Archive for the ‘Home Buyers Tips’ Category

3 Things You Need to Know About the Mortgage Payment for Your Thomasville Home

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

mortage payments

When you look for a mortgage, you want to find one that allows you to buy the biggest house possible for a monthly payment you can afford. This seems simple enough. All you need to do is a little division to determine your monthly payment.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the entire picture of your monthly mortgage payment, and lenders don’t always explain this to you. Here are three things you need to know about your monthly mortgage payment for your new Thomasville home:

1.  Interest and Principal. Only part of your monthly mortgage payment actually pays down your loan. A portion of your mortgage payment goes toward your loan principal and part of it pays the interest. The longer you have your loan, the more money goes toward your principal. Be aware that at the beginning of your loan term, most of your payment goes toward interest and does little to reduce the amount of money you owe on your home.

2.  Homeowner’s Insurance and PMI. Typically, your lender collects money to pay your homeowner’s insurance premium. This increases the amount of your monthly payment and can change if your insurance company raises or lowers premiums. Depending on your loan amount and property value, you may also have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) which protects a lender against loss if you default on your loan.

3.  Property Taxes. In most cases, your annual property taxes will be paid through your lender. The lender collects extra money each month that they pay to your local government at the end of the year. When local taxes increase or decrease, so does your payment.

Call First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  to help you find the home (and mortgage provider) of your dreams.

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How Buying Thomasville Real Estate is Like Running a Marathon

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

MarathonIt’s true.  There are a lot of parallels between buying a piece of Thomasville real estate and running a marathon.

The Starting Line

At first, there is excitement. The idea of buying a new home pulses in your veins and you can’t wait to get started.  You’re like a runner in the blocks just itching to begin. Your muscles twitch in anticipation with every piece of Thomasville real estate you see. That’s when the real adrenaline rush kicks in.

Start Out Slowly

Keep to a steady, consistent pace and you’ll make it to the finish line.  There’s so much to do before you can get your Thomasville real estate. Home appraisals, inspections and financing to apply for…

You start to think about all the ‘what ifs,’ like what if you don’t get the financing, what if something goes wrong, what if… goes on forever.

Stay Mentally Tough

Don’t give into periods of self-doubt. Remember all that you’ve done and have faith in yourself and your real estate agent. Think about how hard you’ve worked and how rewarding it will be when you’re in your new home.

Hit the Wall

You feel like you simply can’t go on any more and the ordeal is never going to end. Your mind hurts from the strain, but you keep pushing onward because it’s the only direction you can go after coming so far.  Remind yourself that you’ll get past this feeling.  Keep day dreaming about that finish line.

Breakthrough Bliss

Suddenly things begin to happen.  Home inspection reports come back.  Financing is approved.  You begin to breathe easier, the pain goes away, and you are sailing free and clear toward the finish line.

The Finish Line

You sign all the papers at closing and the keys are placed in your hand.  Congratulations!  You’re a winner.

When you’re ready to buy a home, First Thomasville Realty can help you from start to finish.  Contact us today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

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Buying a Home with a Thomasville Real Estate Agent

Friday, August 20th, 2010

FTR Master March 2010If you have never purchased a home before, you may not yet recognize how crucial it is to acquire the services of a professional Thomasville real estate agent.

Buying a home will probably be the most expensive purchase you ever make.  Therefore, you undoubtedly should consider enlisting the help of a REALTOR® who has experience, extensive knowledge of the area and integrity. 

Benefits of using a professional Thomasville real estate agent

Having your own buyer’s agent to walk you through the entire home buying process saves you a lot of time and stress, as well as money.

You decide:

♦    Size of home desired
♦    Style preferred
♦    Location
♦    Price range

That’s easy!  With this basic information, your agent begins the hard part: searching for the perfect home for you and successfully guiding you through the purchase process.

Your agent helps with:

♦    Generating a small defined list of good choices
♦    Forming a realistic budget
♦    Financing
♦    Determining what a home is really worth
♦    Making offers for you
♦    Negotiating with the seller
♦    Alleviating stress that’s a part of any transaction of this magnitude
♦    Overseeing your home inspection
♦    Renegotiating any problems found in the home inspection
♦    Explaining and demystifying taxes, interest, and other particulars
♦    Finalizing all the paperwork and details with the lender, seller and title company
♦    Closing on the sale

All the hours your agent invests assisting you and making sure your best interests are looked after financially, legally and emotionally are well worth the real estate commission he or she receives after you finalize your purchase.  And typically, as the buyer, you don’t pay the commission.  The seller pays it!

Where to find a professional Thomasville real estate agent

We specialize in helping people just like you buy homes.  Let’s get started!  Give First Thomasville Realty a call today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

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How to Buy Thomasville Real Estate after a Previous Bankruptcy

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

BankruptcyA past filing of bankruptcy does not mean you can’t buy Thomasville real estate.  Your real estate agent may be able to help you get a mortgage or find other ways to buy a home, if you do get turned down for a traditional mortgage.

Before you meet with your Thomasville real estate agent, here are a few ways to prepare:

♦   Have a copy of your current bank statement
♦   Have written proof of your monthly income
♦   Make a list of all your current monthly bills
♦   Collect all your recent credit card statements
♦   Have a copy of your bankruptcy agreement

Put all this info in a file folder and take it to your meeting.  Your Thomasville real estate agent will appreciate you doing your homework!

If you have straightened out your credit since the bankruptcy, you are in a much better position to get a mortgage. Hopefully, you are currently paying all your monthly bills on time and rebuilding your credit rating.

The bigger your down payment, the easier it will be to get a mortgage.  So, where can you get money for a down payment? 

♦   Have you been having money taken out of your checks and put into a savings?
♦   Do you have any money market accounts?
♦   Do you have money invested in mutual funds?
♦   Do you have certificates of deposit about to come due?
♦  Will you be receiving a bonus from your employer?
♦   How about a friend or relative who would loan you the down payment?

Hopefully, you are now ready to go shopping for your new home. To get started, give First Thomasville Realty a call today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

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5 Reasons Thomasville Home Sellers Reject Offers

Monday, August 9th, 2010

Reject_OffersRejection is a hard thing to face in life, whether it’s from a potential client, a potential boss or a potential home seller.  As a Thomasville home buyer, your stress level might be reduced if you’re aware of some of the reasons a seller may reject your offer.

Before we give you the list of reasons, We’d like to mention that even if you and your buyer’s agent do everything right, the seller may still reject your offer.  It frequently has nothing to do with you.

With that said, here are 5 common reasons sellers reject offers on their homes:

1.  The offer wasn’t enough for them to pay off their mortgage. For most sellers, the bottom line is paying off their mortgage. If your offer won’t cover the mortgage, they cannot accept it.

2.  They may have just been testing the waters to see what they can get for their home.

3.  Their plans may have changed. People put their homes on the market because they need to move, they want to upgrade their home, or they can no longer afford their Thomasville home. If the circumstances change, they may not need to sell their home.

4.  Their deal may have fallen through. Perhaps your seller was buying another house contingent on the sale of their property. If something went wrong with that deal, they may not be able to sell their Thomasville home to you.

5.  You may be asking too much of them. The seller may not have the time or money to make any repairs they think are insignificant. Perhaps you want to close too soon or would like to move in to the home before closing.

Don’t get depressed when a seller rejects your offer. There may be many reasons for their refusal.  Help your real estate agent develop a counter offer, or move on to a new opportunity.  There are a lot of homes on the market.  You may be pleasantly surprised when you start looking again and find a home that fits your lifestyle even better.

When you’re ready to buy a home, We can help you find a great home and negotiate to a successful “Yes, we’ll accept your offer.” Call First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com to get started.

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4 Tips for Buying Thomasville Homes for Sale

Friday, August 6th, 2010

Buy_A_HomeWe, meaning the real estate industry, say, “It’s a buyer’s market!”  Buyers think that means that deals are available out in the big wide world of Thomasville homes for sale. Although that’s true, it’s not the whole truth. The whole truth is that money pits, bad deals and half-hearted sellers still exist. Without careful consideration, you may not get the deal you expected.

If you’re in the market for one of the Thomasville homes for sale, follow these tips to help you get a great deal:

1.  Go back to school. In other words, do your homework. Yes, due to the buyer’s market, you have an advantage, but you still need to do your research.  Talk with a real estate agent who specializes in the area and look at the prices of homes sold within the past year. The main point of the research is to find out how much homes are actually selling for in the area in which you want to live, and to determine if you can afford to buy there.

2.  Line up the home team. Be prepared to jump on a deal as soon as you find it. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Gather your real estate agent, home inspector and insurance agent. By having this team of real estate professionals on hand, the transaction will be smoother and faster.

3.  Look for motivation. There are motivated sellers and not-so-motivated sellers who just “think” they “might” want to sell if “the right buyer” comes along (quotes are so handy, aren’t they?). You don’t have to guess which is which, however. Has the price been reduced? Is the home vacant? These clues lead to a motivated seller, willing to genuinely negotiate to get the home sold.

 

4.  Don’t buy angry. One of the worst mistakes a buyer can do is to get into a war with the home seller. Emotions grab hold and you find yourself in a fierce competition based on who’s going to WIN WIN WIN! If you find yourself in this situation, learn how to negotiate and listen to your real estate agent’s advice. If you don’t, your great deal can turn into a big mess.

 

There are plenty of Thomasville homes for sale out there and great deals to be had, but being cautious is the best way to get the best deal.

 

Are you a motivated seller or a buyer looking for a great deal? First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us now at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com to get started!

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Closing Deadline Extended for your Thomasville Real Estate

Wednesday, August 4th, 2010

Tax Credit ExtendedIf you’re in the middle of buying Thomasville real estate, for which you’re hoping to get a Homebuyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000, you have more time to finalize it.  

After a close brush with the deadline, Congress passed a 90-day extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit closing deadline.   The extension applies only to buyers who have written, binding contracts in place as of April 30, 2010. The new closing deadline is now September 30, 2010.  

Extending the tax credit closing deadline will provide additional stability to Thomasville real estate and real estate markets nationwide.  Additionally, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) estimates that this new extension will help about 180,000 to 200,000 homebuyers who already signed purchase agreements and were likely to miss the June 30 deadline.

Those are two of the reasons the NAR worked closely with Congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle to get this extension approved.  Voter pressure on House members also helped to push this bill through.

Have questions about the Homebuyer Tax Credit or any other questions about Thomasville real estate?  Give First Thomasville Realty a call today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .  We’re happy to help.

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Thomasville Condos vs. Houses: Which Should You Choose?

Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

The Mitchell HouseThomasville condos or houses:  that is the question!

You may be thinking of getting a home but wondering how much space you really need. If you opt to look at houses, your choices are vast.  Houses, both large and small, are abundant in today’s real estate market.

Even though Thomasville condos are typically smaller than most houses, there are large condos available (even condos larger than houses).  And, just like traditional houses, there are a lot of condos available in this buyer’s market.

So, how do you choose?  Your selection should be based on your current and near-future needs.

 

Let’s demystify the differences and clarify your selection:

Space: Is your family large?  Are you planning to add many more?  Do you work from home?  Consider your plans for the next 5 to 7 years, and buy the size that fits those needs.

Price: Condos can be more affordable, especially the smaller ones.  But, with condos you have to pay condo association fees.

Location: If you want a condo with a great view, close to work, for example, prepare for a premium.  Conversely, many homes with great yards and neighborhoods are quite affordable.  Not choosy?  Competitive pricing awaits you with either choice!

Luxury: Lavish Thomasville condos, much like ideally-located ones, are often steeply-priced.  Luxury houses are expensive, too.  The good news is that whichever style of housing you choose, you’ll find luxurious versions.

Availability: There are typically more houses on the market than condos, so, in general, your selection is greater with houses.

Privacy: Houses typically offer more in the way of privacy.   But, the trade off is that you also have more responsibilities and maintenance when you own a house.  Want a care-free, low-maintenance lifestyle?  A condo may be your best bet.

Acreage: If a smaller yard (or no yard) doesn’t bother you, a condo can offer excellent square footage and lower payments.  Looking for land?  A home is your best way to go.

Still Unsure?

We’d love to assist in your juggling act.  Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com and together we’ll find the perfect home to fit your budget and lifestyle.

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Is Your Thomasville Home Making You Sick?

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

HomeMakingYouSick_webUnexplained headaches and nausea, getting sick more often than normal, showing signs of allergies that have never been there before – your Thomasville home may be making you sick. 

How do you find out if your Thomasville home is making you sick? Look for individual sources of pollution: 

♦    Tobacco smoke – If you’re a smoker, smoke outside. Sitting in a cloud can cause dizziness, nausea and other side effects. These problems are especially harsh if you’re a non-smoker in a home full of smoke. As well, the smoke settles into fabrics and on walls and ceilings for the carcinogens to be released into the air on a regular basis. 

♦    Radon – Because radon is odorless and invisible, the best way to find out if you have a problem is to have a radon test done on your home.  The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested.  

♦    Asbestos – Pretty much everyone knows that asbestos is a health hazard, but you may not think it’s in your house. If it was built between 1920 and 1978, however, there’s a high possibility. If there’s asbestos in your house, hire a specially trained, licensed contractor to remove it. 

♦    Pesticides – If you have a problem with bugs and use pesticides, you may have a problem with pesticides as well. Many chemical pesticide manufacturers are producing natural pesticide solutions and putting them on the shelves. Symptoms from pesticides include feeling light-headed, dizzy or nauseous.  If you have those, switch to a natural pesticide. 

♦    Mold/mildew – Mold and mildew is a common cause for asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems. A long-term cough, difficulty breathing and excessive morning phlegm may point to mold spores in the air. Have a professional scan your house for mold. It may be expensive to take care of, depending on the size of the problem, but you’ll have a lot less doctor visits and feel better. 

Other issues may be damaging the indoor air quality of your Thomasville home. If you want to make your house healthier, visit the EPA website for more information. 

If you’re looking for a healthy home to buy, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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Tax Credit Closing Deadline Extended

Monday, July 5th, 2010

Congress-640The National Association of Realtors® today commended Congress for timely passage of two bills to extend the home buyer tax credit closing deadline and reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program. Both bills, strongly supported by NAR, had cleared the House earlier and were passed by the Senate last night. They now head to the president for his signature.

The tax credit closing deadline and the NFIP reauthorization were extended to September 30. NAR worked closely with congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle to enact these important pieces of legislation. Extending the tax credit closing and flood insurance deadlines will help provide additional stability to real estate markets across the nation, NAR said.

“What a great way to begin celebrating our nation’s most patriotic holiday by opening the door to the American dream of homeownership to thousands of home buyers who would have been shut out of the homes of their dreams through no fault of their own,” said NAR President Vicki Cox Golder, owner of Vicki L. Cox Real Estate in Tucson, Ariz.

“We know that up to 180,000 home buyers eligible for the tax credit are rejoicing this morning. And we all thank both houses of Congress for their work to ensure passage of both bills,” Golder said. She singled out Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher J. Dodd (D-Conn.), Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D-Nev.) and Congressman Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) for their efforts to extend the tax credit closing deadline.

The passage of H.R. 5623, the Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act, applies the homebuyer tax credit closing deadline extension only to homebuyers who have ratified contracts in place as of April 30, 2010, but could not close before June 30. The legislation is designed to create a seamless extension of the new closing deadline for eligible transactions to September 30. There will be no gap between June 30 and the date the president signs the bill into law.

For more information on the extension, visit www.realtor.org/government_affairs.

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Buying a Thomasville Home: Free Credit Reports Not All They Seem

Monday, July 5th, 2010

FreeCreditreport_webYou’ve finally decided that, yes, you can afford to buy a Thomasville home. After years of frugal saving, hard work and patient waiting, the timing is great. You don’t want to wait anymore, so you rush out and start looking for homes. It is, after all, a buyer’s market, and you’re a buyer. 

Now, if you read about real estate, you’ve probably considered your credit. Is my credit strong enough? Is my score high enough? Some go to lenders and request preapproval. A few request prequalification. Many, however, go to the “free” credit score searches. 

Of those who use the credit score searches, some find a Thomasville home they want to buy. They then confidently take their credit reports to the lenders and find out the lenders don’t care about the reports. Others find out that the “free” doesn’t really mean free. 

Generally, these credit reporting services are helpful, but most aren’t free. You sign up to get your report and, in the fine print, you’re agreeing to enroll in services that require a monthly fee. The services you end up paying for can be somewhat helpful.  But many people sign up not knowing what they’re getting into.  If you want those types of monthly services, research the companies and don’t fall for scam sites, because they’re out there. 

Why won’t leaders use the credit reports you take to them?   

They can’t use the credit scores you bring to them. In fact, they’re required to request credit scores on their own. And, the credit reports lenders get may not reflect what you receive from the reporting services you hired.

 Typically, lenders use the median FICO Scores from three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Those FICO Scores may not be the same from bureau to bureau. Some of the “free” credit places provide these scores, but usually from only one bureau rather than all three. 

So what should you do?  

Talk to the lender. Get preapproved, not prequalified. Not only will you find out how good your credit really is, but you’ll also be more attractive to sellers.  And, preapproval tells you exactly how much you can reasonably afford to spend on your new Thomasville home. 

If you’re looking for a beautiful home to call your own, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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Cool Your Thomasville Home for Less This Summer

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

Cooloffyourhome_webWe’re all trying to live greener lives, but nothing zaps your energy or your will to live greener in your Thomasville home like summer heat.

The summer heat can also assault your wallet.  In fact, you can easily watch your utility bill double during the summer months.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to cool your Thomasville home for less money and less impact on the environment this summer. Here’s how.

1.  Prep your home. Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances.  Don’t use your oven. In the afternoon, close your windows and outside doors and keep window coverings drawn. At other times, use fans to create a cross breeze. 

2.  Raise your thermostat. When you’re not home, raise the thermostat to 80 degrees. Lower it two or three degrees when you are home and use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Moving your thermostat from 75 to 80 will lower your consumption by 15%. Your Thomasville home will still feel comfortable, and you will notice significant savings on your next utility bill. 

3.   Take a look at your windows. You’d be surprised to find out how much heat enters your home from old, single pane windows. Newer energy efficient windows with double panes block more heat and keep more cool air inside. If you can’t afford new windows now, at least cover the ones you have with heavy curtains or shades to keep out heat. 

4.  Check for leaks. Leaky duct work and poorly sealed doors can let as much cool air out of your home as an open window. Walk around your home checking under your doors and around your windows to feel for escaping air. Hire a professional to check your air conditioning systems for you. Take the time to have duct leaks repaired and seal air leaks

5.  Dress appropriately. There’s no reason to keep your home so cold that you have to wear extra layers of clothing when you’re inside. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. You’ll be more comfortable in slightly warmer temperatures. Keep light throw blankets handy for anyone who easily gets cold under a ceiling fan. 

Implementing even one or two of these tips in your home can save you money and help the environment. 

Want to buy an energy efficient home?  We can help.  Call First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  to learn more.

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6 Things to Consider When Looking at Condos in Thomasville

Monday, June 28th, 2010

Peacock Pointe-640Let’s face it.  A lot of people like the idea of the easy lifestyle condos in Thomasville provide.  While there are a multitude of positive reasons to buy a condo, many people are so glamorized by the idea that they fail to make sure condos fit their needs.  

Before you jump in and buy one of the condos in Thomasville, make sure you also consider what some people consider the downside to owning a condo: 

1.  SpaceBuying a condo means sharing an interest in it.  What you own is your personal “box of air.”  The rest of the condo – the common areas – is shared between the other owners. 

2.  Neighbors – Because you share walls and common areas, there’s a high chance that you’ll be able to hear them as they move about their own space.  You’ll run into them more often, and have to coordinate with them in issues regarding the common areas.

3.  Reselling – If you own a condominium and think you might resell it later, be aware that condos in Thomasville are typically more sensitive to the real estate market and take longer to recover than traditional single family homes.

4.  Fees – You’ll have to pay monthly condo fees to take care of the maintenance of the common areas and for amenities you may not use, such as a swimming pool or fitness facility. 

5.  Rules – All condominiums have CC&Rs, or Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions.  The CC&Rs may not fit your lifestyle.  They can include noise level restrictions, types of renovations, owning a pet or even the type of curtains you use.

6.  Association – Instead of property management professionals, the association is made up of homeowners.  It may be weak or inefficient, and you might have to get approval to make renovations or rent out your unit. 

Condos in Thomasville are great to own, but they aren’t for everyone.  Make an informed decision before buying one, and you’ll be a happy owner. 

If you’re looking to buy the perfect condo, We’d love to help.  Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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3 Reasons to Have Your Thomasville Home Built With Sustainable Design

Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010

ReasonsforSustainableDesign_webSome potential homeowners just don’t want a pre-lived in Thomasville home. They’d rather have their house built to their own specifications. They want a home that fits their needs exactly. If this is you, don’t worry; we understand. However, if you want to build a new home, take a good look at the future before you decide on a design. 

The Future of Design

Thinking of the future might bring ideas of fantastic scientific miracles like smart houses that vacuum themselves. While building your Thomasville home, also consider using sustainable design. Here are just a few reasons why sustainable design is a great idea:

1.  Government mandates and incentives – Under the current administration, sustainable design is a big thing. In fact, many cities are passing mandates and offering incentives that encourage green building. In places such as Austin, Houston, Seattle and Portland, sustainable design is no longer a trend; it’s standard practice. Before having your home built, check into the homeowners’ incentives for green building.

2.  Cost of sustainable design – While sustainable design may be a little more costly than standard home building, don’t just assume that it is. Check with green building contractors as well as standard contractors and compare pricing. Keep in mind that the cost of the design is usually paid back with greatly reduced utility bills. Also, remember that it may be easier and cheaper to build a sustainable home rather than remodel one to be green later.

3.  Resale value – Although you may not ever want to move from your home once it’s built, you never know what will happen in the future. A sustainable design can up the resale value of the home by as much as 15%.

Between the government incentives, the cost savings and the resale value, your Thomasville home with a sustainable design may end up being the best investment you ever made! 

If you’re looking for a green home or a contractor to build one, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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Are You Renting a Thomasville Home for Sale?

Monday, June 21st, 2010

AreYouRenting_webWhile many homes that haven’t sold are being rented instead, some that have been rented out are now up for sale. So what do you do if the house you’re renting becomes a Thomasville home for sale? 

Get a Fresh Perspective

Nobody wants to get kicked out of his or her home. However, if it comes down to it and you have 60 to 90 days left before you have to move from what is now a Thomasville home for sale, look at your options from a fresh perspective. 

♦  If the home has problems and you’ve been responsible for some of the upkeep, it’s no longer your problem. If you still don’t want to buy a home, you can rent somewhere else with a home that has fewer problems than the one you’re moving out of. 

♦  If the rent was high and you’ve been struggling to keep it paid, that’s no longer a problem. If that sounds cold, let me warm it up for you a bit. Many houses are being rented rather than sold, because the owners either don’t want to get rid of them or can’t get rid of them. And, the current economy has caused rent to drop to a more affordable level in many areas. 

♦  If you don’t like the neighborhood or the city and you have a job that can be done elsewhere, start looking. Can you transfer? Does your company have nationwide facilities? This is the perfect time to move to a community more suited to you. 

♦  It may be a buyer’s market, but it’s also a renter’s market. Landlords are lowering rents, raising amenities, offering the first month or two off the rent, adding in utility costs and anything else they can think of to attract renters. If you have a good renting track record and good credit, now is the time to start negotiating for a great deal. 

If you’ve been looking for a Thomasville home for sale to buy, it could just be the one you’re renting!  With the historically low interest rates, you may now qualify to buy the home you’ve previously been renting.  

If you’re looking for the perfect place to buy, we can help. Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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Reports Say, “Yes, You Can Buy a Thomasville Home for Sale!”

Thursday, June 17th, 2010

ReportsSayYes_webIf you’ve been looking at your finances to see if you can afford a Thomasville home for sale, or a home in any area for that matter, a new report from the National Association of Home Builders and Wells Fargo says, “Yes, you can!” 

According to this report, the prices for over 72% of the homes purchased in the first quarter of  2010 were affordable for families making an annual income of $63,800 (the median national income).  One of the main reasons for this is because of the national median price: just $175,000. Adding to that is the still historically low interest and mortgage rates, as well as companies once again beginning to hire new employees.

These affordability numbers are based on 28% or less of a familys take-home pay. 

Many new homeowners agree. The National Association of REALTORS® released the statistics for existing home sales on May 24.  April saw a 7% increase in sales from March, and Freddie Mac reports that 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage commitment rates rose to 5.10% in the same month.

 What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

While this still means slow going for those with a Thomasville home for sale, this means an incredibly hot market for buyers.   With over 4 million homes available for sale, sellers are definitely competing with each other.  In many places across the country, homeowners have dropped their prices 10% to 50%, in an effort to attract attention. 

Can You Afford a Home?

If you’re looking at the real estate market and wondering if you can finally afford the home of your dreams, it’s time to quit wondering. Start doing your research. 

Before you begin shopping for a home, shop around for a lender. Finding a good lender with reasonable rates is one of the best first steps of buying a home. 

Next, get pre-approved for a mortgage.  Pre-approval lets you know how much you really can afford and whether your credit is acceptable for a mortgage. As well, if you do find the home you’ve always wanted, being pre-approved gives you a strong standing in negotiations, because the seller knows you’re seriously looking for a home. 

Finally, if you can afford a Thomasville home for sale and have been waiting for the best time, you’ve reached it. There’s never been a better, more affordable time for buyers in the last 50 years. 

If you’re looking for your dream home, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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Guide to Title Insurance for Your Thomasville Real Estate

Friday, June 11th, 2010

FTR Sold SignWhen you buy Thomasville real estate, the real estate attorney will search the public land records to make sure the seller is the legal owner of the property. If the attorney finds a problem like an incorrect deed or a lien on the property, it can be fixed before closing. Most people don’t run into title problems after they buy a home, but it does happen. This is why you should have title insurance.

1.  Types of Title Insurance. Title insurance falls into one of two categories: lender’s title insurance and owner’s title insurance. If you get a loan to buy your Thomasville real estate, your lender will require a lender’s policy based on the amount of your loan. An owner’s policy is purchased at closing and lasts as long as you hold an interest in the property.

2.  What it covers. A basic title insurance policy protects you from any problems with a title that were not found during the title search. Human error can lead to mistakes on public records and forged deeds. This can and does happen. Names and legal descriptions are recorded incorrectly, back taxes may be owed, and people die without wills specifying their heirs.

3.  How it helps you. Say, for example, that you buy a home with a utility easement in the backyard, and the attorney did not disclose this. You may not be able to add on to your home or build a swimming pool in your yard because of this easement. This devalues your property, and the attorney will have to correct this situation for you. In this case, your title insurance will cover the claim and protect your investment.

As your real estate agents, First Thomasville Realty will help take the guesswork out of the closing process. Let us help you find the Thomasville real estate that fits your needs. Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com.

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How to Obtain the Best Possible Contract When Buying Thomasville Real Estate

Wednesday, June 9th, 2010

Overpriced HomeNo one wishes to pay more than they have to for Thomasville real estate. After all, investment potential is one of the best benefits of home ownership. You intend your residence to go up in value while you own it. The less you give for your home, the more you stand to earn from it. Here are a few hints meant for getting the best possible transaction on your home.

1. Purchase at the best time. You find better Thomasville real estate deals during certain times of the year and market conditions. For example, in a sluggish real estate market, sellers are frequently more willing to negotiate to sell their house. Similarly, pay consideration to the conditions of a region. If you aspire to purchase a house in the south, look during the middle of the summer time while the hot, muggy weather keeps buyers away. The similar is true of New England winters.

2. Hire a Thomasville real estate agent. A real estate agent is usually the easiest means to find a great deal. Brokers have access to hundreds of residences for sale. They understand the home values of the region where they work. Real estate brokers are also trained to negotiate with sellers. Altogether this goes a long way toward finding you the greatest possible real estate contract.

3. Have your credit in order for best loan rates. The healthier your credit score, the better your mortgage stipulations will be. This translates into lower, more affordable payments. If your bank pre-approves your loan, you possess even further bargaining ability with the seller and may obtain a better price or sale conditions.

4. Look at more than just the cost. Just because a home has an desirable sale price does not automatically make it a first-rate deal. Major repairs can certainly add up and cost you additional in the long run. A somewhat elevated priced home in immaculate condition is frequently a better value than one in need of some work.

Right now is a excellent time to contract the Thomasville home of your dreams at a fantastic price. Permit First Thomasville Realty assist you in locating your next home. Telephone us at 229-226-6515 or send an e-mail to us at info@FTRealty.com .

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The Buyers Agent Role

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010

Real estate agentNever before has the job of specialists in the world of real estate been more essential. With buyers and sellers requiring more services, the business has seen an explosion of real estate agents who focus in either the representation of sellers or buyers. These specialist real estate agents can offer a wide range of services and preserve a complete independence all through the sales process as there is just one buyer to concern them.

Traditionally the sales transaction and the worries of the customer were the concern of a single REALTOR. Nevertheless, as the industry has progressed so have the requests of each individual and so the specialist arose. Buyers have some very noteworthy requirements, and specifically need to believe that their best welfare is seen to. Listing real estate agents are representatives of the home’s owner and in that role they have a key responsibility to that owner. How might they appropriately look after the desires of an interested purchaser as well?

So what is it that a buyer’s agent does? Primarily the buyer’s agent will begin with the location of suitable properties for their customers. This is ordinarily based upon a list of requirements and needs that the buyer has communicated to the agent. They will subsequently organize viewings and review their findings with their customers and aid in selecting a satisfactory contender for an offer. This will be dependent on the wealth of neighborhood information that a buyer’s agent commands.

As specialists, they are professionals in their given area which is important in the education of clients on the locations that they are considering. After a property is decided upon, the buyer’s agent’s role shifts significantly, evolving into that of an overseer-negotiator. They will normally coordinate the inspections as well as carry out the negotiations with the listing agent. This encompasses the execution of the buyers contract and the closing of the actual offer.

There is an skill to representing a buyer. It is a job that has developed into one that is ever more crucial in a business where consumer service is the singular most essential item that an agent can offer. If you are in the market for a house then the buyer’s agent is the supporter that you need to have on your side in ordeer to make sure that you are given the help that you deserve.

If you’re looking to buy a home, We’ll make sure all those t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted for you. Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

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How to Identify Your Perfect Thomasville Real Estate Agent

Friday, June 4th, 2010

Perfect_AgentWhen you begin your search for the perfect house it usually starts with a search for the perfect Thomasville real estate agent. A good agent can help you with every aspect of buying a home.

They know the proper price ranges, what properties are available that match your needs and all of those pesky legal details required for closing. Your Thomasville real estate agent will keep things moving and make sure deadlines are met and everything goes smoothly.

Here are four tips to help you choose a real estate agent:

Meet Them Face to Face

Perfect harmony should be as instantaneous as love at first sight. You simply know you hit it off with someone, or you don’t. Don’t fight the feelings if you have doubts. Even the best Thomasville real estate agent isn’t going to have a connection with everybody.  There will be one that is perfect for you. Keep looking.

Ask Questions

When you do find a real estate agent you have a connection with, ask questions. There needs to be more than just a friendship between you. Make sure the agent has a real grasp of the area, the types of houses that are available, and seems in tune to what you are looking for.

Assess

Do they listen to your needs?  If they’re not listening to what you want, move on.  Did they answer your questions thoroughly?  If they were unable to answer your questions or purposely avoided answering any of your questions, this is not the right agent for you.

Answer Their Questions

Your Thomasville real estate agent will have plenty of questions for you too. They want to be sure you can afford a new home. Don’t be offended by what may seem like personal questions. They need this information in order to give you the best advice.

If you’re searching for your perfect real estate agent, We’d be honored if you’d interview one of our First Thomasville Realty agents for the job.  Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  to schedule a face-to-face meeting.

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