Best Real Estate Articles for August 2020

As we are in the midst of the summer months, real estate is moving at a quick pace. Homebuyers are looking for homes with low inventory. Interest rates are phenomenal and it is a great time to consider purchasing a home. Real estate bloggers continue to put out excellent information geared at educating consumers including buyers and sellers. I hope you enjoy this month's edition of the Best Real Estate Articles.

What is the Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor®

Kevin Vitali as put together an excellent resource outlining The Differences Between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor®. This article provides the definition of a real estate agent and a Realtor®. A real estate salesperson is licensed by the state that they work in. He also discusses the definition of a real estate broker. Salespersons must hang their license with a real estate broker and sell on behalf of the broker. A Realtor® is a real estate salesperson or broker who is a member of the National Association of Realtors. There is additional information about the benefits of being a Realtor® including the National Association of Realtors provides the members with educational and up to date information including best practices, legal help, and more.

15 Fees to Expect When Buying a Home

If you are considering purchasing, especially first time home buyers, you may not be aware of how many different costs are associated with purchasing a home. Michelle Gibson has written an excellent article 15 Fees to Expect When Buying a Home. This is a very detailed article that includes information about fees which include a home inspection, escrow fees, homeowner's title fees, property taxes, and more. Other fees to consider include credit report fees, and appraisal costs. Home buying can have many fees, but being aware of what these fees are prior to embarking on the home buying process will help a home buyer to be prepared.

Shade Gardens - Before and After

It seems as though many of us are working on DIY home projects. Eileen Anderson does not disappoint with a fabulous article about Shade Gardens - Before and After. In the article, Eileen shares before and after photos of a shade garden. Additionally, there are lists for plants for dry soil including Grass Japanese anemones, Astrantia. Euphorbia amygdaloides, and more. There is also a list for plants for wet soil including Iris, Primrose, Pagoda Dogwood, American Hornbeam, and others. Be sure to check out this article for the plant recommendations and view the gorgeous before and after photos.

The Home Inspection

Are you buying a home? If so, one of the most important parts of the home buying process is the home inspection. It is essential that buyers understand their rights and responsibilities during this part of the process. Joe Boylan has written an excellent article The Home Inspection. In this very detailed article, you will find information about the home buying process. The first step is for a buyer to review the home disclosures that are provided by the seller. Then the buyer will decide as to whether or not they want to proceed with a home inspection. He also discusses that a buyer should hire a certified inspector and that the inspection may trigger other inspections. This is a must-read for anyone purchasing a home.

Buying A Condo? 9 Important Questions To Ask Before You Buy

Are you considering purchasing a condo? If so, this article Buying A Condo? 9 Important Questions To Ask Before You Buy written by Maria Mastrolonardo is a must-read. You will find information about the definition of a condo which is the owner holds title to their condo but ownership is shared in the common areas. There is additional information about HOA or home owner's associations and the rules and regulations. If you are considering purchasing a condo as an investment property, you will want to determine if you are able to rent the condo out to tenants. Other considerations include special assessments and ensuring the HOA has reserves to cover maintenance on the property.

Selling Your Home Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, selling your home might be more challenging, however, it is still possible. It is imperative to comply with all state, county, and city mandates. Although it is a little more challenging, it is still possible. Paul Sian has written an excellent article Selling Your Home Amid COVID-19 Pandemic. In the article, you will find information about criteria for in-person showings, virtual showings, and more. Buyers and tenants should be pre-qualified prior to walking into a home for an in-person showing. In today's climate, it is so important to be working with an experienced agent who is familiar with the guidelines to keep all buyers safe.

How Does Escrow Work When Buying a Selling a House

Buying a home can become an overwhelming process if buyers are not familiar with the commonly used real estate terms.  Realtors may utilize terms that you are not aware of, and if that is the case, be sure to ask for the definition. Bill Gassett has written an excellent article How Does Escrow Work When Buying a Selling a House. Escrow is a very important term and this article provides the definition. In the article, he explains what earnest money is, and that escrow is a neutral holding party between a buyer and a seller. There is additional information about escrow holdbacks. This is excellent information about the definition of escrow.

Tips for Move-Up Buyers

Are you considering moving and getting a larger home? If so you may be asking yourself, do I sell first, then buy? Be sure to check out Luke Skar's post Tips for Move-Up Buyers. In this post, he discusses the reasons why people move including if they are getting older, want to live near the water or move close to family. Other considerations include taking a look at your existing home to determine the pros and cons. It may be your home is just too small to fit your current needs or perhaps you don't like the location of the master bedroom. This is an excellent article to review if you are considering moving.

The Importance of Appealing Listing Descriptions

Are you selling your home? If so, be sure to take your time to write an appealing listing description. If you don’t have an appealing listing description, your home could be accumulating days on market. Buyers are most likely going to view the photos first, however, they will want to read all about it. The listing description should highlight the features of the home. Listing descriptions are a very important step with the marketing of your home. It should tell a story and be captivating to a potential buyer. Keep in mind, this description will be syndicated from the MLS to all 3rd party sites, so it is important to use proper grammar, spelling, and be sure not to use all caps. Remember this is a reflection of the property for sale.

Final Thoughts

We hope that you enjoyed the Top Real Estate Articles for August 2020. Top real estate bloggers continue to provide you with value and education. The goal is to help to prepare you for your next real estate transaction. Let us know what you would like covered in the future!

About the Author

The above real estate article “Best Real Estate Articles for August 2020” was written top Newport Beach CA Realtor Sharon Paxson. We have experience since 2005 representing buyers, sellers, and landlords with their real estate transactions. we welcome the opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise and guide you through the home selling or buying process.