Here’s a parenting hack for the books!
Who knew turning back the clock could be so effective? Have you ever tried this trick with your little ones?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Archives for March 2024
Outdoor Projects Can Boost Curb Appeal When You Sell
Some Highlights
- In real estate, a good first impression is key. If the outside of a house looks welcoming, more people will want to come in and see it.
- Your agent helps you by giving advice on what you may want to prioritize, finding easy fixes that make a big difference, knowing what buyers in your area like, and showing off your updates in your listing.
- Let’s connect so you have expert advice on what’ll have the biggest impact in our area.
Encanterra Home Spotlight: 1641 E SATTOO WAY
Welcome to your dream home! This St.Tropez home is a gem and it’s ready for you to call it home. Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by a spacious and inviting living area, seamlessly leading into the heart of the home – a kitchen designed for the culinary enthusiast. The kitchen has high-quality stainless steel appliances, stunning granite countertops, and ample cabinet space. One of the home’s standout features is its 4-foot garage extension, providing extra space for vehicles, storage, or a workshop, making it an ideal choice for hobbyists or those in need of additional space. Step outside to discover an outdoor oasis in the beautifully landscaped backyard. An elegant pergola offers a shaded area for outdoor dining or lounging, while the built-in BBQ is perfect for hosting gatherings.
Interested in viewing this gorgeous home? Connect with us today to schedule a private showing: Shea Preferred Realty Group or click this link: 1641 E SATTOO WAY, Queen Creek, Az 85140
Downsizing After Retirement
- Gaining Financial Freedom
Considering downsizing for retirement? By moving to a smaller home, you can cut down on mortgage payments, energy costs, and maintenance expenses. Plus, selling your current home means making your home equity available.
- Harnessing Home Equity
Home equity can be a significant source of wealth for retirees. With the right real estate agent by your side, you can navigate the downsizing process smoothly, from setting the right price to finding your perfect smaller home.
What Every Homebuyer Should Know About Closing Costs
March 25, 2024
Before making the decision to buy a home, it’s important to plan for all the costs you’ll be responsible for. While you’re busy saving for the down payment, don’t forget you’ll want to prep for closing costs too.
Here’s some helpful information on what those costs are and how much you should budget for them.
What Are Closing Costs?
A recent article from Bankrate explains:
“Closing costs are the fees and expenses you must pay before becoming the legal owner of a house, condo or townhome . . . Closing costs vary depending on the purchase price of the home and how it’s being financed . . .”
Simply put, your closing costs are the additional fees and payments you have to make at closing. According to Freddie Mac, while they can vary by location and situation, closing costs typically include:
- Government recording costs
- Appraisal fees
- Credit report fees
- Lender origination fees
- Title services
- Tax service fees
- Survey fees
- Attorney fees
- Underwriting Fees
How Much Are Closing Costs?
According to the same Freddie Mac article mentioned above, they’re typically between 2% and 5% of the total purchase price of your home. With that in mind, here’s how you can get an idea of what you’ll need to budget.
Let’s say you find a home you want to purchase at today’s median price of $384,500. Based on the 2-5% Freddie Mac estimate, your closing fees could be between roughly $7,690 and $19,225.
But keep in mind, if you’re in the market for a home above or below this price range, your closing costs will be higher or lower.
Make Sure You’re Prepared To Close
Freddie Mac provides great advice for homebuyers, saying:
“As you start your homebuying journey, take the time to get a sense of all costs involved – from your down payment to closing costs.”
The best way to do that is by partnering with a team of trusted real estate professionals. That gives you a group of experts to help you understand how much you’ll need to save and what you’ll want to be prepped for. It also means you have go-to resources for any questions that pop up along the way.
Bottom Line
Planning for the fees and payments you’ll need to cover when you’re closing on your home is important. Partnering with a local real estate professional can give you the guidance and confidence you need throughout the process.
What’s the Latest with Mortgage Rates 2024?
March 26, 2024
Recent headlines may leave you wondering what’s next for mortgage rates. Maybe you’d previously heard there were going to be cuts this year that would bring rates down. That refers to the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and what they do to their Fed Funds Rate. While cutting, or lowering, the Fed Funds Rate doesn’t directly determine mortgage rates, it does tend to impact them. But when the Fed met last week, a cut didn’t happen — at least, not yet.
There are a lot of factors the Fed considered in their recent decision and most of them are complex. But you don’t need to be bogged down by those finer details. What you really want is the answer to this question: does that mean mortgage rates aren’t going to fall? Here’s what you need to know.
Mortgage Rates Are Still Expected To Drop This Year
While it hasn’t happened yet, that doesn’t mean it won’t. Even Jerome Powell, the Chairman of the Fed, says they still plan to make cuts this year, assuming inflation cools:
“We believe that our policy rate is likely at its peak for this tightening cycle and that, if the economy evolves broadly as expected, it will likely be appropriate to begin dialing back policy restraint at some point this year.”
When this happens, history shows mortgage rates will likely follow. That means hope isn’t lost. As a recent article from Business Insider explains:
“As inflation comes down and the Fed is able to start lowering rates, mortgage rates should go down, too. . .”
What This Means for You
But you don’t necessarily want to wait for it to happen. Mortgage rates are notoriously hard to forecast. There are so many factors at play and any one of those can change the projections as the economy shifts. And it’s why the experts offer this advice. As Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, says:
“Well, mortgage rate projections are just that, projections, not promises and don’t forget how hard it is to forecast them. . . So my advice is to never try to time the market . . . If one is financially prepared and buying a home aligns with your lifestyle goals, then it could be the right time to purchase. And there’s always the refinance option if mortgage rates are lower in the future.”
Basically, if you’re looking to move and trying to time the market, don’t. If you’re ready, willing, and able to move, it may still be worth it to do it now, especially if you can find the home you’ve been searching for.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to buy a home, let’s connect so you have someone keeping you up-to-date on mortgage rates and helping you make the best decision possible.
Chroma Home for Sale in Encanterra
Check out this stunning new listing!
Spotless and spacious, it’s the epitome of modern living.
With a massive tandem garage and sleek interiors, this home is sure to impress.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Schedule a viewing today before it’s gone.
Rejuvenate & Relax at Alvea Spring Specials
Spring Refresher
MASSAGE & FACIAL • $195
Enjoy total relaxation with a full body massage to help relieve tired, aching muscles followed by a customized facial to boost clarity and radiance for a fresh glow – the essentials for a perfect spring refresh.
UPGRADE! Treat Your Toes to a Spring Revival Pedicure +$75
Springtime Glow
MASSAGE OR FACIAL & FULL BODY SCRUB • $175
Warm up your complexion with a full body exfoliation to remove dead cells and prep to be hydrated to help restore a natural glow. Finish with your choice of a relaxing full body massage or brightening facial that will have your springtime glow in full effect.
Spring Revival
PEDICURE • $80
Revive your soles for spring sandals with a cleansing and exfoliation of nails and cuticles followed by an exfoliating & hydrating heel treatment, followed with a foot massage to help you unwind. Finish with a professional nail buff or a polish application.
Don’t forget, Encanterra Members receive a 15% discount off all services at Alvea Spa! Each spa service includes use of our Relaxation Room and a complimentary glass of champagne, or our exclusive tea service.
Call ALVEA Spa & Wellness at 480.677.8070 for details and availability.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to appointment time. Subject to availability. Discounts may not be combined; offers valid through April 30, 2024.
Source: Alvea Spa and Wellness
Encanterra Open House – 1647 E Grand Ridge Rd
This Monaco plan is ready for you! Start enjoying Encanterra in 2024! The home is situated on a premium homesite with no neighbors behind, tons of privacy and mature trees. Cozy up by the backyard fireplace and enjoy your morning coffee or glass of wine at night. The front courtyard is ideal for entertaining or waving to the neighbors as they walk by. The den makes a perfect home office but also offers a built in Murphy bed for extra guest space. Upgraded tile is throughout the main living areas and the home offers a ton of natural light that creates a beautiful flow. This home is as short walk to the main clubhouse and Encanterra offers tons of amenities at your fingertips. Start living the Good Life at Encanterra today!
Interested in viewing this gorgeous home? Connect with us today to schedule a private showing: Shea Preferred Realty Group
Know Your Dues
Get to know your HOA dues like a pro Encanterra!
Test your knowledge with a quick game and see if you can beat our experts.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Let’s play!
Comment to join the fun!
