SPECIAL SECTION REAL ESTATE
3. Create more space, or at least the illusion of it.
Short on space? No problem! Create the illusion of space
by storing away (off-site, if possible) unnecessary items,
giving cabinets, closets and storage spaces a spacious
look. Or, make moving easier by donating or selling these
items!
4. Update only to increase value.
Work with your real estate agent on recommendations for
simple changes that can add value to or create appeal for
your home. This can be as simple as adding a backsplash
in the kitchen, or refreshing landscaping to add curb
appeal. A small upgrade may be just what you need to
close a sale.
5. Make sure the price is right.
You won’t need to call on Drew Carey, but you should
work with your real estate agent to figure out comparable
home prices in your area, pricing trends and inventory
available, and price your home accordingly. A fair market
price will attract buyers interested in making your home
their dream home.
PREPARING TO BUY IN 2018?
Whether it’s saving for your first home, searching for your
dream home, or downsizing to your forever home, buying a
house is an exciting and exhausting experience. Putting in the
extra effort could be the difference you need to nail the home
you want.
1. Give yourself some credit.
Now is not the time to open a new credit card, increase
your credit limit or make a big purchase. The first thing
lenders check is your credit score when determining how
much you are approved for on a home loan. Work on
keeping your credit card balances low, and paying down
balances. Limiting your spending may seem hard, but is
worth the payoff when you are approved for your new
home.
clubs or gyms that provide all the joy of having a pool
without the work. You may not get everything on your
must-have list, but be creative on ways to potentially add
those “musts” once you move in.
4. Things (including houses) are not always as they
appear.
Just like models in magazines with no wrinkles, home
photos are often taken at their very best angle. What may
seem dreamy and flawless on a computer screen may be
crumbling and cracking in real life. Hit the streets with
your local agent to see your favorite homes in person.
You’ll be able to explore all of the sights unseen in the
photos, including what the neighborhood is like. Maybe
you find a lovely home, but come to learn it’s next to a
busy freeway or shopping center. Never stray from the
sentiment that seeing is believing!
5. Be patient; it’s a process.
2. Location. Location. Location.
When narrowing down where you want your home to
be, it’s best to first determine how much you can borrow.
You don’t want to have your heart set on a location and
come to find it is out of your budget. Look at what is
most important to you. Is it proximity to parks and good
schools, or access to entertainment and nightlife, or lots
of land to spread out? From there, you may find exactly
where you want to be that fits your spending limit.
3. Create a must-have list and a wish list.
What’s non-negotiable in your new home? Is it an integral
garage or open-concept floor plan or a pool? Now, is a
pool really a non-negotiable? (We do live in Pittsburgh
with sunny days less than half of the year.) Be realistic
with your must-have list and your wish list. While a pool
may seem dreamy, many communities have local swim
Unfortunately, you’re not the only buyers in the market.
Many are looking for similar offerings in a home. You may
lose out on what you think is the perfect home, but keep
your head up! Something just as good, if not better, will
come along—because where there are buyers, there are
sure to be more sellers!
Whether you’re looking to buy or to sell, there are hundreds
of resources available to you and your family. Start smart by
doing your research. Is now the time to put your home on
the market? What’s the buyers market like this season? Don’t
rush to make a decision just because spring is here. Homes are
bought and sold throughout the year, so make sure the time
is right. As a first step, review your finances. If you’re on the
right track to having a good bit saved, you’re probably ready
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SOUTH FAYETTE
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SUMMER 2018
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