Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Buying and Selling

  • Safest Cities in Texas

    Buying a Texas home offers a home buyer some of the most diverse options in the country given the sheer size of the state. Whether it’s a sprawling ranch far from civilization or a high tech modern condo in a big city that you are looking for, Texas homebuyers will likely find it in the Lone Star State. If safety is among your top considerations when choosing where to live, there are a number of Texas cities that you may wish to consider such as Plano, Frisco, and McKinney as well as Pearland and Allen. One city, however, continues to rank at the top of the list for Texas homebuyers who are looking for a safe place to live – Sugar Land.

    If you are in the market  to buy a Texas home in Houston or near Houston, and a safe city is at the top of your “must have” list; then Sugar Land, Texas may be a great location to begin your search. Sugar Land has come in as number three on CNN Money and Money magazine’s list of the best cities to live in throughout the entire United States.  This hidden gem also has the distinction of being the fastest growing city in the Houston metro area. Located just 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston in Fort Bend County, Sugar Land grew 158 percent over the last decade, according to U.S. census figures which brings its population to just fewer than 85,000 residents as of 2011.

    Sugar Land is predominately considered an affluent suburb of Houston. Forbes magazine named Sugar Land one of three “Top Suburbs to Live Well” in the Houston area in 2008. As of 2011, the median family income was $113,261 according to the U.S. census. As a largely planned city, Texas homebuyers will find a number of communities that boast golf courses, country clubs and other luxury amenities. Along with these community amenities, buying a Texas home in Sugar Land offers residents shopping opportunities at First Colony Mall as well as entertainment and dining at Sugar Land Town Square. In addition, Clements High School in Sugar Land has been ranked in the top ten high schools in Texas by Texas Monthly magazine.

    Currently, both residents and commercial enterprises are centered in the south and southeast areas of Sugar Land; however, planned communities are growing rapidly throughout all of Sugar Land. In the south east of Sugar Land is where you will find First Colony, the largest and oldest of the planned communities. Average home prices in Sugar Land are over $300,000, although you can find condos or townhomes for less than that. Custom built homes in some of the more affluent communities, such as Riverstone, can easily run over $1 million. Buying a Texas home in Sugar Land will likely mean purchasing a relatively new home; however, your new home will be in a setting with lush landscaping and lots of green space. With plenty of community activities, Sugar Land is a great location for families. Best of all, your home will be in one of the safest cities in Texas!

  • Buying a Home in a Seller’s Market

    For most people, a home purchase is the single most expensive purchase they make during their lifetime. For this reason, it is a good idea to understand the ins and outs of buying real estate as well as your current market conditions before you begin your search for a new home. Toward that goal, the first thing that a prospective buyer should consider is whether the market is a seller’s market or a buyer’s market at the time he or she wishes to make a home purchase. If you are that buyer, and you are searching during a seller’s market, your search may be a bit more difficult; however, with an experienced real estate agent assisting you, and a basic understanding of the market you will be living in your dream home in no time.

    To give a simplified explanation, the real estate market is for the most part a perfect example of the economic principals of supply and demand. When there is an abundance of supply, and little demand, it is a buyer’s market. On the other hand, when supply (in this case the inventory of homes) is low but demand for homes is high, we have a seller’s market. Buying real estate during a seller’s market is by no means impossible; however, you need to understand the challenges and obstacles you may face in order to make the most of your home purchase in a seller’s market.

    Inventory

    The first challenge you will likely face in a seller’s market is a low inventory of available homes. This is where working with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent becomes essential. Your agent has tools that allow him or her to know the moment a property comes on the market. Sometimes, your agent may even know before the home is officially listed on the market for sale. This saves time while increasing your options in a market where options are limited.

    Price

    In a seller’s market, home prices go up because sellers know they can get more for their property due to the limited supply. This, however, does not mean that you should overpay for your home purchase. The real estate market is notoriously fickle. A seller’s market today can be a buyer’s market tomorrow. As such, the market value of a property can change significantly in a relatively short period of time. By working with your real estate agent, you can use “comparables”, or similar homes in the area that have recently sold or that are on the market, to determine the true value of a home you wish to purchase.

    Negotiating

    Negotiating is frequently the key to buying real estate in a seller’s market. Bidding wars are common in this type of market, meaning that you need to be prepared to win the war if you want the home. One advantage you can give yourself is to get pre-approved for a mortgage by a lender. By doing this, the seller will be reassured that the deal will not fall through because of your inability to obtain financing. You may also need to be more flexible when buying real estate in a seller’s market. For example, you may need to be prepared to offer a larger earnest money deposit, move up or back the date of closing, waive contingencies, or offer to pay some of the closing costs in order to close the deal. Because your real estate agent knows the market, and how to negotiate a deal, it is crucial that you depend on your agent to guide you during the negotiation process.

    Though a seller’s market may make the home purchase process a bit more challenging, an experienced real estate agent can help you level the playing field to ensure that you find and purchase your dream home.

  • 5 Fantastic Destinations to Buy a Vacation Home

    There’s nothing like taking a deep breath and embracing the rest and relaxation of a weekend getaway. When you own your own vacation home, you can enjoy the convenience of always having a place to go when you need a quick break from the real world. Unlike a stuffy hotel room, your own home is where you can feel comfortable kicking back and unwinding during your stay.

    Finding the perfect escape is an important part of buying a vacation home. With so many great spots to choose from, you want to do some research to ensure that you’ll find the right destination for your family and personal preferences.  To start, here are five great picks for your vacation home search.

    Laguna Beach, California – One of the most desirable places to buy a home is nearby the waves of the ocean. In Laguna Beach, California, not only will you get all the urban amenities of a thriving city, you will also be nestled along the amazing shorelines of Southern California. From beachfront houses to luxurious condos spread out over just 8.8 square miles of land, residents of this city can make regular trips to the beach to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. For those who want to be near the coast but would rather not invest in an ultra luxury property, there is a wide range of price points from which to choose when it comes to Laguna Beach’s vacation home real estate options.

    Naples, Florida – At the other end of the nation, Naples, Florida offers some of the most incredible vacation home real estate in the world. An idyllic beachfront community, Naples is a chosen vacation destination among snowbirds from all over the East Coast. With warm temperatures year-round, over 10 miles of sandy beaches, and world class amenities, Naples offers a luxurious hideaway to turn to whenever you need to escape the freezing cold.

    Jackson Hole, Wyoming – If you love national parks and the serene feel of being by the mountainside, turn your focus to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The crisp air and scenic views of the Teton Range can help clear your mind of all the bustle from your everyday life. With Jackson Hole Airport, Wyoming’s largest commercial airport, located right inside the valley, your vacation home will be an easy flight away. Additionally, with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park located nearby, you’ll be surrounded by some of the nation’s best outdoor activities. Also known as a tax haven, you can talk to your real estate agent about the many tax advantages of buying a vacation home in Wyoming.

    Lake Tahoe, California – If you love adventures, Lake Tahoe, which spans both California and Nevada is the place for you. With skiing in the winter and lake sports in the summer, you always have a reason to make your escape to a vacation home in this area. There are also a number of casinos and dining options in the area to keep you entertained once the sun goes down as well.

    Scottsdale, Arizona – Golf courses, sunshine, and luxury await you in a Scottsdale, Arizona. Boasting over 325 days of sunshine each year, Scottsdale is a wonderful year round vacation destination with an array of amenities ranging from hiking trails to luxury shopping and dining opportunities. What’s more, the cost of living in Arizona is relatively low compared to other housing markets in the nation. Offering some of the most affordable real estate options in the U.S., Scottsdale is an excellent place to invest in a vacation home.

    Your next vacation home should offer a relaxing change of pace from the daily grind. Regardless of whether you prefer the beachside, a mountain town, or the golf courses in the Southwest, these top spots are fantastic options for buying a vacation home.

  • Buying a Historic Property in Atlanta, GA

    When new homebuyers think about purchasing Atlanta, Georgia real estate, they often picture the city’s beautiful historic homes. There are plenty of historic properties among Atlanta real estate listings, but homebuyers should keep several considerations in mind before they go house hunting for an older home. Keep reading to find out what you should know about historic Atlanta, Georgia real estate.

    What Makes a Home Historic?
    Even if homeowners feel that their homes have significant historic value, they cannot independently designate their homes as a historic property. Instead, a property must be named a historic home by the National Register of Historic Places or by a local historic society. In order to be considered a historical home, the National Register of Historic Places usually requires that the house is more than fifty years old. However, in individual states, the age requirement for a house can vary drastically, so much so that even a 100 or 150 year old home may not qualify as historic. National and local regulators typically also consider a home’s architecture and structure, as well as whether the home is the site of a historically significant event or has ties to an important figure.

    What Regulations Should You Know About?
    Each state has a unique set of regulations and incentives for people who own historic homes. In many cases, once a home is designated as a historic property, the owners will be required to follow guidelines that states and organizations put in place to help preserve the integrity of those homes. If you plan to renovate your home in the near future, you will most likely need to get special permits in order to do so. Many restrictions require that you don’t add additional square footage to your home or change the nature of the home’s roof, windows and shutters.

    While these regulations can be somewhat restrictive, there are some perks to seeking out a historic home in the Atlanta real estate listings. In addition to enjoying the beauty of one of these houses, you may also be eligible for tax credits and loans that come with lower interest rates. These monetary incentives are provided to encourage homeowners to maintain these important properties and contribute to the value of the historic structures.

    What Kind of Historic Home Can You Find in Atlanta?
    Atlanta real estate listings are filled with historic houses that have been modernized so that residents can enjoy comfortable living. For example, a lovely home on 1217 Converse Drive NE was built in 1917 and features four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The home was first built as a camp building for orphans, but has been updated to fit with modern requirements and comforts. However, the home still has many of its original features, such as pine flooring and ceilings and walnut walls. With large porches, decks and a great deal of outdoor space that borders Peachtree Creek, this historic home is an ideal fit for anyone who loves having the great outdoors as their backdrop.

    While there are plenty of excellent options that will come up when you search for Atlanta, Georgia real estate, consider investing in a historic home. Not only do these properties come along with several perks, but they also have a great deal of beauty and historical value that is priceless.

  • Buying a Home in Phoenix – New v. Resale Homes

    If you are in the market to purchase a home in the Phoenix area, one of the many decisions you will need to make is whether to purchase a new construction home or a resale home. The Phoenix real estate market typically offers a wide variety of both options from which to choose. Taking some time to consider the pros and cons of both options may assist you in making the decision.
    Resale homes for sale in Phoenix offer a number of advantages beginning with an established neighborhood. When you purchase an existing home, there will be no surprises after you move in. Relevant crime statistics, school test scores and other demographic information should be readily available for an established neighborhood. In addition, purchasing a resale home dramatically decreases the possibility of a delay in the closing date or any last minute problems with the home being ready for occupancy. If your situation leaves no room for flexibility on the move in date then a resale home may be a better option. An existing home may also have more “character” and “charm” than a new construction. On the other hand, that “character” may also equate to costly repairs and upkeep if the home is more than a few years old.
    Phoenix also offers homebuyers the option to purchase a new construction home, which comes with advantages and disadvantages. A new home typically comes with a new home warranty, meaning that virtually everything in the home is under warranty when you move in to the property. Of course, the flip side to that is that there may be some “kinks” in the home that will have to be worked out after you move in as well. Another plus to purchasing a new construction home is that you will be able to choose things such as flooring, cabinets, and countertops. Even if you are not purchasing a custom home among the Phoenix homes for sale, you will still likely be able to opt for upgrades to the interior of your home such as granite countertops or high end fixtures if you elect to do so. Unless you can afford a completely custom built home, chances are that your home will look very much like your neighbors on the outside if you opt for new construction. If all goes as planned, a new home should appreciate significantly in the first few years as the neighborhood blooms and establishes itself. For this reason, you may have more appreciation in a new construction home than in a resale home in the first five years. This, however, does involve some risk because there is no guarantee that the neighborhood will flourish as expected.
    When considering the selection of Phoenix homes for sale, home buyers will need to decide whether to purchase an existing home or a new construction, and this decision often comes down to personal preference. Nonetheless, understanding some of the pros and cons should put you in a better position to make a decision that you won’t regret. A professional Arizona real estate agent who is experienced in servicing the Phoenix area can be a great resource for homebuyers who would like more guidance.

  • Waterfront Homes in Minneapolis

    Minneapolis, Minnesota is known as the “City of Lakes” for a reason. Its twenty lakes and wetlands are spread throughout the area. Along with numerous lakes, the Mississippi River also runs through the middle of Minneapolis as do various creeks and waterfalls, many of which are connected by parkways that make up the Chain of Lakes. Not surprisingly, Minneapolis real estate listings typically include a wide variety of homes on or near a body of water.  If you are looking for a waterfront property for your next home purchase, Minneapolis may be your dream location to live, work and play.

    Along with the neighboring city of St. Paul, Minneapolis makes up a little more than half of the population in the “Twin Cities.” Minneapolis itself is the largest city in Minnesota with a population of around 400,000 people. Together with St. Paul, the Twin Cities metropolitan area is home to over three million people. The City of Minneapolis covers approximately 60 square miles with almost four square miles of that being water (of some sort). If you love the outdoors, Minneapolis offers outdoor recreation all year round. During the warm summer months, kayaking and boating trips down the Mississippi River or one of Minneapolis’s many streams is a popular option as well as an excellent way to see the downtown skyline. Fall in Minneapolis brings with it numerous outdoor festivals as well as the Twin Cities Marathon. Cold temperatures and snow mark the winter months in Minneapolis which make ice skating and ice fishing on one of the many lakes a popular pastime. In the spring, take a walk through the Minneapolis Sculpture Gardens or around one of the many lakes and watch the flowers as they start to bloom.

    If you are looking for homes in Minneapolis that offer waterfront living you have several options. Over 15 distinct neighborhoods offer Minneapolis real estate listings along the banks of the Mississippi River. In addition, several communities contain lakefront property for sale. Minneapolis real estate listings in Linden Hills frequently have lakefront options because Linden Hills spans not one, but two different lakes. Both Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet are found in the Linden Hills neighborhood. Homes in Linden Hills are predominantly single family bungalows and Tudor style homes with prices at the higher end of the scale for Minneapolis. As of July 2013, homes in Linden Hills average around $350,000.

    If your search for homes in Minneapolis is geared more toward an urban vibe, the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood offers waterfront living along the Mississippi River as well as proximity to both downtown Minneapolis and the famous commercial district known as “Dinkytown.” Housing in the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood is geared toward university students and faculty, meaning you will find apartment buildings, condominiums, converted loft space, and some single family housing. Home prices in Marcy-Holmes are much more budget friendly than other areas of Minneapolis with average prices matching those for Minneapolis as a whole. As of July 2013, median home values in Marcy-Holmes were around $200,000.

    Finally, if you have your heart set on lakefront living but wish to remain on a tight budget, consider the Keewaydin area found on the southeast side of Minneapolis. “Keewaydin” is Ojibwe for “northwest wind,” or “the home wind.” The majority of Lake Nokomis is found within the Keewaydin area. Homes in the area include two to four bedroom bungalow style homes that tend to run just above the city average in price.

    For additional information regarding your Minneapolis home search, consider reaching out to an experienced real estate agent who is familiar with the Minneapolis real estate market.

  • Buying a Condo in Chicago

    Buying a condo in Chicago, Illinois can be a fun and rewarding experience. The “windy city” contains condos for any budget and any lifestyle, so if you look hard enough, you will more than likely find what you are looking for among the Chicago condos for sale.

    A condominium offers a number of advantages as well as disadvantages for a home owner. On the plus side, buying a condo in Chicago allows you to own your home without all of the upkeep and maintenance that a traditional single family home requires. Typically, when you are part of a condominium association you will not have to worry about things like lawn care or upkeep of common areas. You may also have access to the same amenities that are often found in an apartment complex such as a swimming pool, gym, business center, or clubhouse. Again, all of these common areas will be maintained by the condominium association. Unlike living in an apartment, however, you have the ability to make the space your own. You may do things like paint the walls, change fixtures, or upgrade appliances to truly make the home reflect you and your family.

    On the flip side, you will need to adhere to the rules and bylaws of the condominium association with regard to what you can do to your property. For example, you may not be allowed to paint the outside of your home a particular color if the bylaws prohibit it. In addition, all of the services that the condo association provides are paid for by monthly dues paid by the condo association members. Depending on where you decide to purchase your condo, the monthly association dues may be different and will be subject to change.

    Chicago condos that are listed on the market for sale include both new and resale condos and reflect almost any architectural style from modern to traditional or from luxurious to modest. When most people think of a condominium they envision an apartment-like space. However, Chicago condos for sale come in many shapes and sizes. Whether you are looking for a luxury condo in a high-rise building or are more interested in finding an affordable living space to own, Chicago offers a wide range of condos for sale.  You can find ultra-chic condos in Chicago that have been converted from old warehouses into lofts at a reasonable price, and for a premium, you can live in a penthouse overlooking the Chicago skyline. There are also a number of condominiums in Chicago that actually look like single family homes that are joined together. These condos tend to have more green space and more traditional landscaping. By taking some time to narrow down you search by deciding exactly what you are looking for in your Chicago condo (as well as how much you can afford), you should be able to find the perfect condo for you in no time.

  • Marketing Your Home for Sale

    Selling your home can be a time consuming and frustrating process without the help of an experienced listing agent. Simply listing your home for sale is easy enough; however, the key to actually selling your home is typically a successful marketing campaign. This is where a skilled and knowledgeable real estate agent comes in handy. Your real estate agent may utilize a number of different marketing techniques to ensure that your listing reaches the widest possible audience which will dramatically increase the likelihood of a prompt and profitable sale.

    Multiple Listing Service

    One of the biggest advantages to working with an experienced listing agent is that your agent will enter your listing into the regional multiple listing service, or MLS, as soon as you decide to list your home. Each MLS is put together and managed by local real estate professionals who come together and collaborate with one another in order to keep an accurate and structured database with consistent information about the homes for sale within their area. The MLS is a database that is only accessible to licensed real estate agents who are members of the specific regional association. By including your listing in the MLS database by the power of your agent, other agents in your area who represent prospective buyers will be able to quickly access your home’s listing. That, in turn, will increase the traffic through your home which should ultimately result in a sale.

    Open House

    An open house is a way for buyers’ agents and the general public to preview your home. When working with an agent, you should first expect to have an open house for local agents to view the property in order to see if it is compatible with the needs of any of their clients. Soon thereafter, you will have to hold an open house for prospective buyers who want to view your home as well as curious passersby and neighbors.  While anyone can put on an open house, an experienced listing agent knows exactly how to stage your home. Also, home buyers tend to feel less pressured when the home’s owner is not there. Your real estate agent will also have the necessary network to get out the word about the open house, ensuring a maximum turnout.

    Advertising

    Selling a home works on much the same principals as selling anything else – the more people who know about the home, the better your chance of finding a suitable buyer. Trying to advertise your home yourself can be costly and ineffective. Even something as seemingly simple as photographing your home can become time consuming and frustrating if you have never done it before. Your agent, however, already has an advertising system that likely includes avenues such as the newspaper, internet and even television or radio that will maximize your home’s exposure. Moreover, your listing agent will more likely have a better idea of how to photograph the property so your home will be shown in the best light – literally.

    Marketing your home for sale without the assistance of an experienced listing agent can be an arduous and futile effort. By depending on an experienced real estate agent you will increase your home’s exposure and will likely have an offer to purchase in no time.

  • Where Can You Find a Low Key Neighborhood in San Francisco?

    As residents of the city know, San Francisco is one of the country’s most desirable places to live. If you’re planning on buying San Francisco real estate, you’re setting the groundwork to live in a city that’s fast-paced and bustling. However, there are some homebuyers who want to own San Francisco real estate, but are looking for a more laid-back and low-key lifestyle. These types of homebuyers should look into purchasing a home in Potrero Hill, a neighborhood known for its suburban atmosphere. Keep reading to learn more about San Francisco condos and real estate in this area. Read about San Francisco real estate listings in Protrero Hill, a low key neighborhood at the center of SF.

    About Potrero Hill

    Even though Potrero Hill is located in eastern San Francisco, central to the heart of the city, many residents say that the neighborhood has a slightly removed, suburban feel to it.

    Unlike many other areas of the city, Potrero Hill doesn’t contain a high concentration of tourist attractions, so the neighborhood feels more quiet and residential and has less noise and visitor traffic.

    Residents can also enjoy the superb climate and scenery of Potrero Hill.  Because it is located in east San Francisco, the neighborhood isn’t directly exposed to the cold winds and fog that come in from the Pacific Ocean. As a result, this neighborhood is one of the sunnier areas of San Francisco, making it a highly desirable place to live. The city also boasts picturesque views of the downtown San Francisco skyline that residents and visitors frequently rave about.

    Things To Do in Potrero Hill

    Even though Potrero Hill may not be home to some of San Francisco’s major tourist attractions, the neighborhood does give residents plenty of options for entertainment and activities. Potrero Hill features a popular casual shopping area on 18th street, between Texas and Connecticut streets. This shopping drag includes a bookstore, florists, home décor shops, vintage clothing stores and a variety of cafes.

    Potrero Hill also has a number of recreational spaces and cultural attractions including McKinley Park, the Potrero Hill Recreation Center, Jackson Playground, the Potrero Hill Neighborhood house and the SomArts Cultural Center. The area also boasts a healthy selection of nighttime entertainment, including the live music venue Bottom of the Hill, the waterfront eatery The Ramp and the sports bars Bloom’s Saloon and Connecticut Yankee.

    Types of Homes in Potrero Hill

    Homebuyers looking for real estate in Potrero Hill will find plenty of attractive San Francisco condos to purchase. These condos typically range from the $600,000’s for smaller one or two bedroom condos all the way up to the million dollar price range for larger, luxury properties. Many of the luxury condos in this area take advantage of the neighborhood’s attractive views and feature gorgeous rooftop decks. Quite a few high-end condos also come with private parking and some green space, such as a small garden, giving residents a chance to make good use of the neighborhood’s abundant sunshine and good weather.

    Buying a home in Potrero Hill is a great option for people who are shopping around for San Francisco condos that offer the comforts of suburban life while still being located in the city. Take advantage of the beauty and convenience of this neighborhood by considering San Francisco real estate in Protrero Hill.

  • Extravagant Luxury Homes in Tribeca – Living in Lower Manhattan

    If you are looking for luxury homes in New York City you have to check out the Tribeca area. Located in lower Manhattan, Tribeca is actually an acronym for “Triangle Below Canal Street.” The Tribeca triangle is bounded by Canal Street, West Street, Broadway, and Vesey Street. Just to give you some history, the area was one of the first residential neighborhoods in New York City; however, by the mid-19th century it had become a commercial hub. During the 1970s many of the large buildings that once housed commercial ventures were turned into loft space by artists who were attracted to the area. During the last two decades of the 20th century, the Tribeca area was transformed into an upper scale residential neighborhood and now houses some of the most luxurious New York City property listings available. In fact, in 2006, Forbes magazine ranked Tribeca’s 10013 zip code New York City’s most expensive zip code to live in. If you are looking for luxury homes in New York City, Tribeca is a must see.

    This part of lower Manhattan remains one of the most sought after areas of New York City. Famous names such as Robert DeNiro, Meryl Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Gwyneth Paltrow have called Tribeca home at one point or another. Needless to say, it is hardly unusual to find yourself living next to a well-known artist, politician, or movie star if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford New York City property in Tribeca. Those who live in this upscale community can enjoy excellent schools, plenty of mass transit options, low crime rate, and waterfront access – all of which comes at a premium price. Finding New York City property in Tribeca for under $1 million is a challenge. Most people looking for property in Tribeca are prepared to spend upwards of $5 million-and if you are looking for a premium location in Tribeca, price tags of $15-$20 million can be expected.

    The vast majority of the luxury New York homes found in Tribeca are expansive loft spaces that have been converted to some of the most luxurious living spaces in New York City. As of August 2013, you can expect to pay around $2000 per square foot for a typical property located in Tribeca. Depending on exactly where the property is located, as well as what custom features and amenities come with the property, a homeowner can expect to pay anywhere from $2 million to well over $5 million for a two bedroom, two bath condominium. If your dream home in New York City includes a massive space with numerous bedrooms, expect to pay over $10 million in Tribeca. Most properties available in Tribeca are ultra-modern lofts that offer incredible views, high-end amenities, and the finest finishes available.

    If you are fortunate enough to be looking for luxury homes in New York City your first stop should be Tribeca, offering true luxury living right in the heart of the Big Apple.