Get the Data You Need To Reach Your Real Estate Goals

Data is king when making big financial decisions. That’s why it’s essential to know recent prices, current market trends, and related data when you’re buying, selling, or renting property.Who has access to that type of information? Your REALTOR®. Just as important, your REALTOR® can help you understand what the numbers and trends mean for you.Relevant Data For Your TransactionREALTORS® can pull the most recent sales in a neighborhood to help buyers and sellers know market conditions. They can show you what prices and rents have been doing over time to inform your decisions. REALTORS® can show you the big picture—is it a buyer’s market in your area?—and the hyperlocal picture—what are properties on that street selling for?Accurate And ReliableAn internet search will give you plenty of sites claiming to provide home prices in an area, the number of properties sold, days on market, housing inventory, etc. But how do you know if those numbers are accurate or recent? Thankfully, your REALTOR® has access to the most accurate, reliable data. Plus, your REALTOR® will filter out the noise, showing only what matters to you and your goal.Interpreted For Your SituationNot only can REALTORS® provide the data, but they can also explain how it affects your transaction. It doesn’t do any good to know what a property sold for if you don’t know if that should affect the price of your listing or your offer for that house. Factors such as precise location, home features, and condition all affect what a home is worth.Work with a REALTOR® so you understand your market and avoid big mistakes when you buy, sell, or lease property.

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Should You Fix That Before You Sell?

Making repairs before you list your home can positively affect the selling price and how quickly you attract a buyer. But do you need to fix everything before you put it on the market? Not all projects will be worth the time and money. Here are a few questions to consider to make your property more appealing.Does your home make a good first impression?A broken fence, overgrown yard, or rusted porch railing can make your home appear run down. Spend time removing clutter, fixing eye sores, cleaning the windows, or replacing damaged screens to make the home more inviting.Do you need to replace the flooring?Adding new carpet or wood flooring can provide a good return on investment if there is a lot of wear and tear. However, if it’s in decent shape, replacing flooring to put in something that the new owner may switch out might not be cost-effective. If needed, refinish the hardwood or professionally clean the carpet to give it new life.Is it necessary to paint?Fixing faded, scuffed, or peeling paint can make the house’s exterior look newer. It’s also a good idea to paint over bright colors that may turn off buyers. Choose a standard, neutral color to lighten up the space.Are renovations worth it?Depending on the age and design, you may not need a complete kitchen or bath remodel. But if you started a project, you should finish it. An unfinished project can affect the home’s selling price and may limit potential buyers to someone looking for a fixer-upper.Contact a REALTOR® for advice on improving your property value and getting the most out of your home sale.

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5 Ways a REALTOR® Can Help With Your Rental Property

Many REALTORS® help people buy and sell houses, but some also specialize in property management. Whether you already own investment property or are thinking of buying a rental, a REALTOR® experienced in property management can handle all aspects of managing your asset—and reduce your stress. A REALTOR® can …Help You Find Good TenantsA property manager knows how to legally screen applicants to lessen the chances you’ll have tenants who don’t pay rent or cause other headaches.Handle Tenant HasslesIf problems like nonpaying tenants and evictions do occur, a property manager will deal with them in a professional manner.Reduce Your RiskA property manager knows when you’re required to change locks, what you can deduct from a security deposit, how to navigate fair housing laws, the rules about assistance animals, and much more.Keep Your Nights and Weekends Interruption-FreeWhether it’s a plumbing emergency or a last-minute request to see a unit by a prospective tenant, a property manager will take care of these inconvenient tasks.Save You Money and TimeHiring a REALTOR® puts a professional in charge of timely rent payments, competitive rents, low vacancy rates, and other details that boost your investment’s return.Enjoy all the benefits of professional property management: Hire a REALTOR®.

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