Jude Creamer / HomeSmart

Real Estate Agents are all alike.Realtors? Theyre a dime a dozen! and What do agents really do anyway?I do hear these comments, and it does bother me.Not for the reasons you think it bothers me because we individual agents havent done job number one: introducing ourselves to you and the market as a person, and as a professional.  Im sure if you knew what each agents special sauce is youd think differently on that dime a dozen comment!In other words why should you use me as opposed to doing it yourself or choosing one of the more than 216,000 other licensed agents in Florida?Lets first address you DIYers when Greg and I moved from Spring Hill to Bradenton here in Florida, and even selling my home of 23 years in Alpharetta, GA I was a licensed agent, but not active.  I didnt have access to the MLS, lockboxes, or contracts.  I knew enough to pay an active practicing colleague for her valuable service, tools and support.  Not only was she able to do background research on the property I was purchasing, but she was also a partner in the transaction and a sounding board in the negotiation process. Bottom line was that I knew I stood to lose way more than the percentage of the deal that I had agreed to pay her.  I knew her knowledge, research and negotiation skills would net me a higher outcome than if I moved forward thinking I had all the answers (even being a licensed agent myself).  You see, it was my own property, my investment, and I was like many buyers and sellers too close to the transaction to be 100% objective.So, lets say I just convinced you to partner with an agent. Who should you choose?As you might guess, Im here to make the case that not all agents are alike, and certainly not equal.  What sets us apart is who we serve and how we do it.  So you, as the consumer, need to be very clear about what your needs are and what you want to accomplish.So now youre thinking, Come on Jude how am I supposed to know those answers?  I dont even know where to begin!  When I get a call from someone like you just entering into the market I ask to meet them, preferably in person in a coffee shop or at their home.  I like to spend a little time asking questions and getting to know their story, their vision, their desire, their situation.  You see, knowing all of this seemingly extra stuff helps me guide, advise, and add value to their transaction.If you consider working with an agent to help you buy a property and she just jumps straight to yes, Ill show you that property you might want to rethink the relationship because she wont have the insight she needs to be of true service.Same with if youre looking for an agent to sell your property.  If your first meeting with her is all about what she can do for you and what a stellar agent she is and she skips right over learning your needs wants, desires, time frame and goals then youll be working on her agenda, shell be flying blind, and thats a recipe for disaster.Bottom line as much as you need to vet the agent youre considering, make sure theyre curious about you.  (Thats my tip for those of you dating, too!)LIFE CHANGES ARE HARD.  HOME CHANGES DONT HAVE TO BE.

Moving is never easy especially when youre leaving a home that you love. Whether it was where you grew up, where you raised your kids or just a place where great memories were made, it can be difficult to make the decision to move because of the grief you might feel. But moving is an inevitable part of life, and we want to make it easier for you. Here are some ways that you can cope with your move and give your beloved home the send-off it deserves.1) Reframe Your MoveMany homeowners associate leaving their home with leaving the life they created there. They believe that once they move, the good memories and happy life that their home gave them will be stripped away. While its easy to feel emotionally attached to your home, its important to remember that at its core, a house is just a building where memories can be made. Its the people who actually make the memories there! So instead of viewing your move as leaving your life, view it as leaving a place. You can also rest assured that since youve made great memories before, you have the ability to continue doing so wherever you go next!2) Take Pieces of the Home with YouYou might be leaving the place you love, but that doesnt mean you have to leave every memory of it behind. By taking small mementos and photos to remind you of the time spent in your home, you can always remember it and look back on it fondly.Youve probably taken tons of photos in your home, and taking these pictures with you is one easy way to hold onto the memories you created there. Whether you have digital or printed photos, you can organize them by creating a photo album that includes all the pictures youve taken in your home over the years. On the cover, you can put a picture of the front of your house, its address and the years you lived there. If you want to personalize the album even more, you can also write commentary on specific pictures in the album, like when they were taken and the context behind them.While were on the topic of photos, taking pictures of the property right before you move will ensure that you always remember the rooms and pieces that you love. Take a picture of every room, with or without furniture, to remember the structure of the house. If there was a certain part of the house you spent a lot of time in or a design element you appreciated, snap extra photos of those. You can never take too many photos; youll only regret the ones you didnt take!In some cases, you might be able to take physical reminders of the home with you, like a pretty flower from your garden or a rock in your yard. By adding these small mementos to your new home, youll always have a piece of your old home.3) Have a Farewell PartyLike we mentioned earlier, the memories you make in your home are only possible because of the people you make them with. Because of that, when youre leaving a house that you love, youre likely also leaving people you love. A farewell party is a great way to celebrate your home one last time alongside everyone who made it such a hard place to leave. This party can be anything from inviting a small group of friends over for dinner one night to getting your whole neighborhood involved in a fun social event at your home. To add a sentimental touch to the event, consider making a photo collage or video documenting some of the best memories in your home and play it at the party. You can even ask your guests to share some of their favorite memories that theyve made with you in your home to celebrate it further. Whatever you decide to do, saying a formal farewell to your home can be helpful in getting closure before your move.4) Welcome the BuyersIf you love your home, you want to feel confident that your buyers will love it, too. By taking an extra step to make them feel comfortable in their new environment, youll set them up to make as many happy memories as you did. One way to do this is by buying them a housewarming gift. If youve gotten to know your buyers, you can give them a personalized gift to make the home feel like their own; a monogrammed doormat or mailing labels with their names and address are a couple of examples.Another way to welcome your buyers into your home is by creating a neighborhood guide. The purpose of this guide is to give your buyers tips on navigating the area and recommendations for places like restaurants and shopping centers that they can explore. Having a personalized guide is sure to make your buyers feel like theyre at home and can be especially helpful for getting them through the first few weeks of chaos when they move in.We understand that moving out of a home that you love can be difficult. At HomeSmart, were dedicated to helping you through every step of the moving process so that you dont have to go through your move alone. Our agents are not only expertly trained in the tools and technology necessary to execute a successful transaction, but they also truly care about their clients. If youre looking for an agent who will stand by you through your next move, connect with a HomeSmart agent today!

Buying a home is exciting but it can also be expensive. And, were not just talking about the actual cost of the home. Some home buyers get so wrapped up in their home budget that they forget to factor in other things like closing costs, earnest money and more.Find out what hidden costs you can expect to pay for when buying a home that a lot of people either dont know about or let slip their minds.1) Closing CostsAt the end of your transaction, there are a wide range of fees paid. These can include:Cost of inspectionLawyer feesRecording costsAppraisal feesDocument feesSurveyance feeTitle costSales brokerage commissionMortgage applicationsHome warrantyWhen searching for your home, ask your real estate agent to go over the potential costs with you. These can all vary based on the home size youre looking at, your market, the amount of your loan, etc. In 2019, the average home closing costs were about $5,700.2) Earnest MoneySimilar to a security deposit, earnest money is put down up front, before filing any paperwork. Especially in a sellers market, it proves your level of commitment to buying the home. Once the transaction goes through, youll get that money back.If you back out, though, you risk not getting that money back, so make sure you read your contract carefully and that you are positive you wont have any setbacks. This earnest money can range from a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars.3) Paying for EscrowPaying escrow up front helps cover expenses like property taxes and insurance. Some lenders will ask that money stays in the account, which shows how important escrow can be. Escrow fees can cost $1.00 $2.25 per $1,000 in house price, plus an additional $250.4) Moving CostsWhile it may seem like a simple thing, when you get caught up in the closing with paperwork and other costs, a lot of home-buyers forget about the moving costs. With vans, boxes, supplies, time off and company costs if you hire a moving company, you can be looking at a  minimum of $1,000. If youre moving to another state or across the country, you could be looking at a couple thousand dollars.5) Home Maintenance and RepairsWhen youre buying an older home, having to make repairs or update various appliances is almost inevitable. The decision as to how much youll spend will come down to what you deem is necessary to have fixed when you first move in and what can wait.If you want to start fixing certain things ASAP, you wont have much time to spare after you close a deal. Thats why its important to include your expectations into your budget for buying a home, especially for out-of-pocket expenses.If your repair or maintenance can wait, then you can always build up the emergency funds in preparation for that expense.Be prepared for the unexpected by hiring a real estate agent from HomeSmart! We have trained and knowledgeable agents who can talk with you about what you should expect from closing costs and other unexpected expenses that might come up in your transaction. We want to make sure you have the best buying experience possible. After all, this is probably one of the biggest if not the biggest purchase of your life. Contact us today to find your agent!

Im the fourth of five kids in my family.  By most accounts that would be considered a large family. At one time we were living in seven places from The Netherlands to Hawaii, and five locations in between. There came a time, however, when everyone felt drawn to re-congregate.  Eventually we found our family all in the same state again.Another oddity of our family was that both my parents (and my brother) asked me to serve as executor.  I considered it an honor to be asked and didnt know enough to protest!  Neither parent had vast estates, but living in the same area as they did made my job so much easier.Here in Florida, many seniors have family who still live up north somewhere other than Florida.  So, for them, choosing an executor means either choosing a local friend or relative (over 18 and never been convicted of a felony), or if they want a specific person to serve as executor from out of state, that person must be a blood relative or someone theyve officially adopted. Going through probate is the time it takes to settle the decedents estate, and/or proving the persons will.   Living out of state makes the whole process even more difficult and time consuming.If theres no real property to sell, then this informal administration process is referred to as Disposition of Personal Property Without Administration.  If theres no Will in Florida, then an individual will file an application with the court asking to be appointed as personal representative of the estate. The person serving in this capacity has the same duties as he or she would where there is a Will, but there may be more court supervision.An executors duties include gathering the decedents assets, paying valid claims against the estate, and then disbursing remaining assets to the heirs according to the terms of the Will.  Performing these duties long-distance is indeed easier today than in the past, but its always a great idea to have local advocates to work with, especially if theres real estate involved.   Choose a local attorney, financial planner, and real estate agent who are each well-versed in Florida probate.  Their guidance will be invaluable, especially if youre unfamiliar with the laws of the state and the probate process.I considered it a great honor to be asked to serve as Executor (in Florida the role is referred to as Personal Representative). However, once in the midst of the responsibilities, one does have a tendency to question ones sanity.  Nonetheless, to honor the deceased loved-one, one sees the job through to completion.Keep in mind that Mom could be faced with a life event that puts her in a position where she wont be returning to the house and you not only need to sell the home, but you have to find a suitable new living environment for her.Check back for future blogs that will discuss the daunting job of disposing of the physical belongings that a parent has left behind, or finding that new Florida community where she can thrive.Over the time Ive been providing our Closing The Book Program for Out-of-State Executors, Ive met a number of quality Attorneys, Wealth Advisors and CPAs whove answered important questions for me.  Id be happy to share their contact information with you.  You can reach me at Jude@JudeCreamer.com or 404.610.2907.Jude Creamer, Broker Associate, HomeSmart, specializing in facilitating successful real estate transactions for people in life transitions.

Congratulations! Youve been searching for the perfect home, putting so much time and energy into the process, and now you finally found a home where you can see a future for yourself. But chances are if you love the home, another potential buyer probably loves it too. So before you take the leap and make an offer, here are some tips that you should keep in mind to stand out from your competitors and easily seal the deal.1) Setting the Right Starting PriceThe most influential component of an offer is the price you propose to pay for the home. Work with an experienced agent to come up with a strong offer that makes sense for you and the seller first. Otherwise, your feelings of excitement and impatience can quickly become impulsive decisions, resulting in a weak offer that hasnt been thoughtfully prepared. Here are a few tips to make sure that your emotions dont get the best of you when setting a price.Research the MarketIts never a bad idea to understand what the home is selling for when you make an offer. But at the same time, the listing price isnt everything. Instead of basing your offer off of one number, take the time to see what similar homes in the neighborhood have sold for and compare. Understanding how this all works together can be difficult if you are doing it by yourself, so we recommend that you use an agent to help you. Agents will do the market research for you and help you create an attractive offer based on sales of comparable homes in the area.Research the SellerWhile market statistics can indicate what the price a home might sell for compared to others, this doesnt take an individual homeowners situation into account. What if the seller is struggling to find a new home and wants to delay closing? Or maybe they are being forced to leave their home for relocation reasons and need to get the transaction done as soon as possible. By taking the time to do a little extra research on the individual home and its seller in addition to the market, you may be able to find the motivations behind the sale and craft your offer more appropriately.Buying a home takes more than a simple exchange of money for property. There are several costs that go into the process of buying a home that you will need to account for before you make that decision especially if you want to save yourself from stress later on.A down payment can be one of your largest upfront expenses, no matter what type of mortgage you decide on. You might opt for a conventional mortgage with a 20% down payment or a loan insured by the Federal Housing Association (FHA) with as little as 3.5% down. But no matter what you have to pay upfront, its best to start saving early and prepare for a large expense. Even a 5% down payment on a $200,000 home, for example, is still $10,000 thats nothing to laugh at. If you arent sure how to start saving, think about the small steps you can take, whether its setting aside tax refunds or not going to Starbucks as often. The little things can really add up! Its also important to save for those monthly payments that come after the down payment. Whether you decide on a loan that has a shorter or longer term, monthly payments are an ongoing expense that you need to account for. If you have a conventional loan and didnt put down 20% upfront, your lender will likely require you to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) as part of your monthly payment. Annually, this expense may make up 0.5-1% of the cost of your loan and serves to protect your lender if you stop making payments. But no matter how much you put down initially, you want to feel confident that you have the means to make a full payment every month.Dont forget closing costs! This chunk of money will go toward all of the important steps that ensure your home is ready to live in. According to Realtor.com, closing costs account for anywhere from 2% to 7% of your homes final price. These are all expected expenses, but what about those unexpected costs? Unfortunately, homes dont have superpowers and are always prone to unforeseen issues. The garage door could suddenly stop working, your oven could die on you or a big storm could damage your roof. These are all problems that might need a quick fix, and if you dont have any emergency savings that you can contribute, youll be left scrambling.2) Be Careful with ContingenciesIts important to think about any contingencies you have and clearly spell them out for the seller and the sellers agent. These include any outside requirements that must be met before you can complete your end of the transaction. There are a few common contingencies that are included in many offers, like inspections and appraisals, that protect buyers in case the home has issues that werent initially stated. Therefore, its a good idea to include contingencies like these to ensure that you can change your offer or back out if needed. At the same time, be mindful when stating your contingencies. If you end up having too many, its possible you might turn off the seller. Sellers often see contingencies as obstacles in the transaction, so if you have a long list of them, it might put a red flag on your offer. Work with your agent to decide what you really need before you can buy a home and focus on those rather than your list of wants.3) Don't Forget About Earnest MoneyEarnest money can make you stand out in a pool of competitive offers, because it shows a level of commitment from buyers. By putting down earnest money, youre agreeing to pay the sellers a deposit before buying the housewhether or not you actually go through with the transaction. Therefore, its important to be serious about the home youre making an offer on. According to Realtor.com, paying 1-2% of the homes purchase price in earnest money is normal for most markets. However, in competitive markets this amount could be up to 10%. This is another reason why its so important to use an agent. They can help you determine a competitive amount based on your market. 4) Make It PersonalIts common for sellers to be emotionally attached to their homes, and they want to find a buyer who will love it and take pride in caring for it as they do. To stand out against the rest of the offers, and show the seller who you are, consider personalizing your offer. Share your story. Include a message that explains who you are, what your family is like and what excites you about the home. Share what youre most looking forward to experiencing in that house and what it would mean to you to call it yours. By making your offer personal, it will help the seller see you as someone who will love the home, rather than a mere name or dollar amount.5) Move Quickly, But with IntentionWhen creating a competitive offer, its important to move quickly because you never know how many other people are doing the same. If a seller sees an offer they like before they have seen yours, they just might accept it. So dont put it off! After you see a home, be honest with yourself. If you can envision yourself living there, start working with your agent on an offer right away. But if theres any hesitation, always look to your agent for clarity and guidance. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of the home and ensure that you move forward with intention, whether that means submitting an offer or not. If youre worried about everything getting done the right way, especially when youre in a time crunch, you should be able to trust your agent. At HomeSmart, our agents have been carefully trained to understand every step of the offer process and make it as stress-free as possible for the buyer. Our agents understand that youre human, which is why they wont just help you write the offer, but theyll take your thoughts and opinions into account while doing so. By working with a HomeSmart agent, you can feel confident in having a competitive offer that will secure the home of your dreams.

Buying a home at a home auction is not a new process, but its one thats unfamiliar to most. There are lots of myths surrounding home auctions, and plenty of people who think of a home auction as a last resort, rather than a first choice.RealtyHive is here to clear the air. Knowing about home auctions could make your next home purchase easierand could even save you money.Types of Home AuctionsIf you think a home auction only happens in the event of a foreclosure, youre not alone. However, there are actually multiple types of real estate auctions:Short SaleForeclosures are time-consuming and expensive. When a homeowner owes more on their mortgage than what the house is worth, they might have the choice to put their home up for a short sale auction and avoid foreclosure.From a buyers perspective, this type of real estate auction has its pros and cons. Home inspections are a toss-upyou might be able to get one, or you might not. Oftentimes, these sales are cash only, which works great for some, but isnt ideal for home buyers needing to finance the purchase. Short sale auctions are also difficult to find for regular home buyers.Sheriff/Trustee/Federal SaleThe name changes depending on location, but this is a foreclosure auction. The bank wants to get the money or the property. If youre able to purchase, youll need to have the funds right away and there are typically no inspections. More often than not, youll buy without even getting to see the site first.AuctionRegular real estate auctions happen at the sellers choicetheyre not foreclosing or at risk for it. Interestingly enough, this type of home sale happens a lot in Europe and Australia. Home auctions are just beginning to pick up speed in the US.Auctions can have high fees15% at the highest. Whether theyre paid for by the seller or the buyer depends, so as a buyer, your expenses could dramatically increase. These fees do not include working with a real estate agentan additional 6% commission on average.That being said, luxury properties often sell faster at an auction than if going the traditional route. If youre looking to buy an average/regular home and are in the US, it will be harder to find one through real estate auctions.Time-Limited EventsThis is an exclusive home auction, available through RealtyHive. Here are some of the draws:Benefits of Time-Limited Events for Home BuyingDont require a reserveThe market helps find the right price.Contingencies are still allowedBuyers (and their potential investment) are still protected.Traditional financingUnlike other auctions, buyers can still apply for loans to finance their home purchase.No crazy feesBuyers are waived from having to pay expensive fees.All propertiesTime-limited events work for all types of properties, including vacant land and commercial properties.At RealtyHive, we truly think we offer the best home auction option on the market. The countless sellers and buyers who have worked with us would agree. But dont feel as though you have to take our word for itthis blog is for information purposes, not a sales pitch. No matter the buying route you go, its good to know how home auctions work.

Knowing how to console a grieving widow is not easy.  I find Id rather say nothing than say the wrong thing. This is Part II of a two-part article providing suggestions of ways to convey your support for them in their time of need.  This portion is offering phrases that are positive and kind to use and explains why.  Part I dealt with things one shouldnt say when consoling a grieving spouse.Knowing that there are times when words are absolutely necessary, it helps to have the right ones at ones fingertips.Part II Phrases that Work wellAim to say the right thing from the start so that you can avoid unintentionally hurting your loved one at a time when theyre already in so much pain.When you do it right, they may not remember what you said years later, but theyll remember that you were open to supporting them during one of the toughest times of their lives.Im sorry for your loss.This is the most common and universally accepted phrase that acknowledges their loss without saying too much. Although sometimes feeling rote, its direct and to the point.I cant imagine how you feel.When you tell someone that you cant understand how theyre feeling, this opens up the opportunity for dialogue. They may choose to tell you how theyre feeling, or they may acknowledge you with silence. In either instance, allow them to take the lead without forcing the conversation.We all share in your grief.Expressing that you share in your loved ones grief is a show of love and support for them. These words are kind and giving without having to say too much. Let me have the kids.A grieving widow might benefit from time alone to sit with their grief. A person experiences a lot of emotions and different types of grief when saddled with the death of their spouse.It takes time to process and figure out exactly what theyre feeling. Offering to take the kids out for the day or the weekend will likely be appreciated.Ive prepared some meals for you.A person whos grieving will likely not have an appetite for days following the death. If left alone, they may forget to eat until reminded to do so. Preparing and delivering meals to your loved one will help them by taking the guesswork of what to eat away from them. Im here to help you.Theres a huge difference between offering to help someone and doing things to help them. Most people who are grieving find it difficult to ask for and receive help. You can make it easier on them by showing up ready to take on any necessary tasks or chores. Youll need to practice your assertiveness when it comes to helping your loved one. Try not to take no for an answer in a loving and caring way. Helping your loved one can also come in the form of spiritual and emotional help. It may be that they need a little extra help coping with their loss. Offer to join them in prayer, meditation, or accompanying them to a widow support group. Take time for yourself.Giving someone permission for a little self-care can do wonders for them especially when they may be feeling guilty over their spouses death. Let them determine how theyll use their time without filling their schedule with your agenda or ideas. Youre doing a great job.We all need a little motivation and encouragement to keep us going at times. Offer praise for a job well done without sounding condescending. A simple youre doing a great job reminds them that theyre doing the best that they can under the circumstances.Theyd be really proud of you.This is another way to encourage your loved one to keep moving forward while acknowledging their loss. Find a reason or reasons to say this to your friend every now and then so that they dont lose hope as they learn to cope with their grief. I know it must be really hard without them here.This works because youre acknowledging that their death has created an irreplaceable void in their lives. When facing the loss of a spouse its important for the surviving spouse to have a support team around them.  After the initial shock has subsided, the time comes when taking action on whats next is imperative.  Having support partners like a well-trained and compassionate Estate Attorney, Financial Planner and Real Estate Agent can make a huge difference.   If you would like recommendations on local Bradenton|Sarasota area Estate Attorneys, Financial Planners or Grief Counselors, please email me at Jude@JudeCreamer.com Jude Creamer, Broker Associate, HomeSmart, specializing in facilitating real estate transactions for people in life transitions.A special thanks to www.JoinCake.com for the guidance contained in this article.

As a real estate broker, Ive always believed in going the extra mile for my clients, and that includes connecting them with the best support for every step of their journey. Here in Bradenton & Sarasota, a lot of my clients are seniors who are supported in this journey by their out-of-state families. Today, Im excited to share a little gem from my treasure trove of resources that goes beyond the traditional lineup of lenders, title companies, and home inspectors.One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is helping families navigate major life transitions, especially when it comes to senior care and downsizing. Picture this: youre helping Mom or Dad transition to the next chapter of their lives, but youre miles away and feeling overwhelmed. Thats where my cadre of resources comes in.Through my extensive network of senior care professionals, I can guide you and your loved ones to fantastic placement services that will tailor the search specifically to their needs. But it doesnt stop there. Need a compassionate mover to ensure Moms favorite belongings make it to her new apartment safe and sound? Dont have 3 weeks to sort and clear out the balance of the belongings in the house left behind? Or perhaps youre in need of a thrifty contractor who can whip the old family home into shape to maximize your net proceeds on the sale? Consider it done!Stay tuned for more insider tips and heartwarming stories on navigating the real estate journey with ease and peace of mind.

You know your home better than anyone, which is why you not only see all of its beauty, but might also have a tendency to focus on its flaws. You know exactly which parts need work, but sometimes it can be difficult to actually get that work done. The good news is that you dont have to be an expert handyman to give your home a fresh look. Here are some of the easiest DIY projects that you can do to give your home an instant makeover.Peel & Stick: Its Easy & Quick!You may be familiar with the famous peel-and-stick wallpaper that has historically been used to cover up old walls and give rooms a facelift. Theres no denying that a fun pattern or bold color can make an otherwise boring room feel brand new! But recently, homeowners have come up with new takes on this popular trend.Living with old appliances? Find a wallpaper pattern that matches the colors of your home and stick it on your appliances! Try your dishwasher to start simple, and if youre feeling bold, maybe even try your refrigerator. One things for sure: your kitchen will look more modern than ever.Another take on peel-and-stick wallpaper is peel-and-stick tile. This works best in smaller areas with less foot traffic, like a laundry room or den, and can even be used as a kitchen backsplash. Since these areas can often be difficult to decorate, removable tile is the perfect way to add appeal without going into unnecessary work. Experiment with Unconventional StorageLets face it, finding storage space thats practical and attractive can seem impossible. Fortunately, there are ways to make your storage blend into your home by using items that you can probably find around the house.If you dont have a good place to store your towels, consider attaching baskets to the wall for a convenient and clever spot to place them. You can also use these baskets to hold blankets, pillows, or decorative items.Not a fan of the basket look? No worriesa DIY ladder provides another great hanging space for towels, throws, and even accessories like hats and planters. If you want room for more storage or decorations, you can also add shelves to your ladder.If you have a lot of books, you might understand the pain of finding the right bookshelf to store them. To eliminate the need for a large, clunky bookshelf, opt for an easy floating bookshelf to store your favorite books while impressing your guests.A Little Work Goes a Long WaySometimes the biggest results come from the smallest changes. You dont have to spend all day on a DIY home project to give your home a makeover. One surprisingly effective way to boost your homes appeal without much work is by simply painting or replacing door knobs. Try it out on your cabinets, dressers, or anything that needs updating to give your home an instant boost.Your window treatments can affect the look of your entire home, so something as simple as swapping out curtains can make a huge difference. If you dont want to go through the effort of buying curtains, try making your own! The best part is that these dont require any sewing; all youll need is some fabric, rods, and tape to completely transform your space.Get Outside!The outside of your home is just as important as the inside. If it isnt speaking to you, there are simple ways to change that. First, try painting your front door. Adding a pop of color can boost your mood and make your home stand out without requiring hours of your time and all of the tools in your toolbox. Plus, this is the first interaction that your guests will have with your homemake sure its a good one!You can also make the home yours by creating a custom address sign to place on the outside of your house. For example, you can use a monogram of your familys last name as the base of your sign and then add your numbers on top. Adding a personal touch to your address will help you see your property as less of a house and more of a home.We could go on forever listing DIY home project ideas, but hopefully by now you can see that the possibilities are endless. With a little brainstorming and creativity, your home will be dressed for success in no time. Have fun DIY-ing!

In the world of real estate, transparency should be the norm. It should be expected and respected by the buyer, seller, agent and broker involved in a transaction. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to experience full-faced transparency throughout the home-buying process.Fortunately, with the advent of new technologies and the constant updating of todays tech tools in the real estate field, agents can provide more transparency in their work and clients can receive up-to-the-minute information about their transaction, thus, boosting their trust in the process and their agent.Heres a look at how agents can use technology to foster transparency and trust with their clients.A Hand-in-Hand Approach to TransparencyEvery part of our daily lives has been shaped by technology, so why would real estate be any different? Real estate technology has emerged as a permanent fixture in the industry. Tech innovations have streamlined how agents do business and how clients search for and buy or sell homes.Boundless software, tools, websites, apps and other digital solutions are used by all to optimize buying, selling, researching, financing and marketing, among other things. But, most importantly, technology is here to increase transparency.Enter HomeSmarts RealSmart Agent. This integrated tool provides comprehensive visibility into the transaction for real estate agents, from broker review in real time to a checklist of necessary documents to digital signing. As the jumping-off point for an agents transaction and marketing needs, RealSmart Agent provides users the capability to see, manage and grow their business from one place.Staying Close to ClientsTransparency is a two-way street, and in the world of real estate technology, this means providing clients the opportunity to see everything thats going on in the transaction process. RealSmart Agent is integrated with HomeSmart Client, an app built to provide consumers with similar insight.The HomeSmart Client mobile app pulls all client information and transaction documents so buyers and sellers can have full visibility into the progress of their transaction from home search or property listing through closing. While agents can schedule home tours, provide the best driving routes for a day of showings and message clients on their end in their RealSmart Agent App noted above, their clients can upload images and take audio and text notes at each property in HomeSmart Client. Buyers and sellers can even use HomeSmart Client to see what paperwork is still required or to see where their transaction is with mortgage or title if they use one of HomeSmart's partners.This tech-based solution to communication and transparency needs fosters trust between the client and agent by keeping the former informed and in tune with everything that is still needed or is being processed. While each transaction is unique and can take longer than others, knowing where things stand and keeping communication lines open with the click of a button helps to increase transparency.The Tech Road AheadNew technologies continue to flood the market and change the way agents and brokers do business. Whats more, these upgrades are happening more frequently, meaning that clients have a higher expectation of transparency and a higher standard of service they hold their representatives.When agents focus on their clients interests and utilize the tools that are available to them, they can enhance transparency and build more trust. This nearly eliminates stress from a transaction and opens the door to positive reviews, more business and even referrals down the road. In the end, with technology in real estate, everyone wins.

Your Mom loved living in Sarasota.  She was active and had many lovely friends with whom she played bridge, golfed, and enjoyed cocktail hour.  That made your heart sing knowing she was joyful and taken care of even though you were only able to travel from up north to visit her a couple of times a year.But then this unexpected life event happened.  She graduated rehab with flying colors and has been comfortably situated in an Assisted Living Community. It all happened so fast. Just last month she hit 3 over par and enjoyed a gin and tonic to celebrate!  Now comes the hard part.  The doc says she wont be able to live on her own again, and it doesnt make sense to retain the house she once lived in.  You cant ask Mildred or Marge, her best golfing buds, to do what comes next.  Its up to you and your siblings, and where do you begin?Below are eight tips to help you handle your moms personal possessions and real estate from a long-distance perspective now that she is comfortable in her new Sarasota Assisted Living Community.Plan Your Work, Work Your PlanSpend some time thinking about whats next.  What needs to be done, and who will be handling it.  The worst thing you can do is jump into the action phase without seeing the entire big picture. Some things to consider up front:TimeHow much time will you need to gather, organize, pack, choose, decide, ship, and move her belongings?How much time can you get off work to travel to Sarasota, handle the move, spruce up the property, and put the house on the market and coordinate the sale? LogisticsWhen do you start?Should you fly down to SRQ, or drive?How many times will you need to make the trip?Which siblings are going to help?Can you coordinate schedules so everyone can work together?DecisionsWhat personal possessions will Mom want in her new home?Who gets which heirloom?Do you ship these precious pieces, or store them?Should you advertise and host an estate sale, or donate?Mom lived in the house for 18 years. It definitely needs some cleaning and possibly a bit of updating in order to sell it. Who will handle THAT?Choose To Work With A Local And Experienced PartnerTackling the project of cleaning out a home and readying it for market is a daunting task.  Overseeing the project from 800 miles north of Sarasota is a complete game-changer.   Being an out-of-state personal representative or designated beloved family member is no easy task.There is a variety of wonderful senior services in Sarasota, and you can call on them for help.  Just to start, youll need cleaners, movers (& boxes), painters (& possibly other contractors), packers, shippers, donation charities, a dumpster rental, a Realtor, and a stager.  This is on top of coordinating with doctors, the assisted living facility, insurance adjusters, Medicare, or Medicaid, and OR: You might choose a local project manager who will serve as your liaison to coordinate the on-site logistics of removing the personal belongings, prepping, and selling the real property for top dollar.   This is my specialty, and I would first meet with you at the house, discuss the objectives and goals, give you time to remove your personal mementos, and then youd hand over the key.  From there wed agree on a master game plan, and Id follow it to a T with good communications along the way.  You head back north to your other responsibilities, and Ill get your job done here in Sarasota.    Research The Area Regarding Home Values And TrendsIf youre working with a quality Realtor, shell know the area and will give you solid area information about market trends and home values that will guide you on deciding on list price.  Of course, its always good to stay up on it yourself to be assured that her guidance is spot on.Dont Let Your Emotions Make Your DecisionsKnowing life has taken a left turn for Mom is hard to swallow. The empty house and especially the belongings within it can have a lifetime of fond memories associated with them.   Its important to feel the emotions that come up, but dont let your emotions drive you into making decisions too quickly, keeping too many personal belongings that could cost you too much money to store and transport, or lull you into choosing to wait too long and racking up utility, maintenance and holding costs on the property that you werent prepared to pay.Be Diligent, But Dont RushBalancing the emotions of life changes with making rational and prudent decisions is the name of the game.  Each morning, you may wake up feeling that there are too many decisions to make and tasks to attend to, but keep in mind that everything doesnt need to be completed in this moment.  Give yourself a break. Take one small step at a time and, at the same time, dont let overwhelm paralyze you.Weigh The Value Of Spending Time Or Spending MoneyNow that youve done a thorough analysis of the big picture, you realize the magnitude of what needs to get done while maintaining a life balance back home.  Its worth considering which you have more of at this point: time or money?  You might be an at-home DIYer and feel perfectly comfortable handling each piece of this project yourself.  But youre also being reminded of the work projects and kids soccer games at home that need your time and attention as well.Consider the value of handing off the project management work to someone who has resources at her fingertips, lives locally, and who can give you a weekly phone or email update on the progress of the project.  That might just be the ticket to help you sleep at night, and you might be pleasantly surprised that it doesnt cost that much more.Consider The Tax Or Medicaid Program Implications Of Selling Your Familys Real EstateBe sure to consult with your tax advisor and/or your Medicaid Application Consultant regarding how the sale of your Moms property could affect your financial picture.  You might find that, at least for a short period, it would be more advantageous to keep the property and lease it to a long-term tenant.  Your project manager should be able to help you with this aspect of the project as well.Remember to Breathe & Breathe Often.Through it all, you may find yourself so wrapped up in the whats next that one small, but critical, detail slipped through the cracks.  Stop, take a deep breath, and slow the pace.  Always remember that breathing is your friend, and taking occasional deep breaths does wonders for mitigating the stressful feelings that tend to overwhelm.Bonus tip: The last task you might want to take time to do before you head back north is to invite Marge, Mildred and your Moms golfing buddies over for a gin & tonic and thank them for their friendship.  Im sure your Mom will love to see each of them in her new living arrangements now and again.  Leave contact information for both you and Mom and head home knowing how proud your Mom would be with the details youd attended to.  And of course, remember to breathe.

Online shopping has become more popular than ever, and that goes for just about everything, from groceries to clothes to homes. Yep, you read that right: virtual home buying has become a new reality for buyers around the globe. Some are moving across the country, others require a sudden move, while many simply enjoy the convenience of buying a home without visiting the community. And while its convenience and flexibility are undeniable benefits, buying a home sight unseen must be done carefully so that you make the best decision possible. Heres a guide to help you make the most of your virtual home buying experience.1) Make Your WishlistMany buyers who see homes in person rely on their intuition to tell them when theyve found the one. Since its more difficult to get a feeling for a home from behind a screen, making a wishlist of your needs and wants in a home is especially crucial when buying online. A detailed set of standards will help you narrow your search, focus only on homes that meet your practical needs, and ultimately help you choose a home that fits into your lifestyle.To make your wishlist, start by asking yourself this question: what do you need in a home? Your needs should be things that you couldnt comfortably live without. Perhaps you need four bedrooms to fit your family and any guests; a three-car garage to fit your beloved golf cart; or a big backyard for your dog to play in. The more specific you can get, the better. For example, if you need a big backyard, specify with a specific square footage. Otherwise, you could get swayed by what you see in online photos and videos, where a homes backyard might appear bigger than it really is. Be sure to keep your specific needs at the top of your list so you can easily eliminate any homes that dont satisfy them.Once a home passes the first test of meeting your needs, it must check off your list of wants to set itself apart. Wants are items that you could live without, but that would make your life a little easier and happier. Maybe you love to bake and want a walk-in pantry for easy access to your baking supplies, or perhaps you would love to have a pool in the backyard to cool off after a long day of work. These are important to include on your wishlist because they will serve as important reminders of what would make you not only satisfied, but truly happy with your home.2) Take a Virtual TourYou might fall in love with a homes listing photos, but these dont show you everything there is to see. Rather than relying on the photos to make your decision, do what you can to see the home for what it really is, even if thats through video. You might be surprised at how different a house looks when you can see it up-close and personal!Many agents are now holding virtual open houses, tours and showings, where you can join them for a live viewing of the home. This is helpful because not only does it allow you to see the home from the perspective of someone whos actually there, but you can also hear their commentary and ask questions. Agents will often point out features of the home that you cant see through photos, which will help you get a better feeling for what the property is like even though you cant see it in person. HomeSmart agents are well-trained in these emerging processes, so reach out to your agent or find a HomeSmart agent today to get started.3) Prepare Your QuestionsAnother huge benefit of attending a live home tour is that you can get your questions answered in real-time. Its good to have questions, especially when youre viewing the home through a screen rather than your own eyes. But coming up with these questions can be challenging when you arent there; you cant smell the pet odors, hear the sounds of the busy road outside, or see the scratches on the wood floors, for example. Thats why its important to take some time before your live tour to come up with questions that can speak to those things that you cant experience for yourself.To kickstart your brainstorming session, use the property as your guide. Look at the floorplan if its available to you; review the listing photos youve seen; and pretend like youre walking through the house. Think about what questions you might have as you enter each room, like, How old are the appliances? or, How big are the closets? Its also important to think about more general questions relating to the house and its surroundings as a whole, like, What is the cell-phone service like? and, What kinds of noises can you hear from outside? By asking these questions, your agent will be more likely to give you a closer look at the home and tell you things that they might have otherwise forgotten. This will help you determine if the property is really right for you.4) Research the CommunityA homes surroundings is just as important as the home itself. Even if you find your dream home, youll be unhappy if its located in an area that doesnt fit your lifestyle. Before you decide to buy, do some research on the neighborhood. Niche is a free-to-use website that allows you to search by city, neighborhood or zip code and gives you information ranging from public school statistics to crime and safety rankings in the area. Additionally, residents can leave their own reviews about the neighborhood, so you can hear from people who actually live there.To learn more about a specific propertys surroundings, Google Maps can be extremely helpful. Simply type the address into the search bar, and youll be amazed at how much information you can find. Youll be able to see what the home backs up to, the other homes around it, and you can even use Street View to get a 3D view of the home. Google Maps can also tell you the driving distance from the property to places that youll be visiting often, like your office or the gym. All of this can be useful to determining whether the home is in an area that works well for you.5) Hire the Right PeopleEven if you do everything right, you cant have a successful transaction without the right people helping you. Youll need a knowledgeable agent to help you through the virtual search process, a highly-qualified inspector to check out the house before you buy (especially since you cant be there to see it yourself), and a mortgage lender if youre planning to take out a loanjust to name a few. Set yourself up for success by finding a trusted group of professionals to help you from the beginning.Here at HomeSmart, we know that a buyers agent is one of the most important parties to any real estate transaction, which is why we equip our agents with the tools and technology necessary to give you the best home buying experience possibleeven if its virtual. Our agents are trained to provide virtual tours, and HomeSmarts paperless transaction model and state-of-the-art technology makes it easy to buy from wherever you are. Connect with a HomeSmart agent today and get ready to find your dream home!

As a seller, your to-do list is already pretty sizable by the time the home inspection comes around. As you can guess, the home inspection can be quite the point of contention for many real estate deals. If the inspection comes up with some problems, what fixes are mandatory after a home inspection? And, who is responsible for them?What is the Seller Responsible for Fixing?In reality, there is no such thing as a mandatory fix. Fixes can vary depending on where you live, the state of the market, the buyers lender and the contract negotiated between you and the buyer.Inspections can turn up a list of issues. Some repairs may be deemed necessary to make a home habitable, while others may fall under purely cosmetic issues. An important factor in whats mandatory comes from the buyers lender requirements. Buyers using FHA, VA or USDA loans each have particular requirements. Typically, the lender-required repairs will include anything that might affect living conditions.Some of the most popular categories for fixes that are deemed necessary before move-in are any of the following that constitute as human health hazards or major structural risks:Mold or Water DamagePest or Wildlife InfestationFire or Electrical HazardsToxic or Chemical HazardsStructural IssuesOld or Damaged RoofingWho Should Be Paying for Fixes?Now, the question that is usually the root of problems after a home inspection is: Who has to pay for mandatory fixes?As we mentioned before, it really comes down to a couple different factors like your negotiated contract and the state you live in. For example, as-is contracts in Florida result in the buyer accepting the property in its current condition, meaning they accept all financial responsibility for those fixes.In most cases, as a seller, you would pay for repairs involving any major issues with the structure. At least learn more about what these repairs involve so you can discuss them with a buyer. There are a few ways to appease a buyer without taking on the responsibility for all the requested repairs.Offer some appliances that you planned on parting with as compensation for particular repairs (ex. Washer and dryer, refrigerator)If there are five recommended repairs, offer to complete two of the requests or give credit for the threeIn the same event, you could offer to complete two of the requests and give credit for the threeThe bottom line is: all repairs are negotiable. As a seller, its important to disclose all known issues in good faith and work with the buyer during the inspection process. Make sure you work closely with your real estate agent and attorney to figure out the best option when the time comes.If youre looking for a real estate agent to help you sell your home, HomeSmart has the nearly 20,000 local experts to choose from. Our agents will look out for your best interest and make sure you get the best offer for your home with a speedy and streamlined closing process. Our team is equipped with the proper tools and resources to get your home sold! Find your agent today!

Technology is constantly improving, which means that cybercrime is on the rise. As an agent, its more important now than ever before to protect yourself from the dangers of cyberspace. The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) has created a checklist that lists cybersecurity measures you can take to keep yourself and your business protected. Heres an overview of what it has to say.Email and Password HygieneYou most likely use your email and a variety of other services everyday to conduct business, which means that your accounts might contain a lot of personal and confidential information. Its easy to forget about securing your accounts when you access them day in and day out, but this is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from cybercrime.According to NAR, your login credentials are especially important to protect. You should carefully guard login and access information to your email and any other service platform you use during the transaction, while also making sure that the usernames and passwords are different for each account. For example, if a hacker accesses one of your accounts, you dont want them to easily access any others using the same login information. In addition, your passwords should be long and complex, with a combination of letters, numbers and symbols that would be hard for any person or computer to guess. Finally, NAR recommends using two-factor authentication to give your accounts that extra level of security. This requires you to give two forms of identification to access your accounts so that hackers cant get in, even if they know your password.When it comes to general email hygiene, NAR recommends that you be careful with both the information you send and the information you receive. When sending emails that contain sensitive information, you should use encrypted email, a transaction management platform or a document-sharing program to protect your information from being easily stolen. If you receive an email that contains any unknown attachments or links, dont click on themthey could contain malware that infects your device. And whether youre on the sending or receiving end of an email, NAR recommends that you avoid doing business over unsecured wifi, where hackers can easily access your personal data. Other IT-Based Security MeasuresWhile its a good idea to secure each of your accounts, its equally important to protect your devices operating systems and software. NAR emphasizes that you should always keep antivirus software, firewalls, operating systems and programs active and up-to-date to receive the highest level of protection. Its also a good idea to regularly back up the data on your device. By doing this, it will be stored in a safe place in the case that a virus infects your device or someone hacks in and erases your information.Another way that NAR suggests securing your device is by avoiding any suspicious links or applications. If you receive a text message from an unknown sender that contains a link, dont open it or your information could be stolen. If youre downloading an app, make sure that its legitimate by researching it beforehand so that it doesnt breach your privacy or infect your system. And if you ever need an IT provider, work with an attorney to review their policies and contracts before allowing them access to any of your devices.Law, Policy and Insurance ConsiderationsSo far weve talked about some everyday measures you can take to improve your cybersecurity. But there are larger considerations you should also keep in mind to make sure that youre protected in the long-run. According to NAR, your attorney can help you develop a written disclosure warning clients about the possibility of cybercrimes resulting from their transaction. In this disclosure, you can recommend certain steps for sellers and buyers that will protect their personal information and finances. In addition to a disclosure, NAR recommends that you also develop policies relating to document retention and destruction, cyber and data security and breach notifications and responses. NAR believes that you should stay up-to-date on those documents and coverages you already havefor example, your insurance coverage. Ask your insurance agent about additional options you can add to your plan, such as cyber insurance and crime protection products. In addition, remember to stay up-to-date with your states laws regarding personal information, cyber and data-related business policies and other legally required security-related business practices. This will all help you and your clients stay protected and will save you time and stress in the long run.Its easy to put off the small steps that can protect you from cybercrime, but dont wait! Unfortunately, its only becoming more common in todays digital space. If you dont start protecting yourself now, you could be a hackers next victim at any moment. By implementing the items from NARs Cybersecurity Checklist, you can begin living with peace of mind that you and your business will stay protected.

Selling your home yourself can be a huge undertaking that requires a significant amount of hard work and investment of time and energy. Some homeowners choose to go the for sale by owner (FSBO) route, thinking it will save them money. But in the long run, using a professional real estate agent is the way to go to make your home selling process simpler, less risky, and more time- and cost-efficient. Here are the top six benefits of using an agent versus doing FSBO:Pricing: An average agent-assisted sale is $265,000, whereas FSBO sales only go for $200,000, on average. Thats $65,000 more that you could put in your pocket with the help of an agent. Marketing: While 49% of FSBO sellers have no marketing strategy for their property, agents will have access to professional marketing tools and resources to help your home stand out from the competition. Paperwork: The second most difficult task for FSBO sellers is paperwork. Agents have built-in broker and paperwork support, taking the responsibility for doing paperwork off of your shoulders. Liability: A lack of real estate experience puts owners who do FSBO at a higher risk of being sued. With the help of a compliance-trained agent, homeowners can rest assured that their home will be sold without legal complications. Negotiation: An agent will act as a middleman in your transactions, whereas on your own, you would have to juggle all negotiations by yourself, putting you at risk of selling your home for less than it is worth. Time: When doing FSBO, you always have to be on call to let potential buyers view your home. An agent will schedule and host showings for buyers, saving you precious time.

You've heard about real estate investing, but do you know what it really entails? On the surface, it might sound like a flashy gig to make some extra money and diversify your portfolio. And while the job can certainly be lucrative, it takes consistent learning and hard work to be successful.We're here to break down the basics of real estate investing so that you're equipped with the knowledge you need to get started. To help us, we talked to James Judge, a top-ranked HomeSmart agent and residential real estate investor with a specialty in flipping houses. Here's our beginner's guide to real estate investing:First, Know Your Options.Being a successful investor requires choosing the right investments. To figure out what investing method works best for you, first decide if you want to be an "active" or passive investor: do you want to have a hands-on or hands-off role in the process? Active investing requires greater real estate knowledge and overseeing a project form start to finish. Passive investing can be done regardless of experience and often involves handing over capital to professionals who will invest for you. Here are a few common types of investments that you can make:Active Opportunity: Flipping HousesAs an expert house-flipper, James perfectly captured what he does as "looking for opportunities to make houses into homes." To elaborate, flipping houses requires purchasing a home, making renovations to increase its market value and selling it at a higher price to make a profit. This is the most active, hands-on form of investing that you can engage in. It comes with a lot of work but also has a lot of potential.According to James, flipping houses is a full-time job. While having a good team can reduce the time spent working, you still have to oversee the project and ensure that the moving parts come together. It's especially important to have a passion for this kind of work so you can enjoy it. As both a REALTOR and an investor, James works long hours that can make it hard to find a work-life balance, but he stated, "Thankfully I love what I do; therefore, it doesn't always feel like work."Despite the time commitment, James is proof that flipping houses can be an incredibly rewarding investment. Over the past eight years, he and his team have successfully flipped over 100 properties. But when you're just starting out, James suggests taking any opportunity that's available, even if it's small. Small projects often move much more quickly and can become more worthwhile as a result.Here's a before-and-after look at one of the many homes James has flipped:Active Opportunity: RentalsInvesting in short or long-term rental properties has the advantage of providing you regular cash flows as a property owner, as long as your tenants are responsible. However, finding reliable tenants requires some upfront work, like conducting background checks and drafting legally sound contracts. Once you have tenants, it's also your responsibility to collect rent, maintain the property and ensure legal compliance. Still, the benefits of rentals can outweigh the costs.Many investors choose to focus on long-term rentals, which provide more consistent income and are usually a shorter time commitment. But short-term rentals have their perks, too. Having experience working with short-term rentals, James told us that while there may be more upfront costs and less consistent cash flows, the income generated from short-term rentals is often much higher than long-term rentals overall. If you're willing to put a few extra dollars into your rentals, short-term rentals might give you the most bang for your buck.Here's what James did to fix up a rental property:Passive Opportunity: Real Estate Investment TrustsIf managing a property sounds like too much work, you can start small by investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs). REITs are companies that own and offer investors' shares of commercial real estate-like office buildings and retail spaces. They usually require very little money to invest. Additionally, they are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders each year, so investors can often expect high dividends without having to actively manage their investments.While investing in REITs might seem like a no-brainer, it's important to recognize the different types of investments before committing. Publicly traded, publicly non-traded, and private REITs each have their own advantages and risks. Non-traded REITs aren't easily sold and are harder to value, so beginners are better off starting with publicly traded REITs, which you can buy from an online broker.Next, Figure Out Your FinancesNo matter what type of investing you pursue, your plans for success could backfire if you aren't mindful of where your money is going. To save yourself the future headache, it's important to get your finances in order before deciding to invest. Real estate investing can be expensive, so before starting, make sure that you have enough money set aside in an emergency fund in case things don't work out as planned. You can also set yourself up for success by paying off any debt and automating your savings.James emphasized the importance of having a budget when you start investing. He said, "It's challenging to find the right balance between what you want to do and what you need to do [when renovating a home]," and it's important to make investments that align with your financial position to set yourself up for success. For him, this means focusing less on making a house "perfect" and more on making the necessary renovations for a successful flip to maximize function and make it feel special at the same time. While your budgeting strategy might look different than his, it's important to have one for long-term success.Find Your Market, and Know It WellMany new investors think that they can do real estate investing in any market, but every market is different. What works well in one market may not in another. One of James' biggest tips for beginners is to find your market and learn it. When he started his investing career, he did flips all over the Phoenix valley. He said, "Ultimately, I found that it was best to focus on one specific market so that I could learn what people wanted and understand how to spot a deal." When he started focusing on one area, James realized that different styles of homes sell better in different locations, and price per square foot can vary dramatically by neighborhood. Now that he has identified and learned his market, he knows how to adjust his investment strategies to the area around him and has seen exceptional results.And Remember... You Can Do It!If you still need that push to give investing a try, just remember that real estate investing provides opportunities for everyone. James got into investing unexpectedly when he couldn't find a job after college. After graduating with an Interior Architecture degree, he started working with an investor to source homes and remodel properties. The agent he was working with suggested he tried flipping houses, and the rest is history. So if you haven't spent your whole life preparing to invest, don't worry. If James can do it, so can you!To learn more about James and see the work hes doing, follow along on his website and his Instagram @thehousejudge for your daily dose of investing inspiration.

Sarasota, Florida, is not just a vibrant city but also a place where families come together to support their loved ones during pivotal life transitions. Jude Creamer, a seasoned real estate professional, recently achieved HomeSmart Elite status, an accolade that speaks volumes about her expertise and dedication in the real estate industry. Her accomplishment not only underscores her exceptional skills but also highlights the unique advantages her clients can access during challenging times.When a Sarasota family faces the emotional task of helping their loved one transition into a new chapter of life, the support of a HomeSmart Elite agent like Jude Creamer becomes invaluable. With over two decades of industry experience and a deep understanding of the Sarasota community, Jude is adept at listening compassionately, identifying clients specific needs, and offering tailored solutions.Obtaining HomeSmart Elite status demonstrates Judes unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to navigate complex real estate transactions with precision and care. For families coping with the overwhelming task of selling their loved ones home from a distance, Judes expertise and top-tier status offer a sense of assurance and confidence throughout the entire process.With access to HomeSmarts advanced internal systems, processes, and support, Jude seamlessly coordinates every aspect of the real estate divestiture, ensuring that the home-selling journey is streamlined and efficient. Her HomeSmart Elite status serves as a testament to her proficiency in utilizing these resources to provide optimal results for her clients.Furthermore, Judes affiliation with HomeSmart allows her to tap into a network of trusted professionals within the Sarasota community, ensuring that families receive comprehensive support beyond the real estate transaction itself. Whether its connecting clients with estate attorneys for legal guidance or coordinating with reliable house clearers, cleaners, painters, and stagers, Judes HomeSmart Elite status enables her to assemble a team of experts dedicated to simplifying the process for families during this sensitive time.By choosing a HomeSmart Elite agent like Jude Creamer, Sarasota families can rest assured that their real estate needs are in capable and compassionate hands. Judes distinguished status and her empathetic approach to client care make the journey of transitioning a loved one into a new living situation a smoother, more manageable experience for families, providing them with the peace of mind they deserve during this significant life event.

Knowing how to console a grieving widow is not easy.  I find Id rather say nothing than say the wrong thing. Sometimes though, words are required.  Like any skill, having the right words to say at the right time takes practice and understanding of the situation.  To help you prepare for an uncomfortable situation, read on empathetically.  Preparing now will lessen your fear of hurting the grieving spouse or possibly ruining your relationship over saying the wrong thing and adding salt to a wound.Often, when in public, the grieving widow or widower offers a strong front for the time being.  In doing  so, they often find themselves consoling those who came to comfort them.  The days and weeks following the death of a loved one is the time when emotions run high and even the most well-intentioned words can be misconstrued.  It is our responsibility to be ready to support them.  This is a two-part series to review phrases to avoid (Part I) and phrases that are generally safe to use (Part II).   Review them, learn them.  Knowing what to say in the right circumstance will set you up to provide the kindness and compassion thats needed in that moment.PART I Phrases to avoid using, why you should avoid them, and alternate options to use insteadFinding the right things to say can be just as hard as it is easy to say the wrong things.  Take care not to fall for it when your loved one tells you that its better to say something than nothing at all. Saying the wrong thing can be damaging to your relationship. If you find that youre uncomfortable around death and dont know what to say, here are some examples of what not to say. Dont say: Theyre in a better place.Undoubtedly, when hearing this, the widow will wholeheartedly disagree with you. To them, it may not matter that Heaven needs another angel. Theyll tell you that they need them here, or that their kids need them just as much.A better option: I know it must be hard without them here. This works because youre acknowledging that their death has created an irreplaceable void in their lives. Dont say: Everything happens for a reason.A natural part of grieving is comprehending the loss. This phrase is very insensitive.A better option: Sometimes well never understand the reasons why things happen the way they do.This works because it acknowledges that theres no comprehensible reason for why their loved one had to die.Dont say: What are you going to do now?This well-intentioned question may be the breaking point for someone who really doesnt know what theyre going to do now that their spouse has died. They may be feeling overwhelmed with whats next and how to take care of everything on their own. A better option: Lets talk about how I can help you with the next steps.This works because youre offering a solution to them that will help them figure things out instead of sending them into panic mode. Dont say: Thats too bad the kids wont have both parents.This is a very insensitive and unkind thing to say to someone. Theyre faced with having to move forward without the person that was supposed to be there to help them. They already know its going to be difficult not having them there. A better option: Im sorry that they wont be here to see the children grow up.This works because youre expressing lamentation over something that is regretful in a more caring and loving way.  Dont say: Youll feel better in time.When you say this to someone, you imply that this is only a passing thing. Your loved one may resent how quick you are to dismiss the relationship they once shared with their spouse. A better option: Take all the time you need to heal from your pain and grief. Ill be here for you.This works because youre acknowledging that this is one of the most painful experiences of their life and youll be there to help them through it. Dont say: Youre still young, someone else will come along.The last thing a widow is thinking of when theyve just lost their spouse is going out and finding a replacement. A better option: Youre lucky to have found love with someone as wonderful as them. Im truly sorry for your loss.This works because youre reminding your loved one that love is difficult to find and theirs is irreplaceable. Dont say: They werent the greatest anyway.Keep the negative comments and opinions to yourself. There is never a right time to give your take on your loved ones choices in love, and especially not the period when theyre grieving the loss.A better option: Im sorry that youre having to go through this pain and suffering.This works because youre expressing solidarity with your loved one in their pain and suffering without any negative feedback. Dont say: Now I have you all to myself.This is a selfish way of saying to your friend that you love and support them through their loss. A better option: Ill be here for you through thick and thin.This works because youre able to get the same point across without celebrating the fact that your loved one is now free to spend more time with you. Dont say: I know what youre going through.It can be highly offensive to a bereaved widow when you say that you can relate to what theyre going through. Even if youve also been widowed and have experienced this type of loss, it can be hurtful when you compare their pain to yours. A better option: It must be very difficult for you right now. I cant imagine what youre going through.This works because youre recognizing that its not easy losing their spouse without making this about you and what you went through. Knowing what NOT to say to a grieving spouse is a good primer (especially now that you have decent alternatives).  Be sure to read next weeks article Consoling a Grieving Spouse Part II, which will outline more phrases that generally work well to comfort, and why theyre good.When facing the loss of a spouse its important for the surviving spouse to have a support team around them.  After the initial shock has subsided, the time comes when taking action on whats next is imperative.  Having support partners like a well-trained and compassionate Estate Attorney, Financial Planner and Real Estate Agent can make a huge difference.   If you would like recommendations on local Bradenton|Sarasota area Estate Attorneys, Financial Planners or Grief Counselors, please email me at Jude@JudeCreamer.com   Jude Creamer, Broker Associate, HomeSmart, specializing in facilitating real estate transactions for people in life transitions.A special thanks to www.JoinCake.com for the guidance contained in this article.

MY Dirty Little Secrets For Buying a HomeBuying a home for the first time can be confusing. Thats why I love to send tips and strategies that will set you on the right path. Its my own unique approach and a behind the scenes glimpse of what you should look out for and consider when starting your own search for a home.Did you know that some normal even harmless everyday activities could hurt your chances of buying your dream home?  You want to avoid any slip-ups that might make your lender think twice about processing your mortgage loan.Here are seven things that you should never, ever, ever, ever do during the time you are searching for a home:1. NEVER Change JobsStability is key when seeking approval from lenders, so the months leading up to your home purchase is not a good time to seek other employment or start up any new endeavors.While enhancing your career and moving up is important financially, you should wait until after youve moved in, or at least signed the final documents, to switch jobs or pursue any entrepreneurial interests.Remember, lenders dont want to take risks and are looking to loan money to someone who they know can pay it back. Leaving your current job can be a red flag to them!2. NEVER Pay-Off Creditors (without checking with your lender first)Sounds counterintuitive, but its not.  Certain loans require you to have certain reserves in the bank to qualify.  So, you might actually do more harm than good if you pay off your credit cards, student loans or any other debt you have.  Check with your lender first before you pay anything off. Having debt is not always a bad thing and may not be as big of an obstacle to your owning a home as you think. So dont pay it off unless your lender tells you to do so.3. NEVER Make Major PurchasesOne of the fun things about buying a new home is all the other new stuff that comes with it. Often, people want new furniture, appliances, and the list goes on and on!Most major purchases today require credit, and that means you dont want to have a large number of inquiries on your report during the loan process. Plus you dont want to have a higher debt-to-income ratio than necessary before you close on a home.Your best bet is to hold off on buying anything major until you have completely finished the mortgage process and youve moved in. That new car can wait!4. NEVER Have Late PaymentsYou should always make payments on time whether youre planning on buying a home or not.  However, in the months leading up to your looking for a home, you want to be especially careful not to be late on car payments, insurance premiums, credit cards, even parking tickets! This could derail the approval of your mortgage or increase your interest rate.5. NEVER Accept Out of Ordinary Bank DepositsLenders prefer to see proof that the bulk of your down payment fund has been in your account for at least two months also known as seasoning.As stated before, stability is key, so you dont want it to like look money suddenly moved into your account out of nowhere. This looks suspicious and may signify that you may be depending on family members or others for your down payment. (There is a way to get a loan or gift from family though!) The lender wants to know that you can afford and maintain a mortgage.6. NEVER Agree to Co-signYour home buying process is not the time to co-sign anything!  Even though youre not the one making the payments, and no matter how much you trust your beneficiary, co-signing a loan, no matter how small, increases your debt-to-income ratio.And a default on the part of the borrower can jeopardize your entire loan process.7. NEVER Have A Change in Your AssetsDont forget that youre already making a major investment buying your new home! Its not the time for other investments even if the stock market is bullish. Other investments would deplete your liquid assets that you need to make lenders comfortable, so youre better off waiting until youve officially bought your new house.Stay tuned for more behind the scenes glimpses of the dos and donts of home buying.

Sometimes you have no choice on when you need to sell your home a job transfer, you saw another home you really want to buy, or you have an unexpected life change.  Selling in the off season such as summer isnt ideal but it can be done, and its imperative its done the right way to get the best results.And, believe it or not, not everyone is on vacation in the summer!  In fact, some buyers have more flexible schedules. There are also plenty of buyers that are just getting their search started and those who didnt find the right house or got outbid during the busy Spring selling season.  Summer really can be a good time to sell your home to one of these off-season buyers who dont want to wait until the Fall or next Spring. Here are our must-do tips for that summertime sale:Target the Right Buyers for Your NeighborhoodAs we mentioned above, there are certain buyers who keep looking over the summer. But there are also buyers who are relocating to Bradenton/Sarasota and have to move pronto. You need to target these different types of buyers, tapping into their needs and wants for a home.If youre in an urban Bradenton neighborhood, with more young and hip buyers, then your focus is on first-time buyers who have more flexibility and may not have a deadline. But, keep in mind, that the buyers still looking into summertime are serious buyers and are ready to find a home and put in an offer.Youll need to price your home right from the get-go, be generous with your terms (offer to pay for closing costs) and make your home a summer retreat for them.Also be flexible with the hours you show your home. With daylight lasting well past dinnertime, be open to later showings. Younger, first-time buyers will find this time more convenient during their work week. Make sure you take advantage of these daylight hours!For Lakewood Ranch or a suburban Sarasota home, your buyers may be tied to the school calendar and want to settle on a home quickly. You still want to price your home correctly to bring in the foot traffic, make it as move-in ready as possible (theyre looking for convenience and dont want to deal with projects), and showcase your home so it looks like a great place for their familys summer staycation.And again, be flexible with your showing hours. Daylight savings means families are on the go later into the evening, but they usually find a lull after dinnertime perfect time for them to see your home.Showcase Your Homes Summer BestNow is the time to make your home shine on the inside and the outside. Make your home bright and welcoming a summertime oasis!Curb appeal and backyard staging will draw buyers in. You want buyers to want to see your home and then envision themselves relaxing and living there. Outdoor living space can be a big selling point, even in the summer in Florida.Plan to spend a little bit on some outdoor dcor, whether its a bistro table and chairs on your deck; patio furniture with colorful throw pillows; or a lovely wooden bench and flowerpots near your walkway. This may be a great time to work with a stager so you dont have to buy many items yourself.Dont skimp on or blast the air conditioning. Dont make your home hot and stuffy so that buyers rush through your home. Or dont make it too cold, that buyers sprint through the rooms. Set your thermostat at a comfortable and cool temperature. If youve already moved, make sure you time it so that your home stays cool during possible showings. Buyers will love to get out of the heat!Brighten up your home. Consider switching out dark colored pillows, throw rugs, curtains, and other dcor to lighter colors.  Clean the windows, open the blinds, and keep the lights on. Even though it doesnt get dark until much later in the summer, you still want to light up the inside of your home.Maintain your yard and water, water, water. Mow your lawn, trim your bushes and trees. Sweep your deck or patio regularly.  The summer heat can make your lawn turn brown water that and all of your flowers in beds and pots.Be prepared for getting your family out of the house. If you have children, selling in the summer can be difficult because they arent in school and are at home, possibly all day long. Hopefully you can keep your home in order as much as possible and develop a good exit strategy for those times you need to show it. Preplan so you know if you need to have a sitter, set up a play date, sign up for a camp, or head out for a long dinner.Putting It All TogetherAs you can see, selling in the summertime doesnt have to be a negative. Youll have more daylight hours to showcase your home, youll see more serious buyers or those on a deadline themselves, and many homes can look their best inside and outside in the summer. All positive!But do keep in mind that summer is slower and there will be less traffic to your home than if you listed in the height of the springtime selling season. That can be a chaotic and rushed time, so the lazy days of summer is definitely a different market. You must keep it all in perspective.Every seller has their own personal specifics and deadline when it comes to selling, especially if you need to list your home in the summer. You MUST know your market and neighborhood so that you price your home right and also have an idea of what you should or shouldnt be doing when negotiating terms.Im here to help you with a summertime sale. I have a sales plan to get your home sold as quickly as possible for the most amount of money possible. Id love to tell you all about it.  Simply email me and we can set up a time to talk and see if selling in the summer is the right move for you.