CDD vs HOA: What’s the Difference?

by Barbara Oskam

Home buyers, especially first-time home buyers, have many things to consider. One important question for home buyers: Does the home you’re interested in require CDD or HOA fees? These fees can affect your monthly payment, and there might also be community restrictions to consider. So what’s the difference between CDD and HOA?

What Is a CDD?

A CDD (or Community Development District) is basically a type of government entity that provides infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and amenities to specific planned unit development (PUD).

Most planned communities have a CDD, which means they normally have desirable amenities, possibly activity staff and community sponsored events. We have several wonderful planned CDD communities in Florida.

A CDD allows the developer to finance the costs with a CDD bond through tax-free municipal bonds. This is basically a loan. That “loan” is repaid by the homeowners in the community, with each property charged an annual amount. The CDD shows as an assessment on the homeowners’ tax bill each year and is collected by the county tax collector.

Usually a portion of the CDD collected is the actual bond repayment, and the balance is the continued Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of the community. The bond portion has an end date similar to a mortgage. Make sure to inquire when the bond will be paid off, because that will leave you with only the O&M portion to pay.

What Is a HOA?

Each HOA (or Homeowners Association) can vary a bit based on the community or subdivision, but an HOA fee is basically a predetermined set fee that each homeowner in the community pays monthly, quarterly, or annually to help maintain the community. In an HOA, a homeowner is also subject to certain Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), which outline what a homeowner may or may not do with the property.

If the home you’re looking at is in a community that has both CDD and HOA: The Homeowners Association deals with things like the overall condition of the neighborhoods and ensures the covenants and restrictions are adhered to regarding the appearance of the homes in the community.
If your subdivision has only an HOA: In this case, the HOA is there to make sure assets like the pool, playgrounds, and common areas are well maintained, in addition to making sure the CC&Rs are upheld by the residents.

In an HOA community, fines may be issued to homeowners who don’t abide by the CC&Rs, and some communities may even place liens against homes for broken rules and unpaid fines. Make sure to review the Sellers Property Disclosure to find out if the home you’re interested in, has this particular fee.

Keep in mind that homeowners pay CDD and/or Homeowners Association fees in addition to whatever mortgage payment they may have, so it’s important to factor them in (i.e., to find out exactly how what they are and how much they cost) when calculating “how much house” you can afford. Despite the extra expense, these types of neighborhoods can be very desirable due to the lifestyle they offer, but they might not be a good fit for everyone. Make sure to ask questions about CDD and HOA fees up front before making a buying decision.

Home buying • August 26, 2022

Insider Tips to Buying a Home in Today’s Market

by Barbara Oskam

It’s always hard to predict the future, especially with the housing market. But one thing is for sure – real estate remains a sound investment. If you’re looking for your dream home, here are some tips to help set you up for success and guide you through this buying season.

Assess Your Financial Health
Before you fall in love with your dream home, make sure you’re prepared to purchase it. Take a look at your bank accounts along with your monthly spending, so you have a clear and realistic picture of your finances. This will also help you figure out how much you can afford to put toward a down payment. It’s also a good time to check your credit score. Most importantly, you’ll want to meet with a loan officer to get pre-approved, so sellers take you seriously and you’re in a better position to make a strong offer.

Tip: A pre-approval gives you more negotiating power because it tells the seller and real estate agent that your funding is in place and ready to go.

Stay Flexible
Whether it’s time or money, be prepared to give a little more. Say for instance, there’s competition on a house and you’ve been outbid, but you have the flexibility to give the seller the extra time they need to close and move out. That can make a huge difference and could even put you ahead of the competition. Showing the seller that you’re willing to go the extra mile to purchase their home could earn your offer a second glance, especially if it helps make their life easier.

Tip: Try to refrain from asking for favors. This is not the time to ask the seller to give you the refrigerator or washer and dryer, part with playset or paint the front door.

You Found the One
You found a home that meets all or most of your wish list, it’s within your price range and you’ve discovered the neighborhood to make sure it’s right for you. Now’s the time to make an offer. Keep in mind that your opening offer should be based on two things: what you can afford and what you really believe the property is worth. Sure, there’s always a possibility that there will be other offers, regardless of the time of year and the market, but try not to let that influence you to pay more than you should.

Tip: Offer more earnest money. While it’s not always required, it could help you stand out in this competitive housing market. Sellers like buyers that make these good faith deposits because they want assurance that the sale won’t fall through.

Buying a new home is an exciting time and can also be a stressful time, but if you’re prepared and keep these tips in mind, you should find it a much smoother process. And finally getting the keys to your new home makes it all worth it!

Written by Gustavo Gonzalez

Back to school • August 14, 2022

A+ Ideas for Kid-Focused Homework Stations

by Barbara Oskam

Back to school means back to doing homework. While there are many ways to help children develop good self-discipline, one way is to motivate them by creating an inviting space where they can concentrate and stay stress free. You don’t need a lot of space or a dedicated room for a homework station. Whether it’s a desk in your child’s bedroom, the kitchen table or a nook in a hallway, here are five ways to ensure it’s a well-organized area conducive to getting work done.

No-Noise Zone

Do your best to reduce all visual and auditory distractions by turning off televisions and ensuring the homework area is free of electronic devices and toys. Try to locate the homework station where it’s quieter, away from any highly trafficked living spaces.

Bright Idea

Supply good lighting. Choose a space near a window for natural light or provide a desk lamp or overhead illumination so your child doesn’t have to strain to see their work, which can cause fatigue or, worse yet, headaches. Proper lighting is essential to homework efficiency.

Too-Cool-for-School Supplies

Liven up dreary desk supplies by choosing colorful and fun design options, including items like pencils, pens, erasers, paper, crayons, markers and a handy calculator. Stocking up will prevent the all-too-often frantic search for supplies before tackling homework.

Clean Slate

Avoid clutter on your child’s desk/table by establishing an organization system for their supplies. Make it easy for items to be found so kids can stay focused on their homework. When they’re done, returning everything to its proper place is a breeze and cleanliness is restored for another day.

Star Pupil

Celebrate your child’s unique talents by displaying some of their special artwork, assignments and awards near their homework station to make them feel proud and motivate them to continue working hard.

Creating a comfortable environment for homework is a great way to kick off the new school year on the right foot. Find some more smart ideas for creative kid homework stations here: CravingSomeCreativity.com

WhatMomsLove.com

TheSpruce.com

Written by Jennifer McGuire (link)

Real estate • August 3, 2022

What does a sellers agent do?

by Barbara Oskam

Pre-Listing Activities

1. Make appointment with seller for listing presentation

2. Send seller a written or e-mail confirmation of listing appointment and call to confirm

3. Review pre-appointment questions

4. Research all comparable currently listed properties

5. Research sales activity for past 18 months from MLS and public records databases

6. Research Average Days on Market for property of this type, price range, and location

7. Download and review property tax roll information

8. Prepare Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) to establish fair market value

9. Obtain copy of subdivision plat/complex lay-out

10. Research property’s ownership and deed type

11. Research property’s public record information for lot size and dimensions

12. Research and verify legal description

13. Research property’s land use coding and deed restrictions

14. Research property’s current use and zoning

15. Verify legal names of owner(s) in county’s public property records

16. Prepare listing presentation package with above materials

17. Perform exterior Curb Appeal Assessment of subject property

18. Compile a formal file on property

19. Confirm current public schools and explain impact of schools on market value

20. Review listing appointment checklist to ensure all steps and actions are completed

Listing Appointment Presentation

21. Give seller an overview of current market conditions and projections

22. Review agent’s and company’s credentials and accomplishments in the market

23. Present company’s profile and position or niche in the marketplace

24. Present CMA to seller, including comparable properties, sold properties, current listings, and expired listings

25. Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and current market conditions

26. Discuss goals with seller to market effectively

27. Explain market power and benefits of Multiple Listing Service

28. Explain market power of web marketing, IDX and REALTOR.com

29. Explain the work you do behind the scenes and your availability on weekends

30. Explain role in screening for qualified buyers and protect seller from curiosity seekers

31. Present and discuss strategic master marketing plan

32. Explain transaction brokerage relationship

33. Review and explain all clauses in listing contract and addendum, then obtain seller’s signature once property is under listing agreement

34. Review current title information

35. Measure overall and heated square footage

36. Measure interior room sizes

37. Confirm lot size via owner’s copy of certified survey, if available

38. Note all unrecorded property lines, agreements, easements

39. Obtain house plans, if applicable and available

40. Review house plans and make copy

41. Order plat map for retention in property’s listing file

42. Prepare showing instructions for buyers’ agents and showing times with seller

43. Obtain current mortgage loan(s) information: companies & loan account numbers

44. Verify current loan information with lender(s)

45. Check assumability of loan(s) and any special requirements

46. Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options with seller

47. Review current appraisal if available

48. Identify Homeowner Association manager if applicable

49. Verify Homeowner Association Fees with manager—mandatory or optional, plus fees

50. Order copy of Homeowner Association bylaws, if applicable

51. Research electricity availability, supplier’s name, and phone number

52. Calculate average utility usage from last 12 months of bills

53. Research and verify city sewer/septic tank system

54. Calculate average water fees or rates from last 12 months of bills

55. Confirm well status, depth and output from Well Report

56. Natural Gas: Research/verify availability, supplier’s name, and phone number

57. Verify security system, current terms of service and whether owned or leased

58. Verify if seller has transferable Termite Bond

59. Ascertain need for lead-based paint disclosure

60. Prepare detailed list of property amenities and assess market impact

61. Prepare detailed list of property’s inclusions and conveyances with sale

62. Compile list of completed repairs and maintenance items

63. Send vacancy checklist to seller if property is vacant

64. Explain benefits of Homeowner Warranty to seller

65. Assist sellers with completion and submission of Homeowner Warranty Application

66. Place Homeowner Warranty in property file for conveyance at time of sale

67. Have extra key made for lockbox

68. Verify if property has rental units involved.

69. If the property does have rental units, make copies of all leases for retention in listing file

70. Verify all rents and deposits

71. Inform tenants of listing and discuss how showings will be handled

72. Arrange for installation of yard sign

73. Assist seller with completion of Seller’s Disclosure form

74. Complete new listing checklist

75. Review curb appeal assessment and provide suggestions to improve salability

76. Review interior décor assessment and suggest changes to shorten time on market

77. Load listing into transaction management software program

78. Prepare MLS Profile Sheet

79. Enter property data from Profile Sheet into MLS Listing Database

80. Proofread MLS database listing for accuracy— including proper placement in map

81. Add property to company’s active listings list

82. Provide seller copies of the listing agreement and MLS Profile Sheet within 48 hours

83. Take additional photos for upload into MLS and use in fliers

84. Create print and internet ads with seller’s input

85. Coordinate showings with owners, tenants, and other REALTORS®. Return all calls

86. Install electronic lock box if authorized. Program agreed-to showing times

87. Prepare mailing and contact list

88. Generate mail-merge letters to contact list

89. Order Just Listed labels and reports

90. Prepare fliers and feedback reports

91. Review comparable MLS listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive

92. Prepare property marketing brochure for seller’s review

93. Arrange for printing or copying of marketing brochures or fliers

94. Place marketing brochures in all company agent mailboxes

95. Upload listing to company and agent Internet site, if applicable

96. Mail Out Just Listed notice to all neighborhood residents

97. Advise network referral program of listing

98. Provide marketing data to through international relocation network buyers

99. Provide marketing data to buyers coming from referral network

100. Provide Special Feature cards for marketing, if applicable

101. Submit ads to company’s participating internet real estate sites

102. Price changes conveyed promptly to all internet groups

103. Reprint/supply brochures promptly as needed

104. Loan information reviewed and updated in MLS as required

105. Feedback e-mails sent to buyers’ agents after showings

106. Review weekly market study

107. Discuss with sellers any feedback from showings to determine if changes are needed

108. Place regular weekly update calls to seller to discuss marketing and pricing

109. Promptly enter price changes in the MLS listing database

110. Receive and review all Offer to Purchase contracts submitted by buyers’ agents.

111. Evaluate offer(s) and prepare a net sheet for the owner for comparison purposes

112. Explain merits and weakness of each offer to sellers

113. Contact buyers’ agents to review buyer’s qualifications and discuss offer

114. Deliver Seller’s Disclosure to buyer upon request and prior to offer if possible

115. Confirm buyer is pre-qualified by calling loan officer

116. Obtain buyers’ pre-qualification letter from loan officer

117. Negotiate all offers on seller’s behalf, set time limit for loan approval and closing

118. Prepare and convey counteroffers, acceptance or amendments to buyer’s agent

119. Email or send copies of contract and all addendums to the closing attorney or title company

120. When Offer to Purchase contract is accepted, deliver to buyer’s agent

121. Record and promptly deposit buyer’s earnest money in escrow account

122. Disseminate under-contract showing restrictions as seller requests

123. Deliver copies of fully signed Offer to Purchase contract to seller

124. Deliver copies of Offer to Purchase contract to selling agent

125. Deliver copies of Offer to Purchase contract to lender

126. Provide copies of signed Offer to Purchase contract for office file

127. Advise seller of additional offers submitted between contract and closing

128. Change status in MLS to Sale Pending

129. Update transaction management program show Sale Pending

130. Review buyer’s credit report. Advise seller of worst- and best-case scenarios

131. Provide credit report information to seller if property will be seller-financed

132. Assist buyer with obtaining financing, if applicable, and follow-up as necessary

133. Coordinate with lender on discount points being locked in with dates

134. Deliver unrecorded property information to buyer

135. Order septic system inspection, if applicable

136. Receive and review septic system report, and assess any possible impact on sale

137. Deliver copy of septic system inspection report lender and buyer

138. Deliver Well Flow Test Report copies to lender and buyer, and property listing file

139. Verify termite inspection ordered

140. Verify mold inspection ordered, if required

141. Confirm verifications of deposit and buyer’s employment have been returned

142. Follow loan processing through to the underwriter

143. Add lender and other vendors to your management program so agents, buyer, and seller can track progress of sale

144. Contact lender weekly to ensure processing is on track

145. Relay final approval of buyer’s loan application to seller

Home Inspection

146. Coordinate with seller for buyer’s professional home inspection

147. Review home inspector’s report

148. Enter completion into transaction management tracking program

149. Explain seller’s responsibilities, and recommend an attorney interpret any clauses in the contract

150. Ensure seller’s compliance with Home Inspection Clause requirements

151. Assist seller with identifying contractors to perform any required repairs

152. Negotiate payment, and oversee all required repairs on seller’s behalf, if needed

The Appraisal

153. Schedule appraisal

154. Provide to appraiser any comparable sales used in market pricing

155. Follow-up on appraisal

156. Enter completion into transaction management program

157. Assist seller in questioning appraisal report if it seems too low

158. Get contract signed by all parties

159. Coordinate closing process with buyer’s agent and lender

160. Update closing forms and files

161. Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale

162. Select location where closing will be held

163. Confirm closing date and time, and notify all parties

164. Assist in solving any title problems or in obtaining death certificates

165. Work with buyer’s agent in scheduling buyer’s final walk-thru prior to closing

166. Research all tax, homeowners’ association dues, utility, and applicable prorations

167. Request final closing figures from closing agent (attorney or title company)

168. Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy of preparation

169. Forward verified closing figures to buyer’s agent

170. Request copy of closing documents from closing agent

171. Confirm buyer and buyer’s agent have received title insurance commitment

172. Provide homeowners warranty for availability at closing

173. Reviews all closing documents carefully for errors

174. Forward closing documents to absentee seller as requested

175. Review documents with closing agent (attorney)

176. Provide earnest money deposit check from escrow account to closing agent

177. Coordinate closing with seller’s next purchase, and resolve any timing problems

178. Have a no-surprises closing so seller receives a net-proceeds check at closing

179. Refer sellers to one of the best agents at their destination, if applicable

180. Change MLS status to Sold. Enter sale date, price, selling broker, etc.

181. Close out listing in your management program

Follow-up After Closing

182. Provide answers about filing claims with homeowner warranty company if requested

183. Attempt to clarify and resolve any conflicts about repairs if buyer is not satisfied

184. Respond to any calls and provide any information required from office files

Written by National Association of Realtors®, published by Florida Realtors

Home cooling • August 1, 2022

Home cooling tips

by Barbara Oskam

Service your air conditioner. Easy maintenance such as routinely replacing or cleaning air filters can lower your cooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15 percent. Also, the first day of spring could serve as a reminder to check your air conditioner’s evaporator coil, which should be cleaned annually to ensure the system is performing at optimal levels.

Use ceiling fans. Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat four degrees. This can help lower your electricity bills without sacrificing overall comfort.

Cook outside. On warmer spring days, keep the heat out of your home by using an outdoor grill instead of indoor ovens.

Install window treatments. Energy efficient window treatments or coverings such as blinds, shades and films can slash heat gain when temperatures rise. These devices not only improve the look of your home but also reduce energy costs.

Caulk air leaks. Using low-cost caulk to seal cracks and openings in your home keeps warm air out — and cash in your wallet.

Set the thermostat. On warm days, setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can help reduce your energy costs by approximately 10%.

Seal ducts. Air loss through ducts can lead to high electricity costs, accounting for nearly 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Sealing and insulating ducts can go a long way toward lowering your electricity bills.

Switch on bathroom fans. Bathroom fans suck out heat and humidity from your home, improving comfort.

Written by Scott Minos for EnergySaver, an office of the Department of Energy

Home buying • July 29, 2022

Advice for Renters Priced Out of Home Buying

by Barbara Oskam

For many homebuyers, their ownership goal seems to be kicked farther down the field with every price increase and mortgage rate rise. Today’s housing market can feel like a dream killer. Rising mortgage rates, high home prices and a shortage of properties for sale deliver a one-two-three punch.

If you’ve been knocked out of one too many deals and need a timeout, here’s how to regroup and keep the homeownership dream alive.

Give yourself a break

Given the rise in home prices and interest rates, the monthly mortgage payment for a median-priced single-family home with a 10% down payment has jumped by about $800 since January, according to a June 2022 National Association of Realtors® press release.

That’s huge.

It’s OK to hit pause if you’re frazzled to the point that you can’t think clearly or are simply priced out.

“If it doesn’t feel right to you … step away and give yourself some breathing room,” says Catalina Franco-Cicero, a certified financial planner with Tobias Financial Advisors in Plantation, Florida. “It’s OK to do that.”

But stepping back doesn’t mean giving up.

“One thing we tell people with any goal that you have is that there’s a big difference between ‘no’ and ‘not yet,’” says Nathaniel Moore, a certified financial planner and president of Agape Planning Partners in Fresno, California.

Strengthen your finances

View the break as an opportunity to get your finances in even better shape.

Use a mortgage calculator to estimate a monthly mortgage payment, including estimated property taxes and home insurance. Then add utilities plus 20% of the monthly mortgage for unexpected maintenance and repairs, Moore suggests. Subtract your rent payment from that amount and set aside the rest in a high-yield savings account.

“That way, if and when you can get in the home, you don’t have sticker shock or you’re not house-rich and cash-poor because you didn’t account for the other expenses,” Moore says.

He likens the transition to a relay race. “You want to have a smooth baton handoff, from the ‘renter you’ to the ‘homeowner you.’ If you’re not ready to walk in that house and afford the ancillary costs of living there, that’s when the baton fumbles and drops,” he says. “You want to get to the place where the rental person is running at the same speed as the homeownership person so when the baton is handed off it’s a smooth transition.”

When you’re ready to buy, you can add that extra money you’ve socked away to your down payment, which will help you make stronger offers and may qualify you for better mortgage rates.

“Nobody can truly predict interest rates nor inflation, nor the appreciation rate of homes in a relatively short period of time,” Eric Lefkowitz, president and chief operating officer of Motto Mortgage Mint in San Diego, said via email. “But we can be certain that buyers should be saving for strong down payment options. This will ensure they can get the best available interest rate when the time comes.”

Pay down debt

Paying down credit cards and other debt will improve two measurements: your credit score and your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. Both are key factors that lenders consider when deciding whether you qualify and at what rate.

A good DTI – the percentage of gross monthly income that goes toward debt – is generally under 36%. The lower the better.

Your credit score is based in part on credit utilization, the percentage of available credit used. Shrinking your debt will lower credit utilization and help your score. Meanwhile, keep making on-time payments to preserve good credit.

“It’s going to give you a better mortgage rate and more options,” says Deb Gillard, a real estate agent with RE/MAX Venture in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Avoid optional big expenses

Resist the temptation to vent your frustration in a spending splurge, whether it’s running up a credit card balance or buying a new car when the old one suffices.

“That’s the last thing you want to do when you’re taking this pause,” Gillard says.

Another enticement may be to move to a nicer apartment. But stay put if you can, advises real estate broker Peggy Pratt, who leads the Pratt Properties Team of Century 21 North East in the Boston area. Paying the security deposit and other moving expenses could cut into savings for a down payment.

Reevaluate your wants and needs

This is a good time to look at the big picture.

“People need to do some soul searching to say, ‘What am I looking for in a home?’” Moore says.

Given home prices and mortgage rates, you may need to adjust your filters. You may need to shop for homes in a different neighborhood or buy something smaller than originally imagined. If the aim is to buy a starter home, build equity and upgrade in a few years, then that flexibility may pay off.

“Homeownership is a step-by-step opportunity,” Lefkowitz said. “You are not committing to stay in a home forever.”

If you could work elsewhere, another option you might consider is relocating to a less-expensive housing market, Franco-Cicero says. That’s a big decision. Taking a pause can give you time to research the quality of life and cost of living in other locations and weigh whether you want to live somewhere else.

Keep in touch with your agent, lender

Besides fine-tuning finances and reevaluating goals, keep in touch with experts you trust who can watch the market and bring you back in when you’re ready, Lefkowitz said. “This includes a strong Realtor and mortgage professional,” he said. “Together, that partnership can keep the buyers’ best interest top of mind and be ready to pounce on an excellent property when it becomes available.”

Let them know if you can make a bigger down payment, for instance. Keep your agent updated on when you might be ready to jump back into the market and the types of homes and areas you’re willing to consider.

Pratt says she counsels clients to maintain realistic expectations and not give up.

“Hang in there,” she says. “Something will come.”

Written by Barbara Marquand
Copyright © 2022, The Messenger, all rights reserved.
Barbara Marquand writes for NerdWallet.
Photo by Peter Dazeley, Image Bank, Getty Images

Home buying • July 25, 2022

Moving Tips for Homeowners With Pets

by Barbara Oskam

You may be ready to start an exciting adventure in a new home, but what about your pets? Some furry family members may find moving to an unfamiliar place stressful, but there are ways to ease them into it with a little advance planning.

Pet-Friendly Properties

Living harmoniously with pets is a top priority for homeowners. The APPA National Pet Owners Survey by the American Pet Products Association estimates that 70% of all U.S. households – roughly 90.5 million – owns one or more pets. That’s a remarkable figure that impacts many aspects of the economy, including residential real estate. People love their pets and today’s home buyers are seeking properties that reflect it. For some house hunters, finding a pet-friendly home is as simple as getting a place with a fenced-in yard, hard-surface flooring or space for a litter box. Others, however, are looking for more deluxe amenities for Fido and Fluffy.

The Pampered Pet

Some pet-centric home designs cater to the four-legged family members. Today’s popular custom details include under-cabinet food stations, pet washing facilities, and built-in crates, beds or pet suites. Also sought after are high-tech smart-home features like electronic pet doors and remote-access security cameras that let homeowners keep an eye on their pets when they’re away.

Park, Park, Park!

Location matters to pet owners. A pet-friendly community is a must, and proximity to an off-leash dog park or long nature trail away from busy streets is a bonus. And while parents of young children often make school districts a priority, some pet parents also seek homes close to their veterinarian, boarding facility and doggy daycare.

This Way Home

Show your pets the lay of the land at the new house. Determine where your pets’ toys, bed and water bowl will go, then take them on a home tour to familiarize them with their designated areas. Be sure to examine the home for safety hazards, then let them poke around and discover new scents and favorite spots. Cats may feel more comfortable adjusting to one room at a time, so start them off in a smaller space and let them take their time exploring.

Adjustment periods in a new home are easy when you keep these tips in mind and stick to your pets’ regular feeding and walking routines. They should barely notice the move and continue living their usual happy lives in the comfort of your new home.

Written by Jennifer McGuire

Uncategorized • July 25, 2022

What To Pack For Your First Night In Your New House

by Barbara Oskam

Moving day is approaching and your to-do list just keeps growing! But, there is one more to-do to add to your list. This to-do gets you ready for a peaceful first night in your new home. Your first night will be great. The last thing anyone wants to do after a long moving day, is to open box after box in search of your pjs, toothbrush, pillow and your kid’s night light. No one wants to go on a treasure hunt at the end of moving day!

Here’s how to have a restful first night:

Pack a suitcase for each family member (two and four legged) for their first night. Bring those suitcases with you, so you’ll know right where they are.

Each suitcase should be packed with these essentials:

Linens and pillows
Clean pj’s
A fresh change of clothes
Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, toilet paper and towels
Medications, eyeglasses or contact lenses & solutions
Your kids favorite teddy bear, bedtime story and night light
Phone, computer and chargers
A bag for each pet with food, food bowls, toys leash and bed

Keep your family happy & fed:

Pack a family box with food and healthy treats for moving day and for breakfast the next day. Include a few dishes, silverware, paper towels, snacks and food.

Take precautions:

Remember to personally move your credit cards, wallet and jewelry. Keep them safely tucked away.

If you’re moving long distance:

Bring clothing and essentials for at least a week while you’re waiting for the moving truck to arrive. No one wants to have to start their new job or school in their pjs!

Enjoy your first night!

Being able to easily grab what you need makes your first night in your new place feel like home. Watch the video below for more tips!

Written by Laura.
Laura McHolm is a home organization, moving & storage expert and co-founder of NorthStar Moving Company. NorthStar Moving Company is an award winning, “A+” rated company, which specializes in providing eco-luxury moving and storage services. www.northstarmoving.com

Home buying • July 14, 2022

What Do Buyers Value Most?

by Barbara Oskam

When asked what three things home buyers value most, “location, location, location” has long been the traditional response—and with good reason, even today, among most real estate professionals.

In fact, one recent study of 1,000 buyers reported a ‘desirable location,’ including a highly rated school district and proximity to commuter roads and outdoor recreation, can increase a home’s estimated value by as much as 30 percent—or about $100,000 in today’s competitive environment.

But amenities matter.

Among the most highly sought-after features is a remodeled or upgraded kitchen, a recent survey reported, with buyers placing a high value on upgraded appliances, countertops and cabinetry. Investing in a nicely renovated kitchen can add as much as $27,000 in perceived value in the eyes of the surveyed buyers.

More than half of those surveyed also placed high importance on the design and quality of the home’s primary bathroom, specifically an upgraded shower—increasing the home’s value by some $2,600—as well as attractive fixtures, and flooring. Some respondents noted that a nicely upgraded master bath might convince them to buy a home they might otherwise not have considered.

A two-car garage was perceived by respondents to increase a home’s value by $39,000 on average, and even a one-car garage was noted to add some $20,000 in value.

Vaulted ceilings and lots of windows, which add perceived spaciousness, translated into high value for buyers, increasing a home’s value by more than $27,000—far more than the $16,000 sellers anticipated.

Outside, surprising few real estate professionals, buyers look most for a neat exterior and usable backyard space. Interestingly, while there is often an ‘indefinable something’ that makes any home become the ‘dream home’ in the eyes of a particular buyer, the survey revealed that, in general, buyers estimated the value of a typical home at about $20,000 higher than their owners. That is good news in today’s market when it comes to pricing a property.

Written by Barbara Pronin
Copyright 2021 RISMedia
Photo by todd kent

Relocation • July 11, 2022

Dream destination: Florida

by Barbara Oskam

July 6th 2022

New Coldwell Banker Data Shows High Rate of Out-of-State Searches

This summer, as Americans enjoy their favorite activities to cool down, dreams of moving are heating up. Fresh data from the Move Meter^SM on the refreshed website coldwellbanker.com shows trends and insights into where Americans are dreaming of moving, giving sellers an informative, clear picture about the potential of listing their homes. In fact, 82% of all Move Meter℠ searches to date were looking to move out of state.

The Move Meter℠ compares cost of living city by city. It was created by Coldwell Banker Real Estate as part of a suite of industry exclusive tools to allow consumers to dream of home and guide them to their new destination. In addition to the Move Meter, Coldwell Banker has created the ultimate destination for home sellers at coldwellbanker.com, with industry exclusive tools like the CB Estimate℠, which provides a home value estimate, and a remarkable new Seller’s Assurance Program.

Americans are on the Move (Meter)

Going the distance: The average Move Meter℠ search covered 1,015 average miles (about the distance of New York to Miami).
- Eighty-two percent (82%) of all Move Meter℠ searches were looking to move out of state.
- On the flip side, Massachusetts had the greatest proportion of searchers considering staying in-state, with 40% of all searches from Massachusetts looking to stay loyal to the Commonwealth.
- Only about 13% of all searches were looking within a driving distance of 100-miles from their origin destination with the highest proportion of moves being somewhere between 500 to 1,500 miles away (42%).
Chasing Sunshine: While Midwesterners and Northeasterners are looking for warmer temps in the Southeast (38% vs 46%), Southeasterners, Southwesterners and Westerners all had higher likelihoods of staying local to their respective regions.

Americans are dreaming of moving – but where to?

Southern Charm: Austin, Texas, topped the chart as the most searched destination to move to, and had 46% more searches than the next closest destination. The top locale dreaming about moving to Austin is San Diego, California. So how does the move stack up? According to the Move Meter℠, the move from San Diego to Austin could be a smart move if you value job market strength.
California Dreamin’: 20% of searches from California were looking to stay in the Golden State. The top in-state searches looking to move somewhere else within California were from San Diego, San Francisco and Bakersfield.
- And for those looking outside of California, where were they dreaming about? Californians are looking to Texas, Florida, Tennessee and Washington overall, with Austin, Dallas, Seattle and Nashville having the greatest move appeal outside of California.
Burnin’ Up for Florida: The #1 state topping the Move Meter℠ interest index was Florida with one out of seven of all Move Meter℠ searches looking to move to the Sunshine State.
- The top states looking to soak up the Florida sun included New Jersey, California, New York, Illinois, Ohio and Massachusetts. Where in Florida are these searchers looking? Sarasota, Miami, Naples, and Tampa were the most popular searched cities.
- Floridians don’t disagree – they, too, see the appeal, as they were one of the top states searching for destinations within the state as well, with a quarter of Floridian searches looking to stay in-state.
- The other top states Floridians are searching was North Carolina and Tennessee.
Destination Dreams: The top 10 searched cities included Austin; Sarasota, Florida; San Diego; Denver; Nashville, Tennessee; Tampa, Florida; New York; Naples, Florida; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Seattle.

With a network of over 100,000 agents across the globe, Coldwell Banker has affiliated agents in nearly every market in the United States. So, no matter where searchers are looking, a Coldwell Banker affiliated agent can help make the dream come true. Home sellers and buyers can visit coldwellbanker.com to find an agent and prepare for their next move to their dream home using the coldwellbanker.com/movemeter.

QUOTES:

“Our new Move Meter℠ tool provides insights into where American’s are looking to make their dream moves. Since 1906, Coldwell Banker has served as the leading innovator in real estate, with agents in nearly every market in the US, we provide the tools and the resources sellers need to help make their dreams come true, wherever their search takes them. If you’re looking to make that big move – let our Coldwell Banker agents guide you there.”

Ryan Gorman, CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC

“Through the new tools on coldwellbanker.com, we’re seeing a strong interest and desire in Americans and homeowners to take a leap of faith and relocate to live in their dream destinations this summer. The Coldwell Banker Move Meter℠ provides sellers with the support and tools they need to make those dreams become a reality.”

David Marine, CMO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC

About Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC

Powered by its network of over 100,000 affiliated sales professionals in approximately 2,200 offices across 40 countries and territories, the Coldwell Banker^® organization is a leading provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate brokerage services. The Coldwell Banker brand prides itself on its history of expertise, honesty and an empowering culture of excellence since its beginnings in 1906. Coldwell Banker Real Estate is committed to providing its network of sales professionals with the tools and insights needed to excel in today’s marketplace and is known for its bold leadership and dedication to driving the industry forward. The brand was named among the 2022 Women’s Choice Award^® Most Recommended brands for customer experience and overall quality. Blue is bold and the integrity and values of Coldwell Banker give the Gen Blue network an unbeatable edge. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Written by Athena Snow (link)