Amy Davis - Hedrick Redfearn Street Real Estate

This week’s FAF (Frequently Asked Friday): Should you make repairs to your home before you sell? ⁣
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A stat: According to the NAR (National Association of Realtors), around 37% of contracts fall through because of repair issues sellers could have addressed before listing their property. ⁣
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This alone shows that while your home doesn’t have to be perfectly flawless, you should invest time and money to get it in working order. Here are a few must-fix items. (And trust me, if you don’t fix these now, you’ll be doing it later, promise!):⁣
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• Faulty wiring⁣
• Grading and drainage issues⁣
• Roof leaks and shingle problems⁣
• Foundation issues⁣
• Heating and air-conditioning problems⁣
• Plumbing and septic issues⁣
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When in doubt, ask an agent what to address before listing. Chances are you’ll recoup some or all of the cost you put in when you sell.⁣
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Thinking about listing your home? I’d love to listen to your plans for selling and offer my input -- no strings attached -- send me a message today!⁣

Heads up, all you lovebirds -- you’ve got just 10 days until the loveliest day of the year! Get your heart (and your home) ready for all the feels with these February home decor tips: ⁣
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• Did you know they make pink light bulbs? THEY DO! Head to your local home improvement store and grab a few to color your home just in time for Cupid’s arrow. Got little ones? They’ll love it all the more!⁣
• Swap out wall art with a message perfect for the hugs-and-kisses holiday. A good place to look? Etsy -- search for ‘printable valentine’s wall art’ and print right at home.⁣
• Not into hot pinks and reds? No problem! Think blush! A few blush-colored throw pillows or blankets will give a subtle wink to the day without going overboard.⁣
• Nothing says “I love you” like a spread of sweets, cakes, candies, and fruits that double as themed decor. Whether homemade, store-bought, or somewhere in between, gift your loved ones with a feast for the eyes (and tastebuds) this Valentine’s day. ⁣
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Tired of renting and looking for a love nest all your own? I’d love to help. Send me a message and let’s chat.⁣

Ask me a question! A great way for you to get to know your agent...ask questions!

Last year’s biggest home trends? Stretchy pants, comfy slippers, and the fastest internet money could buy. This year’s trends give us all a little bit more to look forward to. Here's what designers predict for 2021: ⁣
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1. Cleanliness is still king. Designers anticipate easy-to-clean fabrics and surfaces to remain in demand as a way to help us all stay on top of pesky germs.⁣
2. Expect interior colors to warm up as owners crave warmth, comfort, and coziness. Various shades of browns, oranges, and reds will the trick.⁣
3. Not into warm hues? Designers think soft shades of blue that create a peaceful vibe will also be popular.⁣
4. Remodeling or building a new construction? Closed floor plans are front-and-center as demand grows for private spaces designated for remote work or at-home learning.⁣
5. Dubbed “grandmillienial” by House Beautiful, the style showing up everywhere blends grandma’s favorite florals with sleek modern staples. Not sure where to start? Just ask yourself WWGD -- what would Grandma do?⁣
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What trends are you lovin' early in 2021? Share them below!⁣

Here are some tips for improving your credit!

Livin’ for the weekend isn't a bad thing when you’re a realtor who lives and breathes all things real estate -- that's ME!⁣
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There’s nothing I love more than filling my Saturdays and Sundays with coffee, clients, and a calendar slam-full of showings and listing appointments. ⁣
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No matter what day of the week works for you, I’m available. Consider it real estate on YOUR schedule. ⁣
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Shoot me a message and let’s schedule a time to chat and get you moving on your 2021 real estate goals.

It’s Friday, friends…(go on, let out a little cheer!) which means it’s time for another “Frequently Asked Friday?” If you're buying a home anytime soon, today’s question is just for you! ⁣
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Q: Who pays the buyer’s agent commission?⁣
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A: Great question! Standard practice is that the seller pays the real estate commission of both the seller’s agent and the buyer's agent typically splitting a 5-6% commission on the price of the house. But keep in mind, sellers usually factor the commission of both agents into the home's listing price essentially handing some of the cost back to you, the buyer.⁣
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Got questions? Looking to buy (or sell) and need a realtor? I’d love to chat! Send me a message today.⁣

Surprise! You don't qualify for a loan.

This happens more then people think and it's okay!

Here are some steps to help you get approved for your home loan.

1. Find out why you were denied. It could be a simple fix.
2. Check your credit report. Forgot to pay a bill five years ago and now you are in collections for debt you have forgot about. Yes, it happens. Work out a payment plan and boost your chances of obtaining that home loan.
3. Pay down your debt. Make sense, right? Sometimes it can be obtainable within a month or two.
4. Shop around. Not all mortgage companies are the same. Some will deny while others will approve. Look at 3 mortgage lenders and compare interest rates and approval processes.

Once you are approved, you are ready to start your home search. Contact me and let the fun begin!

If you’re planning to sell in 2021, there’s no better time than now to prepare your home for the market…even if your ideal listing timeline is months away. ⁣
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Here’s why: ⁣
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1. Life is unpredictable. If last year taught us anything, it’s that plans change. Getting your home ready now means you’ll be ready to list your home no matter what life throws at you.⁣
2. It’ll reduce your stress. It’s no fun to frantically get your home ready to sell -- the cleaning, decluttering, and repairing alone can be overwhelming. With time on your side, it's totally manageable.⁣
3. You won’t miss anything. In a seller's market, you can sell a home in lived-in condition usually without a problem. But in a buyer's market, repairs can make or break a sale. Getting your home ready little by little means every inch of your home will be in top-notch shape the second your listing goes live.⁣
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Looking for a real estate professional to help you sell this year? I’d love to -- shoot me a message and let’s begin the conversation.

Downtown, historic, master-planned, pedestrian, rural, and suburbs -- we all have our favorites. I’d love to know yours! ⁣
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What’s your favorite neighborhood in our area (either because you call it home or because it’s your favorite out-for-a-drive destination)?⁣
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Share in the comments below and tell why you love it so!

Wondering how you can increase cash flow this year (I mean, honestly, who isn’t?). ⁣
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Have you considered investing in real estate? It’s not difficult to get started, and the barrier to entry is low! ⁣
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Here are three reasons you should consider it:⁣
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1. You'll have that cash flow you wanted. When you’re the landlord, those rent payments come to you every month -- and that’s a really great feeling.⁣
2. Your property will typically Increase in value. In a few short years, you’ll be able to sell your property for considerably more than you paid for it -- the average annual appreciation ranges from 3-5%.⁣
3. You'll own an improvable asset. With a little elbow grease, you can improve your property, increasing curb appeal and value. ⁣
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Add these reasons to the historically-low interest rates floating around, and now is a great time to consider an investment property. Have questions? Send me a message and let’s connect.⁣

You’d think with more time at home I’d be motivated to stay on top of housework. If only it were that easy, huh? ⁣
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The good news is there’s no need for any of us to be in a constant cleaning frenzy. Here's what Good Housekeeping recommends be done weekly:⁣
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• Change sheets⁣
• Dust surfaces and furniture⁣
• Vacuum and mop floors⁣
ª Wash towels⁣
ª Clean bathrooms⁣
• Toss expired food⁣
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Owning a home is a lot of work but totally worth it! If you’re looking to buy and need a realtor you can trust like a friend, send me a message. I’d love to connect.

Today’s the day — closing! ⁣

After months of looking and weeks of paperwork, today is the day you take full ownership of your home (and say goodbye to all those creepy drive-bys you’ve been doing. It’s okay — we all do them).⁣

So what actually happens around the mysterious closing table? Here’s the rundown on what to expect:⁣

Who will be there? Situations vary, but you can expect some combination of these folks: Buyer (that’s you!), seller, real estate agents, closing agent/attorney, mortgage lender, and title company rep. ⁣

What will I do? Stretch those fingers and get ready to sign, sign, sign! At closing, the seller will sign ownership of the property over to you, and you’ll receive the keys to your new home.⁣

What do I need to bring? Your agent will tell you exactly what to bring, but definitely a photo ID and any closing costs you owe in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. ⁣

The closing process is a simple ending to an always-exciting process. If you’re ready to buy and reserve your own seat around the closing table — I’d love to help.

You’re so close to closing on your new home. Cue the cheers and the confetti! ⁣
You made it through the inspection (whew) — and it’s time for just a few final details: the survey, the title, and the coveted clear-to-close. So what exactly are those? I’m so glad you asked.⁣

Survey: A survey verifies the boundaries of the property you’re purchasing. Typically required by a lender (and paid for by the buyer), an up-to-date survey comes in handy if you’re planning to install a fence or a pool or expand the driveway.⁣

Title Search: After you’ve settled in, the last thing you want is a disgruntled relative claiming ownership of your new home. A title search and title insurance protect that from happening. ⁣

Clear to close: Clear to close is the two-thumbs-up every buyer wants to hear —it’s like a gold star on your paper. One of the final steps before your loan is funded, a clear to close means your lender has signed-off on all documents and issued final approval of your loan.⁣

The home buying process can be complex but broken down into smaller steps — it’s totally doable and super exciting.

BUYING PROCESS STEP 7:

FINANCING PERIOD⁣

Yesterday we talked about the inspection period: now let’s talk about the financing period!⁣

When we go under contract, there is a financing contingency in the terms. This means the agreement is contingent upon the buyer's ability to get financing on the home.⁣

There is a set period of time that you will need to apply for a loan and obtain one. This contingency will protect the buyer from losing their escrow deposit if they are not approved for a loan.⁣

It’s very important not to make any big purchases, open a new credit card, or make any job changes during your real estate transaction: any of these activities can alter your qualifications for a loan.⁣

Once the lender has officially approved all documentation required to fund the loan, we will receive the clear to close and get closing scheduled!

BUYING PROCESS STEP 6:

INSPECTIONS⁣

Siri, call my inspector and insurance agent!⁣

During the inspection period (typically 7-15 days), the buyer has the right to hire a professional to inspect the condition of the home. The inspection will uncover any issues in the home that would have otherwise been unknown.⁣

I highly recommend you schedule all inspections immediately and get in contact with your insurance agent as well. This way, if we need to negotiate any repairs we can get that taken care of before the inspection period ends. The inspection period is basically the only time you can back out of the contract without repercussions. ⁣

If you are financing the home, you are required by the lender to have home insurance. Typically, the insurance company will require an inspection is done - so it is never a good idea to waive the home inspection.⁣

The standard home inspector's report will cover the condition of the home's heating system; central air conditioning system; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulations; walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components. ⁣
You will receive a written report of the inspection. ⁣

Keep in mind that it is always a good idea to be present at the inspections: this way you’ll have the opportunity to ask the inspector any questions.⁣

BUYING PROCESS STEP 5:

UNDER CONTRACT!⁣

The seller has accepted our offer, and we are officially under contract!⁣

Before closing day, there are a few important deadlines and items that we need to check off the list.⁣

1) Inspection Period
2) Financing Period
3) Closing Period

Want more information?
Comment below and let me help you through the process!

BUYING PROCESS STEP 4:
MAKING AN OFFER (that they can't refuse!)⁣

So, you've found the ONE and it's time to call up the sellers and tell them we want it!⁣

Here's some information I'll need to write up the offer:⁣
• Pre-qualification letter or proof of funds:⁣
You've already got this ready to go of course!⁣
• Offer price: ⁣
I will help you determine the property's fair market value⁣
• Escrow deposit:⁣
Usually 1-2% of the purchase price.⁣
• Financing amount:⁣
What percentage of the loan are you financing, and how much you are putting down⁣
• Closing date: If getting a mortgage, this is typically 30-45 days from acceptance of the offer. This will be⁣ the day the keys are handed from seller to buyer⁣
• Inspection period: Typically the buyer shall have 15 days, unless ⁣otherwise stated on the contract, to⁣ perform inspections on the home and terminate or renegotiate the contract if the inspection comes back ⁣unacceptable. ⁣

Nothing is more frustrating than finding the perfect home for you, and then finding out that someone else thinks it's the perfect home for them too! ⁣
However, this situation does happen in our market. There are many different techniques we can use to make our offer as attractive to the sellers as possible.
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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS STEP 3:

STRATEGIC SEARCHING⁣

Once you receive emails through the MLS, you'll have access to a portal where you can mark homes as a favorite, a possibility, or discard. ⁣

This will help you to stay organized online, and to notify me of which listings are your favorites and least favorites.⁣

Once you see a home you like online, you will let me know so I can set up a showing for us. Often times we will set up a few showings back to back so we can knock them out at once.⁣

THE BUYING PROCESS STEP 2:

START THE SEARCH!

Once you've got your finances in order, the fun of looking for the perfect home begins! ⁣

I will set you up on an automatic search through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is the database that Realtors use to list and search for homes.⁣

The moment a home that fits your search criteria is listed for sale, it will be sent to your email inbox. (This is much faster than you will receive through Zillow or other websites).⁣

One of the first questions I ask my buyers when we begin the search:
What are your must-haves, and what is negotiable?⁣

Figuring this out ahead of time will help everyone be on the same page with what we're looking for and what the deal-breakers are, act quickly and confidently when the perfect home hits the market, and save a ton of time and emotional energy.⁣

If white kitchens, marble countertops, and spa bathrooms are the first words tumbling out, it’s time to take a step back. See, there are the must-haves and the like-to-haves.⁣

Must-haves are the features of your new home that no decorator or designer in the world could change given all the money in the world. ⁣

Here are some must-haves to keep in mind that you will not be able to change: ⁣
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1. Location. That 5-digit zip code ain’t gonna budge.⁣
2. Lot. That steep drop off will always be, well, steep.⁣
3. Price. That mortgage payment is your new bestie.⁣

While the like-to-haves shine and sparkle, it’s the must-haves that help me find you the home of your dreams. ⁣

THE BUYING PROCESS STEP 1: FINANCES⁣

FIRST, GET PRE-APPROVED!⁣

Having a pre-approval or proof of funds (if you're buying in cash) is the first step of purchasing a home for anybody and everybody. ⁣

We need that documentation to accompany any offer we make on a home. Otherwise, you could miss out on the perfect home.⁣

For proof of funds, you'll just need to give your bank a call.⁣

For a pre-approval letter, you'll need to talk to a mortgage lender.⁣

The lender you get your initial pre-approval letter from does not have to be the one you ultimately get a mortgage from - so don't stress about that just yet.⁣

If you need help and are looking to buy a property, contact me at 828-962-2380 and let's begin the great homebuying journey!

Thinking through new habits you’d like to embrace in 2021? ⁣
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While there’s no secret sauce (sigh), here are some tidbits of wisdom that have helped me along the way:⁣
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• Start small. Really. There’s nothin’ like getting a few quick wins under your belt to boost your motivation.⁣
• Consider stacking. Already have one habit on autopilot? Stack a new one right before it and ride the momentum.⁣
• Embrace imperfection. You’ll miss a day...and that’s okay. Shake it off and move on.⁣
• Tell a buddy. Ask a friend to check in on you over text to see how you’re doing.⁣
• Find a podcast. There’s a podcast for that! Grab inspiration and coaching to stay focused -- listen during your daily commute, while waiting to get the kids, or while walking the dog.⁣
• Take a day off. Every.single.day can feel overwhelming. Take a regular “day off.” It may just make you realize how much progress you’re making.⁣
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What tips and hacks have helped you embrace new habits? I wanna learn from you—share in the comments below!

Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to everyone! Please be kind, stay safe and smile!

One of my favorite things is grabbing a chunky blanket, pouring up a cup of hot cocoa, and queuing up a classic holiday movie.⁣
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Stop by my house anytime in the next few weeks and chances are you’ll see one of these movies playing on my big screen:⁣
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What's my list missing? Share your must-see holiday movie in the comments below.

Has your property been on the market for longer than 60 days? The longer your property sits on the market, the less likely it will sell for the asking price. Here are some reasons why that may be the case.

Are you tired of waiting? Call me and let Hedrick Redfearn Street Real Estate discuss options and possibilities to get your property sold.

As always ~ Be Kind, Stay Safe, and Smile!

I love getting to know my clients during their real estate transaction. Here is a fun way to get to know who I am. Can you guess which one is the lie?
Tell me something interesting about you or an interesting story about a home buying experience.

Happy Friday!

As always~ Be Kind, Stay Safe, and Smile!

Did you know?

Share your favorite Christmas cookie recipe or just your favorite kind! I LOVE the original chocolate chip cookies. They are a family favorite!

Check out these winter maintenance tips!

Why pay for an investment that you are not able to benefit from? Stop renting and buy! Most people renting can afford to buy and just do not realize it. Give me a call and let me help you get started on the home buying process!
[email protected]
828-962-2380

Why pay for an investment that you are not able to benefit from? Stop renting and buy! Most people renting can afford to buy and just do not realize it. Give me a call and let me help you get started on the home buying process!
[email protected]
828-962-2380

Amy Davis - Hedrick Redfearn Street Real Estate now takes appointments on their Page.

There's nothing like a warm cup of hot cocoa- especially when you have endless toppings to choose from!⁣
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Swipe for the ultimate DIY hot cocoa bar shopping list!

Need a little kick in the tail to get up and start knocking out those home improvement projects that have stacked up over the years? Consider it done! ⁣
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Here’s some fresh motivation for this week’s Fix-It Up Friday:⁣
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1. But first, declutter. This is the best thing you can do for your home. Seriously. Every six months. Just do it.⁣
2. Focus on the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms—in that order. If you’re short on time or finances, zero in on these rooms since it’s where you spend the most time.⁣
3. Prioritize projects that hinder day-to-day functionality—think sticky doors, cracked windows, dead outlets, and leaky faucets. Call in the pros when it's beyond your skill set.⁣
4. Fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, and annual color should always make the cut.⁣
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Getting your home looking its best doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. Break it down into small, weekend projects and soon enough, you’ll be on to bigger and better endeavors.⁣
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Tackling home improvements to get your home ready to sell? Send me a message—I’d love to help.

Remember to give to those in need. Make a cookie basket, donate to the local food bank, bring a meal to a neighbor, pick a child or senior on the angel tree. Continue the list of ideas below. Let's spread love this season!

Is selling your home “penciled-in” as one of your 2021 resolutions? ⁣
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If so, take steps now to lighten the load before your home hits the MLS. Here’s how:⁣
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• Make a list of home repairs in order of importance. Been putting them off cause you're not so handy? No worries. Hire a friend to help you to knock ‘em out. Dinner afterward is always appreciated.⁣
• Help buyers find your home easily by replacing (or installing) modern address numbers or plaques.⁣
• Unseasonably warm day? Take advantage of it by pressure washing your driveway and sidewalks.⁣
• Got a few minutes here and there? Grab some trash bags or storage totes and one-by-one clean out drawers, closets, and bookshelves. The less “stuff” you have, the cleaner and more spacious your home will appear.⁣
• What rooms need painting? Look at the days ahead and plan one weekend each month to tackle any painting projects.⁣
• Research agents, check reviews, and ask family and friends for a referral. Go with an agent that others can’t quit talking about!⁣
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If you're planning to sell in 2021, I’d love to meet you, see your home, and help you this spring. Send me a message and let's chat!

Winter is a fantastic season to list your home for sale! Check out these 5 reason you should list your property during the winter.