Lake House – Page 6 – Find a Broker™

Maximizing Your Home Search: Best Times to Look for New Listings

If you’re in the market for a new home, timing can make all the difference. Understanding when real estate listings are updated can help you stay ahead of the competition and find the home of your dreams. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for your next property, here’s a breakdown of the best times to search for new listings.

Thursday and Friday: Prime Listing Days

One of the most common days for new real estate listings to go live is Thursday and Friday. Many agents strategically list new properties on these days to maximize their visibility. By doing so, they ensure their listings are seen by prospective buyers who are planning to tour homes over the weekend.

In many cases, listings go live around 5:00 PM. Why the evening? Many buyers take time after work and before dinner to browse listings, making this the perfect time for agents to showcase their new properties to potential buyers who are actively searching.

Tuesday at 8:00 PM: The Digital Prime Time

If you’re an online home shopper, you’ll want to keep in mind that Tuesday at 8:00 PM is one of the busiest times for online home searches. According to a study by Redfin.com, this is the most popular time of the week when buyers are browsing listings. If you’re looking for fresh updates, this could be a great time to get online and search for any new listings that may have hit the market that evening.

Spring: The Best Season for Listings

The spring months, particularly from April to June, are the most active times for new listings in real estate. The warmer weather encourages more people to move, and many sellers wait until spring to list their homes. For buyers, this time period offers the largest selection of properties, but also more competition. So if you’re in the market during these months, be ready to act fast when you find the right fit!

Tips for Staying Ahead

Set Alerts: Sign up for listing alerts on your favorite real estate sites to be notified immediately when new properties hit the market.
Be Ready to Act Fast: With the rush of new listings, you’ll need to act quickly when you find a home you’re interested in. Work with your real estate agent to stay ahead of the game.
Use the Right Tools: Many real estate platforms allow you to filter listings by date, making it easier to find the freshest properties.

Knowing the best times to search for homes can give you an edge in a competitive market. By taking advantage of prime listing times and staying informed, you’ll be well-positioned to find your perfect home.

If you’re considering a move or investment and require a trusted Real Estate Broker, we’re here to assist you. Contact us via email at TEAM@McDanielCallahan.com, complete the form below, or give us a call at 925-838-4300. We are ready to provide expert guidance and support for all your real estate needs. Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526

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Should You Add On or Move? Pros and Cons of Creating More Space

At some point, many homeowners face the big question: “Do we stay and add on, or do we move to something bigger?” Whether your family is growing, your needs are changing, or you’re simply craving more room, it’s a big decision. Both options come with benefits and challenges—here’s a breakdown to help you weigh the pros and cons.

🏡 Option 1: Adding On to Your Current Home

✅ Pros:

Stay in the neighborhood you love: You don’t have to leave the schools, shops, and neighbors you’ve grown fond of.
Customize to your needs: You can design the addition exactly how you want it—whether it’s an extra bedroom, office, or sunroom.
Avoid the hassle of moving: No boxes, no showings, and no address changes.

❌ Cons:

Construction stress: Living in a home under renovation can be loud, dusty, and disruptive.
Zoning and permits: Depending on your location, you may face restrictions or a long approval process.
Cost surprises: Renovations often come with unexpected expenses and timeline delays.

🏠 Option 2: Moving to a New Home

✅ Pros:

Immediate space and upgrades: You can move into a home that already meets your needs, no construction required.
Potential lifestyle improvement: Maybe it’s a better commute, a quieter street, or a bigger backyard.
Financial opportunities: Selling your current home in a strong market could give you leverage in your next purchase.

❌ Cons:

The emotional toll of leaving: It can be hard to say goodbye to a home filled with memories.
Logistics and costs: Hiring movers, paying agent commissions, closing costs—it all adds up.
Uncertainty: You may not find your dream home right away or may face competition in a tight market.

💭 How to Decide

Ask yourself:

Do you love your current location?
Can your home physically handle an addition?
Is the cost of renovation worth it compared to moving?
Are you ready emotionally and financially for a move?

Talking to a trusted real estate professional can help you evaluate your home’s current value, potential for growth, and what’s available in your desired market.

Whether you renovate or relocate, the key is finding what works best for your lifestyle, finances, and long-term plans. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—just the right choice for you.

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Understanding Your Market: What Active and Pending Listings Reveal

When analyzing the real estate market, one of the most valuable indicators is the relationship between active listings (homes for sale) and pending listings (homes under contract but not yet closed). By paying attention to these numbers, buyers and sellers can gain insight into market conditions, competition, and pricing trends.

1. A Balanced Market

A market is considered balanced when the number of active listings and pending listings are relatively even. This means homes are selling at a steady pace, giving both buyers and sellers a fair advantage. In this type of market:

Homes are selling at or near their list prices.
Buyers have options but must still act quickly on well-priced homes.
Sellers can expect reasonable time frames for their homes to go under contract.

2. A Buyer’s Market

When the number of active listings is significantly higher than the number of pending listings, it indicates a buyer’s market. This happens when there are more homes available than there are buyers actively making offers. In a buyer’s market:

Homes may sit on the market longer.
Sellers might have to lower prices or offer incentives to attract buyers.
Buyers have more negotiating power and may be able to secure better deals.

3. A Seller’s Market

If the number of pending listings is close to or even greater than the number of active listings, the market favors sellers. This suggests that demand is high, and homes are selling quickly. In a seller’s market:

Homes may receive multiple offers and sell above asking price.
Buyers need to act fast and may need to make competitive offers.
Sellers have the upper hand in negotiations.

4. How to Use This Data in Your Strategy

Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, monitoring the ratio of active to pending listings can guide your decisions.

Sellers should price competitively based on demand and consider the average time homes spend on the market.
Buyers should prepare for competition in a hot market or leverage negotiations in a slower one.
Agents can use this data to educate clients, adjust marketing strategies, and set realistic expectations.

By regularly tracking these numbers, you can stay ahead of market trends and make more informed real estate decisions.

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Should Sellers Set an Offer Deadline? Here’s What You Need to Know

In a competitive real estate market, setting an offer deadline is a common strategy that many sellers and their agents use to maximize the sale price of a home. But is it the right approach for you?

Why Set an Offer Deadline?

When a home hits the market, it can generate a lot of interest—sometimes even before the first open house. If offers start coming in early, it might be tempting to accept the best one right away. However, many real estate agents recommend waiting until after a big open house or through the weekend before responding. Here’s why:

More Competition, Higher Offers – An offer deadline creates a sense of urgency and competition among buyers, often leading to stronger offers.
Time to Evaluate Buyers – It allows you and your agent to carefully review all offers, verify financing, and assess which buyers are the strongest.
Better Negotiation Power – With multiple offers in hand, you can strategically counteroffer to maximize your sale price and terms.

How to Set an Offer Deadline the Right Way

Work With Your Agent – Discuss market conditions and whether a deadline makes sense for your home.
Communicate Clearly – Your agent should notify all interested buyers and their agents about the deadline to ensure transparency.
Review All Offers Fairly – Don’t just focus on price; consider contingencies, financing, and closing timelines.

Is an Offer Deadline Always the Best Strategy?

While a deadline can work well in a hot market, it may not be ideal if buyer interest is low. In some cases, responding to a strong early offer might be the best move. Your real estate agent can help you decide the right approach based on demand and your selling goals.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, reach out to a trusted real estate professional to discuss whether an offer deadline could work in your favor!

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The Difference Between Realtor MLS Listings and Online Listings: What You Need to Know

When you’re looking to buy or sell a property, you’ve probably come across listings on various websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, or Redfin. But have you ever wondered how those listings compare to the ones your real estate agent pulls up from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)? Understanding the key differences between Realtor MLS listings and online listings is crucial to navigating the real estate market effectively.

What is the MLS?

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a private database that only licensed real estate agents and brokers can access. It’s a tool that realtors use to share listings with one another, providing detailed and up-to-date information about properties for sale. The MLS is the go-to source for professional agents when it comes to listing properties, and it’s where most buyers’ agents begin their search for properties that meet their clients’ needs.

Realtor MLS Listings: A Professional’s Tool

Exclusivity and Access
The MLS is reserved for licensed real estate professionals, meaning it’s not something the general public can freely access. When you’re working with a real estate agent, they’ll use the MLS to find properties that meet your criteria and share them with you. Realtors also use the MLS to market properties to other agents, which expands the reach of the listing within the professional network.
Timely Updates
One of the biggest advantages of MLS listings is that they are updated in real-time. This means that when a property price changes, when a new listing hits the market, or when a property is sold, it shows up immediately in the MLS. As a result, buyers and agents have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information available.
Detailed Information
MLS listings tend to provide a lot more in-depth details than public websites. In addition to basic features like square footage and the number of bedrooms, MLS listings often include property history (price changes, previous sales), agent remarks, and even specialized data such as zoning and inspection results. This can give both buyers and sellers a more thorough understanding of a property.
Reliability and Accuracy
Because the MLS is primarily used by real estate professionals, the listings are generally very accurate and reliable. Agents are responsible for making sure that the data they input is correct, which means fewer errors and outdated information.

Listings on the Internet: Publicly Accessible, but Not Always Up-to-Date

While MLS listings are available only to real estate professionals, property listings on websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin are accessible to anyone, whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just browsing. These sites pull data from the MLS, but they also allow individual sellers (through “For Sale by Owner” listings) to post their properties without the involvement of a real estate agent.

Wide Reach
One of the biggest advantages of online property listings is their accessibility. Anyone with an internet connection can visit these websites, making them an excellent resource for buyers who want to browse properties independently. Sellers can also take advantage of these sites to reach a wider audience, including those who may not be working with a real estate agent.
Potential for Delays and Outdated Information
While these websites pull most of their data from the MLS, the updates may not happen as quickly as they do on the MLS. There can sometimes be a delay between when a property sells, gets a price change, or is no longer available. Additionally, listings that are marked as “pending” or “sold” on public websites may still be shown as available because the data hasn’t been updated yet.
Less Detailed Information
Online listings typically provide less information than MLS listings. For example, seller’s notes or remarks about the property might not be included, and certain data (like neighborhood demographics, school ratings, or zoning) might be missing. As a result, you may not have the complete picture when browsing properties online.
For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Listings
Websites like Zillow and Redfin also allow homeowners to list their properties for sale without using a real estate agent. These “For Sale By Owner” listings can be great for buyers looking to bypass the agent, but they might lack some of the detailed information provided by a licensed agent’s MLS listing. FSBO properties may also not always be as accurately represented, so buyers should be cautious.

So, What’s the Bottom Line?

When it comes to buying or selling a home, both Realtor MLS listings and online listings have their place. MLS listings are a crucial tool for real estate professionals, offering the most accurate, up-to-date, and detailed property information. On the other hand, online listings give the public easy access to homes for sale, providing a broad overview that can spark interest or serve as a starting point for a deeper search.

Key Takeaways:

MLS Listings: Exclusive, accurate, detailed, and updated in real-time for real estate professionals.
Online Listings: Publicly accessible, easy to browse, but may have delays and less detailed data.

Whether you’re looking for a home or preparing to sell, knowing the differences between these two types of listings can help you make more informed decisions and better navigate the real estate market.

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The Best Way to Shake Off a Pulled Offer on Your Home

Selling a home can be an emotional rollercoaster. The excitement of receiving an offer, the anticipation of closing, and the relief of finalizing everything can be overwhelming. But when that offer is suddenly pulled, it can feel like a punch to the gut. It’s frustrating, and it’s natural to feel disheartened. However, it’s important to remember that this is part of the process, and there are effective ways to handle the situation and keep moving forward.

1. Take a Moment to Process Your Emotions

It’s perfectly okay to feel disappointed or frustrated when an offer falls through. Take some time to process your emotions, but avoid letting those feelings take over your decision-making process. This is a challenging moment, but it’s not the end of the world. Take a deep breath and give yourself permission to step back and gather your thoughts before jumping back into action.

2. Analyze What Went Wrong

If an offer was pulled, it’s important to understand why. Was it because of a financing issue, an inspection problem, or did the buyers simply change their mind? Talk with your real estate agent to get clarity on the reason. Understanding the situation can give you insight into what changes, if any, need to be made in your approach moving forward.

If the issue was something like a low appraisal or a failed inspection, it could be that your price needs adjusting, or you may want to make some repairs. If the buyers had a change of heart, it might just be a matter of waiting for the right offer.

3. Reevaluate Your Home’s Listing Price

If you’ve had a pulled offer, it might be time to reassess your listing price. Take a fresh look at comparable homes in your area. Have home values shifted since you listed? Is your home priced in line with similar properties? It’s crucial to be realistic with your pricing to avoid future disappointments.

If your home was previously overvalued, reducing the price could attract more serious buyers. If the price is already competitive, keep in mind that the right buyer may just need more time to find you.

4. Tidy Up and Improve Curb Appeal

Sometimes, when offers fall through, sellers overlook the importance of presentation. Take a step back and look at your home as if you were a buyer. Are there small fixes that could make a big difference? Simple things like freshening up the front yard, painting a front door, or cleaning windows can improve curb appeal and draw more attention from prospective buyers.

It’s also a good time to reassess the interior. Ensure your home is staged in a way that helps buyers visualize themselves living there. Fresh paint, decluttering, or rearranging furniture might help.

5. Stay Positive and Be Ready for the Next Opportunity

While a pulled offer is disheartening, it’s important to stay positive. Keep in mind that the market is always in motion, and another buyer may be just around the corner. The best way to shake off the disappointment is to keep the momentum going.

Stay engaged with your agent, and keep your home available for showings. Don’t let the setback derail your efforts. Each day brings a new opportunity, and the right buyer is out there.

6. Stay Flexible and Open to Negotiation

If you’ve received an offer before and had it pulled, it might mean the buyers were looking for something more specific. When the next offer comes in, be open to negotiation. Being flexible with terms, timelines, or minor repairs can go a long way in keeping a potential deal alive. The more you’re willing to work with buyers, the higher the chances of closing the deal successfully.

7. Reach Out for Support

Selling a home can feel like a lonely journey at times, especially when things don’t go as planned. Reach out to friends, family, or your real estate agent for support. They can offer encouragement and help keep things in perspective. Having a support system can help you stay focused on your goals and get back in the game after a setback.

Keep Moving Forward

A pulled offer on your home doesn’t signal the end of your sale. It’s a setback, yes, but it’s also a learning experience. By evaluating the situation, adjusting your approach, and staying proactive, you can get back on track and turn the next offer into a successful sale.

Real estate is all about timing, patience, and perseverance. If you stay positive, flexible, and ready for the next opportunity, your home will eventually find the right buyer.

Keep your head up—you’re on the right path. And remember, the next offer could be the one that gets you to the finish line!

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10 Ways to Lower Your Home Insurance Premium Without Sacrificing Coverage

Home insurance is essential for protecting your house, belongings, and liability, but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay. Many homeowners are unknowingly paying for coverage they don’t need or missing out on discounts that could save them money. The good news? There are ways to lower your home insurance premium without compromising protection. Here’s how:

1. Review Your Home’s Insured Value

Over time, your home’s replacement cost may be overestimated, leading to higher premiums. Experts recommend reviewing your policy every five to seven years to ensure your coverage aligns with your home’s actual value. If the estimated cost exceeds what’s necessary, adjusting it could lead to savings.

2. Customize Coverage for Other Structures

Your policy includes coverage for detached structures like sheds, fences, and garages. If you don’t have additional structures or they have minimal value, reducing this coverage can lower your premium. Some insurers allow you to adjust the limit, so check with your provider.

3. Ask About Discounts

Many insurers offer discounts, but they’re not always advertised. Some common discounts include:
✔️ Bundling home and auto insurance
✔️ Being a retiree or new homeowner
✔️ Paying annually instead of monthly
✔️ Enrolling in autopay
✔️ Having a claims-free history

Ask your insurance provider about all available discounts—you might be surprised at what you qualify for!

4. Invest in Home Safety Features

The safest home is the one that never needs to file a claim. Insurance companies often provide discounts for safety improvements, such as:

Hail-resistant roofing
Fire alarms and sprinkler systems
Burglar alarms and security cameras
Automatic water shut-off devices

These not only lower your premium but also help prevent costly damage.

5. Be Mindful of Your Claims History

Insurance companies track how often you file claims, not just how much they pay out. Frequent claims can lead to higher premiums or even policy cancellations. If you can afford small repairs out of pocket, doing so may save you money in the long run.

6. Raise Your Deductible

Your deductible is the amount you pay before insurance kicks in. Increasing it from $500 to $1,000 (or even $2,500) can significantly lower your premium. However, make sure you choose an amount you can afford in case of an emergency.

7. Bundle Your Policies

Most people know that bundling home and auto insurance can save money, but some insurers also offer discounts for adding:
✔️ Valuable articles policies (for jewelry, collectibles, etc.)
✔️ Umbrella liability insurance
✔️ Boat or motorcycle insurance

Ask your agent if bundling multiple policies can reduce your overall costs.

8. Work with an Independent Insurance Agent

Independent agents can compare rates from multiple carriers to find the best coverage at the lowest price. Some insurers only offer policies through independent agents, so working with one may unlock savings you wouldn’t find on your own.

9. Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a big role in determining your home insurance premium. Insurers use your Insurance Bureau Score (IBS), which is influenced by your credit rating. To improve your score:

Pay bills on time
Reduce credit card balances
Check your credit report for errors

Better credit often translates to lower insurance costs.

10. Reduce Liability Risks

Attractive nuisances like swimming pools, trampolines, and playground equipment can increase premiums because they pose a higher risk of injury. If you’re considering installing one, factor in the added insurance cost.

One of the best ways to save on home insurance is to shop around and review your policy annually. Rates and discounts change, and staying proactive can help you avoid overpaying.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tips-for-lowering-your-home-insurance-premium/

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How to Avoid an Appraisal That Derails Your Home Sale

After putting in the time and effort to get an accepted offer on your home, the last thing you want is an issue with the appraisal that could put the entire deal in jeopardy. Since most buyers require a mortgage, lenders want to ensure the purchase price aligns with comparable home sales in the area. If the appraisal comes in too low, it can create financing hurdles that may lead to renegotiations—or worse, a failed sale.

The good news? As a seller, you can take proactive steps to help ensure a smooth appraisal process. Here are four strategies to prevent an appraisal from disrupting your transaction.

1. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to boost your home’s appeal is painting the interior. Clean, neutral-colored walls can make rooms feel brighter, fresher, and more spacious—especially if you’ve already decluttered. Freshly painted trim also enhances the home’s appearance, making it feel well-maintained.

When choosing colors, light shades are generally the best choice, as they create an inviting and modern feel that appeals to a broad range of buyers and appraisers.

2. Follow the “$500 Rule”

A common belief in real estate is that home values tend to be adjusted in $500 increments based on the condition of the property. That means minor defects—such as a dripping faucet, a broken light fixture, or small drywall damage—could reduce the appraisal value by $500 or more per issue.

To avoid unnecessary deductions, take the time to fix minor repairs that can be addressed for less than $500. These small efforts can add up, helping ensure your home is appraised at its true market value.

3. Show Documentation for Home Improvements

Have you replaced appliances, updated the flooring, or completed any major renovations? Gather receipts, permits, and invoices for these improvements. Providing documentation to the appraiser helps justify a higher valuation, as it proves the home has been upgraded and maintained over time.

If you’ve recently remodeled a kitchen, upgraded a bathroom, or replaced an HVAC system, make sure these details are communicated clearly during the appraisal process.

4. Research Comparable Sales in Your Area

Since appraisals rely heavily on comparable sales (comps), take the initiative to find recent sales of similar homes in your area. Look for homes with comparable square footage, features, and upgrades. If you believe your home should be valued higher than the appraiser’s initial estimate, having this research on hand allows you to present a strong case and request a reassessment if necessary.

If possible, share this information with your real estate agent, who can communicate with the appraiser and lender on your behalf.

While you can’t control the appraisal process entirely, taking these steps can help protect your home sale from falling through due to a low valuation. A fresh coat of paint, minor repairs, documented upgrades, and market research can go a long way in ensuring your home is appraised fairly.

Selling your home is a big step—so set yourself up for success by preparing for the appraisal before it happens.

https://www.rismedia.com/2024/06/26/things-seller-clients-should-do-help-ensure-positive-appraisal/?ct=1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=RISMedia

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Selling Your Home? Here’s What to Do With Your Pets During Showings

When your home is on the market, making a great first impression is key. Buyers want to envision themselves in your space, and while your pets may be part of your family, they can sometimes be a distraction during showings. The best approach? Have your pets out of the house when potential buyers come to visit.

Why Should Pets Be Removed During Showings?

1. Buyers Need to Feel Comfortable

Some buyers love animals, but others may have allergies or even fears. Removing your pets helps ensure that every potential buyer can explore the home comfortably without distractions.

2. It Helps Buyers Focus on the Home

A barking dog or a curious cat can take the buyer’s attention away from the home itself. You want them focusing on the beautiful kitchen, spacious backyard, and cozy living spaces—not your pet’s adorable antics.

3. Reduces Stress for Your Pets

Showings can be unpredictable and stressful for animals, especially with strangers coming in and out. Avoid unnecessary anxiety for your pets by planning ahead.

Where Should Your Pets Go During Showings?

Take them for a walk – A simple walk around the neighborhood can give buyers enough time to view the home.
Visit a neighbor or friend – If possible, leave your pets with a trusted neighbor or family member.
Use a pet daycare – Some pet daycare facilities offer short-term stays, which can be a great option for extended showings.

While your home is on the market, making a plan for your pets during showings can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home. Giving buyers a distraction-free, welcoming environment helps them take their time and truly picture themselves living there—making a sale that much more likely.

Thinking about selling? Let’s talk about how to get your home show-ready!

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Selling Your Home? Know What to Expect from Your Listing Timeline

Recently, a friend shared a story about someone who had listed their home for sale but was completely unaware of when it would be live on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). They had signed a listing agreement, prepped the house, and even had professional photos taken—but they had no idea when their home would actually be listed.

This highlights an important aspect of working with a real estate agent: communication. When you sign a listing agreement, it should include important dates, and your agent should provide a clear schedule of events so you know exactly when each step is happening.

What to Expect in Your Listing Timeline

A good real estate agent should outline the following key steps:

Listing Agreement Signed – This is when you officially agree to list your home with an agent.
Home Preparation & Staging – If needed, your agent will help coordinate decluttering, repairs, and staging.
Photography & Marketing Prep – Professional photos, virtual tours, and marketing materials are created.
MLS Listing Date – The date your home goes live on the market. This should be clearly communicated.
Showings & Open Houses Begin – Buyers will start touring your home, either through scheduled showings or open houses.
Offer Review & Negotiations – When offers come in, your agent will guide you through the negotiation process.

If You Have Questions, Ask!

Your real estate agent should be your guide throughout this process. If you’re ever unsure about when something is happening, don’t sit around wondering—reach out and ask. A well-informed seller is an empowered seller, and clear communication ensures a smooth and stress-free home-selling experience.

If you’re thinking about selling and want an agent who keeps you informed every step of the way, let’s connect!

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