3 Ways You Can Use Your Home Equity

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3 Ways You Can Use Your Home Equity | MyKCM

3 Ways You Can Use Your Home Equity

If you’re a homeowner, odds are your equity has grown significantly over the last few years as home prices skyrocketed and you made your monthly mortgage payments. Home equity builds over time and can help you achieve certain goals. According to the latest Equity Insights Report from CoreLogic, the average borrower with a home loan has almost $300,000 in equity right now.

As you weigh your options, especially in the face of inflation and talk of a recession, it’s important to understand your assets and how you can leverage them. A real estate professional is the best resource to help you understand how much home equity you have and advise you on some of the ways you can use it.  Here are a few examples.

1. Buy a Home That Fits Your Needs

If you no longer have the space you need, it might be time to move into a larger home. Or it’s possible you have too much space and need something smaller. No matter the situation, consider using your equity to power a move into a home that fits your changing lifestyle. 

If you want to upgrade your house, you can put your equity toward a down payment on the home of your dreams. And if you’re planning to downsize, you may be surprised that your equity may cover some, if not all, of the cost of your next home. A real estate advisor can help you figure out how much equity you have and how you can use it toward the purchase of your next home.

2. Reinvest in Your Current House

According to a recent survey from Point, 39% of homeowners would invest in home improvement projects if they chose to access their equity. This is a great option if you want to change some things about your living space but you aren’t ready to make a move just yet.

Home improvement projects allow you to customize your home to suit your needs and sense of style. Just remember to think ahead with any updates you make, as some renovations add more value to your home and are more likely to appeal to future buyers than others. For example, a report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows refinishing or replacing wood flooring has a high cost recovery. Lean on a local professional for the best advice on which projects to invest in to get the greatest return on your investment when you sell.

3. Pursue Your Personal Goals

In addition to making a move or updating your house, home equity can also help you achieve the life goals you’ve dreamed of. That could mean investing in a new business venture, retiring or downsizing, or funding an education. While you shouldn’t use your equity for unnecessary spending, leveraging it to start a business or putting it toward education costs can help you achieve other lifelong goals.

Bottom Line

Your equity can be a game changer. If you’re unsure how much equity you have in your home, let’s connect so you can start planning your next move.

The Fall Housing Market; What Are Experts Saying

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What Are Experts Saying About the Fall Housing Market? | MyKCM

The Fall Housing Market; What Are Experts Saying

The housing market is rapidly changing from the peak frenzy it saw over the past two years. That means you probably have questions about what your best move is if you’re thinking of buying or selling this fall.

To help you make a confident decision, lean on the professionals for insights. Here are a few things experts are saying about the fall housing market.

Expert Quotes for Fall Homebuyers

A recent article from realtor.com:

“This fall, a more moderate pace of home selling, more listings to choose from, and softening price growth will provide some breathing room for buyers searching for a home during what is typically the best time to buy a home.”

Michael Lane, VP and General Manager, ShowingTime:

“Buyers will continue to see less competition for homes and have more time to tour homes they like and consider their options.” 

Expert Quotes for Fall Sellers

Selma Hepp, Interim Lead of the Office of the Chief Economist, CoreLogic:

“. . . record equity continues to provide fuel for housing demand, particularly if households are relocating to more affordable areas.”

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist, realtor.com:

“For homeowners deciding whether to make a move this year, remember that listing prices – while lower than a few months ago – remain higher than in prior years, so you’re still likely to find opportunities to cash-in on record-high levels of equity, particularly if you’ve owned your home for a longer period of time.”

Bottom Line

Mortgage rates, home prices, and the supply of homes for sale are top of mind for buyers and sellers today. And if you want the latest information for our area, let’s connect today.

Shifting Market- Challenge or an Opportunity for Homebuyers?

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Is the Shifting Market a Challenge or an Opportunity for Homebuyers? | MyKCM

Shifting Market – Challenge or an Opportunity for Homebuyers?

If you tried to buy a home during the pandemic, you know the limited supply of homes for sale was a considerable challenge. It created intense bidding wars which drove home prices up as buyers competed with one another to be the winning offer.

But what was once your greatest challenge may now be your greatest opportunity. Today, data shows buyer demand is moderating in the wake of higher mortgage rates. Here are a few reasons why this shift in the housing market is good news for your homebuying plans.

The Challenge

There were many reasons for the limited number of homes on the market during the pandemic, including a history of underbuilding new homes since the market crash in 2008. As the graph below shows, housing supply is well below what the market has seen for most of the past 10 years (see graph below):

Is the Shifting Market a Challenge or an Opportunity for Homebuyers? | MyKCM

The Opportunity

But that graph also shows a trend back up in the right direction this year. That’s because moderating demand is slowing the pace of home sales and that’s one of the reasons housing supply is finally able to grow. For you, that means you’ll have more options to choose from, so it shouldn’t be as difficult to find your next home as it has been recently.

And having more options may also lead to less intense bidding wars. Data from the Realtors Confidence Index from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows this trend has already begun. In their recent reports, bidding wars are easing month-over-month (see graph below):

Is the Shifting Market a Challenge or an Opportunity for Homebuyers? | MyKCM

If you’ve been outbid before or you’ve struggled to find a home that meets your needs, breathe a welcome sigh of relief. The big takeaway here is you have more options and less competition today.

Just remember, while easing, data shows multiple-offer scenarios are still happening – they’re just not as intense as they were over the past year. You should still lean on an agent to guide you through the process and help you make your strongest offer up front.

Bottom Line

If you’re still looking to make a move, it may be time to pick your home search back up today. Let’s connect to kick off the homebuying process.

Experts Predict Economic Recovery Should Begin in the Second Half of the Year

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One of the biggest questions we all seem to be asking these days is: When are we going to start to see an economic recovery? As the country begins to slowly reopen, moving forward in strategic phases, business activity will help bring our nation back to life. Many economists indicate a recovery should begin to happen in the second half of this year. Here’s a look at what some of the experts have to say.

Jerome Powell, Federal Reserve Chairman

“I think there’s a good chance that there’ll be positive growth in the third quarter. And I think it’s a reasonable expectation that there’ll be growth in the second half of the year…

So, in the long run, I would say the U.S. economy will recover. We’ll get back to the place we were in February; we’ll get to an even better place than that. I’m highly confident of that. And it won’t take that long to get there.”

Nonpartisan Analysis for the U.S Congress

“The economy is expected to begin recovering during the second half of 2020 as concerns about the pandemic diminish and as state and local governments ease stay-at-home orders, bans on public gatherings, and other measures. The labor market is projected to materially improve after the third quarter; hiring will rebound and job losses will drop significantly as the degree of social distancing diminishes.”

Neel Kashkari, President, Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank

“I think we need to prepare for a more gradual recovery while we hope for that quicker rebound.”

We’re certainly not out of the woods yet, but clearly many experts anticipate we’ll see a recovery starting this year. It may be a bumpy ride for the next few months, but most agree that a turnaround will begin sooner rather than later.

During the planned shutdown, as the economic slowdown pressed pause on the nation, many potential buyers and sellers put their real estate plans on hold. That time coincided with the traditionally busy spring real estate season. As we look ahead at this economic recovery and we begin to emerge back into our communities over the coming weeks and months, perhaps it’s time to think about putting your real estate plans back into play.

Bottom Line

The experts note a turnaround is on the horizon, starting as early as later this year. If you paused your 2020 real estate plans, let’s connect today to determine how you can re-engage in the process as the country reopens and the economy begins a much-anticipated rebound

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176 Carolina Ridge Dr, Columbia, SC

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176 Carolina Ridge Dr, Columbia, SC
                                        
                                
                                                                
$ Click for current price 
4 BEDROOMS | 4 Baths (3 full, 1 half )  BATHROOMS | 3300 SqFt
                                        
Need space;  but do not want a lot of yard work. This beautiful all brick home is featured in the  family friendly Lake Carolina Community Laurel Chase offering Sidewalks, Walking Trails, Award Winning Richland Two schools, This home has 4 bedrooms; FROG which can be a 5th bedroom, theater room, gym, office, the possibilities are endless. Formal dining and living, spacious Florida room, a true mud room with sink, 10 ft ceilings, Built in's and more. A real must see!
                        
                    
                        
                
Presented By:
                                    
                                
                                                                                                   
Rozalyn Franklin
                    
                    Agent
                    Keller Williams Realty
                        803-318-6412
                                                Licensed In: South Carolina
                        License #: 39084
                    
                                                                                
                                                                        
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Understanding the Impact of Mortgage Inquiries on Your Credit Score

19 Friday May 2023

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Your credit score plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility for various financial opportunities, including securing a mortgage for your dream home. However, many prospective homeowners are often concerned about the potential impacts of mortgage inquiries on their credit score. In this blog post, we will shed light on this topic, helping you understand how mortgage inquiries can affect your credit score and what steps you can take to minimize any negative impact.

1 – What are Mortgage Inquiries?

When you apply for a mortgage, the lender will request your credit report from one or more credit bureaus to assess your creditworthiness. These credit report requests, also known as mortgage inquiries, are recorded on your credit history.

2 – Types of Mortgage Inquiries:

There are two types of mortgage inquiries: hard inquiries and soft inquiries. Hard inquiries occur when you apply for credit, such as a mortgage loan. Soft inquiries, on the other hand, occur when you request your own credit report or when a lender checks your credit for pre-approval purposes.

3 – The Impact on Credit Scores:

Hard inquiries may have a temporary negative impact on your credit score. Each hard inquiry typically results in a small decrease in your score, typically around 5-10 points. However, multiple inquiries within a short period may have a more significant impact, suggesting a higher level of risk to potential lenders.

4 – Time Frame for Inquiry Impact:

The impact of hard inquiries on your credit score is generally short-lived. In most cases, the negative effect lasts for about 12 months. After that period, the inquiries no longer factor into your credit score calculation. Soft inquiries, on the other hand, do not impact your credit score.

5 – Mitigating the Impact:
While you cannot completely avoid mortgage inquiries, you can minimize their impact on your credit score. Here are a few strategies to consider:


a. Rate shopping: When looking for a mortgage, aim to complete all your loan applications within a short time frame (e.g., 30 days). Credit scoring models typically recognize this practice as rate shopping and treat multiple inquiries as a single inquiry, minimizing the impact on your score.

b. Pre-approval process: Instead of applying for multiple mortgages with different lenders, consider getting pre-approved. Pre-approvals involve a soft inquiry and give you an idea of the loan amount you qualify for without affecting your credit score.


c. Focus on credit health: Prioritize maintaining a healthy credit profile by paying bills on time, keeping credit utilization low, and avoiding excessive debt. A strong credit foundation can help offset any minor impacts from mortgage inquiries.

Conclusion:
Mortgage inquiries, especially hard inquiries, may have a temporary effect on your credit score. However, with proper knowledge and planning, you can minimize the impact while searching for the perfect mortgage. Understanding the time frame for inquiry impact and adopting smart strategies like rate shopping and pre-approval can help you navigate the mortgage process without undue stress on your credit score. Remember, a strong credit history built on responsible financial habits is key to achieving your homeownership goals.

Are you ready to fulfill your dreams of homeownership? If so, let’s connect today and make it happen! At RMF Realty Team, we specialize in helping individuals and families find their perfect home and navigate the mortgage process. Our experienced team of real estate professionals is here to guide you every step of the way, from finding the right property to securing a mortgage that fits your needs. Don’t wait any longer to turn your dream of homeownership into a reality. Contact us now and let’s start this exciting journey together!

#CreditScore101, #MortgageInquiries, #RMFRealtyTeam,

What You Need To Know About Home Price News

17 Wednesday May 2023

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The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales Report tomorrow. The information it contains on home prices may cause some confusion and could even generate some troubling headlines. This all stems from the fact that NAR will report the median sales price, while other home price indices report repeat sales prices. The vast majority of the repeat sales indices show prices are starting to appreciate again. But the median price reported on Thursday may tell a different story. 

Here’s why using the median home price as a gauge of what’s happening with home values isn’t ideal right now. According to the Center for Real Estate Studies at Wichita State University:

“The median sale price measures the ‘middle’ price of homes that sold, meaning that half of the homes sold for a higher price and half sold for less. While this is a good measure of the typical sale price, it is not very useful for measuring home price appreciation because it is affected by the ‘composition’ of homes that have sold.

For example, if more lower-priced homes have sold recently, the median sale price would decline (because the “middle” home is now a lower-priced home), even if the value of each individual home is rising.”

People buy homes based on their monthly mortgage payment, not the price of the house. When mortgage rates go up, they have to buy a less expensive home to keep the monthly expense affordable. More ‘less-expensive’ houses are selling right now, and that’s causing the median price to decline. But that doesn’t mean any single house lost value. 

Even NAR, an organization that reports on median prices, acknowledges there are limitations to what this type of data can show you. NAR explains:

“Changes in the composition of sales can distort median price data.”

For clarification, here’s a simple explanation of median value:

  • You have three coins in your pocket. Line them up in ascending value (lowest to highest).
  • If you have one nickel and two dimes, the median value of the coins (the middle one) in your pocket is ten cents.
  • If you have two nickels and one dime, the median value of the coins in your pocket is now five cents.
  • In both cases, a nickel is still worth five cents and a dime is still worth ten cents. The value of each coin didn’t change.

The same thing applies to today’s real estate market.

Bottom Line

Actual home values are going up in most markets. The median value reported tomorrow might tell a different story. For a more in-depth understanding of home price movements, let’s connect.

Overcoming Housing Challenges for People with Disabilities

05 Friday May 2023

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Finding a home that meets their needs can be a daunting task for people with disabilities. The search for an accessible and affordable home can be challenging, and sometimes frustrating. People with disabilities face unique challenges when it comes to housing, including accessibility, affordability, and discrimination.

Accessibility is one of the biggest challenges that people with disabilities face when searching for a home. Many homes are not designed with accessibility in mind, making it difficult for people with mobility issues to move around comfortably. Accessible features such as ramps, wide doorways, grab bars, and accessible bathroom facilities are often missing in many homes. Lack of accessibility can limit the freedom of people with disabilities, making it difficult for them to perform daily activities.

Affordability is another significant challenge for people with disabilities when searching for a home. People with disabilities often have limited financial resources due to their medical expenses, which can make it difficult to afford the high cost of accessible housing. Many people with disabilities are also unemployed or underemployed, which further limits their financial resources. This can make it challenging for them to find affordable housing that meets their needs.

Discrimination is another significant challenge that people with disabilities face when searching for a home. Some landlords and property owners may discriminate against people with disabilities and refuse to rent to them. This discrimination can be blatant or subtle, such as not making reasonable accommodations for disabilities or charging higher rent to people with disabilities. This can make it difficult for people with disabilities to find suitable housing.

In addition to these challenges, people with disabilities may also face difficulties in finding inclusive communities where they can feel welcomed and valued. The lack of inclusive communities can make it difficult for people with disabilities to participate in community activities, access healthcare services, and other essential services.

Despite these challenges, there are ways to overcome them. One way is to work with a real estate agent who specializes in accessible housing and has experience working with people with disabilities. They can help people with disabilities find homes that meet their accessibility needs and budget.

Another way to overcome housing challenges for people with disabilities is to advocate for their rights and participate in disability rights organizations. These organizations can provide information and resources on accessible housing and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.

In conclusion, finding suitable and affordable housing is a significant challenge for people with disabilities. Accessibility, affordability, discrimination, and lack of inclusive communities are some of the challenges that people with disabilities face when searching for a home. However, with the right support, resources, and advocacy, people with disabilities can overcome these challenges and find a home that meets their needs. It’s important for all of us to work towards creating more inclusive communities where everyone can thrive, regardless of their abilities.

#AccessibleHousing, #DisabilityRights, #InclusiveCommunities, #RMFRealty, #RMFRealtyteam,

Why Buying a Home Makes More Sense Than Renting Today

02 Tuesday May 2023

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Why Buying a Home Makes More Sense Than Renting Today

If you’re a South Carolina resident who is considering buying a home, you might be wondering if you should continue renting or if you should buy a home this year? If so, consider this. Rental affordability is still a challenge and has been for years. That’s because, historically, rents trend up over time. Data from the Census shows rents have been climbing pretty steadily since 1988. 

And, data from the latest rental report from Realtor.com shows rents continue to grow today, even though it’s at a slower pace than we saw at the height of the pandemic:

“In March 2023, the U.S. rental market experienced single-digit growth for the eighth month in a row . . . The median asking rent was $1,732,up by $15 from last month and down by $32 from the peak but is still$354 (25.7%) higher than the same time in 2019 (pre-pandemic).”

With South Carolina rents much higher now than they were in more normal, pre-pandemic years, owning your home may be a better option, especially if the long-term trend of rents increasing each year continues. In contrast, South Carolina homeowners with a fixed-rate mortgage can lock in a monthly mortgage payment for the duration of their loan (typically 15-30 years). 

Owning a Home Could Be More Affordable if You Need More Space

The graph below uses national data on the median rental payment from Realtor.com and median mortgage payment from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) to compare the two options. As the graph shows, depending on how much space you need, it’s typically more affordable to own than to rent if you need two or more bedrooms:

So, if you’re looking to live somewhere where you have two or more bedrooms to accommodate your household, give you more breathing room to spread out your belongings, or dedicate the extra space to practice your hobbies, it might make sense to consider homeownership.

Homeownership Allows You To Start Building Equity

In addition to shielding you from rising rents and being more affordable when you need more space, owning your home also allows you to start building your own equity, which in turn grows your net worth. 

And, as home values typically rise over time and you pay off your mortgage, you build equity. That equity can set you up for success later on because you can use it to help fuel a move to an even bigger space down the line. That’s why, according to Zonda, the top reason millennial homeowners bought their home over the past year was to build their own equity instead of someone else’s.

Bottom Line

If you’re trying to decide whether to buy a home or continue renting, let’s connect to explore your options. With rents rising, it may make more sense to pursue your dream of homeownership.  

Exploring the Factors Behind the Current Housing Market

26 Wednesday Apr 2023

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Why Aren’t Home Prices Crashing?

The COVID-19 pandemic has created significant disruptions in almost all aspects of our lives, including the housing market. With the ongoing economic uncertainty and rising unemployment rates, many experts expected home prices to plummet. However, to the surprise of many, home prices have not crashed. In fact, the housing market has remained strong, with prices continuing to rise. This begs the question: Why aren’t home prices crashing?

There are several factors behind the current housing market. One of the primary reasons is the low interest rates. The Federal Reserve has lowered interest rates to historic lows, making mortgages more affordable. This has incentivized many potential homebuyers to enter the market, driving up demand. However, the low interest rates have also encouraged existing homeowners to refinance their homes, reducing the supply of available homes.

Another factor contributing to the housing market’s resilience is the limited supply of available homes. Before the pandemic, the housing market was already facing a shortage of inventory. With the pandemic slowing down new home construction and many homeowners reluctant to sell their homes, the supply of available homes has further decreased. This has caused a bidding war among potential buyers, resulting in higher home prices.

The pandemic has also led to a change in consumer behavior. With remote work becoming more prevalent, many individuals are no longer tied to specific geographic locations. This has led to increased demand for larger homes with more outdoor space, particularly in suburban and rural areas. As a result, homes in these areas have seen a significant increase in demand and price.

Furthermore, the government’s stimulus packages and unemployment benefits have provided financial support to many households, enabling them to continue making mortgage payments. This has prevented a wave of foreclosures and forced sales that could have led to a crash in home prices.

In conclusion, while the pandemic has caused significant disruptions in almost all aspects of our lives, it has not led to a crash in home prices. The current housing market’s resilience can be attributed to several factors, including low interest rates, limited supply of available homes, changes in consumer behavior, and government support. As we continue to navigate the ongoing economic uncertainty, it will be interesting to see how these factors continue to shape the housing market.

#RealEstateMarket, #HomePrices, #HousingCrisis, #EconomicFactors, #SupplyandDemand, #RMFRealty, #SCRealtor,#SouthCarolina,

The Spring South Carolina Housing Market Forecast

25 Tuesday Apr 2023

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As we enter the spring season, many homeowners and prospective buyers in South Carolina are wondering what the real estate market has in store. The state has seen significant growth in recent years, with more people moving to the area for its affordable cost of living, beautiful natural landscapes, and growing job market. So, what does this mean for the South Carolina housing market? We’ve gathered insights from experts in the industry to help provide some clarity.

According to the South Carolina Realtors Association, the statewide median home price rose by nearly 14% from February 2020 to February 2021. This trend is expected to continue into the spring season, with many experts predicting a strong seller’s market.

One factor contributing to this trend is the low inventory of available homes. Many homeowners are holding off on selling due to the pandemic, causing a shortage of homes on the market. According to Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, “Inventory is expected to remain low, with fewer homes for sale this spring compared to years past.”

Houzeo, a leading real estate platform, the South Carolina housing market is experiencing a significant shift. While the median sale price increased by 17.9% year-over-year in September 2022, the number of homes sold dropped by 17.3%. This indicates a trend of higher prices but fewer transactions in the market, likely due to low inventory levels and increased competition among buyers. As the market continues to evolve, it will be important for both buyers and sellers to work closely with experienced real estate professionals to navigate these changing conditions and make the most informed decisions possible.

This shortage of inventory is leading to increased competition among buyers, with bidding wars becoming more common. To navigate this competitive market, experts recommend working with a trusted real estate agent who can help buyers stay informed about new listings and act quickly when the right property becomes available.

Despite the challenges of a competitive market, South Carolina remains an attractive destination for buyers and investors. The state’s growing economy, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse range of communities make it a desirable place to call home.

If you’re curious about the current value of your home in today’s market, contacting the RMF Realty Team at KW Preferred can be a great first step. With their expertise in real estate, they can help provide a thorough evaluation of your property and give you a realistic understanding of its current worth. Whether you’re considering selling your home or just want to stay informed about its value, the RMF Realty Team can offer invaluable insights and guidance throughout the process.

In summary, the South Carolina housing market is expected to remain competitive this spring due to low inventory and high demand. Prospective buyers should work closely with a trusted real estate agent and be prepared to act quickly in order to secure their dream home. With its strong economy and attractive lifestyle, South Carolina remains a popular destination for homebuyers and investors alike.

SouthCarolinaRealEstate, #HousingMarketForecast, #SpringMarketTrends, #RMFRealty, #SCRealtor,

How to Navigate the 2023 Short Sales and Pre-Foreclosure Market

13 Thursday Apr 2023

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Tips for Homebuyers

The real estate market can be complex, and navigating the 2023 short sales and pre-foreclosure market can be especially challenging. Short sales and pre-foreclosures are often an attractive option for homebuyers seeking to purchase a property at a discounted price, but they come with their own unique set of challenges. In this article, we will provide tips and advice to help you successfully navigate the 2023 short sales and pre-foreclosure market.

ShortSales, #PreForeclosures, #RealEstateMarket, #Homebuyers, #RealEstateTips, SCShortsale, #ColumbiaForeclosureRelief, #ColumbiaForeclosureRelease.

Understanding Short Sales and Pre-Foreclosures

Before we dive into the tips for navigating the short sales and pre-foreclosure market, it’s important to understand what these terms mean. A short sale occurs when a homeowner is unable to pay their mortgage and sells their property for less than what they owe on their mortgage. Pre-foreclosure refers to the period of time before a property is foreclosed upon, during which the homeowner may be willing to sell the property to avoid foreclosure.

Tip #1: Work with a Real Estate Agent who Specializes in Short Sales and Pre-Foreclosures

When buying a property that is being sold as a short sale or pre-foreclosure, it’s essential to work with a real estate agent who has experience in these types of transactions. A specialized agent can guide you through the process, help you navigate any challenges, and ensure that you are making an informed decision.

Tip #2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

If you’re planning to purchase a property through a short sale or pre-foreclosure, it’s crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend and will make the buying process smoother and more efficient.

Tip #3: Do Your Due Diligence

When purchasing a property through a short sale or pre-foreclosure, it’s important to do your due diligence. This includes researching the property’s history, condition, and any liens or encumbrances. You may also want to consider hiring a home inspector to assess the property’s condition.

Tip #4: Be Prepared for a Lengthy Process

Buying a property through a short sale or pre-foreclosure can be a lengthy process. It can take several months or even years for the transaction to be completed, so it’s important to be patient and prepared for a potentially long process.

Tip #5: Be Flexible

When purchasing a property through a short sale or pre-foreclosure, it’s important to be flexible. The seller may be motivated to sell quickly, but there may be delays and unforeseen circumstances that can slow down the process. Being flexible and willing to work with the seller can help make the process smoother and less stressful.

In conclusion, navigating the 2023 short sales and pre-foreclosure market can be challenging, but with the right approach and guidance, it’s possible to successfully purchase a property at a discounted price. Working with a specialized real estate agent, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, doing your due diligence, being prepared for a lengthy process, and being flexible are all important factors to consider when buying a property through a short sale or pre-foreclosure.

Smart Home Buying Strategies for People with Student Debt

12 Wednesday Apr 2023

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Strategies for managing debt while still saving for a down payment

For many young homebuyers, student debt is a significant obstacle to homeownership. According to the Federal Reserve, outstanding student loan debt in the United States now exceeds $1.7 trillion, making it the second-largest category of consumer debt after mortgages. But despite this burden, there are smart strategies that young buyers can use to manage their debt while still saving for a down payment.

Strategy 1: Refinance Student Loans

One smart strategy for managing student debt is to refinance your loans. Refinancing involves taking out a new loan with a private lender to pay off your existing loans. By refinancing, you can often lower your interest rate and reduce your monthly payments, which can free up more money to save for a down payment.

Strategy 2: Explore First-Time Homebuyer Programs and KW Homebuyers Experience

Many states and cities offer first-time homebuyer programs that can help buyers with student debt. These programs may offer down payment assistance, closing cost assistance, or other financial incentives. For example, some programs allow you to use your student loan payments as evidence of timely payments for the purpose of qualifying for a mortgage. In addition, signing up for the KW Homebuyers Experience with the RMF Realty Team can also help you navigate the first-time home buying process. This program provides resources and guidance from a team of experienced real estate professionals to help you find the right home and secure the best possible financing.

Strategy 3: Find Creative Ways to Increase Income

If you’re struggling to save for a down payment due to student debt, finding creative ways to increase your income can help. Consider taking on a part-time job, starting a side hustle, or freelancing to earn extra money. You could also look for ways to monetize your hobbies or skills, such as selling your crafts on Etsy or offering your services as a tutor.

Strategy 4: Prioritize Saving for a Down Payment

Saving for a down payment is a critical step in the home buying process, especially for buyers with student debt. To make the most of your savings, consider opening a high-yield savings account or investing in a low-risk mutual fund. You could also automate your savings by setting up a direct deposit from your paycheck to a savings account.

In conclusion, buying a home with student debt can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By refinancing your loans, exploring first-time homebuyer programs, finding creative ways to increase your income, and prioritizing saving for a down payment, you can achieve your dream of homeownership.

#homebuying, #studentdebt, #debtfree, #downpayment, #refinancing, #firsttimehomebuyer, #increasingincome, #KWHomebuyersExperience, #RMFRealtyTeam,

Advantages of a Multi-Generational Home

11 Tuesday Apr 2023

Posted by in Multigenerational, South Carolina Living

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The concept of multi-generational living has been gaining popularity in recent years as more and more Americans are choosing to share their homes with family members of different ages.

For one, financial considerations play a significant role in the rise of multi-generational living. Younger people who may struggle to afford their own homes are increasingly opting to live with their parents or grandparents in order to save on housing costs. This can be especially appealing in expensive urban areas where housing prices are sky-high. At the same time, older parents or grandparents may prefer to live with their families rather than in assisted living facilities, which can be costly.

In addition to financial benefits, multi-generational living also offers emotional support and companionship to family members of different ages. In the past, several generations often lived together and supported each other emotionally and practically. Nowadays, families are rediscovering the benefits of this approach to living. Older family members can offer help and guidance to younger generations, while also receiving care and assistance when needed. This can be especially valuable as family members age and face health issues or other challenges.

Furthermore, multi-generational living can foster a sense of community and interdependence. By sharing a home and living space, family members of different ages can develop stronger bonds and a deeper sense of connection. This can be especially important for children, who benefit from having close relationships with grandparents or other older relatives.

As the trend towards multi-generational living grows, homeowners are finding creative ways to accommodate the different needs and preferences of family members. One popular option is the use of tiny home-style. “granny flats,” which offer a self-contained living space that is connected to the main house. This allows older family members to have their own space while still being close to their loved ones.

While multi-generational living may require some adjustments and compromises, many families are finding that it is a rewarding and beneficial way to live. It offers financial benefits, emotional support, and a stronger sense of community and interdependence. As such, it is no surprise that this trend is on the rise and is likely to continue to grow in the years to come.

#multigenerationalliving, #family, #community, #interdependence, #trend, #financialbenefits, #emotionalsupport, #Americans, #RMFRealtyTeam,

Navigating the Divorce Process:

04 Tuesday Apr 2023

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Navigating the Divorce Process:What You Need to Know Before Divorcing Your House

Divorce is a difficult process that can be emotionally and financially draining. One of the biggest challenges in divorce is dividing marital assets, and for many couples, their home is their most significant asset. If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, it’s essential to understand what you need to know before deciding to divorce your house. Here are some important factors to consider:

Trigger Lead and Credit Impact

One of the critical things to know when divorcing a house is the concept of a trigger lead. A trigger lead is when a mortgage company or lender pulls your credit report when you inquire about refinancing or selling your home. If you’re divorcing your house, your spouse may decide to refinance or sell the house, and this could result in a trigger lead. Unfortunately, a trigger lead could impact your credit score, so it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences before deciding to divorce your house.

Home Inspection before Mediation

Before you and your spouse begin mediation, it’s essential to have the house inspected. A home inspection can uncover hidden problems that may affect the value of the house. If you and your spouse are not aware of these issues, it could impact your ability to agree on a fair settlement. Additionally, an inspection can help ensure that you don’t run into any unpleasant surprises after the divorce is final.

Examination of Deed

Another essential factor to consider when divorcing your house is examining the deed. You must understand who is listed on the deed and what type of ownership is in place. Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship, tenancy in common, and tenancy by the entirety are all common forms of property ownership, and each one has different implications in the event of a divorce. Understanding the deed’s specifics can help you and your spouse make informed decisions regarding the division of the property.

Consult a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) and Certified Divorce Real Estate Professional (CDS)

Finally, it’s crucial to consult with a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) and a Certified Divorce Real Estate Professional (CDS) when divorcing your house. A CDLP can help you and your spouse understand your mortgage options and the potential impact of those options on your credit score. A CDS can help you and your spouse navigate the complex process of selling or transferring ownership of the property.

In conclusion, divorce is a challenging process, and the decision to divorce your house is no exception. Understanding trigger leads, getting a home inspection before mediation, examining the deed, and consulting with a CDLP and CDS are all critical factors that can impact your financial and emotional well-being during and after the divorce. Remember to approach the process with an open mind and seek professional guidance to ensure that you make informed decisions.

#divorceprocess, #divorceandhousing, #triggerlead, #homemediation, #creditimpact, #CDLP, #CDS, #RealEstateDivorceInfoSC,