When you first start learning about real estate, it can seem like there are countless options and guidelines to follow. What is the difference between a real estate agent and a realtor? What is a home inspection? How much should you budget for renovations? If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Check out these three little-known facts about real estate.
1. You can get a home improvement loan to create your dream house.
Oftentimes, homeowners are focused on the mortgage rate and payment plans when they decide to buy a house. The idea of taking on even more debt from a lender can be overwhelming. However, there are loans for home improvement expenses that you can take out to remodel your home to meet your needs if you have a home improvement project you’d like to take care of.
With a competitive credit score, a buyer can get a home renovation loan at a low-interest rate and reasonable repayment term. This can give you the funds to cover everything from roof replacement to aesthetic changes to the flooring and paint colors.
Having access to a personal loan for home renovations means you don’t have to be as picky when it comes to looking for hours. It doesn’t matter whether the interior is outdated or the layout doesn’t match your goals. Ask your realtor to focus on finding a home in the right location. The renovations can change everything else.
2. Staging a home is often worth the money.
You have three choices when selling your home: moving first so you sell an empty space, leaving your furniture in for potential buyers to see, or staging it. When you stage your home, a real estate agent will bring in furniture and home accessories to market a home to potential buyers. For example, if you have an empty extra room, the realtor will stage it as a home office or a kid’s room – even if you don’t have kids.
Most of the time, staging a home is worth the extra cost. First, you will put your belongings in storage. For example, if you’re in Virginia, search for “storage in Arlington, VA.” Then, your real estate agent will pick furniture and other designs that appeal to most consumers. A staged home will sell for 17 percent more on average than a non-staged home. Staging is also a great way to streamline the moving process. With this strategy and the right broker, you could sell your space faster.
3. It is possible to sell your house on your own.
One of the most common questions that homeowners ask is whether they need a real estate agent to sell your house. The truth is that you don’t. There are plenty of home sales completed as For Sale By Owner (FSBO), wherein the homeowner works with potential buyers and their real estate agents. However, just because you can take the FSBO route doesn’t mean it’s a good idea.
One of the main cons of this option is that you might not have the negotiation experience of a professional realtor. You also lack the knowledge of a real estate attorney who can guide you through the home inspection and contract process. Not only can real estate agents market your home, but they can also streamline the sales process. They have access to the main listing service and can find qualified real estate brokers to show your house. This means that taking the FSBO route might not be the best choice, compared to hiring a good agent who shares a competitive rate, especially if you want to sell your home fast.
Buying a house is a major decision, whether you work with a real estate agent or acquire a personal loan for home renovation. Consider your options so you can find a good agent and make choices that are best for you and your family.
