusted real estate professionals – […]
Some Highlights If you’re thinking of buying a home and not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Here’s a map with 10 simple steps to follow in the homebuying process. Let’s connect today to discuss the specific steps along the way in our local area.
Today’s real estate market has high buyer interest and low housing inventory. With so many buyers competing for a limited number of homes, it’s more important than ever to know the ins and outs of making a confident and competitive offer. Here are five keys to success for this important stage in the homebuying process. 1. Listen to […]
Homeownership is on the goal list for many young adults, but sometimes it’s hard to know exactly how to get there. From understanding the homebuying process to pre-approval and down payment assistance options, uncertainty along the way can ultimately hold some buyers back. Today, there are over 75 million Millennials and 67 million Gen Z’ers in the […]
Housing inventory is at an all-time low. Realtor.com just reported that there are 39% fewer homes for sale today than there were last year. At the same time, buyer demand remains strong. In a recent newsletter, research analyst Ivy Zelman explained: “Although the headwind of severe supply constraints in most markets has contributed to slight moderation in seasonally-adjusted and year-over-year new […]
This year, the opportunity to work remotely has increased the demand for vacation homes. Gay Cororaton, Senior Economist and Director of Housing and Commercial Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), notes: “Working from home is a positive factor in demand for vacation homes.” Buyers are taking advantage of the fact that working from home might be someplace other […]
Around this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to sell their houses. Similarly, others who already have their homes on the market remove their listings until the spring. Let’s unpack the top reasons why selling your house now, or keeping it on the market this season, is the best […]
There’s no doubt 2020 has been a challenging year. A global pandemic coupled with an economic recession has caused heartache for many. However, it has also prompted more Americans to reconsider the meaning of “home.” This quest for a place better equipped to fulfill our needs, along with record-low mortgage rates, has skyrocketed the demand for home purchases. This […]
Some Highlights Buying a home can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the terms used throughout the process. To point you in the right direction, here’s a list of some of the most common language you’ll hear along the way. The best way to ensure your homebuying process is a positive one is to […]
The year 2020 will certainly be one to remember, with new realities and norms that changed the way we live. This year’s real estate market is certainly no exception to that shift, with historic highlights continuing to break records and challenge what many thought possible in the housing market. Here’s a look at four key […]
As any real estate agent knows, leads are the lifeblood to success. This is why it is no secret that a high percentage of most agents’ time is dedicated to uncovering possible leads via as many conduits as possible. That being said, all leads are not created equal. Some leads roll in thanks to expensive […]
Buying a home is an important – and exciting – decision. After all, having a place to call your own, to raise your family in, to do as you wish with no landlord to answer to are all motivating factors in starting the process. But, in addition to these emotional reasons, buying a home can […]
How long have you lived in your current home? If it’s been a while, you may be thinking about moving. According to the latest Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in 2019, homeowners were living in their homes for an average of 10 years. That’s a long time to be in one […]
Some Highlights Buyers are actively searching for and purchasing homes at a record-breaking pace. According to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in July, 68% of homes were on the market for less than a month. With homes moving from listing day to pending sale in an average of just 22 days, it’s a great […]
Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans currently live in a multigenerational household? According to Generations United, the number of multigenerational households rose from 42.4 million in 2000 to 64 million in 2016. The 2018 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of Realtors shows that 12% of all buyers have a multigenerational household. Why Are Many […]
Some Highlights: Whether capitalizing on job opportunities, affordability, or warm-weather places to retire, Americans are making moves to these top cities to take advantage of the strength in the current housing market. A strong economy and lower mortgage rates have made it easier for many would-be buyers to get into the market. According to realtor.com, it […]
The 2020 Millennial Home Buyer Report shows how this generation is not really any different from previous ones when it comes to homeownership goals: “The majority of millennials not only want to own a home, but 84% of millennials in 2019 considered it a major part of the American Dream.” Unfortunately, the myths surrounding the barriers to […]
Housing inventory is at an all-time low. There are 39% fewer homes for sale today than at this time last year, and buyer demand continues to set records. Zillow recently reported: “Newly pending sales are up 25.5% compared to the same week last year, the highest year-over-year increase in the weekly Zillow database.” Whenever there is a shortage in supply […]
Back in March, as the nation’s economy was shut down because of the coronavirus, many were predicting the real estate market would face a major collapse. Some forecasts called for a 15-20% decline in transactions. However, six months later, it seems as though the housing market has fully recovered. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, announced last week: “Since […]
Homeownership is one of the best ways to invest in your financial future, especially as your home equity grows. Home equity is a form of forced savings that can work to your advantage as the value of your home appreciates. Across the country, home equity was increasing before the health crisis swept our nation, and […]
Last week, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported their Housing Market Index (HMI) hit an all-time high in the 35-year history of the series with a score of 83. The index gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sale expectations for the next six months, as well as the traffic of prospective buyers of new homes. As […]
Some Highlights As a seller today, you may think pricing your home on the high end will result in a higher final sale price, but the opposite is actually true. To sell your home quickly and for the best possible price, you should eliminate buyer concerns by pricing your home competitively right from the start. […]
A year ago, additional space and extra amenities had a very different feel for homebuyers. Today, the health crisis has brought to light how valuable more square footage and carefully designed floorplans can be. Home offices, multi-purpose rooms, gyms, and theaters are becoming more popular, and some families are finding the space they need for […]
If you’re thinking about moving, selling your house this fall might be the way to go. Here are four highlights in the housing market that may make your decision to sell this fall an easy one. 1. Buyers Are Actively in the Market ShowingTime, a leading real estate showing software and market stat service provider, […]
In the latest Housing Trends Report, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) measured the share of adults planning to buy a home over the next 12 months. The report indicates the percentage of all buyers that will be first-time buyers looking to purchase a home grew from 58% in Q4 2018 to 63% in Q4 2019. The […]
While Proposition 19 focuses primarily on homeowners, experts say renters could also feel the impact When it comes to taxes and residential real estate, Proposition 19 offers a give-and-take approach. On one hand, it could benefit homeowners over the age of 55 who want to move and take their current property tax basis with them. […]
As shelter-in-place orders were implemented earlier this year, many questioned what the shutdown would mean to the real estate market. Specifically, there was concern about home values. After years of rising home prices, would 2020 be the year this appreciation trend would come to a screeching halt? Even worse, would home values begin to depreciate? Original […]
Some Highlights According to CoreLogic, homeowners across the country are gaining significant equity. Over the past year, the average homeowner gained $9,800 in equity, growing their overall net worth. If you’re ready to sell your house and begin looking for your dream home, let’s connect to plan how your equity can make that possible.
This is a really good article by the California Chamber of Commerce. It provides excellent background on Prop 13 tax protections currently in place, and what’s driving Prop 15 (Split Roll Tax). The entire article lays out the key provisions of the bill and I have highlighted the concerns. If you want to drive businesses […]
Although this article was posted nearly a year ago, it provides good insight on why we should oppose Split Roll. ______________________________ December 9, 2019 By Dennis Kaiser There has never been an election year more relevant to the CRE industry than 2020 in California. Despite debates over elected offices and the presidential primary, a heated […]
September 14, 2020 California Governor Gavin Newsom is opposed to Proposition 21, the rent control measure on the Nov. 3 statewide ballot. But the Governor said he supports Proposition 15, the split-roll property tax measure, which would change the tax assessment of commercial and industrial real property to current market value. Proposition 21 would dismantle […]
We hope that you have enjoyed the information in our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” If you’re still looking to sell, let us help. Let’s explore the options available for selling your home. Just give us a call at: (805) 558-4047 or email us at: […]
Have you downloaded our eBook? If so, have the tips been useful so far? Have you used some of them to sell your home? We’d like to discuss the final wrap up taken from the eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” Here is one last look […]
Today we’d like to share with you our final tip on how to sell your home quickly. This is taken from our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” Other than selling at the right price, the other major factor is selling at the right time. You may […]
Hey there. It’s been a few weeks since we first posted about our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” Have you made any progress on the sale of your home? If you still need to sell your home quickly, and are having trouble, we can help. […]
We often under-estimate the importance and the need to have Long-Term Care (LTC) insurance. Through the years, I have seen how Medicare and Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCi) have served our clients well. LTC insurance is designed to pay for care that is needed by those who suffer from chronic illness or disability. It generally covers […]
I hope you’ve picked up some valuable information from the emails we’ve been sending you these past few days. In another section of “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market,” we discuss an area of your home that you may not think of right away when preparing to […]
In our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market,” we discuss how to make your home more inviting. The first impression of a home can mean a lot to potential buyers. If you want to sell your home fast, make sure it is well furnished, and that […]
Today we’d like to talk about an important topic from our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” A lot of homeowners looking to sell will forget about the most important aspect of marketing – online. Easy access to the Internet has sped up both the buying […]
Have you downloaded our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” Two of the tips we provide for you are to remind you that there are two key players you should be working with: a real estate agent and an investor. Involving an agent can provide you with […]
Thanks for downloading our eBook, “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” In the first section of this eBook, you will learn a helpful tip about listing your home at the right price. We show you why listing competitively can, not only help you sell your home fast, […]
Here is a great eBook that gives you insider tips on selling your home; “SELLING UP: A Guide To Selling Your House For Top Dollar In Today’s Market.” Get Your FREE Report Here In the coming weeks, you will receive valuable information that can help you sell your home fast. We’ll also be posting useful information […]
It’s been a few weeks since we first mentioned our special report, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” Have any of the sites been useful so far? Have you found any properties that are of interest to you? Here’s a tip: if you haven’t […]
Did you know we have an amazing inventory of move-in ready homes? You downloaded our report the other day, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price,” and we may be able to help! We would love the opportunity to show you what we currently have […]
Hey there. By now you should have downloaded our special report, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” Have you made any progress in your search for your next home? We would love to hear your feedback. If you’re an investor in search of your […]
The exterior of any used mobile home you purchase should ideally be aesthetically pleasing to your buyer and should absolutely be safe and weather-tight. If you missed part 1 and part 2 of this 3-part article series, please see 3 Common Misconceptions Investors Have About Mobile Home Repairs and 5 Common Interior Mobile Home Repairs (& How to Handle Them!). […]
We hope you’ve picked up some valuable information from our posts these last few weeks. In our special report, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price,” we give you an extensive list of sites to check out when looking for your next property, whether it’s […]
Have you had a chance to read our special report yet? In our eBook, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price,” we share with you sources for finding properties at great prices, including investment properties and homes for the homebuyer who’s ready to move in […]
Today, I want to talk about another way to buy – deal hunting at auctions. We list a few great auction websites in the special report, “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” Buying a house at an auction can be a high risk/high reward […]
A few days ago, you downloaded our special report “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” If you’re looking to buy a new construction, you’ll want to pay special attention to these sites: www.Homes.yahoo.com Realestate.com/listings/forsale/ New construction is a great way to ensure that you […]
Thanks for downloading our special report on “The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” Whether you’re in the market for your dream home, or are looking for an investment property, this list has got you covered. You’ve probably heard of foreclosures, but do you know […]
“The 22 Best Sources For Finding Your New Home or Investment Property at a Rock Bottom Price.” Get Your FREE Report Here I encourage you to download the report and take a look at the information it provides on home buying and investing. In the coming weeks, we will be posting valuable information to help […]
Design balance and flow is something you need to consider at the beginning of your remodel. Without proper balance, your room can feel small, cluttered, or just plain uncomfortable. Balancing your room in layout, island placement, flow, is as much about emotion as it is about good design, color, and texture.
Pay Attention To The Details! It can be all too easy to get caught up in the beauty of a perfectly staged home, and not notice important items, like a crack in the ceiling perhaps. Rushing into a purchase is a major mistake, especially for first-time homebuyers. If you rush the process, you will not […]
Check out the latest on our “Arapaho” project! We are getting ready to start adding finishing touches soon, which will give this property a whole new, fresh, and modern look and feel. A special shout out to Kevin D., one of our private money lenders who joined us on this project. This is just one […]
When a passion for real estate is combined with talented individuals who have an uncompromising drive to succeed, amazing things will happen. At King & Cradle Properties, it’s our goal to not only have a positive effect on ourselves and our families – but also to inspire, motivate and create lasting change in everyone we […]
Always Do Your Own Home Inspection Even if the seller provides you with an inspection report, you should always get one yourself as well. A seller may have chosen an inspector known for not pointing out many problems. The inspection is too serious to leave it in the hands of someone else. Professional inspectors should […]
Handling Your Own Real Estate Transaction Buying a home is no easy task, especially for first-time buyers lacking the knowledge to ask the full list of questions and concerns involved. With hundreds of websites navigate; finding a home can be very confusing. Having a real estate professional on your side will help you to obtain the […]
We are starting a new project. Broke ground a couple of weeks ago, so you’ll see the transformation of the property. At the end we’ll do a before and after. Enjoy!
DO Negotiate With the Seller Everything in life is negotiable. However, often times fear will inhibit a new investor or a first-time homebuyer from initiating a negotiation with the seller. Negotiations shouldn’t be scary or feel like a game of trickery. It should be focused on building a relationship, speaking honestly, and coming to a […]
Ask An Agent If you’re looking to sell your home fast, you’ll need to attract as much attention as possible. A listing agent can help to sell your home quickly, and for the highest price possible. Other than assisting with the listing and staging side of things, agents can help you in many other ways […]
Enhance Your Entrance You only have one chance to make a first impression, which is why one of the most important tips to selling your home fast is to have curb appeal. Buyers look for a good presentation – many basing their final decisions on it. To make the most of your home, make sure […]
Modernize Your Marketing If you want to sell your home fast, you have to be up to date with your marketing techniques. Easy access to the Internet has sped up both the buying and selling process. Buyers and sellers alike can conduct all of their research online. This means that you have to do everything you can […]
Stage To Sell The quickest way to sell an empty home is by staging it. Staging can be a pivotal element that does not take a whole lot of effort. On average, a house that is un-staged can remain on the market five times longer than a home that is well staged. If you are […]
Work With Investors While it may seem pretty obvious that involving a real estate agent is a great way to sell your home fast, not everyone will think of working with real estate investors. There are investors in your area who are clamoring to get a property like yours. If they haven’t found you yet, […]
Price It Right Buyers will always look for lower comparable sales or current listings to justify making an offer below your asking price. Knowing this as a seller, you have to give your buyers incentive and motivation to quickly reach your asking price. Don’t start out with the highest asking price on the street – […]
Think Timing Other than selling at the right price, the other major factor is selling at the right time. You may not always be able to choose when you sell. There are circumstances that may come up forcing you to sell right away. However, if you are able to hold off for the right month […]
Part 10 Loan Modification The Loan Modification includes changing the original terms of the mortgage through several methods. This option provides for either a permanent change in one or more of the terms of your loan, which allows a loan to be reinstated and results in a payment you can afford. If your mortgage is […]
Part 9 Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure The Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure allows a mortgagor in default, who does not qualify for any other HUD Loss Mitigation options, to voluntarily sign the house back over to the lender. A homeowner is sometimes better off signing a Deed-in-Lieu rather than letting the lender start or finish the foreclosure proceedings. […]