Shepheard Real Estate Team

🏡🌟 🌞 Labor Day weekend has always symbolized the summer season coming to a close. It’s time to put away your summer gear & get ready to pull out your finest fall decor! 🍁

💡 🏖️ Proper storage ensures your beach chairs, umbrellas, and toys are ready for next year’s sunny adventures! ☀️

📌 Here’s the drill: Clean off any sand or debris, let them dry thoroughly, and store them in a dry, cool place until next summer arrives! 🌟🏄‍♀️

✅ Check back later for more tips to help you celebrate the end of summer & get your home ready for Fall! 😊

It’s that time of year again, Back To School! We’ve got tips to help you create the perfect study space! 📚 Transforming a corner of your home into a productive study area for your kids can boost their learning & creativity! 🌈📖

✅ Here’s how to create an inviting & Effective study space that encourages focus & imagination:

1️⃣ Choose the Right Spot: Find a quiet, well-lit area away from high-traffic zones. Natural light is a bonus! ☀️👀

2️⃣ Ergonomic Furniture: Invest in a comfortable, age-appropriate desk and chair. Proper posture is key to keeping those study sessions long and fruitful. 🪑💼

3️⃣ Minimize Distractions: Keep the study area clutter-free. Only essential supplies & a few inspirational items should be within reach. 🚫📱

4️⃣ Personalize the Space: Let your kids choose some decor or colors for their study area. A personal touch can make the space feel more inviting and their own. 🎨🌟

5️⃣ Organize with Storage Solutions: Use shelves, bins, and organizers to keep books and materials tidy. A clear space equals a clear mind. 🗂️✨

6️⃣ Tech-Ready Setup: If technology is part of their learning, ensure easy access to outlets and consider blue light filters or screen protectors. 🔌💻

7️⃣ Create a Schedule Board: Having a visual schedule or calendar helps kids stay on track with their studies and breaks. Time management starts here! 📅⏰

🏡 Have you set up a study area at home?Share your tips or pictures below! 👇

😁 It’s official! 🎉 This fantastic home has found its new owners. Congratulations to the buyers on their brand new home, we’re wishing you a lifetime of memories there. 🏡

🏡🛠️Did you know our Real Estate experts at Shepheard Real Estate Team can help with your new construction needs now too!? If you’re looking for more information on building your next home or investment opportunities - reach out & let’s chat! 💬

🏡 Check out the New Construction page on our website for more resources! ⬇️

https://www.shepheardrealestateteam.com/new-construction-homes

Here’s to new beginnings and creating precious memories. Stay tuned for more exciting listings!

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🏡💰 Mortgage Monday Update! 📣 🏠

💡 Good News! Mortgage rates have continued on the downward trend & the market has taken notice!

As rates decrease your buying power will increase, your homeownership dreams are still within reach! 🏠🔑

🚀 As your real estate advisors, we’re here to guide you through the process & find the best financing options for your dream home. Let’s make your homeownership goals a reality! 🌟🤝

💬 Reach out to today, and let’s discuss how to take advantage of the current market!

🌟 Just Listed! 💼

🏡 Happy Check out our latest home to hit the market, This stunning home is ready for its new owners!

💡 Features:
🛌 3 bedrooms,
🚽 2 bathrooms,
📐 1,485 Sqft
🌲 Spacious backyard with above ground salt water pool
🛝Less than a mile away from City Park
⚓️10-15 min from Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
🏊 Above Ground Saltwater Pool

🌞 Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to make this house your home sweet home! 🏘️🔑

📸 Swipe to see more photos or click the link below for a virtual tour! ⬇️

https://jonathan.shepheardrealestateteam.com/t/351kaW

🎉 Happy Monday! 🗓️ Time for your Weekly Mortgage Rate Update, courtesy of Shepheard Real Estate Team & Southern Trust Mortgage

☀️ The Fed’s long awaited rate drop has renewed excitement among buyers as they see what the lower rates mean for them & their buying power. 💪

Check it out ⬇️

🔻30-Year Fixed Rate Conventional loan: 6.375%
🔻15-Year Fixed Rate Conventional loan: 5.875%
30-Year Fixed Rate VA loan: 6%
30-Year Fixed Rate FHA loan: 6%
🔺30-Year Fixed Rate USDA loan: 6.375%

As more buyers enter or reenter the market the demand for inventory (homes for sale) will only grow as well, which is good news for sellers!

Visit our website for more information, or you can message us directly by clicking on the button below 👇

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com/financing

🏡 It’s no secret that affordability has been a challenge for a while now. There are three main factors that impact it:

1️⃣ Mortgage Rates
2️⃣ Home Prices
3️⃣ Wages

😁🗞️ Here’s the good news! There are early signs that all three are starting to improve.

🏦 Mortgage rates are coming down
🏡 Home price growth is moderating &
💵 Wages are going up

🧠 To learn more check out our latest blog on affordability on our website! ⬇️

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com/blogs

As always you can reach out to talk home buying, selling, market trends, really anything real estate related, we’ve got your back!

🏡💰 is here with more good news for us! Rates are down again (see previous post for exact numbers.) In honor of those recent rate drops & increased buying power bringing more homebuyers back to the market, we’re breaking down the mortgage process!

🤪 I know it can seem like a maze with all its steps & jargon, but it doesn't have to be. Let's simplify it together, shall we?

1️⃣ Pre-Qualification: This is where your lender takes a sneak peek at your finances to estimate how much you can borrow. It's like a financial compass pointing you towards the homes within your budget.

2️⃣ Mortgage Application: Now, you're officially applying for the home loan. Time to roll up your sleeves & provide some detailed personal & financial info.

3️⃣ Loan Approval: Your lender now gets down to business, examining your application & financial health to see if you meet their lending criteria. They're looking at things like your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and job stability.

4️⃣ Closing: It's the final countdown! You sign the loan papers, and the ownership transfer gets completed. This step comes with its own costs like appraisal fees and lender fees.

✨ Don't get lost in the lingo. Here's what those fancy terms mean:

✨ Down Payment: It's your initial payment, usually a percentage of the home's price.
✨Interest Rate: The percentage your lender charges for borrowing their money.
✨ PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance): Insurance you need if your down payment is less than 20%. It's to cover your lender in case you default.
✨Escrow: It's like a piggy bank held by a third party where your property taxes and insurance funds stay until they're due.

💡 Now, a couple of things your lender might keep an eye on:

🏦 Credit Score: A higher score can mean better loan terms.
🏦 Debt-to-Income Ratio: A comparison of your monthly debts & income. It helps your lender see if you can handle more debt.

📃 And don't forget, they'll need some documents like ✅ Pay stubs
✅ Bank statements &
✅ Tax returns, to verify all your details.

🏡 So there you go! Remember, a knowledgeable lender & a savvy real estate pro are your best allies in this journey. Let’s chat!
www.shepheardrealestateteam.com/finance

Ever heard the saying ‘timing is everything’? Well, it’s totally true when selling your home!

🏡 Did you know choosing the right selling season can significantly boost your chances for a successful sale? Let’s dive into why timing is so critical in real estate:

⏰🏡 First off, the season you choose to sell in can totally shape the buyer behavior & market activity. I mean, who wants to attend open houses in the middle of a snowstorm? And, let’s not forget holidays & school schedules!

✨ Each Virginia season has its own charm! ✨

🔥 That cozy fireplace of yours will be a total hit in the winter, while your blooming garden can steal the show in the spring! 🪴

🔨 Before you list make sure your house is in top-notch shape. A little curb appeal & a few necessary fixes can make a world of difference.

💪 Finally, the timing of your sale can influence competition & offers. Fewer listings in off-peak seasons mean more visibility for you. High demand in peak seasons? That can lead to a bidding war!

🗓️ Just a bit of careful planning with timing can get you the sale you’re dreaming of. 🏡

Ready to make the move? Let’s chat! Get connected with our Listing Department at the link below👇or you can send us a DM!

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com

🌟 Sold! 🎉

🚀 Woohoo! It’s official! Our amazing clients are now proud owners of this fantastic property! 🏡

💡 Features: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,586 sqft, and wait until you see the backyard oasis - it’s simply charming!

🌞 Big congratulations to our happy new homeowners! 🎉🥳 We’re beyond excited for the memories they’ll create in their dream home! 🏘️🔑

📸 Looking for your own perfect match? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the market, we’re here to help! 🌟

🤝 Reach out today, and let’s make your real estate dreams come true! 📲🏡

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com

🎉 Starting this week off with good news, Mortgage Rates are down across the board! 📉

☀️ The Fed’s long awaited rate drop has added a bit of sunshine to this otherwise dreary Monday, and we’re here for it!

Check it out ⬇️

🔻30-Year Fixed Rate Conventional loan: 6.5%
🔻15-Year Fixed Rate Conventional loan: 5.75%
🔻30-Year Fixed Rate VA loan: 6.125%
🔻30-Year Fixed Rate FHA loan: 6.125%
🔻30-Year Fixed Rate USDA loan: 6.125%

😁 There’s a renewed excitement among buyers as they see what the lower rates mean for them & their buying power. As more buyers enter or reenter the market the demand for inventory (homes for sale) will only grow as well, which is good news for sellers!

🏡 Our team at Shepheard Real Estate has partnered with one of the top lenders Brandon Blalock - Loan Officer at Southern Trust Mortgage NMLS # 260845 to provide you with information you can trust.

Visit our website for more information, or you can message us directly by clicking on the button below 👇

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com

📄🔍 Decoding Your Mortgage Statement: A Simple Guide 🏡💡

Navigating your mortgage statement can feel like deciphering a foreign language. But don’t worry, we’re here to break down the jargon & clarify what those sections really mean for your financial journey:

💰🔍 Principal Balance: This represents the original amount you borrowed minus any payments you’ve made towards the principal. It doesn’t include interest or other fees.

🔄💸 Interest: This is the amount charged for borrowing the money. Initially, this will comprise a larger portion of your payment, but it decreases over time as you pay down the principal.

🏦🛡️ Escrow: This section reflects amounts collected to pay for taxes & insurance, functioning like a savings account managed by your lender to ensure these costs are covered.

📝🚫 Fees: Here, you’ll find any additional charges, such as late fees or service charges. Keep an eye on this section to avoid any surprises.

📆✅ Payment History: A log of your payments, showing both recent payments & how they were applied—across principal, interest, escrow, and fees.

🗓️💳 Next Payment Due: Details your next payment, including the due date & the allocation towards principal, interest, and any escrow.

🌟 Understanding these sections can help you better manage your mortgage, make informed decisions about additional payments, & ensure you’re on track with your financial goals!

🧐 What part of your mortgage statement puzzles you the most? Let’s tackle those questions together!

www.ShepheardRealEstateTeam.com

🎉🎉 Closed! Congratulations to Jenna Fiore, Realtor and her awesome sellers! 😃🏡

This home was listed on the market, went under contract & officially closed, all within 30 days! 😳 So, how did we do it? For starters we partner with an incredible brokerage, staging company, closing company & more.

In addition to our rockstar partners we have a listing program that is battle tested with results that speak for themselves.

✨ As part of our professional marketing strategy, we staged, took excellent photos, and created a listing that stood out in the market for all the right reasons. Our one of a kind property marketing plan resulted in a strong turnout during open houses & showings.

📑All offers are pre-screened so that our clients only have to deal with the best ones.
🤝 As part of the negotiation process, we work hard to ensure that our clients are completely satisfied with the result.

🏡🪧 Considering selling your home? To help you better understand how to sell in our market, we’d be happy to meet with you one on one or put you on the guest list for our next FREE Home Selling Workshop! 📚

Don’t hesitate to contact one of our team members directly or just click the button below & send us a DM!👇

🎉 Congratulations again!
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🎉 📣 SOLD! 🏡🔑

🔔 We’re thrilled for our seller & the successful sale of their home. This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home & its breathtaking views found its new owners. We’re wishing both families the very best as they embark on a new chapter of cherished memories. 🎉💙

🏡The perfect blend of comfort & style made 415 Bay Dunes Drive an absolute standout in the market! ✨

🤝👏 Our dedicated team here at Shepheard Real Estate Team & House Goals, and our partners over at Title Concepts, LLC ensured a seamless & stress-free transaction. We take great pride in helping our clients achieve their real estate goals, and this sale is a testament to our commitment & expertise.🤝

🗝️ If you’re looking to sell your property or find your perfect home, trust our experienced team to guide you through the process with care & professionalism.

🌟 Congratulations to the new homeowners for finding their dream home! May it bring them joy, comfort, and a lifetime of unforgettable moments. 🎉🔑

📱 Contact us today to start your own success story! ✉️

www.shepheardrealestateteam.com

🏠 🚨 July’s Home Maintenance Tip of the Week: Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors! 💡🔋

🏡 Keeping your home safe & secure is a top priority. Don’t forget to regularly test your carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning properly & providing the necessary protection for you & your family.

✅ Here’s how to test your carbon monoxide detectors:

1️⃣ Press the Test Button: Locate the test button on each detector & press it. You should hear a loud, piercing alarm sound. If not, replace the batteries or the entire unit if necessary.

2️⃣ Check the Expire Date: Take a moment to verify the expiration date of your detectors. If expired, it’s time to replace them with new ones for maximum effectiveness.

3️⃣ Clean & Maintain: Dust & debris can accumulate on detectors over time, affecting their performance. Clean them regularly using a soft brush or vacuum attachment to remove any buildup.

4️⃣ Install Detectors Strategically: Ensure you have carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms & sleeping areas. Follow manufacturer guidelines for optimal placement.

5️⃣ Replace as Needed: Carbon monoxide detectors typically have a lifespan of 5-7 years. If yours are nearing the end of their lifespan, plan to replace them to maintain reliable detection.

By testing your carbon monoxide detectors monthly, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a crucial safety measure in place. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!🛡️🚨

✨ Modern Kitchen Makeover Must-Haves! Here are 9 impactful upgrades to elevate your space:

1. Statement Cabinets: Upgrade your cabinets with sleek modern finishes, clean lines, or pops of color for a bold look.

2. Island Transformation: Is your island stuck in the past? Consider a waterfall countertop, integrated appliances, or a breakfast bar extension for added functionality.

3. Flooring: Luxury vinyl plank flooring or timeless tile can add durability & modern style.

4. Fresh Paint: A new paint color can completely transform the feel of your kitchen. Opt for light & airy tones for a modern aesthetic.

5. Backsplash: A statement backsplash in subway tile, mosaic, or a bold pattern adds personality & visual interest.

6. Lighten Up! Modern pendant lights, recessed lighting, or under-cabinet lighting will illuminate your space & create a sophisticated ambiance.

7. Updated Faucets: Swap out your old faucet for a sleek touchless or modern pull-down faucet in matte black, chrome, or stainless steel.

8. Hardware: Modern cabinet pulls in sleek lines, geometric shapes, or a brushed metal finish can add a touch of polish.

9. Smart Appliances: Upgrade to smart appliances for ultimate convenience & a touch of the future in your kitchen.

🏠 💵 Invest in your biggest investment by updating the room that will give you the most return!

🏡💰 Mortgage Monday Alert! 💰🏡

It’s time for the latest mortgage rates update.

🔹 15-YEAR
Conventional Loan: 6.25%

🔹 30-YEAR
Conventional Loan: 6.75%
FHA Loan: 6.5%
VA Loan: 6.5%
USDA Loan: 6.5%

🏡 But don’t let these numbers scare you away. In the world of real estate, we’ve got strategies to help you navigate the mortgage maze & land the home of your dreams. Let’s chat! 📈🤝

📞 Contact us to learn more about your mortgage options.

www.ShepheardRealEstateTeam.com

🎉🥳Another week of celebrating homeownership by helping more families experience it! 🏡🗝️

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🎉 Congratulations to the first time homebuyers who officially closed on their new home this week. We are honored to have been part of this exciting milestone & look forward to representing you with your future real estate needs. 🏡

Visit our website: www.shepheardrealestateteam.com to hear more about our unique programs available for both home buyers and sellers.

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