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July 28, 2019

What You Need to Know About Asbestos When Buying or Selling House

If you are in the market for a new house you may wonder, “Do home inspections check for asbestos?” This is a common question for homebuyers and so, it may also be on your mind. Asbestos is a term that includes six naturally occurring minerals that take on a thin, needle-like consistency. However, asbestos can also take on other qualities making it easy to accidentally inhale or ingest as a cloud of odorless dust or vapor. 

How To Know if Your Home Has Asbestos

Asbestos accumulates inside of your body so it is important to know if your home contains this hazardous material. While it is not usually required to tell a homebuyer that asbestos is present in a house, some state regulations do protect the buyer. Talk to a real estate professional about how to tell if your home has asbestos.  

Asbestos is found in these common building materials:

  • Insulation
  • Shingles
  • Cement
  • Floor & ceiling tiles
  • Tape 
  • Plastic
  • Drywall compounds
  • Popcorn ceiling texture
  • Glues, adhesives & sealants 

Learning how to tell if your home has asbestos can take some detective work. However, as a general rule if you are looking at homes built before 1980 (and in some cases newer homes) you can assume they contain asbestos. Even if the home is in good condition an asbestos evaluation is necessary to ensure your health is protected and your family is safe from damages. 

how to tell if your home has asbestos

Health Concerns Associated With Asbestos

There are numerous connections between asbestos and health problems. Inflammation, pulmonary issues, reproductive concerns, and other health problems have been linked to asbestos exposure. Talking to your health-care provider may reveal that asbestos is not safe in your body at any level. This harmful substance builds up in the body over time and so adding an asbestos test to your homebuyer To-Do list is essential.  

Does This House Contain Asbestos? 

You may not know exactly how much asbestos is inside a home you have your eye on without an accurate test. This hazardous compound can be found in numerous materials under different names. 

Here are six names of asbestos:

  1. Chrysotile (white asbestos)
  2. Crocidolite (blue asbestos)
  3. Amosite (brown asbestos)  
  4. Anthophyllite
  5. Actinolite
  6. Tremolite 

Currently, these are the types of asbestos as outlined in the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).

“Should I buy a house with asbestos siding?” the answer is “No.” Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that can be processed into a fluffy material. Used for many purposes, some of the most notable qualities of asbestos include insulation, flexibility, and strengthening including cloth, paper, cement, and other materials. However, if you inhale or ingest asbestos in any form including its mineral fibers, dust or vapor, the body can trap the substance. 

You must understand that asbestos is considered to be a harmful substance to the body. Because it cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, it may not be detectable. A home seller does not have to test for asbestos before listing a house on the market. While selling a home with asbestos without telling the buyer can cause health problems to the new owner, it is not illegal to sell the home without disclosing the asbestos is present. If health-related damages are caused to the buyer, state regulations may hold the seller liable. Today, it is best to check the legislature in your area before buying a home. 

Call the offices of Jeff Barchi to discuss houses on the market for sale in your area. If you have a specific property in mind, you can discuss the risks of asbestos in the home and what steps you need to take to protect yourself from harm. Many people do not ask their realtors, “Is it legal to sell a house with asbestos?” While asbestos evaluation and disclosure are not part of the pre-purchase home due diligence, you may need to do more in order to stay safe from asbestos health damages. 

June 8, 2019

Exurb vs Suburb Properties – What Is the Difference?

Suburb and exurb lifestyles are not the same. While many people enjoy the pace of a city, other people take life at a slower speed calling the exurbs “home.” Today, you may need to be close to the heart of a city because it gives you easy access to employers, metro transit, schools, along with top hospitals, and a hot nightlife. Over time, your needs may change, and you could desire more space and privacy. Within the proximity of a city, you will find pollution, noise, and generally less square footage per dollar.

Understanding the differences between exurb and suburb housing is the best way to know the distinctions between the communities. When you decide to make a change in your housing area, keep these differences in mind.

5 points of exurban vs suburban housing:

1.Origin

  • Exurb

Formed around the 1950s, these dwellings surfaced in areas at the farthest parameter of the city.

  • Suburb

Developed almost a hundred years prior, these areas were formed due to address overpopulation and growth. They remain closer to the heart of a city.

  1. Access
  • Exurb

Living in the city allows you closer access to entertainment, restaurants, and top medical facilities along with noise, pollution, and sometimes crime associated with the proximity. Those who desire to be farthest from these problems in the exurbs may also lose close access to city amenities.

  • Suburb

Living at the edges of the city, you can enjoy all of the best benefits like fine dining, shopping, entertainment, theaters, 5-star spas, and other features without being too close. Many people enjoy all big cities have to offer within a short driving distance while living a suburban lifestyle.

  1. Transportation
  • Exurb

Not all cities offer excellent public transportation options, however, this is a common perk of living in the city. Exurb residents forfeit this luxury.

  • Suburb

Outside of urban areas, in the suburbs, people may not be able to gain access to city amenities without transportation of their own.

  1. Privacy
  • Exurb

Within city limits, you can count on more noise, trash, and light pollution. Over time, living with the constant presence of these types of daily stressors can cause a person to desire more distance from the city. Exurbs residents enjoy the most privacy from these stressors.

  • Suburb

Less crime, more useable land, and an overall less disruption of peace are all factors that tempt people to purchase a home in the suburbs.

exurb vs suburb

  1. Commercial
  • Exurb

People who live here do not have commercial places but may live around farm space.

  • Suburb

Homes in this area are rich in commercial features.

Is an Exurb or Suburb Right for Me?

In many areas, suburb lifestyles are the most desirable, however, if you have specific needs or plans there may be a better option. Looking at your own needs including professional and family growth, your desire to be close to the heart of your home city may change. Plan ahead of time for your housing needs by adapting a calendar for locating appropriate properties in the right areas.

Looking at available listings in suburban and exurban areas is the first step in considering how each lifestyle would affect you. Ask yourself which is the right type of lifestyle for you, and when. Then write down the most important things you will need from the city you live in. From there, you can decide which proximity of a suburb or exurb area is right for you.

Talking to a Professional About Your Needs

Think carefully about your short and long-term housing needs. Consider what your professional, personal, and family needs could be just five years from now. What about in 15 years? Comparing the difference between exurban and suburban lifestyles now can help you plan for the future of your dreams.

Talk to a professional at the offices of Jeff Barchi today to discuss our needs. Start making plans for your exurban or suburban dream house, today!

May 23, 2019

What is a Patio Home?

A patio home definition is oftentimes needed for home buyers entering the marketplace. You see, the name, as it implies, would include a patio, however, the title “patio home,” can be deceiving. Many people assume that because the word patio is in the title that the home will also include ample outdoor space. Some people are shocked to find out that a patio home is defined by the shared walls between the community homes, not patio space.

What is a Patio Home?

A patio home is a smaller style of home commonly purchased by small families, single adults, and aging seniors who enjoy the comfort of having neighbors close by. The ideal combination of clean aesthetic styles, shared space, and an association that includes exterior and grounds maintenance for one fee, is ideal for many homebuyers.

Unlike other types of houses their size, like condominiums or townhouses, patio homes do usually include some sort of outdoor space. For this reason, it is common for them to also be called garden homes. However, do not expect that every patio home will have space for a garden. Many patio homes are designed to have shared outdoor space instead of individual ground-level patio areas.

FAQs About Patio Homes vs Other Types of Homes

There are so many perks that come along with a patio home. You may not already know the reasons why patio homes are different from other types of cluster style homes.

What makes patio homes different from other types of small community housing is clear. However, you may have questions about how they compare versus single-family houses, townhomes, condominiums, and apartment complexes.

Patio with garden

Patio Homes FAQs

 

Q: How is a patio home different from other housing?

A: Patio homes by definition have nothing to do with the outdoor space they provide. Instead, a patio home is marked by the close attachment it has to other homes. Some patio homes share exterior landscaping while others are literally attached with shared walls, fences, and gates.

 

Q: Does a patio home have a porch?

A: Many do NOT have a porch or a patio regardless of the fact they have the word in the title. Patio homes may have slabs of concrete, extra-large driveways, decks, or other features that provide a patio feel. Townhomes and condominiums oftentimes do have larger garden spaces or defined areas with soil, gravel or dirt for a patio.

 

Q: How large is a patio home?

A: One of the main differences between a patio home and a townhome is the size. A townhome is usually two-stories while a patio home can be one and a half stories or less.

 

Q: Is a patio home a single-family home?

A: A single-family home is a term used to describe a freestanding house that shares no walls with other structures. While a patio home is an ideal space for small families, it is not considered a single-family home.

 

Q: Is a patio home right for me?

A: If you are someone who is able to live in a smaller style home, a patio home could be perfect for you. Consider if you would enjoy more affordable housing with maintenance and outdoor landscaping included in the monthly fees.

 

Call the offices of Jeff Barchi today to talk to a qualified professional about your housing needs. There are many benefits to living in the close community of patio homes. Do not miss the chance to get the right type of home for you! The small size of a patio home and the convenience of exterior maintenance and groundskeeping could be just what you’re looking for.

January 28, 2019

What Is a Turnkey Property and What to Look out For

“Turnkey” is a real estate term commonly used to describe properties that are move-in ready. However, it is common for people to get really excited over this term and just get let down later. That’s because the term can be misleading, especially for new homebuyers.

The idea of purchasing a home that is ready for you to move in without repairing, preparing, or updating anything is highly desirable – and that’s why it’s so marketable. Sadly, that is the very reason you have to keep an eye out for the term as it could be misleading.

What is a Turnkey House?

When you are buying a home you may consider a few different types. Besides a move-in ready home, you may choose a fixer-upper, a home with upgrades, or even a house with a few updates needed but in overall good condition. While there are many kinds of homes for sale, purchasing a turn key home is not out of reach for many people as prices on new homes are still affordable.

What Does Turnkey Mean in Real Estate?

When you check home listings you may notice one key phrase that makes most buyer’s excited: turnkey. Essentially, this means that the house is ready right now. There is no need to wait, repair anything, or dig deeper into inspections or any other services. You can just buy the house, turn the key, and come home. That’s it. But is it?

What to Look For in a Turn Key Home?

Turnkey homes are beautiful, but they are not all created equal. In fact, many turnkey properties can be considered fixer-uppers even though they are clean and ready for move-in. There could be any number of little lingering problems around the home, regardless of the fact that you can move in right away.

Sometimes, this is simply because to make a home “turn key,” sellers may prioritize the turnkey aspect of the home over other factors.  Other times, it leaves a loophole for deceptive marketing used to cover up a flipped house designed to be restored simply for profit. This type of home can be misleading, causing many people to ask, “What does turnkey mean in real estate?”

Some downsides of turnkey properties include these red flags:

  • False advertising
  • Overpriced
  • Not actually turnkey
  • Investors cutting corners
  • Poor cleaning
  • Exterior damage
  • Structural breakdown
  • Heating or cooling system failure
  • Plumbing problems
  • Roof damage

 

Roof Damage

Watch out for these issues when shopping for your new home. The word “turnkey,” is relative, so you will need to keep the idea subjective in your mind. When using the phrase “turnkey property” in real estate, remember that it is a loose adjective, and things may not look the way you expect them to.

Never fear! Simply use caution when shopping for turnkey properties and keep a close eye out for homes that are being flipped (turned around). When a flipped house is bought and sold, it is usually done quickly and thus corners often get cut. This may leave things undone around the home, that you may need to clean, assemble, or otherwise improve, and it is important to be prepared.

How To Avoid Problems With a Turnkey Property

The term “turnkey” is commonly used in real estate to describe homes that are ready for you to move in. Well… that is what it is supposed to mean. However, the term turnkey property may let you down.

Most people take the term literally and expect to simply be able to turn the key to their new home, but that’s not always the case. In some cases, home sellers and real estate investors will take advantage of the market, listing homes with this key phrase, but not actually delivering. Oftentimes, the problems end up shocking new homebuyers and dampening their homebuying experience.

Don’t purchase a turnkey home until you view the property yourself – in person. You may also choose to hire an inspector to help pinpoint any potential problems with the home before you close the deal. Other signs that the home you are looking at is not actually turnkey include inexperienced operators, a limited portfolio, poor organization, low-quality renovations, and more.

January 28, 2019

How to Fight Your Homeowners Association and Win

Homeowners Association rules can be strict – and for good reason. In many communities, the overall appearance of the property and quality of life in the neighborhood depends on it. You see, while a homeowners association works to maintain rules and regulations, sometimes HOA policies can seem outrageous.

When your HOA is making things difficult for you, it can make you unhappy in your home. Normally, HOA policies include things like fines for garbage displacement, landscaping regulations, and guidelines for pet behavior, however, in some cases, HOA policies can go too far. Here are just 5 HOA policies you may need to fight.

Homeowners Rights Against HOA

  1. High Fees

There are many different charges that you can actually fight if you do not follow the rules set forth by the HOA. However, if you start to notice that the cost of the fees keeps piling up regardless of how hard you try to keep them away, it could be a red flag. Check with your HOAs accounting department to ensure the fines you pay are necessary and charged properly.

  1. Rapid Changes

Rules that seem to pop up overnight can cause you problems with your HOA, especially if they seem outrageous.

For example, a rule like “The roof for all dog houses must be blue or green.” While this rule may sound outright ridiculous, these types of rules are quite common. Rules and regulations should take time to establish. So, if you notice your HOA making new rules too quickly, and that you can’t keep up, attending a meeting can help.

  1. Threatening

If your HOA is sending you threats either verbally or by mail – fight it. While your HOA has every right to implement rules and regulations, they do not have the right to harass you with threats. Some of the most common things threatened by HOAs include horrendous penalty charges.

Just remember that no matter how bad the threats are, you still have rights. So, don’t be afraid to show up in person to Homeowners Association meetings and ask questions. Then be recorded in the meeting minutes as objecting to the threats. This is the best way to avoid falling victim to unethical or unlawful threats against you.

Threatening Mail

  1. Discriminate

The Fair Housing Act is one law that protects your rights as homeowners against homeowners associations. It requires HOA’s to follow a strict set of guidelines against discrimination.

If an HOA is found discriminating against anyone based on gender, race, or religion, they should be challenged. Collect any evidence that you can and bring it to a meeting. Do not be afraid to print and read the Fair Housing Act and cite areas of violation. Almost every state honors the anti-discrimination laws upheld by the Fair Housing Act to help protect you.

  1. Solar Drying

You may already know that using a clothesline to dry your clothes saves money and energy. Because of the hanging, this type of solar drying isn’t usually welcomed in communities where an HOA regulates the property. In fact, in 19 states it is actually illegal to dry your laundry on a clothesline, but the rest of the U.S. deems it A-OK to air dry.

So, as long as you keep the items uniform go ahead and use the sun and air to speed your drying time and save cash.

If you want to fight, and win, never fear fighting back against your HOA. Oftentimes, owners who fight back win when they take the time to attend HOA meetings, get involved in the process and research the issue. While it may seem intimidating to show up to a meeting and fight the battle, you are never alone.

Many homeowners have fought back against these 5 HOA policies and won. Use these tips on how to homeowners rights against HOA so that you can, too!

January 22, 2019

What is The Difference Between a Deed and a Title?

Homebuyers need to know what the differences between a deed and a title are when purchasing a house. Basically, a deed and title differ in their declaration of ownership.

A “deed” is a physical legal document that gives rights to the owner to claim the property. In contrast, a title is an understanding of who has the rights to that property. They work hand in hand as a way of stating ownership of a specific property, however, the key differences between them can clearly be seen here, to help any homebuyer before entering into any contract.

Deed vs Title: What is the Difference?

What is the difference between a deed and title terms? This is one of the most common questions asked inside a real estate office because, let’s face it, homebuyers just don’t know. The difference between deed and title is an essential need-to-know fact before you step foot into a real estate office to speak to a broker.

Don’t be afraid to flat out ask, “What is the difference between a deed and a title?”

  • Deed

A deed is a legitimate document used in the home buying process to convey and confirm the rights of property during the sale. It is a means of interest transfer, in writing, to claim the ownership of a property.

  • Title

A title is used to describe the legal position of a homebuyer. The buyers right to use the property is an abstract declaration of the ultimate property holder.  

Homebuyers need to know the differences between a deed and a title beyond a simple comparison. Here’s more.

Deed

This document is written in a form used to pass or confirm interest, assets, and rights. In order to enforce the deed, it must be clearly defined as a “deed,” in the face of the document. Properly stamped, attested to by witnesses, and signed by a grantor, the deed is delivered, and then a copy of the document is sent to the authorities to transfer property ownership.

The document itself is written in a specific way to help organize the information. If you are new to the world of real estate documents, a deed contains the following:

  • Title of the document
  • Date
  • Place
  • Name, address and other details of the parties
  • Terms and conditions
  • Jurisdiction
  • Signature of all parties and witnesses

Each paragraph of a deed is made to follow this basic legal format. The document can take other forms like a partnership deed, gift deed, trust deed, or lease deed.   

deed

Title

Ownership of a property must be assessed lawfully. The proof of legal rights to a property can be described as the title. Simply put, the proof of property ownership is represented as a title. The rights of the title handler can also include the right to use, sell own, control, and get rid of the property.

Differences Between a Deed and Title: the Conclusion

The differences between a deed and a title are clearly drawn but for homebuyers, the two documents can get confusing. The major things for a new buyer to look for can be seen on these grounds:

A “deed” is a legitimate document used by an individual to give the ownership rights to a specific property to another person. It is a physical form that must be signed by both the homebuyer and seller.

A “title” is known as a lawful position of an individual regarding something. In the case of a property, a title can be used to describe ownership. It is not a physical document however, it does mean that you have legal rights to a property.

Understanding the differences between a deed and title can make a BIG difference in your home buying experience. Use these tips to help avoid dangerous pitfalls of not knowing how a deed vs title works. 

December 25, 2018

Difference Between Condo and Apartment – Which is Better?

What is the difference between a condo and an apartment? Nothing. In fact, there is really nothing but a name that separates the two, however, there are many differences between the ownership, which means that renting a condo may be different from a condominium.

Here are 3 differences between a condo and apartment explained:

Ownership

There is a BIG difference between apartments and condominiums in ownership. It may also affect a variety of different rental aspects for you as a tenant.

  • Apartment

The complex commonly only has one owner. In the complex, each renter essentially has a variation of the same lease document. This is generally a one-size-fits-all situation with a few changes in floor plans. However, for some people, this is the ideal rental opportunity.

  • Condominium

Each person can have a different lease agreement because there is no management company for each unit. Every condo can have a different owner while an owner may also have multiple condo rentals available, at one time, inside a complex.

Usually, the homeowner requires everyone to pay monthly fees in addition to the rental. They may be managed by one homeowner’s association or specific owners.

Maintenance And Care

When it comes to home repairs, on-call maintenance and professionalism, apartments and condominiums are not the same.

  • Apartment

Typically, in an apartment complex, you may have access to an on-call maintenance call line. You probably will receive a call back on your maintenance request within 24 hours and have crews at your door shortly after. That is a huge relief to people who need help fixing problems like plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling issues. You may even be able to get the repairs done while you are at work.

apartment maintenance

  • Condominium

Unlike an apartment complex, when something goes wrong in your condominium you cannot just call the maintenance department. In a condo, you will need to contact the owner directly. They can work with you to find the right professional to get the job done, but it could take longer than in an apartment.

Also, you may expect to pay out-of-pocket and then be reimbursed.

Floor Plan

When looking at the differences between an apartment and a condominium the floor plans are something important to notice.

  • Apartment

In an apartment you can count on a basic design that may appear to be cookie-cutter, meaning that everything looks the same (or at least similar).

If you are looking for something clean, quick, and simple, this may be the ideal living situation for you. Typically, yet not always, an apartment building will accommodate a range of lifestyles, however, each unit will appear fundamentally the same.

  • Condominium

These types of rental units offer many more unique features. While you can enjoy them as an upgraded version of a typical apartment when renting a condo talk to the owner. They may inform you about different upgrades, changes, and renovations to boost the appearance of your home.  

The Difference Between a Condo and Apartment

If you are looking for a new home and are asking yourself, “What is the difference between a condo and an apartment?” Here are 3 tips to help guide you through the rental process. Use them to talk to your friends, realtors, and property managers to find the best new home for you.

December 24, 2018

How to Adjust After Moving to a New City

Whether life forces you to start over or you decide to uproot and move to a new city for a new opportunity, job or just for fun, starting a new life alone is never easy. While you may be energetic and highly motivated at first, when life happens it may not be what you had in mind.

When the unexpected occurs in life, you can survive the turbulence of transitioning by making friends in a new city. This is the best way to integrate into the community, but it may not happen right away.

When you first set foot in a new city use these three tips to adjust as quickly and painlessly as possible:

  • Let it Out

It may sound strange but one of the first things you should do when you first move into your new home is get settled into a comfortable spot, and let it out. The moving process can be tiring and stressful, so when you get the chance, sit back, relax, and let out your feelings.

If you have any complaints about the process, it is best to let those feelings out to avoid any type of emotional explosion later down the road. Keeping a “How to Move to a New City Journal” can also help. If you want to, you can write in it every day or simply when the urge strikes.

Use the pages to talk about the challenges you faced, how you are doing, and what you want to develop over time in your new home. Then, if you want to bring up those topics to a close friend or even a therapist, a diary can help you dig deeper into what’s bothering you. The process of starting a new life alone may be scary, but this step can help unveil your basic needs and hidden desires for developing a new you.

writing a diary

  • Set Goals

Once you express the moving experience, and you have talked about what you want in your new city, you can set goals. Aim to achieve small, attainable goals like finding a job, joining a gym, attending a community event or eating at a farmers market. This way you can track the process in your journal to better see your progress, and where you need to go next on your journey of moving to a new city and building a new you.

  • Make a Friend

You don’t have to have a “bestie” to have friends in a new city. One of the most intimidating tasks when you go to a place where you don’t know anyone is to meet people. It can be terrifying to learn the little nuances that make a new city come alive. But that is the most exciting part of relocating. So, jump in head first!

Head out to a community event, volunteer with a non-profit organization, help a neighbor with a chore or simply strike up a conversation with someone at the market to find out what’s happening in your new city. Then go explore it with the intention of meeting new people and bringing friendships into your life.

A Final Note on How to Move to A New City

When you move to a different city, starting a new life alone can be challenging. However, these three steps on how to move to a new city can help. While making friends in a new city isn’t easy it does happen over time.

So, use these tips and lace up your shoes. Taking the initiative to move to a new city alone was brave – keep going. And always remember to give yourself plenty of gentleness and time to adjust to all of the changes.

November 27, 2018

What Are Efficiency Apartments?

With the cost of living going up, and real estate markets across the country continue to rise, more and more people are looking for cheap living arrangements in order to work in the city, and save up for their dream home. Developers and property managers have identified this market of renters and have taken steps to capitalize while providing super-affordable housing options in metro areas.

Efficiency apartments are one of the new options available for individuals that are on a tight budget or are rarely home. Below, you’ll learn a little about what is the difference between the two, and why they are appealing to the right renter. Don’t worry, we know you are probably asking yourself, “what is an efficiency apartment?” and it we’ll answer that in a bit, and explain more!

What Is an Efficiency Apartment?

Efficiency apartments are named because they are efficient (go figure), with everything being contained into one small room. That means your bedroom, living room, kitchen, office, and dining room are the same room. In cities where the location is a premium due to traffic and commutes, efficiency apartments present a unique solution for those willing to sacrifice space and luxuries for an ideal location to live.

These types of apartments are great opportunities for those fresh out of college (or mom and dad’s house) that are looking to live in the city on an entry-level paycheck or people that have larger homes outside of the city and want an apartment in the city for the late work nights.

The Difference Between Studios and Efficiency

Often used interchangeably, studio apartments are not necessarily the same as efficiency apartments. For one, studio apartments don’t really have a defined size or price limit. Some studio apartments can be quite large, some even more than 1,000 square feet and have price tags to match the size, location, and amenities.

On the other hand, efficiency apartments are only a few hundred square feet and don’t have separate rooms or add-ons. Most often, they won’t even have a closet, and the kitchen is more of a dorm room style kitchenette with a mini-fridge. However, if you are worried that the bathroom won’t be a separate room, the US housing laws require that it must be a separate room, with a door!

But keep in mind that an efficiency apartment, by definition, does not require a full bathroom (there may not be a tub). Studio apartments can often include a loft space for sleeping, which won’t be found in an efficiency apartment.

The Difference Between Studios and Efficiency

The Market for Small Space Renters

Both studios and efficiency apartments cater to a small piece of the rental market, just about 5 percent. As mentioned above, these types of units are going to be found in high density, urban markets where there are a lot more young, single professionals, seeking living spaces that satisfy their budgets and needs.

In these higher-priced markets, the difference between one-bedrooms and no bedrooms can be $500 or more. Outside of the big urban markets, these studios and efficiency apartments don’t create as much separation in price, and many renters can afford to upgrade in size because square footage isn’t as competitive in price.

So, whether you are a millennial looking for your first place on your own, or an established professional looking for a place to sleep during those long weeks when commuting is out of the question, efficiency for rent are a great choice. Finding the perfect place to live in any city can be a challenging endeavor. When you are ready to settle down and find that dream home to call your own in Phoenix, knowing the right real estate, to help you on your journey, can make things less stressful and more enjoyable.

Our team has been helping residents of the Valley and newcomers for nearly 20 years to find their perfect homes in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Start your search, today, by visiting our website!

November 2, 2018

Closing Day Checklist – 10 Essential Tasks

Creating a house closing checklist is one of the most important parts about selling your home. In fact, if you decide to sell a house and do not make a closing day checklist you could be making a big mistake. The task may seem daunting and between all of the steps that you need to tackle like real estate negotiations, paperwork, mortgages, home inspections and calculations of all types, but it is actually pretty easy to lose track of everything.

That’s why you need this closing day checklist: 10 essential tasks to add.

  1.  Movers. This may include local companies for a range of daily fees. It may or may not include additional supplies like boxes, tape, and transport equipment. Additionally, you may decide to book an appointment to use a rental vehicle like a truck or a trailer. If you want to cut costs, purchasing packaging items, equipment and using your own transportation can help.
  2.  Change the Locks. A locksmith is a next person you need to call in order to get through your closing day checklist. So, choose a company that has been in business for at least 3 years and has a reputation you can trust. If you can get a referral for a locksmith and book an appointment close to your move-in date, you can also schedule a re-key for your new home at the same time.
  3.  Switch Utilities. When you create a closing day checklist make sure to include this very easy-to-forget item: change your utilities. Schedule time to contact all of the companies including gas, electric, cable, water, trash, valet, and any other services you may use like phone or television upgrades.
  4.  Call a Contractor. Within your budget, there may be a range of options including changes to color palates, cabinet resurfacing, carpeting, light fixture upgrades, energy-saving appliances, and many others. While there are many DIY (do-it-yourself) projects that you can tackle alone, calling a licensed contractor is the best way to approach your closing day checklist.Call a Contractor
  5.  Stage the Home. Creating a comfortable environment for potential homebuyers makes a sale much more likely to happen. It may include simple décor like a chair, table, vase with flowers or other cozy touches like air fresheners or scented candles.
  6.  Book Appointments. It may be a floor cleaning, gutter cleaning, painting, resurfacing and more. Book any type of appointment on your closing day checklist at least 2 weeks in advance of your actual closing deadline.
  7.  Order Furniture. While it may be easy to forget, furniture takes time to move. It can take up to 12 weeks to get a living room couch delivered, and if the measurements are a challenge to fit into the home, it could require even more time.
  8.  Cancel Services. Did you remember the nanny? The cleaning lady? The dog walker? This may also include canceling any automatic billings cycles attached to these services.
  9.  Hold Onto Mail. When you get advertisements inside your local mail – keep them. Move-in junk mail during the first few weeks can include all types of welcome packages, coupons, information, maps and additional savings on services, plus introductions to local hotspots. So, don’t toss it!
  10.  Ask for Help. Add this gentle note to the bottom of your closing day checklist just for you: Ask for extra help if you need it. Frequently, the moving process can take a toll not only on your body but also your mind.

You can write your own detailed closing day checklist using this template. And always remember to enjoy the process. After all, home buying should be something you experience without worrying about every detail from start-to-finish. Search for more tips and tricks in our other articles on our blog, or reach out to us at Jeff Barchi if you have any additional questions.

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