3 Tips for Millennials Looking to Buy Their First Home

3 Tips for Millennials Looking to Buy Their First Home

If you’re a millennial and are now preparing to purchase your first home, then you might be in for a challenging time. Interest rates are on the rise, jobs are more difficult to find, and most millennials are struggling to pay off their student loan debts.

The good news is that are ways for you to prevent these things from becoming a permanent obstacle. Below are some tips to show you how. If you want to be able to buy the house of your dreams, keep reading to learn more.

Start Saving

How is the state of your finances? Most millennials today are burdened with student loan debts, which make it challenging to afford a downpayment for a house. To make matters worse, the job market is oversaturated, which makes it hard to find a job or grow in their chosen industry.

Therefore, if you’re already struggling with your finances, the first thing to do would be to keep them in check. Figure out where your money goes and, as much as possible, make sure that they’re essential expenses. Next, you need to start saving now because home prices are on the rise. Set a monthly budget and spare some money for a house.

Improve Your Credit Score

Unless you’re rolling in dough, you would probably need to take out a home loan. One of the things that lenders look for in a home loan candidate is their credit score. While you’re house hunting, work in improving your credit score as well. Pay off debts on time and don’t take out more loans than necessary.

While you’re at it, check your credit score regularly and make sure that there are no errors. If there are, have them sorted out right away so you won’t run into any problems when you finally submit your home loan application.

Have a Realtor

Millennials are known for their mad multi-tasking skills and getting things done quickly. There’s nothing wrong with this, but you can’t do that when you’re about to make an investment. Take your time when finding a home that you like. It’s easy to acquire information these days—thanks to the birth of the digital era—but you can’t just haphazardly do your transactions online.

That is why having a realtor to work with you throughout the home buying process is a must. A realtor will help you be more familiar with the real estate market, and they’ll have the expertise that you won’t find on the internet.

Find a realtor that you’re comfortable with. Allow a real estate agent to navigate the buying experience because they can do it better and guide you towards finding your dream home today.

Conclusion

Buying your first house is such an exciting experience. However, it’s not that easy as a millennial, with student loan debts, the job market, and several other factors. It might all feel overwhelming, but there is good news.

With responsible saving, an excellent credit score, and a real estate agent by your side, you will be able to purchase your first house. All these tips are crucial to help you make such an important investment.

Our team at Smith Street Homes can help you find your dream home today! We are real estate experts in Genesee County who will help you make the home buying process run smoothly.

9 Vital Steps to Take for Your Home Purchase in Michigan

A home purchase is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your life. There is nothing more fulfilling than being able to find your dream home, make a purchase, and move in as soon as possible. After all, a home is where you'll build your dreams, start a family, and create the life you envision.

Yet, a home purchase isn't as straightforward as you might expect. There are still various processes that you need to go through, from making a purchasing decision to closing the deal down to moving to your dream home. With all these, you must be properly prepared and guided every step of the way.

9 Vital Steps to Take for your Home Purchase in Michigan

In this article, we will share nine vital steps to take when looking at homes for sale in Davidson, Michigan:

1. Decide to make a home purchase

This entails asking yourself why you need to buy a house, and if you are prepared for what lies ahead. If you are fully decided to take on the challenge, then give it a go! Feel free to take a look at some of our other Smith Street Homes blog posts, especially our resource on 3 questions to ask yourself to see if you’re ready to own a home.

2. Set your budget in place

Once you're fully decided, you will need to set your overall budget in place. Factor in all the expenses involved – the possible price of a house you can afford and all other miscellaneous fees.

3. Consider the home features

Now that you are decided to buy a house and know what you can afford, it's time to get into the specific features of a home. Consider the type of house, floor plans, designs, and other aspects you have in mind. Also, remember to factor in external variables, such as the location, neighborhood, and accessibility, among others.

4. Start searching for prospects

Searching for prospective houses is actually an exciting endeavor. You can search online through property listings or get recommendations from family, friends, colleagues, or even real estate agents.

5. Work with an agent

If you work with a real estate agent, you can rest assured that they have the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed in the real estate industry. With an expert, they will help you find your dream home and guide you through the whole process. At Smith Street Homes, we know the Genesee County real estate landscape like the back of our hours, so we can help you with your home buying, home selling, or home building needs.

6. Make an offer and negotiate

Once you've chosen a particular house through the help of a realtor, you can then make the right offer. Part of the overall equation is to negotiate until both parties—you as the buyer and the home seller— have arrived at an agreement.

7. Set the contract

Once both parties have agreed, remember to set the contract in writing. It also has to be set and signed by both parties. All terms and agreements must be strictly followed and fulfilled until the closing time.

8. Get an appraisal and inspection

After settling the contract signing, you will need to get an appraisal and inspection for your prospective home. While the appraisal entails knowing the value of the property, the inspection is to examine its overall condition. Should there be any issues, you can make repair arrangements with the seller or ask them to lower the property price.

9. Close the deal and move in

Make sure to complete all paperwork and items required by your lender, seller, and title company. You, your real estate agent, seller, seller's agent, title company, and other parties involved must sign a series of documents to finally close the deal. With the deed and title transferred, money paid, contracts finalized, and property ownership named after you, you are now all set to build your future in your dream home!

Conclusion

At this point, you now realize that the home-buying process may not be as easy as you initially expected. Nevertheless, we hope this article has guided you on what you need to know about purchasing a home and prepare you for what lies ahead.

If you're looking for homes for sale in Davison, Michigan, get in touch with our real estate experts today to see how we can help find your dream home!

How to Make an Offer for your Dream Home

So, after many days, months, or even years, of searching, you have finally stumbled upon your dream home! Now's the chance for you to get it for yourself and start living life. However, making that offer to buy the home might be a little daunting, especially if this is your first time.

What if you get overcharged for more than the home's worth? How much can you offer to the seller that will entice them without wasting money on your end? Here is how you can go about making the right offer for your dream home:

Know your market's pace

Generally, what will affect your offering the most is the pace of your market. For example, if the market is going quite slow, sellers tend to be more willing to negotiate for a lower selling price. On the other hand, in a fast market, that might not be an option. That said, always know that sellers are often trying to sell homes quickly, meaning that the possibility of negotiation is still up there.

You will be able to make lower offerings if you find yourself in a market with many homes but few buyers (buyer's market). If you are in a market with few homes but plenty of buyers (seller's market), your offerings must be close to the asking price. Otherwise, it might just be rejected straight away.

Either way, whether you are in a slow or fast market, always remember to stay safe. For example, always remember to hire inspectors to analyze the home. These safeguards will ensure that you get what you pay for and that you will not be surprised by anything nasty, which translates to higher costs.

Learn how to deal with a rejection

While a rejected offer can always be heartbreaking, especially if it is for your dream house, always ask the seller why he or she rejected it. There are many reasons that you might receive. For example, if you were in a seller's market, it might be because your offer was lower compared to others or that it was unattractive. That said, the seller can tell you that they want to wait a bit for more offers.

If your offer was rejected because it was low, you still have a chance of getting the house. For example, if the other higher offer still has not been accepted, you might be able to go into a bidding war. However, you will need the experience of a local agent to help you bid correctly. That way, you will not jump the gun too much and know how to bid correctly.

Conclusion

If you find that your offer was accepted, remember to not hurry through the buying process. If you find that your offer was rejected, try to get into a bidding war to buy your dream home. Remember, buying a home can be a long and tedious process, but it is all worth it if you are buying your dream house. If you cannot bother with any of these, you can consider custom-building your dream home. There are plenty of professional builders out there that will get you precisely what you want, and all you need to do is call them.

Find your dream home today with us - we are real estate experts in Genesee County. If you want to buy or build your dream home, contact us now!

Are You Ready to Own a Home? 3 Questions to Ask Yourself

“Am I really ready to buy a home?”

Of all the lifelong dreams we have as young people, one of them is to be able to finally own a house all to ourselves. However, before you go about this exciting and costly venture, you need to ask yourself, "Am I really ready to buy a home?"

Find out if you’re really prepared for the commitment of purchasing a home by asking yourself these questions:

1. Am I ready to bunk down in one location for a long time?

If you find yourself tired of moving from one place to another often, then finally settling down in a home of yours is a great way to stay put. Not only that, but a myriad of other benefits also come into play. For example, this time around you’re your own landlord! So you can do whatever you want inside the home and you can have as many pets as you would like, among others. To add to this, staying put also allows you to be more focused on different tasks, such as your job or spending more quality time with your family.

If you are the type who loves to move around a lot, though, or if your lifestyle requires you to travel, buying a home might not be the best option.

2. Am I ready to cover the down payment?

When you are buying a home, note that you will need to make a down payment. The amount you will have to pay will depend on many factors, such as the home's value as well as the seller’s pricing. For example, you might find some larger homes with a 20 percent down payment, meaning that 20 percent of the original amount must be paid upfront to the seller. However, you might also find other homes with a down payment as low as 5 percent - it varies case by case (FHA loans can be as low as 3.5%, or $0 down for VA and Rural Development) so speaking with a qualified real estate agent in the area is never a bad idea!

Either way, keep in your mortgage in mind, as the less you must borrow means the less interest overall. In other words, the larger the down payment you make with your own money, the less money you will have to borrow.

3. Am I ready to be responsible for the home?

Having a home is not all about lying on the couch and enjoying life. Instead, when you have a home, the responsibility of taking care of each aspect of the house is on your shoulders. From cleaning it daily to carrying out maintenance on the utilities, there are so many responsibilities that are all part of being a homeowner.

Of course, you are given the ability to hire professionals to help take care of the home, but you wouldn’t hire professionals to do simple tasks like mopping the floor or clear the lawn, would you? So, if you’re not ready for an increase in responsibilities, then staying at a rented place might suit you better.

Conclusion

There are many more questions you need to ask yourself to determine if it’s wise for you to purchase a home, but the three we’ve listed above are perhaps the most crucial. Of course, the decision is ultimately up to you.

That said, there is always a form of risk and excitement when it comes to buying a home, so even if you feel a little unready for it, sometimes, you just need to take a small leap of faith. If you’re still unsure, consider working with a real estate agent in Genesee County. With their help, not only will the buying process become a lot simpler and smoother, but you will be much more confident with the home you purchase in and, in the end, be happier with your decision.

Ready to find your dream home today? Are you looking for houses for sale in Davidson, MI? Check our offerings today at Smith Street Homes!

4 Mistakes Homebuyers Make - What to Avoid

4 Mistakes Homebuyers Make
What to Avoid

The more you interact with real estate, the more you realize that buying properties isn’t as simple as it seems. It’s a combination of many complicated processes, complete with confusing terminologies, complex logistics, and jacked up prices—it’s incredibly easy to make a wrong move that will lead you to unwise investment.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, do yourself a favor—avoid the buyer’s remorse and learn about the common pitfalls of house purchasing. Here are four of the most common mistakes homebuyers make:

1 - Not getting pre-approved before shopping

It will be incredibly tempting to scour the marketplace for the most gorgeous homes for sale, but the last thing you want to happen is to fall in love with a home you can’t afford! To prevent this from happening, the simple solution is to get a pre-approved plan for a mortgage.

Before house hunting, it’s best to know what you can and can’t afford, so that you know what the monthly payments will look like. Banks will usually pre-approve higher amounts for you, but remember not to overextend yourself. It’s important to remain firm and rooted in your budget, as with getting pre-approved. It serves as the precedent to the rest of your plans.

2 - Being unable to see a house past its facade

This issue is two-pronged, both of which are problematic. You found a beautiful house, for instance, made and updated with beautiful fixtures, finishes, and exquisite decors. It’s eye candy, in real estate terms, and you get drawn in too much that you forget about the important details—location, yard, or the debilitating fact that it’s situated on a busy road. This also happens the opposite way: plenty of homebuyers overlook a home that needs some work. They’re quick to dismiss mismatched paint and outdated fixtures, ignoring the fact that it has a sturdy foundation and a good location.

As you shop for your new home, keep in mind that cosmetic details can be quickly remedied. Location and integrity, however, are impossible to fix.

3 - Approaching house hunting as an emotional decision rather than a business one

While it’s incredibly important to find a house you would want to feel comfortable in, falling in love with a house to the point of emotional investment is a mistake. If you find yourself falling head over heels for a property that you’re willing to do anything, you will end up paying more than you should.

This will eventually lead to buyer’s remorse, and over time you’ll realize you didn’t get the best deal possible. The buying process is emotional enough as it is, so you must have someone by your side to keep you in check. It’s a serious, life-long commitment after all—you’ll need all the facts, information, and logic to make a well-informed decision!

4 - Being unable to see added and hidden costs

Although the mainstream media may make it seem like it is, buying a house is never simple. There are plenty of factors that come into play, and not just moving from rent payments to mortgages. You need to take home insurance into account, as well as closing costs, property taxes, and homeowner’s association fees, on top of your monthly expenses.

While most of these may already be on your mind, you need to remain aware of all hidden and added costs, such as maintenance costs. Before closing the deal, count numbers and see if renovations will make the house overbudget. It’s important to become aware of these because sometimes, the working projects may end up costing you more than it should.

Conclusion

Buying a home is an exciting new chapter of your life, one that involves huge changes and a great investment. It’s only right that you plan out things accordingly, making sure that you’re arriving at well-informed choices. Keep these common mistakes in mind and skip out on buyer’s remorse when searching for homes for sale!

If you’re searching for homes for sale in Genesee County, our team at Smith Street Homes today will gladly assist you. We’ll help you build, design, or look for the best possible home for you—reach out to us today!

Smith Street Homes COVID Updates

All of us at Smith Street are so thankful to now be able to serve our clients in their Genesee County Real Estate endeavors. The standard practice will look a little different going forward as we continue to work within the guidelines provided by Governor Whitmer in the interest of public health:

• We will work remotely with clients to the greatest extent possible.

• Open houses are limited to virtual open houses at this time.

• All photography/videography appointments for homes are limited to only photographers at the home, no seller or agents in the home at that time. All lights, blinds & curtains need to be open by the seller prior to their confirmed appointment time.

• All showings, inspections, appraisals and final walk through are arranged by appointment only and limited to no more that four people.

• All in person activities should abide by Michigan/CDC guidelines for social distancing.

• In person showings are limited to potential buyers who have been pre-approved or have provided adequate proof of funds, prior to showing.

• Increased use of photography, virtual showings, and other technology to assist buyer clients in narrowing down needs/ wants prior to in person showings.

• We confirm in advance that the seller has authorized in-person showing.

• Marketing materials and other relevant property information are provided electronically in advance of showing whenever possible.

• The number of people attending showings are limited to the agent and those making decisions. Please no more than four people (including the agent). We highly recommended that no children are present at the showing.

• A 6 foot social distance is to be maintained at all times. We request that buyers and agents refrain from touching surfaces in the property.

• Agents and buyers need to wear masks on showings. Shoes are to be removed or shoe covers are to be worn at all showings.

• Agents and buyers are to use sanitizer on hands as necessary. Special requests on a case-by-case basis will be noted on MLS and Showingtime. 

We are happy to serve our clients in a safe and healthy manner. If you are looking to buy, sell, or build property in Genesee County, contact us today!

Tips for Buying, Renting, and Selling Property During a Pandemic

Tips for Buying, Renting, and Selling Property
During a Pandemic

Many people have the misunderstanding that real estate is dead during the pandemic seasons. Although the pandemic has affected it to a certain extent, we are still operational with scaled back means of operation. If you're unsure how to proceed with buying, renting, or selling property in this COVID-19 era, this article is for you.

Tips for Buying and Renting Property During a Pandemic

1. Use technology

Research is key. The age of the internet allows people to gain information about specific places with a click of a button. Although you might not be able to see the location yourself, you can still perform research about the surrounding community of homes for sale. Google Maps allows you to place yourself and get an image of almost every urban and suburban street.

Another means of using technology for information would be virtual tours. Some sellers and landlords utilize 3D technology to allow people to experience a virtual tour of the property without having to go there physically. Aside from 3D technology, sellers can record a video tour of the house if they are short on budget. If you get in contact with a home seller during pandemic, ask them to record a video to get a better feel of the place.

With this set-up, buyers and renters can get an idea of what it's like to live in the property without the fear of contracting any disease.

2. Study floor plans

Sometimes, virtual tours do not give justice to the actual spatial perception in videos and 3D tours. As such, you can request a copy of the property's blueprint to understand the space thoroughly. If you compare the specified dimensions to your current living space, you can get an accurate representation of the spatial scope of the concerned property.

It’s important to remember, too, that 1,500 square feet can seem spacious or cramped depending on the layout, furniture, and even lighting. If you’re looking to buy a home in Genesee County, getting a good look at the floor plan is a great preliminary step.

3. Fix paperwork and credit score

There are many requirements for applying for a mortgage, and it's best to have all of them ready whenever your loan provider demands them. Additionally, you also need to improve your credit score, especially if it's on the low side of the spectrum. You can do so by paying off your debt and bills regularly.

If you aren’t able to buy a house during a pandemic, you can still get ahead by taking the extra time on your hands in quarantine by learning, researching, and doing what you can to get ahead and come into every meeting more prepared. It wouldn’t hurt to reach out to the appropriate parties (broker, realtor, homebuilder, etc.) ahead of time with an eye for the future.

TIPS FOR SELLING PROPERTY DURING A PANDEMIC

1. Perform any necessary DIY repairs

Now that most shops and contractors are non-operational this season, it is best to DIY any problems on your property. That includes broken tiles, scuff marks, dirty windows, watermarked surfaces, leakage, and many more.

It’s also a great idea to ensure that your home is clean before posting any videos, pictures, or creating a listing. A clean, well-lit photo of your home will bring in more interested homebuyers in the Genesee County area than the alternative.

2. Improve your garden

Gardens and lawns can make or break the chances of selling your home in Genesee County. It also gives the buyer an overview of how you take care of your property. An unorganized garden with dead plants does not look appealing to the eyes of interested property buyers. On the other hand, if you have a green lawn, bursting garden, freshly painted decor, and flowering plants, you can increase your chances of selling the property at a higher price!

3. Film video tours 

Lockdowns and community quarantines deter prospects from visiting your property. However, that does not mean that you cannot do anything to creatively show your property to interested parties. You can do so by filming your home in a virtual tour set-up, or taking panoramic photos. You can even hire a real estate agent to do the tour for you. In doing so, potential buyers can experience a glimpse of the property's looks.

Tips for Buying, Renting, and Selling Property
During a Pandemic
Conclusion

Real estate is not dead! Property buyers and owners have adapted to the situation and are working creatively to move forward with their real estate transactions. Remember that the aforementioned tips for buying, renting, and selling property during a pandemic above only serve as your guide. Your best bet in buying, renting, or selling a home in Genesee County is to coordinate with realtors near you, like Smith Street Homes.

Are you looking for houses for sale in Davidson, MI during a pandemic? Contact us today to see how we can help.

3 Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Home - Our Guide

3 Factors To Consider When Purchasing a Home - Our Guide

So, you have saved up enough money to consider buying instead of building your dream home. Congratulations to you, as that is a massive feat! Even so, your journey is not quite over - in fact, it’s probably just beginning! After all, having the money does not mean that you have landed a brand-new home already. Now, you might be taking the time to look at all the homes for sale in Genesee County. Unfortunately, with so many homes to pick from, you might be struggling to figure out which one is perfect for your needs.

If you are still having trouble, here are some considerations to make to ensure you end up with the right home:

1. Current Condition

What is the last thing you want to face when purchasing a home? The answer is buying a home that is not in good condition. Not only does this mean that you must go around fixing things up again, but you also spend extra money and time to restore the home to the state it should have been when you bought it.

With that in mind, if you have never owned a home before and have never done any renovations, we highly suggest that you do not go for a house that requires such. It can prevent you from carrying out passion projects on the house in favor of necessities, and these can have a financial burden as well. Not only that, but you might be delayed in moving in while your home undergoes repair.

2. Wants and Needs

There is a fine line between a want and a need. A want can be a quality fridge in your kitchen, while a need would be to have an actual kitchen in the house. These needs and wants can be different for every individual. For example, your need might be a shorter commute to your workplace, while someone else's need would be more bedrooms and bathrooms for a bigger family.

Because of this, you need to list down all your wants and needs separately. That can act as an excellent guideline for you to follow to see whether the house can fulfill what you desire and what you need from it. It’s also a good idea to prioritize these as much as you can. For example, you would place a lot more weight on the "needs" over the "wants."

3. Pricing

Even if you have all the money in the world, it still helps that you purchase the home for the right price, or rather, one that fits your budget and gives you the most bang for the buck.

While you can sit down and look at all the luxury homes it might break your heart knowing that you cannot afford it. Being tempted to increase your budget can end up in a mistake that destabilizes you financially - a big no-no. Better to use these dream homes as a goal or something to work toward, or, even better, to take some ideas from when you build your own dream home.

Because of this, always stick to houses at the range that you can afford. There are still good houses no matter your budget, but you need to put in the time and effort to search for them. However, if you do find one that is a little over your budget, feel free to do some bargaining with the seller. If you need help looking for a house in Genesee County, join our Home Finder Program to get notified before anybody else!

Conclusion

By making these considerations, you will set yourself up with the best chances of landing the perfect home that offers you most, if not all, that you need for the right price. It’s important to note that there are many other things you can and should consider when buying a home, such as location, nearby amenities, community, outdoor space, and so on. The more you can put your thoughts into these things, the better the chances of landing the home you are happy with. Always try to be flexible, as you might not be able to find the home that fits all the criteria but close to it!

Are you looking for homes for sale in Genesee County? Get in touch with us today to find the home of your dreams!

4 Tips to Consider for a Kitchen Upgrade Project

A kitchen is the heart of a home, the place where most people congregate in a house. Sometimes, people do not use their sitting rooms, or they use it at different times. Meanwhile, rooms are private places and are not really built to host others. This is why the kitchen is often the most commonplace in a house that routinely accommodates multiple people at once.

Since the kitchen is a gathering place in most homes, it is just right that it receives the care and planning that goes into other rooms. However, they can sometimes also be among the most neglected places in a house. They are often the last to be remodeled unless the homeowner is fond of cooking or hosting parties due to a number of factors.

If you are looking for inspiration in building your dream home, or even just gathering ideas for an update, we will share these four valuable tips to consider for a kitchen upgrade project.

1. Determine if you need to redo the layout

Kitchens must first be functional spaces. It would not do well to have an aesthetically pleasing space that does not serve its owners’ needs. For example, a household that is not fond of baking would not find a high-tech oven useful. When remodeling your kitchen, this is why you should consider your daily cooking needs and habits.

Does your family gather while someone cooks elaborate meals? If so, you might enjoy having a center island or a table for people who want to hang out while someone prepares the food. Conversely, if your family prefers quick and easy recipes, you might need to have a dedicated space for time-saving appliances, such as coffee machines and microwave ovens. Think of how you use your kitchen and how you can help make it more efficient.

2. Consider the space and style of your cabinets

Any home could do with more storage space. Kitchens are particularly in need of clever ways of hiding away packages, bottles, bags, spices, containers, pots, pans, plates, tools, and the myriad of other items needed for cooking and preparing a meal. Though these items are a sign of a healthy and food-loving household, they do not contribute much in terms of aesthetic appeal.

Before hiring someone to build your home, you should have an idea of how big you need your cabinets and drawers to be. It is always pleasant to look at clean, streamlined kitchen countertops, where the only items on display are carefully chosen to reflect the owners’ personalities. When considering cabinets and drawers, you should also think about how well they reflect the overall style of the house.

3. Have a custom-built pantry and shelving

Shelves are often constructed to standard, and builders will deliver that unless you make your own requests. While you are remodeling, know that you can make the kitchen a better fit by customizing the shelves and the pantry to the products and items you store.

Adding lights in the pantry also helps make cooking easier. This makes it easy for you to spot cans or packages that are out of reach. A well-lit pantry also helps you see, at a glance, which items you need to restock and which ones you still have.

4. Refurbish the backsplash and fixtures

The backsplash serves an important function in kitchens because it is both decorative and functional. The backsplash plays an important functional role due to the electrical outlet requirements or other amenities such as a paper towel holder. If you want a quick update to your space, prioritize the refurbishment of the backsplash and switch your old tiles for newer models.

Changing the color of your cabinets and drawers, as well as picking new handles, knobs, and faucets is also a good way to update your look without breaking the bank. Simply switching your color scheme may be a way to refresh a tired-looking room and inject some excitement into the kitchen without breaking the bank with a full remodel.

4 Tips to Consider for a Kitchen Upgrade Project
Conclusion

When thinking of upgrading your kitchen, always lead with function. Think of what you use this space for, and make appropriate changes based on that. If you only want a purely aesthetic change, you can focus on smaller upgrades before deciding to tackle larger projects.

If you are searching for your dream home, speak with our representatives at Smith Street Homes today. We are the real estate experts of Genesee County, MI and can help you design, build, or find the best space for your family. Contact us today to learn more.

Why You Should Invest in Building a Custom Home - Our Reasons

Why You Should Invest in Building a Custom Home
Our Reasons

You can spend a few months to a year looking for a house in your local real estate areas to find a house that’ll suit your needs. However, chances are, even if you spend a long time looking, you won’t be able to find the perfect house. If perfection’s your goal, then you should consider building a custom house from the ground up.

Not convinced it’s a great investment? Here are some reasons why you should take the plunge and invest in your dream home:

1. You’ll have a wider variety of options

When you build a custom house, you can choose every single detail—from the floor and wall coverings to the more minute details such as the cabinetry and storage options. You can also plan and build for the appliances and major furniture items that you want or have. Basically, “the roof” is the limit when you opt for a custom house, and you’ll enjoy the experience of being able to pick and choose what you want to have in it.

2. You’ll be able to express yourself more

Consider a custom house a blank canvas that you can fill with your uniqueness and personal style. It’s your house, so make sure that it screams who you are. By building a custom house, you get to design a home that reflects your personality, style, and taste. Your home will be look and feel exactly the way you want it.

3. Your home will be more functional

We all have unique needs—what works in other homes may not work for you, and that’s perfectly okay! Thus, if you want to make the most out of your investment, choose a custom-built house. Don’t let yourself settle with a semi-functional home. If you have the budget, go for a house that will meet all the functionality requirements that you need.

4. You can choose high-quality materials

When you build a custom house, you get to choose the materials. You will purchase every nail that goes into the house. Of course, you don’t want to go for low-quality materials, because you want your custom-made house to last a long, long time.

Owners get to pick high-quality materials and closely monitor these as well. Unlike in a ready-built house, you don’t know what materials were used to build it, and later on, issues may arise due to the inferior materials that were used. If you think about it, home repairs may cost you more than building it right the first time.

5. You have control over your budget

Another benefit of a custom house is that you’re in full control over your budget. Despite what other people think, building a custom home isn’t more expensive than getting an existing home. A custom house allows you to build within the limits of your budget, as you have control over the price point of every single thing that is used for the home.

6. You can choose exactly where to build your home

When building a custom house, you can choose wherever you want to live (as long as the lot is for sale!). If you're going to live in a specific location, you can go ahead and do so. Depending on the location, this might cost you more, but it will be beneficial in the end. After all, who doesn’t want to live in the area of their choosing, right?

Conclusion

Building a custom house for yourself makes a lot of sense. If you think it’ll end up more expensive than buying an existing home, think again. Just imagine the comfort and convenience you’ll enjoy the moment you move into a custom home. You won’t have to worry about making any repairs or adjustments that may cost you more money down the road.

Additionally, a custom home is a guarantee that the house is precisely the way you want it. Isn’t that more satisfying than having to renovate a previously-owned home?

Ready to make the move? If so, let us help you turn your dream home into a reality. Contact us today and let’s take the next big step in investing in building a custom home, your dream home, together.

Why is Buying a Home Better Than Renting One?

Buying a home offers a multitude of advantages — including tax deductions, equity growth, and a personal asset no one can take away from you. Most homeowners feel accomplished whenever they invested in a home they can call their own. With that said, it is an excellent time to look for homes for sale!

The condition of the real estate and mortgage industry today offers favorable circumstances that make it irresistible to switch from renting a property to buying one. If you’re having a hard time deciding, that’s normal. This article will get you into that mindset after the short read.

3 Reasons Why Buying a Home is Better than Renting One

Here are some benefits to buying a home instead of renting one.

1. Rental price escalation

If you find your current monthly rental fee manageable, wait for a couple more years to get the shock of your life. There will come a time that your rent will eat up a considerable chunk of your salary.

There is troubling news that the real estate rental value is rising faster than the median salary of the average American. In the future, paying for a monthly mortgage might be a better option than paying for rent since the prices of each might be close to each other. The only difference is that one option makes the house yours, while the other one benefits another person who gains money by lending their property to you.

2. Homes are a long-term investment

If you continue to rent your home, you’re not paying for owning something. Since you’re merely borrowing the property, you are limited as to what you can do about it. With that said, it is nearly impossible to live in your dream house in a rented property.

Buying among a selection of houses for sale ensures that once you fully paid your mortgage, you can get extra money when you sell your property at a higher price. For rented homes, all the money you pay your landlord gets flushed down the drain without any return on investment. Unlike buying a property, you can even profit from the transaction.

3. Interest rates are historically low

The real estate industry currently sells properties at an interest rate that’s on a historically low value. Although the interest rate might appear like a small value to the untrained eye, it makes a massive difference in your monthly mortgage. A lower interest rate drastically lowers the mortgage price in the process, which collectively saves you money in the long-term.

In a bigger perspective, lower interest rates suggest you could save hundreds of dollars for the whole duration of your mortgage plan. When you consider this benefit versus a monthly rental, buying houses for sale wins by a landslide win.

Conclusion

Rental properties look cheaper at first but are more expensive than buying homes for sale. If you have stored savings for a down payment, it is best to buy one as soon as possible. The benefits of buying a house instead of renting one outweigh the cons greatly.

Are you looking for excellent realtors near you in Davison, MI? Reach out to us to find a house for sale that’s perfect for our needs.

3 Practical Tips When Buying a Home for the First Time - What to Know

One of the most fulfilling experiences in life is to have your new house construction or invest in your dream home. Whether you’re about to start a family or want to buy a property from your hard-earned money, having your first home is such a great investment. Know, however, that investing in a house for the first time can be a tricky process. If you do not want to fall into cracks and get the most of your investment, there are a few aspects to keep in mind.

In this article, we will share with you three practical tips for your first home purchase:

1. Check your financing options

When it comes to buying a new house, your finances play a crucial factor in your decisions. If you have the financial resources to pay everything in full upfront, then there’s no problem. However, most individuals will have to resort to getting a mortgage so that they can have their dream homes.

The good news is that there are plenty of financing options that you can choose from. Below are some of these:

• Conventional loan: This can be your best bet if you have good credit and can at least pay 20 percent of the down payment.

• FHA loan: This is a federally backed mortgage designed for low-to-moderate-income borrowers who may have lower than average credit scores. It typically requires a 3.5 percent down payment, which comes with private mortgage insurance.

• Down payment programs: These programs commonly vary based on certain requirements. However, they will allow you to get into homeownership much more quickly.

• VA loans: If you’re an active-duty military or a veteran, then you can take advantage of the Veteran’s Administration (VA) loan.

Ultimately, you have to make sure that your mortgage broker, banker, or loan officer explores every option available to you before you seal the deal.

2. Examine the real estate market

When it comes to selling and buying properties in the real estate market, there is always the right and wrong time to make an investment. This means that you have to assess the climate in the real estate market where you’re planning to live. Chances are that prices routinely rise and are prone to significant volatility. For this reason, it’s best to consult a real estate agent to see how the market is in the area that you’re planning to buy and check to see whether or not it’s the right time to invest in a property.

3. Factor in your career

Remember that you should also consider your career, as this may have a significant impact on your first-time home purchase decisions. Of course, you will prefer to get a home that’s quite convenient to where you work. In fact, most young professionals who invest in condos or families who buy properties consider the location of the property as a top priority. As much as possible, they want their houses to be closer to where they work.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that your home is a significant investment. When making a home purchase, make sure to consider the valuable tips outlined above - from knowing your financial options to checking the real estate market down to considering your career. After all, a house isn’t just a shelter to dwell in; it is the place where you create a life that you deserve!

If you’re looking to have a new house construction or planning to buy your dream home in Davison, MI, get in touch with Smith Street Homes today to see how we can help you find good homes for sale!

Our Guide to Help You Find Your Dream Home - 4 Tips to Help

For most Genesee County homeowners, the dream of owning a home—regardless of whether it’s a duplex, mansion, or apartment—is an aspiration held by many.

As impossible as it may seem at first glance, finding your dream home and settling down in it is far easier than what most people may expect. In fact, all it takes is following a few key tips:

Our Guide to Help You Find Your Dream Home

Tip #1: Make sure you have a mortgage pre-approval before you go house hunting

If there was any definitive house hack that would be far more important than any other tip on this list, it would be to get a mortgage pre-approval before anything else.

Getting a mortgage pre-approval before you start looking for homes is an important tip because it helps set realistic expectations to help you narrow down your search and stay within the right budget. Once you finally receive the pre-approval letter for the maximum loan amount, you can have a working price range for a home of your choice as soon as possible!

Tip #2: Think long term

One often-unspoken truth of buying a home is that your priorities can change as life continues to set in. This is a reality that can significantly and constantly impact your idea of a dream home.

When the years go by, your aspirations can either be fulfilled or changed. At one point, you might want to live your best life by the beach, and at another point, you’ll want to start a family or work from home. All these life goals and expectations play a key role in determining how you’d like to live in the long run and which type of home would be ideal for your needs and wants, making it much more important to think long-term.

Tip #3: Check the area you’re interested in

Another vital factor to consider when choosing the home of your dreams in Genesee County is the type of neighborhood that you’d like to live and flourish in.

For instance, the neighborhood of Flint may be perfect for anyone looking to shorten their drives to work and keep both essentials and recreational spots within reach while minimizing interaction with neighbors. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a homier or more hospitable vibe that can help you settle in easily after the move, then it’s more ideal to settle in the Fenton or Grand Blanc areas!

Tip #4: Don’t be afraid to seek the help of a real estate expert

No matter how advanced the Internet may be and how easy it is to communicate with everyone, chances are that you won’t be able to explore as many dream options as you would with the help of a real estate expert.

Certain real estate experts—such as the realtors over at Smith Street Homes—have a greater grasp of what available listings are within an area and keep track of more options that aren’t necessarily listed on Google. If you’re looking to widen your horizons and consider more options before finding your dream home in Genesee County, then get in touch with a real estate expert. Join our Home Finder program to take the first step in turning your dream into an address.

Conclusion

Finding the home of your dreams in Genesee County is an endeavor that doesn’t take too much effort, as long as you take all the right tips into consideration.

If you’re looking for homes for sale in Genesee county, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

5 Reasons to Hire a Realtor to Help You Score or Sell Property

Building your dream home or selling your property isn’t easy, especially if you’re not particularly knowledgeable in real estate. You may attempt to do it all alone to save money.

But the truth is, hiring a real estate agent is the smarter choice. It’s important to depend on someone who is experienced and familiar with the industry, as you’ll need help finding your ideal home or selling your old home.

Realtors do more than just look for potential property buyers or research houses for sale online. They know the ins and outs of property buying and selling, and that knowledge makes a lot of difference.

Whether you’re trying to buy or sell a property, it’s ideal to look for the right real estate agent who can assist you. Here are some reasons why you should hire a realtor:

1. They are experienced

By hiring trained real estate agents, you can rest assured that they not only know what they’re doing—but they’re good at it, too. With their years of experience, they’ll be knowledgeable in finding a place that perfectly suits your style and needs or will help you get the best possible price for the home that you’re trying to sell.

2. They are knowledgeable

A professional real estate agent knows key information that will guide you throughout the primary procedures of buying or selling a house. When you hire one, you’ll save yourself from the trouble of handling forms, disclosures, reports, and other necessary documents all on your own.

3. They know about the market condition

Realtors are up-to-date with the latest goings-on in the marketplace. This means that if you placed your property on the market or you are seeking a new place to call home, real estate agents can guide you with clear market information and use it to your advantage for selling your home much faster or finding the house you’re going for.

To put it simply, they know how to navigate the market better. Therefore, the process of buying or selling a property will be easier, quicker, and more efficient.

4. They have excellent negotiation skills

A piece of property could be one of the biggest purchases you could ever make in your lifetime. Understandably, you may get emotional when trying to sell your home or looking for a new place to live in, which is why it’s vital to have someone who will assist you throughout the process of a real estate sale.

Hiring a real estate agent is helpful because they have excellent negotiation skills, which means you’ll have an easier time coming to terms with your potential buyer or getting the best deal for your home.

5. They are familiar with the neighborhood.

There are a lot of factors in choosing a home, and one of the important aspects to consider is its location. Aside from its style, design, and functionality, your house should be strategically located and gives you easy access to public transportation and amenities for your convenience.

By hiring a professional real estate agent, not only will you enjoy a hassle-free experience in building your dream home but you’ll also enjoy access to useful information about its surrounding neighborhood. This way, you can make an informed decision on your investments.

Conclusion

Whether you’re trying to build your dream home or sell your place of business, you can count on us to help you meet your needs. If you’re looking for a real estate agent in Davison MI, get in touch with us to see how we can help. We look forward to addressing your needs at Smith Street Homes.

Tips on How to Stage your Home to Sell Faster

Tips on How to Stage your Home to Sell Faster!

There is so much value in a nicely staged home. It’s no longer just a good idea. It’s one of the most important things to do when selling your home. Homes that show well sell faster! Why? Because anytime you go into a housing division and the contractor has built several homes there is always a model home which is because a lot of people can’t envision from a blueprint or an empty home what the house could look like. So home staging gives potential buyers a concept of what this home could be. Help your buyers with their imagination! Here are a few tips:

De-Clutter

Some people have a gift for decorating other's do not! I find myself in that latter group. I really want to have a stylish modern home but it's more lived-in, eclectic and filled with kids toys. I'm embarrassed to admit that, I tell other people every day to clean up but I struggle with it myself. But I’m working on it and my first step is to remove all the clutter. This is the most challenging tip because decluttering can be a time-consuming project. But just break it down start by purging the old magazines, mail, bills, the holiday decorations and then move from one room to the next.

Think Outside of the Box

A few years back I wanted to get some help and brought in an interior designer to help me. The "Interior designer" (no names) came over and gave me a bunch of ideas! Then the bill! She charged $200 an hour/cash. No literally $1099 all under the table. Then she proceeds to tell me new window treatments in my living room would cost me $3,000. Ouch! I have kids so spending that kind of money on window coverings is out of the question! If you have the money to spend, awesome do it! However, I did not because staging does not need to be expensive. In lieu of the fancy window coverings, I asked my Aunt, a seamstress to sew them so I bought material that I liked! Easy, affordable solution. So think outside of the box when it comes to decorating your home it will save you thousands!

Make Small Home Improvements

Paint is cheap! Paint is affordable and goes a long way. Don't be afraid to paint those walls or paint over old furniture to give things a fun fresh look. Between Pinterest and HGTV ideas are everywhere. You don't need to look far for inspiration. Get those broken things fixed like those broken doors, doorknobs, cracked windows and definitely the holes in the wall from your kid.

Deep Clean Your Home

The deep clean! This is an important step because you want your home to look well maintained for potential home buyers. You want to do everything in your power to make them feel comfortable with making you an offer. So dust and vacuum the furniture. Get those beautiful tables polished. Clean the windows and wipe the walls clean. The last tip: keep your home staged throughout the sale process. Sometimes we can forget and get caught up in our normal life. So maintain your staged home, which means regular cleaning is a must.

Create Your 2020 Vision!

Put your goals on paper, write it down. God said “Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” -Habakkuk 2:2-3

This is a simple principle if you are looking for success. Note the word “tarry,” which means to delay. God can give us a vision overnight but most dreams cannot be fulfilled overnight. When I created my vision board, not every task was achieved in one calendar year. Though it took me 7 years to become a licensed residential builder, I kept writing it on my vision board each time I made a new one.

 I just kept moving! The more you move, the more motivated you become. I didn't like looking at my vision board and feeling like a failure. I had to accomplish something. Yes, you will face disappointments, discouragements, and delays. I won't lie to you, it's going to cost you more than you estimated. You might feel the urge to quit but NEVER give up on your dreams. My vision took longer than I planned but God's timing is always right.

Fight for your dream. Keep your 2020 vision in front of you. Like me, your words will become your motivation. So if you dream of one day losing weight, stick some type of picture on your refrigerator. If you dream of owning your own home, pin it on your home office wall.

Put pressure on yourself. No one puts more pressure on Kelly Anne than Kelly Anne. You have to push yourself to develop and go beyond. Over the years my vision board has shifted a lot. "Younger" Kelly wanted fancy shoes, expensive purses, and pretty horses. As I have gotten older and matured, I no longer work for material items. I work to build a legacy for my kids. I work every day to be a better person, learn more, and give back. I work towards my God-given vision.

Make sure your vision board consists of more than one thing. It should have short term goals and long term goals because the short term goals will motivate you for bigger goals.

Here's a little sneak peek at my 2020 vision board. My long term goal is to WRITE A BOOK WOOOOH! I am so excited I'm making strides on it. It might take many years but I have to believe it to achieve it!

How to Handle Slow Periods in Real Estate

How to Handle Slow Periods in Real Estate

Everyone's business has slow times or dips in sales. What you do during that time can separate you from other agents. Here are a few things you should do to keep yourself on track:

1. Stay Knowledgeable

Invest time in understanding your industry. Just because you don't have showings, still look at the MLS. Be familiar with what new homes are coming on the market. Keep yourself current on the market. See a house for sale that is near a friend or old client, reach out and email them that listing. Spark up conversations about real estate.

2. Follow up with Clients

Following up with past and new clients is very underestimated. Reaching out about new listings is important because it makes them feel like a priority. Keeping up with past clients has the potential to bring you new business. Making a phone call and emailing them a listing can go a long way. You can even go as far as handwriting Christmas cards or thank you cards to all your past clients and new clients.

3. Rethink your Business Goals and Processes

Reset your goals when business is slow. Reflect on your past numbers and set new target goals for the coming weeks, months and years. No company does everything perfectly. During slow periods its important to take the time for reflection, redesign, refinement.

4. Building Brand Awareness

During slow periods it is important to focus on building a personal brand and public recognition. Ask past clients for review, write a blog, create a monthly newsletter, update your profiles on social media consistently.

5. Market your Business

You may be saying ‘of course market your business that's obvious,’ but not everybody has the dedication like they should. Marketing should be a priority all year round! Sometimes marketing doesn't get planned properly because of busy times. During slow periods, it's a great opportunity to get that marketing strategy together. From creating email blasts, updating social media, running ads, and increasing SEO. Never waste a slow day, fill it up! Do actions that get reactions. Always continue working at a high efficiency.

“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic or resting, it takes sweat, determination, consistency, and hard work.”

How To Make The Tough Decisions When Choosing A New Home

How To Make The Tough Decisions When Choosing A New Home

One of the burdens everyone has to face is making the tough decisions when choosing a home. Over the course of your search for your dream home, you’ll be faced with many decisions. Some will have small impacts and others will be big. So here are a few tips to help make the tough decision:

1. Make Compromises

When buying a home we are faced with making compromises. Don't waste your time looking for perfect, spoiler it doesn't exist! We all have limitations, budget usually being the biggest. However, homes are also limited by Building codes, setbacks, associations, etc. When house hunting be sure to define your must-haves, should-haves, and like-to-haves.  Now that you have this list, after viewing each home ask yourself does this house have my must-haves? Maybe it has some of your should-haves but not like-to-haves, that's okay! By keeping your priorities in mind, your forever home will be so much easier to find.

2. Write a Pros and Cons list

Let's say it comes down to two homes. They meet many of your must-have criteria, so how do you pick? Write a pros and cons list. Way out everything on paper in front of you. The house with more pros is your winner!  

3. Get a Home Inspection

One of the most important steps to do before buying a home is to get a home inspection. There are some crucial tests your new home needs to pass when sometimes it can help make that tough decision. Look into the plumbing, heat, ventilation and air conditioning, water test, etc. Test everything and check off some essential pieces before you begin picturing yourself in that new spacious living room.

4. Take Your Time

When looking for a new home it can be time-sensitive, but it is important that you don’t rush the process. You must take time to consider your goals, financial decisions and etc. Never rush into making your big decision. Taking a second to weigh all options will guide you into making a sound purchase. I'm not saying drag your feet, I am saying be patient and stay organized, the right house will come along and it will be everything you were hoping for.

How to Hold a Successful Open House

How To Hold A Successful Open House

Holding a successful open house in the real estate industry is one of the most key deciding factors when it comes to your success. Almost 20% of your sales will result from an open house. Your property has to be presentable meaning almost spotless from top to bottom.  If its priced right and located in a desirable area, you’re almost ready for an open house. Here are some sure-fire tips to follow when hosting a successful open house.

1. Advertise the Open House

Don’t be afraid to talk to people! How will they know about your business if you don't tell them? Advertise with a sign in the yard all week or find the busiest intersection closest to your home. Mark the MLS for open house times. Make sure that Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com all have the open house listed correctly. Knock on the neighborhood doors. See if anyone knows of a buyer. Invite them to the open house. This little exercise opens up a lot of business. Neighbors sometimes want to sell or have someone in mind to buy. No one likes to door knock so set yourself apart and do the leg work!

2. Put Out the Paperwork

Holding a successful open house isn’t just about all the ambiance. It’s also about the business, people want to see the paperwork!  People love being able to take stuff home. So have brochures and pamphlets that contain quality photos, key points/features, make sure to have financials displayed, etc. Maybe even have some freebies with your name and logo on it. Something as simple as a pen or a case of mints can go a long way. Some may come in just wanting to talk about logistics ranging from inspections, blueprints, the appraisal, etc. Be sure to set out all the documents associated with the property for viewing. Dot your I’s and cross all your T’s. Try to leave no question or concern unanswered

3. Interact with the Visitors

There is a psychological process to help one discover when it's time to move. Let's face it moving is a big decision. It is important to be cheerful and upbeat for every person who views the property. Converse with your potential home buyers to get to know them. Ask questions to uncover their goals and if you can convince them your home fits their vision. You will not receive an offer with every open house initially sometimes it takes more work so it’s important to stay in touch. Send an email of homes you think they might like. Send property listings in their area. It’s important to establish trust! Help them see the value of their property. Share tips on staging! Make a phone call! In a world of texters just call someone and say "Hi, I was thinking about you. I wanted to drop a line and see if I can be of any real estate help?" can make all the difference.

Following these tips will help grow your pipeline. It's important in real estate to have a pipeline to avoid the feast or famine mentality. But not only will it grow your pipeline. But it will also set you apart from other real estate agencies. People love professionalism so I encourage you to consider these steps.

4 Tips For Choosing Your Real Estate Company in Genesee County

Starting off in real estate can be really scary. agents have options, there are many brokerages to pick from. Finding the right brokerage can make all the difference in one's success. Here are 4 tips to live by when choosing your real estate company.

1.  Have clear Goals and Objectives

It's important to know your goals before getting into real estate. In order to be effective in your search for a brokerage, you need to set clearly defined goals. You must know what you are shooting for in order to decide what environment would get you closer to the end result. Ask yourself this question; What am I looking to accomplish through real estate? After, write it down. Seeing your vision is the first step.

1. Make a living for my family

2. Competitiveness

3. Recognition

4. Making a difference

5. Hustle

2.    Education

For myself, over a decade ago I wanted a brokerage that offered a great education and had national recognition. Over time, my expectations changed and I realized that in this field, education comes with experience. I had to get out in the field and make it happen.

3.  Recognition

When I first started I wanted to work for a well-recognized brokerage. At that time having a big name under my belt meant that I knew a lot and my career would launch. I will say that when I worked for a big company, I experienced a lot. You see the good, the bad, and the ugly. Working for a big name company showed me the Do’s and Don'ts when starting my own brokerage.

4.  Family-oriented vs. large scale

In hindsight, I might have grown faster if I was on a team vs going out alone. All paths lead me to being my own Broker at Smith Street. I put my all into making sure my company is family-oriented. I care about my employees and make sure they know I am here to help their personal growth and survival in this field. Regardless of your path, the success of your business is in your hands.

If you are still struggling to choose after considering these 4 tips. Write a pros and cons list to uncover what your expectations are. For example: ​​A Brokerage holds your license and provides you with “Errors and Omissions” insurance. They should offer you training and support. But a brokerage will not run your business for you. That part you have to do yourself. That means joining a local MLS board, buying signs, lockboxes and business cards.