11
Nov
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate, ,

Honoring Veterans Day, and the Gift of Home

Today, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage, strength, and selflessness. Your service allows us to enjoy the freedoms that make home and community possible. As a real estate professional, I am especially grateful for the role homeownership plays in the lives of veterans and their families. Owning a home is more than just having a place to live, it represents stability, pride, and belonging. The VA home loan program makes this dream more attainable, offering incredible benefits that honor those who have given so much. To every veteran, and to every family…
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31
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
Home Buying Tips, ,

What to Do If Your Home Appraisal Comes in Low

Home appraisals are a crucial step in the home buying process. It determines the property's fair market value and helps lenders decide how much money to loan for the purchase. Ideally, the appraisal matches or exceeds the agreed-upon purchase price. However, when the appraisal comes in lower than expected, it can cause stress for both buyers and sellers. Knowing how to handle this situation calmly and strategically is key to keeping the deal on track. Why Appraisals Come in LowA low appraisal can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, the market moves faster than the data appraisers use, especially in competitive…
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28
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate, ,

How to Decide Between a Condo, Townhouse, or Single-Family Home

Choosing the right type of home is one of the most important decisions a buyer can make. Condos, townhouses, and single-family homes each offer unique benefits and challenges. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Understanding what sets them apart can help you make a confident and informed decision. The Condo LifestyleCondos are ideal for buyers who want convenience and minimal maintenance. In most communities, the homeowner's association takes care of exterior upkeep, landscaping, and shared amenities. This can be especially appealing for people with busy schedules or those who prefer not to handle maintenance themselves.…
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11
Sep
By Adrian Willanger
Home Buying Tips, ,

Everything You Need to Know About Home Appraisals

Your home is likely one of your most valuable investments, which is why understanding home appraisals is essential. Whether youíre buying, selling, or refinancing, knowing what an appraisal involves can help you make informed decisions. What is a Home Appraisal and Why Does It Matter?A home appraisal is a professional estimate of your property's value. It's often requested by lenders to ensure that a home's price aligns with its fair market value. Appraisers evaluate factors like the property's condition, size, age, layout, and features when determining its worth. It's important to note that an appraisal is not the same as…
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25
Jul
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate Tips, ,

How to Spot a Great Deal in Real Estate

The first step to spotting a great deal in real estate is to understand the current market conditions. Is it a buyer's market with plenty of inventory and lower prices, or a seller's market, where competition is high and prices rise quickly? Knowing the market type helps you identify opportunities. In a buyer's market, you might find undervalued homes or motivated sellers. In a seller's market, great deals might be rare but still possible with the right strategy. Compare Comparable PropertiesResearching comparable properties, often called comps, is essential. Look at recent sales in the neighborhood for homes similar in size,…
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12
Jun
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate Tips, ,

Why You Should Always Check the Street Name Before Buying a Home

When your house hunting, you are likely focused on the big things like: location, price, layout, and condition. But there is one small detail that can have a surprising impact on your homeownership experience, the street name. While it may seem insignificant at first, the name of your street can affect everything from resale value and first impressions to daily convenience and even safety. Curb Appeal Starts With the AddressFirst impressions matter, and your street name is often the first thing someone hears when you share your address. Names like “Ocean View Drive” or “Whispering Pines Lane” can evoke a…
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