Monday, April 22, 2019

7 Reasons to Own Your Home

1. Tax breaks. The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home.

2. Appreciation. Real estate has long-term, stable growth in value. While year-to-year fluctuations are normal, median existing-home sale prices have increased on average 88.5 percent over the last 10 years, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. In addition, the number of U.S. households is expected to rise 15 percent over the next decade, creating continued high demand for housing.


3. Equity. Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.

4. Savings. Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax.

5. Predictability. Unlike rent, your fixed-mortgage payments don’t rise over the years so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will increase.

6. Freedom. The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and benefit from your investment for as long as you own the home.

7. Stability. Remaining in one neighborhood for several years gives you a chance to participate in community activities, lets you and your family establish lasting friendships, and offers your children the benefit of educational continuity.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Present Your "House" as Someone Else's "Home"



When it comes time to put your house on the market, be sure you set yourself up for success by making sure the house feels like home for your viewers. Particular problem areas are the front yard and entryway onto the property, two of the very first things potential buyers will see when they arrive. Some of my seller clients have even provided coffee and pastries at showings to make their guests as comfortable as possible.

Remember, these people are not only deciding if your property fits their needs; they’re deciding if they can envision making your house their home for many years. Call or email me to discuss any of your real estate needs!

Laura Grainger
RE/MAX SOUTHERN SHORES
843-742-1603
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Monday, March 25, 2019

Location, location, location

 Calling All Sellers:

If you agree with the old adage that the three most important factors when buying real estate are location, location, location, then you also must recognize the challenges this poses to any seller. After all, the one feature of your property you absolutely cannot change is its location.

The good news is that every buyer is looking for something different in a home apart from just its geographic location. Proximity to schools and businesses, the quality of surrounding neighborhoods and home values in the area are at least as – if not more – important to the buyer.

As your real estate professional, 
I pledge to work with you on the best way to market your home. 
Call or email me today and let’s get started!

Laura Grainger
RE/MAX SOUTHERN SHORES
843-742-1603
Search My Listings

Monday, May 29, 2017

What Not to Overlook on a Final Walk-through

It’s guaranteed to be hectic right before closing, but you should always make time for a final walk-through. Your goal is to make sure that your home is in the same condition you expected it would be. Ideally, the sellers already have moved out. This is your last chance to check that appliances are in working condition and that agreed-upon repairs have been made. Here’s a detailed list of what not to overlook for on your final walk-through.

Make sure that:

·         Repairs you’ve requested have been made. Obtain copies of paid bills and warranties.
·         There are no major changes to the property since you last viewed it.
·         All items that were included in the sale price — draperies, lighting fixtures, etc. — are still there.
·         Screens and storm windows are in place or stored.
·         All appliances are operating, such as the dishwasher, washer and dryer, oven, etc.
·         Intercom, doorbell, and alarm are operational.
·         Hot water heater is working.
·         No plants or shrubs have been removed from the yard.
·         Heating and air conditioning system is working
·         Garage door opener and other remotes are available.
·         Instruction books and warranties on appliances and fixtures are available.

·         All personal items of the sellers and all debris have been removed. Check the basement, attic, and every room, closet, and crawlspace.


You can be sure that I, as your Realtor, will be by your side to help every step of the way.