Murfreesboro Real Estate Blog

Weekend Warriors, Increase the Value of Your Home

admin@swg — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 15:56:30 +0000

Whether you’re getting ready to put your house on the market or your list of DIY weekend projects seems to be getting too long, you can tackle several jobs on your own, usually in a short amount of time, to increase the value of your home.

Storage

Storage space ranks high on homebuyer’s lists as something they want in a new house. For this reason, keeping closets, carports and basements clutter-free and organized is important.

Weekends offer plenty of time for purging and restructuring. If you’re handy with a hammer and nails, basic wall shelves can be constructed in just a few hours. Also, home improvement store aisles are packed with ready–to–assemble shelving units and closet organization systems. Take a few days to decide what stays and what goes, and then reorganize your home’s basic storage areas.

Outside

We all know the importance of curb appeal. Homebuyers that see a messy yard and unclean driveway upon arrival at a showing will undoubtedly have a poor first impression of your home.

Pressure washing is a weekend warrior job that does a great deal to improve the appearance of your house. If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can rent one from home improvement stores or appliance rental places. It takes some elbow grease and a few good hours of work to wash away accumulated grime, but the clean driveway, deck and even siding will truly improve your home’s curb appeal.

Dated Fixtures

One of the most recommended tasks for a home seller is replacing dated fixtures. Whether this means exchanging old copper sink faucets for shiny silver ones, or taking down the ceiling fan from the ‘70s, fixture updating is definitely a weekend DIY project.

One idea, take pictures of the sinks, lighting units and mirrors in your home. Head to a home improvement store with the images in hand and ask to speak to an associate. Typically, he or she will be able to help you decide if its time to update them and provide you with some ideas.

Paint

Over time, houses settle. Sometimes, a roof will leak, and water stains will show the ceiling’s paint. Cracks in corners and dingy paint are major turnoffs for homebuyers. Plus, a freshly painted home is cleaner, brighter and generally more comfortable.

Take a quick survey of your home’s rooms, paying close attention to corners and molding. If you see cracks, chips or stains, it’s probably time to repaint. The same goes for paint as it does for fixtures – if you aren’t sure what colors would be best. Take measurements of the rooms and pictures before heading to the paint store. There will be someone there to help guide you.

Owning a home requires constant upkeep, and selling a home requires some additional fixing up. These smaller weekend warrior tasks will help keep your home looking fresh and modern, and they will definitely make your house more appealing to potential buyers.

You’ve Decided to Build, Some Things You Might Overlook

admin@swg — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 20:07:10 +0000

You’ve decided to work with a builder to create the home of your dreams. Where to start? The process of deciding on every detail of your new house will be a daunting one.

Many people think if they’re building a house, they don’t need a realtor. In reality, it’s a sound decision to start with an experienced realtor. He or she will be knowledgeable about the area and can help you pick out the perfect plot of land. A local Realtor, like Todd Taylor, is also an excellent source of knowledge regarding who in town is great to work with, where the best schools are located and where city amenities can be found.

Next, it’s time to pick a floor plan. Many people overlook the fundamental importance of picking the correct floor plan. The design will decide on which side the garage is located, what floor the bedrooms are on and how many, the layout of the kitchen and much more. Have in mind some basics you know you want in your home – a formal living room, a covered patio or a third floor attic. Then work from there, modifying the layout of the rooms. Be sure not to overlook storage. You want sufficient closet and storage space built into the floor plan.

Windows and their placement. You want to be sure your new home is adequately lit and that the windows face in the appropriate directions. You don’t want the bay window above the garden tub facing the kitchen window of your neighbor’s house. Voice these concerns to your builder while working on the floor plan.

The exterior of the home can be constructed in many ways. Talk to Todd Taylor and your builder about your wishes – stone, brick, stucco, siding. Many people have a color in mind and work from there. The roofing options are also important – shingles or metal. Don’t overlook the life expectancy of the materials you decide to use. You want your house to last for as long as it possibly can with minimal repairs and structural maintenance.

Don’t forget the small things. If you want a large fridge, be sure the space built for it is big enough. If you have several phones, fax machines and computers, concern yourself with the number of outlets in the house. Small issues regarding lighting, such as whether or not you want fans, dropped lighting, track lighting or recessed lighting, must be deliberated.

Building a house should be exciting, but the details can quickly become burdensome. Sit down with your realtor and builder before embarking and make a checklist. This will help guide you through the process and ensure you don’t overlook something that you will grow to regret.

Murfreesboro TN: One of the Best Places to Live

admin@swg — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:45:47 +0000

When people are looking to relocate, home prices are often the first area they research. These home shoppers would be pleased to find that Murfreesboro, Tennessee was recently featured on Money Magazine’s 2010 “Best Places to Live” list at No. 20 for its home affordability.

According to the Nashville Business Journal, the median home price in Murfreesboro is $141,000 and the population is 101,000. Money Magazine looked at 25 cities with populations similar to Murfreesboro’s, but this Tennessee town was the only one in the state to make the cut.

If you’re considering purchasing a new home in Tennessee, Murfreesboro is a great place to start looking. But remember, homebuyers often face hardships, difficult decisions and planning problems when searching for the perfect property.

Avoid these top 5 homebuyer mistakes if you’re getting ready to take the plunge.

1. Not doing your research.
Give yourself a leg up by thoroughly researching – and requesting your realtor do the same – the property you’re looking at, the surrounding homes, community and schools. Don’t walk blindly into buying a house because it’s likely unexpected issues will arise.

2. Not understanding pricing.
Not understanding pricing leads home buyers into all sorts of binds. Paying too much for a house, not selecting the mortgage that’s right for them, losing a house to another bidder and underestimating closing costs are all problems a home buyer might face if they don’t have a clear grasp on the pricing process involved with purchasing a home.

3. Falling in love.
Falling in love with a house is one of the worst things potential buyers can do. Being emotionally involved could lead you into buying a house that might have little resale value later. Or, it could encourage you to rush into decisions, like buying a house that’s too small, too quirky or near unattractive features like commercial property, utility access panels or drainage easements.

4. Not hiring a professional realtor and professional home inspector.
The more experienced your team, the better the home buying process will go. Be sure your realtor is competent and practiced. Ensure that a professional home inspector thoroughly reviews and records the pros and cons of your hopefully new home.

5. Delivering non – refundable earnest money.
Your realtor should never recommend you do this. If the home inspection, financing plans and final details of the home closing start to veer off course, you’ll want to have a grace period built in that allows you to withdraw your earnest money and look elsewhere for a new home.

Give yourself all the chances for success by avoiding these top home buying mistakes. As always, having a reputable realtor by your side to help answer questions, make appointments and give advice is one of the best ways to make purchasing a new home a breeze. An affordable one if you’re moving to Murfreesboro.

Tips for Organizing the Perfect Yard Sale

admin@swg — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:48:17 +0000

Summer time is cleaning time for many homeowners and the first step to a deep clean is a purging. Everyone is a collector at some level, keeping items they have little use for, cluttering tabletops and cabinets with excess knick-knacks and dishware.

It it’s time for a de–cluttering session at your house, a yard sale might be in order. Don’t take the task lightly, however, hosting a yard sale is a challenging course to take. There are some must–dos and some should–dos that can make the process a little easier for you.

Advertise, advertise, advertise. According to ABC News, a lack of advertisement is the downfall of most yard sales. Go viral, ABC says, and place ads in local newspapers, on Craigslist and yard sale listing Web sites. Put up balloons and largely printed, legible signs at the entrance of neighborhoods. Draw attention to your home on the day of with streamers, balloons and bright colors.

Be sure to check with local authorities so you’ll understand where you can and where you cannot place advertisement signs for your yard sale.

Lure shoppers with entertainment and freebies. Setting up a table with light snacks and lemonade is a great way draw for shoppers. If you have a buddy who doesn’t mind firing up a grill, offer hot dogs. Candy for children helps keep the little ones distracted while Mommy shops around.
Have music playing and work to maintain an upbeat, spirited atmosphere.
Know how to price. Don’t put off shoppers by overpricing, but price a little high with the understanding that you’ll come down easily. Let the shopper win the negotiation without excessive effort – too much haggling will make people leave in a hurry.
Price in sections and by bags. Have bags of items – both related and unrelated – that you sell for a flat rate. For example, if you have a million baby bibs, some old books and a set of tea light holders, toss some of the items in a bag, add a ribbon and charge something moderate, like $5. It’s a deal for the buyer and you get rid of more stuff than you would have if you priced individually.

Also, by pricing in sections, you can draw shoppers to the area they’ll likely spend the most money and are most interested in browsing. Furniture in one place, clothes in one place, books in another, kitchenware in yet another.

For your sanity’s sake, arrange to have a donation truck come to pick up the leftovers at the end of the day, recommends ABC. You’ll be exhausted and overwhelmed by the close of a long, hot yard sale day. The last think you’ll want to do is load belongings and make several trips to the local donation center.

Yard sales are fun, lucrative and engaging for the entire community. But they’re also very hard work if you want them to go well. So be prepared, price well and advertise thoroughly to encourage yard sale success.

Quick Guide: Choosing a Realtor or Agent

admin@swg — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 21:26:54 +0000

Searching for a new home can be an overwhelming challenge. Many people don’t know where to look for available properties, have difficulties arranging showings and struggle with the paperwork and jargon. This is why selecting the best realtor for you is an important step in finding your new home.

Consider first, realtors and real estate agents / brokers are not the same designation. Both are licensed and capable of guiding you through the home buying and selling process; but a realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Realtors pay membership dues, and they have access to MLS and a plethora of market data and information. They are also held to strict codes of conduct and ethics outlined by NAR.

What are some points of consideration you should take when selecting a realtor or agent?

1. Ensure your realtor or agent’s license is in good standing with the state.

2. Ask about your realtor or agent’s geographic specialties – in which parts of the city or state do they typically operate?

3. Be sure that your realtor or agent has access to and is familiar with MLS (Multiple Listing Service) or other real estate availability search services.

4. Full–time agent or part–time? You know how much time you’ll be dedicating to house hunting, so be sure your realtor or agent has equal availability.

5. Get a feel for the average homebuyer your agent or realtor typically works with, and come to an agreement about the best times for showings, calls, etc.

Your relationship with your real estate agent has the potential to be short or long – term. Feel confident that you both are compatible business partners and that each of you is committed to working together toward a common goal.

Flood Relief Efforts Continue in Nashville – What You Can Do to be Prepared

admin@swg — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 21:21:00 +0000

The Southeast has seen record flooding during the past few months. First Atlanta, then Nashville, southern cities – typically outside the dangers of flooding – are primarily unprepared to deal with large volumes of water. It’s damaging to the commercial and residential sectors of the community, and it takes great preparation and relief efforts to make managing a flood possible.

In Nashville, relief efforts range from cell phone texting, where individuals can donate via a text message, to baseball games, the proceeds going toward the relief effort.

In addition to the presence of relief organizations such as Red Cross, Nashville residents have rallied to raise awareness and aid on their own. Several fundraisers – arts and music festivals, car shows, auctions and benefit concerts – are scheduled over the next few months.

While most of downtown Nashville is open for business, some retail owners and home owners are still working to salvage and recover.

What should you do, as a homeowner, if you’re in danger of imminent flooding? There are some basic preparation tips and helpful advice, from Safe Emergency Services’ (SES) FloodSafe.

Have a readiness kit packed and kept in the home at all times. Include items such as a radio and batteries, flashlight, first aid kit, emergency contact numbers, sturdy shoes, extra clothes and a waterproof bag for valuables. If forced to evacuate, remember medications, fresh water and food.
When flooding is likely, do as many of the following as possible: stack possessions and electrical objects as high as you can, weigh down items that might float and cause damage, relocate cleaners, chemicals and waste from low locations, gather pets, locate emergency kit.
If evacuation is unavoidable, turn off your electricity, gas and water before leaving. Stay in contact with your neighbors – safety in numbers. Try to remain cognizant about weather updates, evacuation shelter locations and your surroundings.

Floods are some of the most devastating natural disasters, and it takes commercial real estate, residential homes, apartments … entire cities much effort and time to recover. Remember these tips in the midst of a flood situation, and try hard to stay calm and panic–free.

The Importance of Home Inspections for Buyers and Sellers Alike

admin@swg — Thu, 27 May 2010 15:45:19 +0000

Whether you’re soon to close on a new house or you’re a home buyer wondering what repairs you should schedule before selling your home, you’ll want to hire an experienced home inspector. Home inspectors are trained to rate the construction, wiring, plumbing – the overall integrity – of a structure.

Home inspections behoove both buyers and sellers. If you’re considering purchasing a new home or commercial space, you’ll want an inspector to provide a detailed, unbiased report on the property’s condition. Certain aspects reviewed by an inspector include the heating and cooling system, plumbing, wiring, attics and insulation, basements, structural / foundational elements and roofs.

New homes – those that haven’t yet seen the impact of residents – should not be overlooked. Those properties, too, should receive a thorough, initial review before individuals inhabit them.

For homeowners, inspections are excellent guides as to what elements of the home should be repaired and improved. Over time, roofs wear out, exposed structural elements needs maintenance and heating and cooling systems require updates.

Home inspections are also beneficial for sellers. Once obtained – for between $200 and $500 typically – inspection reports provide proof of the property’s value and quality to potential home buyers.

Whether you’re selling or buying a home, you can often consult your realtor to find a reputable home inspector. Realtors commonly have connections and standing relationships with local home inspectors, and they can help you find a professional in your area.

Ensure a Successful Home Showing with These 10 Must-Dos

admin@swg — Wed, 12 May 2010 15:40:29 +0000

The real estate market in Nashville, as well as across the nation, is striving to get back on its feet. Several homeowners, seeing this progress, are putting their homes up for sale. If you’re considering selling your home, remember the importance of the staging and showing phase. Positive first impressions are paramount to both home buyers and sellers, and you’ll want to take extra steps to guarantee that your home is inviting. According to The National Associations of Realtors, you should cross these 10 items off your to-do list before scheduling a showing of your home.

1. Eliminate clutter – don’t distract potential home buyers from the actual house with excessive knick knacks, accessories or general disorder.

2. De-personalize your home – you want potential home buyers to see themselves and their lives in your space. Remove personal items, such as family photographs and magnets.

3. Clean – be sure the windows, upholstery and carpets are thoroughly cleaned. Set about scented candles to enhance the sanitary, comfortable scent of the house.

4. Bathrooms and kitchens – bathrooms and kitchens should be spotless. These two rooms require an extra level of cleanliness. Set out new hand towels, rugs and dishtowels to enhance the decor.

5. Yard – your yard will be the first thing potential home buyers see when they arrive to view your home. Be sure the grass is trimmed, patios and driveways are blown clean and toys / tools are put away.

6. Add color – install seasonal, brightly colored plants in edge flower beds and planters. You can add pops of color within the home, too. Accent walls are a great way to do this.

7. Pets – be sure pets are put away when potential home buyers arrive. Ensure pet hair and odor are completely eliminated.

8. People – be sure you and your family are away from the house when the realtor and home buyers arrive. You want to give people the freedom to view your home without bias or the discomfort of feeling watched.

9. Remove valuables – although it’s unlikely that a potential home buyer would remove your valuables from the property, be safe and have them out of sight during the showing.

10. Realtor communication – be sure to communicate with your realtor effectively. Make sure you and your realtor are set on the showing time and request that your realtor obtains all of the viewers’ contact information before the appointment.

Selling your home can be a long and frustrating process. By finding a buyer quickly, you’ll save yourself time, money and avoid frustration. Stick to these 10 must-dos to make sure your home showing goes smoothly and successfully.

Beautiful Gardens and Homes – The Draw of Shelbyville

admin@swg — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 20:53:43 +0000

Shelbyville, Tennessee is located approximately 50 miles outside the city of Nashville. Residents enjoy a proximity to the urban hub that allows them to take advantage of both bustling city life and a more quiet, expansive, rural living. While there are neighborhoods and formed communities in Shelbyville, homeowners can still find a piece of land all their own.

On June 6th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, residents and guests alike are invited to tour some of the most beautiful homes and gardens of Shelbyville. Unlike in years past, this year will feature stops ranging from small ranch homes with spectacular gardens to businesses in historic downtown and even parks. All proceeds will go to establish Shelbyville as a Tree City, according to the Times-Gazette, Shelbyville’s local paper.

Some of the stops include the Shull home and garden, Valley Home Farms, displays of yard art at the Hunter home and the award-winning Bell Buckle Park. You can pre-order a box lunch for $10 and tickets are $10, as well.

Shelbyville offers homeowners a piece of the country while being close to the city – a balance and combination that is appealing to first time home buyers, retirees and everyone in between.

If you’re considering relocating to Tennessee, it’s a wonderful region to explore. The business division is strong – ranked among the state’s top 25 most business-friendly sectors – and real estate options are versatile. From ranch homes on sprawling acres to sustained communities and more, there is something for everyone in Shelbyville.

Nashville Real Estate – Slow Recovery is Still Recovery

admin@swg — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 20:54:35 +0000

In terms of real estate fluctuation, Nashville has seen its share of ups and downs over the past few years. In an article published in the Nashville Business Journal, Nashville, unlike other areas of the country, did not see an increase in home prices this past February.

For the first time in three years, according to First American CoreLogic, the country saw an increase in national home prices. Is this a bad sign of things to come for the real estate market in Nashville? No.

Home prices fell 3.97 percent in the Nashville area during the month of February; however, that was an improvement from the 4.21 percent dip a month prior. A 1.26 percent gradual home price decline is projected for Nashville over the next 12 months.

Yet, according to McGraw-Hill Construction, contracts for new construction coming into Tennessee are increasing exponentially – for both residential and non-residential real estate. In just one year, residential construction contracts have jumped from $238.6 million to $386.4 million. This is a positive sign that new growth, more jobs, more money and more people are finding their way to the Nashville area.

What’s more? Now that the first time home buyer’s tax credit scramble has come to a close, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is beginning to make gradual changes to the lending process in order to better protect homeowners. The consumer-protecting good faith estimate will now include new disclosures such as loan term, initial interest rate, payment penalties, initial escrow deposits and more. While an argument surrounding whether or not the changes will benefit or simply baffle home buyers is burgeoning, the fact that change is taking place to the home buyer’s benefit is positive.

While Nashville may not be the first city jumping feet first out of the recession, growth is on the horizon. New homes are being built, buyers can still take advantage of low interest rates and reduced home prices and governments and realtors are striving to implement changes that will bolster the lending and buying process in the future.