Talking Real Estate with Hope Leitner
This month's eNewsletter is full of good advice. There's a building boom on - if you want a new home pay attention to the details. Also, if you're going to buy, "right size" the home for your needs.
If you're thinking of buying or selling, please call! There's a lot to consider in today's market!
August - Ponder this - “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” ― John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley: In Search of America We can’t appreciate the sun without knowing the clouds. Even though it’s hot the sun is shining and life is thriving in this summer heat.
As always, I am here for you, your family, and friends.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, California Properties Christie D. Horn and Associates Cell: (858) 382-3763 |
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HOMEBUYERS, BUILDERS, MORTGAGE RATES, INSPECTIONS
Avoid These 3 Big Mistakes During the New Home Boom
As housing affordability improves and the shortage in existing homes continues, homebuyers are turning to new construction. As a homebuyer, you may be tempted to jump on the first available new home that suits your family, but before you do, there are three major mistakes you should be aware of.
Don’t visit builders alone. If you visit builders on your own, they have no obligation to deal with your real estate agent, and you will have lost the opportunity to have an advocate. Make sure you sign the builder’s visitor log and include your agent’s name and contact information. Builders use their own contracts that limit their liabilities and may not be in your best interests. Your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network real estate professional can vet your builder for you, help you save money, and help you through the underwriting process to closing.
Don’t skip the inspection. Just because a home is new, doesn’t mean it’s without problems. A recent news report found that some homebuilders are “cutting corners” to produce homes faster. Protect yourself by demanding an inspection that covers all systems, fixtures and appliances in the home.
Don’t buy a model home. Model homes feature the most luxurious features to tempt you into adding upgrades. If these upgrades are done during the building process, and not after the home is completed, you’ll save a lot of money and prevent costly delays. Make sure the luxuries you get are in line with other homes being built or completed.
HOUSING TRENDS, HOMEBUYERS, SMART HOMES
Choose the Right Size for Your Next Home
Homebuyers are feeling the sticker shock of higher prices, but it’s not just inflation. They want bigger homes. In 1949, the average size of a new single-family home was 909 square feet, while homes grew to 2,480 square feet by 2021. Homebuyers want more than they had before, including more space, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home technologies, all of which is making homes more expensive.
But how much living space does a family really need? According to the National Association of REALTORS®, a typical home purchased recently is 1,800 square feet with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and was built in 1986, but that may not be enough space for some homebuyers. While it’s totally subjective, a good rule of thumb is that each person should have 200 and 400 square feet of living space. So, a family of four would be comfortable with a home of about 2,400 square feet.
To help you choose the right-sized home, consider your family’s needs. Small children can comfortably share a bedroom, but teenagers need more privacy. Aging parents are safer in single-level homes or a downstairs owner’s suite, preferably with a separate entrance and living area. You may need more space if you’re working from home and need a home office, a playroom for kids, a bigger kitchen, or an owner’s suite with his and her baths. Whatever you choose, make sure the layout and square footage also aligns with how much you want to maintain and pay for utilities.
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©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. |
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