Bryan / College Station Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.longitudebcs.com/blog/Copyright LongitudeBCS.com2019-10-29T08:38:40-07:00tag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6381The Devastating Dallas Tornadoes
I’m sure you have heard about the recent tornadoes occurring in Dallas, Texas last week. Maybe you are aware, but some are unaware of the massive extent of damage the tornadoes really had on the area. If you don’t have any associations with the area or maybe have not looked into the news headlines regarding the tornadoes, here is a summarized recap of the stoms and the resulted damage. The tornadoes were damaging to many people’s homes, schools, workplaces, and churches. This storm has taken a heart wrenching toll on many in the area, as well as those living out of the area. Whether you currently reside in Dallas or the surrounding cities, or have loved ones living in the area, please know you are prayed for and in the thoughts of many. To give you an idea of how dirastic the winds were, the strongest tornado during this windstorm maximized to a speed of 140 mph and cut through 16 miles of the DFW metroplex, according to Dallasnews.com. Some homes are not only damaged but completely demolished by the winds. While looking at the photos and watching the news, your heart can’t help but break for the people there and what they’ve lost. Thankfully, it is a miracle that as of today there are no reported casualties in Dallas as a result of the storm. But the storms did not only hit in Dallas. During this whirlwind, there were several other tornadoes that had dropped in the surrounding cities. Neighboring states also had reported these windstorms hitting their cities. There are reported 4 casualties in the states of Arkansas and Oklahoma as a result of the destructive tornadoes. Please keep the families and friends of those lost in your thoughts and prayers.
It is times like these where we see the communities’ love for one another. Individuals and organizations are joining together to help rebuild and revive the city one day at a time. Although the extent of the damages is detrimental across the DFW metroplex and the neighboring states, it is the community that is bringing the city back to life. 2019-10-29T09:00:00-07:002019-10-29T08:38:40-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6319Adopt, Don't Shop!
Need a new member of the family? Adopt a dog! It is my belief that every family or couple isn’t complete until they have a furry friend running around the house. Or maybe you’re living alone, a dog can bring so much joy into your life if you let it! Not a dog person? Adopt a cat! Just like there are many homes in need of a dog or a cat, there are many dogs and cats in need of a home. I am a strong advocate for adopting and not shopping. It is so important for people to know the importance of adopting from shelters when looking to get a pet. The main and most important reason behind the “adopt, don’t shop” campaigns, is to save lifes. Shelters across the nation are constantly being overcrowded with animals. It is sad to say, but because of this problem dogs and cats are being euthanized daily across the nation. It is estimated by ASPCA that the average number of euthanized pets due to overcrowded shelters are approximately 1.5 million each year. That is 4,110 pets per day. This number is quite astonishing to think about. Too many individuals and families first look to breeders for new and purebred puppies and don’t consider adopting, or the life they could save by adopting. When one adopts, they not only help that one animal, but they are also giving other animals an opportunity to be adopted. When taking one home, there is now room for another animal to take its place and hopefully be adopted. But maybe you’re not in the market for a pet right now. Know you can still help! Help spread the word to those you know who are looking for a pet and encourage them to look into adopting. The more people aware of the importance of adopting from shelters, the more precious lives will be saved. So spread the word and help save the life of a sweet furbaby.These precious souls are waiting for someone to walk in and take them home, so go see them! Visit a shelter, meet them, and you just might fall in love!
2019-10-17T08:00:00-07:002019-10-17T08:11:14-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6264The Importance of National Bullying Prevention Month
Most people might identify October with Halloween and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Halloween is such an exciting time among family and friends and should be celebrated as so. Breast Cancer Awareness is a fantastic movement that stands for a great cause and helps women around the world currently fighting breast cancer. October is also a designated month for another cause. Along with Breast Cancer Awareness, October is also National Bullying Prevention Month.
National Bullying Prevention Month is a national campaign that unifies communities and schools across the nation with a focused mission: to stop bullying. Bullying is a major problem is schools today. It seems like kids are getting more and more mean to each other as the years progress. And it is sad to say, but the effects bullying can have on a child or teen can be permanently damaging to the person, if not life threatening. Bullying can be identified in several different ways. These ways include physically, mentally, emotionally, and through cyber bullying. It is said that cyberbullying is becoming a more common way of bullying as technology and social media advances. Most parents or guardians don’t monitor their child’s social media, so they are unaware of what is being said through the phone and the affect it is having on the child. Bullying Prevention Month is to get this problem out in the open in order to help those struggling, and to help put an end to bullying. This is a great campaign and the more participating the better!
Stompoutbullying.org has listed tasks each week of October for children and teens to participate to help put an end to bullying. Listed are the weekly anti-bullying activities:
October 7th-11th : Make a new friend at school
October 14th-18th : Stand up for others week
October 21st-25th : Week of Inclusion
October 28th- 31st : Hold anti-bullying conversations amongst your peers2019-10-10T08:00:00-07:002019-10-10T08:52:31-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6263College Station Food Hot Spots
Looking for a new spot in town to eat? You’re in luck because here in the Bryan-College Station area, there is not only a multitude of places to go, but there is a diverse range of restaurants to fit every craving. Whether you’re going out with friends and family, have a lunch meeting, or going on a date with someone special, there’s a spot for every occasion. The places listed below are just a few of the creditable food hot spots around town suggested by local Bryan-College Station residences:
Hullabaloo Diner
If you are looking for a comfy little diner with amazing food, Hullabaloo Diner is your spot! Nationally recognized by Food Network’s series Diners Drive-Ins and Dives, Hullabaloo Diner is guaranteed to impress. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it perfectly enjoyable for all ages. This spot is definitely a hit, so try it out!
Layne’s Chicken Fingers
Layne’s Chicken Fingers is a classic spot in College Station. If you are particularly in the midst of a fried chicken finger craving, head over to Layne’s! Since 1994, College Station takes pride in being the home of Layne’s and its continual growth to cities across Texas. Their chicken fingers are “soon to be famous” so make sure to give them a try!
Chicken Oil Company
The Chicken Oil Company has something on the menu for everyone. Along with the food, the rustic atmosphere is also what entices consumers to come inside. This is the classic Texas joint that makes for great memories with friends and family. Since 1977, Chicken Oil Company serves its classic foods staples with guaranteed friendly service every time.
Café Eccell Kitchen and Spirits
Whether you want to come in for a sit-down dinner or have a couple drinks at the bar, Café Eccell is the spot for any occasion serving a full menu including brunch, lunch, dinner, desserts, drinks, and wines. Café Eccell is also the home of the “largest of a series of ovens made by Earthstone Ovens in Los Angles”, so you have to check it out!
The Republic Steakhouse
Looking for something a little more upscale? The Republic Steakhouse is a great restaurant for special occasions and anniversaries! This romantic, fine dining spot is perfect for celebrations with loved ones. The menu offers Texas-style steaks, seafood, house brewed beers, and more! Make sure to make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a table!2019-10-09T08:00:00-07:002019-10-09T08:15:12-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6236Breast Cancer Awareness Month is Here
It is now October, which means it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. People worldwide join together this month to spread the awareness of breast cancer. If you haven’t already, you will see pink ribbons being worn by supporters, survivors, and breast cancer warriors currently in the fight. This simple symbol holds universal power, and can be identified by people worldwide. Everybody from major corporations to single individuals get involved this month, all holding the same mission: to spread breast cancer awareness and create medical funds for those diagnosed. There are various ways in which one could get involved, from campaigning to donating. The more there are those that campaign, the more awareness is being spread. Want to get involved? Campaigning can be as simple as wearing the pink ribbon mentioned above to show your support. Check with your community, there are always various events and fundraisers happening throughout communities to get those interested involved! Are you a runner? Breast Cancer Awareness Organizations host annual runs for participants to “run for the cure”. Many also accommodate for non-runners, like myself, and host walks! If you are uninterested or unable to participate in the runs/walks, volunteer! Volunteering is a great way to get involved and organizations are always looking for volunteers to help! Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also great because it compels women around the world to get checked by their doctor for the possibility of the disease. It is so significantly important for women to be aware of the possibility of being diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. As the NBCF says, if breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized state, the 5-year survival rate is 100%. So women, get checked!
You can read more about the importance of Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Awareness Month at <a href="https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/">https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/</a>. 2019-10-08T08:00:00-07:002019-10-08T07:52:58-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6208Happy National Homemade Cookies Day!
Don’t skip out on National Homemade Cookies Day! Today, October 1 is the day to treat yourself with yummy homemade cookies right out of your oven! If you aren’t aware, it is actually an ongoing debate on what “homemade” really means. Different people have their own interpretations on what “homemade” entails and what it doesn’t. Some consider homemade only dishes and baked goods that require from-scratch recipes. Others consider the box mixes you can pick up from the grocery store homemade. And there are even some who bake the prepackaged cookie dough and consider them homemade cookies. It has also been brought to my attention that there are those out there with strong opinions over the subject of cookie dunking. Cookie dunking is the act of dunking cookies in milk before eating. Some are strong advocates of cookie dunking, while there are others who believe dunking ruins the cookie. Even though some might disagree on the subjects mentioned, I think we can all agree on which cookie is the most popular across the country, the classic chocolate chip. America’s favorite cookie, as well as many others will be in household ovens across the nation celebrating this yummy holiday!
Listed are some of the most popular cookies to bake right at home:
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Monster Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies
Shortbread Cookies
Snickerdoodle Cookies
Sugar Cookie
Visit foodnetwork.com/recipes to find incredible recipes to help you celebrate National Homemade Cookies Day!!
2019-10-01T08:00:00-07:002019-10-01T13:01:34-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6207Happy Monday!
I don’t know about you, but I tend to dread Mondays. Mondays are the beginning of a brand-new week. Whether that may be a new week of school, a new week of work, whatever the case may be. They tend to be long, draining, and filled with sips of coffee....or gulps. The majority of working people and students “live for the weekends”. The weekends are a chance for people to relax, take a break from daily obligations and routines, and enjoy time with friends and family. And once that weekend is over, they are counting down the days until the next one. But what if we treated Monday’s differently? What if, instead of viewing Mondays as the beginning of another long, stressful week, we viewed them as an opportunity. I'm personally motivated by success, as the majority of people are. So, what if we set goals for ourselves to accomplish through the week. These goals can be daily, or weekly. They can either be set to reach by the end of each day, or the end of each week. But remember, it is important to make these goals obtainable. If we set unreasonable goals for ourselves, chances are we won’t reach them and instead become frustrated and stressed, which will affect your work. So, this Monday set some goals. Once these goals are accomplished, you just might feel accomplished, successful, and motivated for the next upcoming week. Give it a try, it might change the way you view Mondays! 2019-09-30T08:00:00-07:002019-09-30T08:46:26-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6203Events and Festivals in Bryan-College Station This WeekendTexas Reds Steak & Grape Festival
Friday and Saturday, join the community for the Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival! Come to the streets of Historic Downtown Bryan for a two-day festival full of Texas wine, beer, and steak. Friday begins at 6:00pm and Saturday begins at 12:00 pm, so be sure to stop by for some live music, grape stomping, delicious food, and more! Also, bring the kids for the Kid’s Zone!
Orchard Tour at Royalty Pecan Farms
Saturday, from 12:30pm – 1:30 pm enjoy a unique experience at a working Pecan Farm! During this time, visitors will learn how a Texas Pecan Farm is ran and operated. Reality Pecan Farms also offer yummy goodies in their gift shop! Costs are $10 per person, or $15 per person for the Orchard Manager’s Tour. This event will repeat every Saturday during the month of October!
Messina Hof Winery Tour
Messina Hof Winery and Resort are dedicating Saturdays for a tours and tank testings! From 6:30pm-7:30pm, visitors are given the opportunity for a behind the scenes look at the vineyard while also offering exclusive taste samplings! This event at Messina Hof Winery repeats every Saturday and costs $28, which includes the tour and wine tastings.
For more information on these events and other upcoming community happenings, visit theeagle.com!2019-09-27T08:00:00-07:002019-09-27T10:42:22-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6196Protect Your Eyes From Daily Screen Time As technology advances, the younger children are that own or use a smartphone, tablet, or computer on a daily basis. But kids and teens are not the only ones who stare at a screen for multiple hours of the day, adults do as well. Whether they like to admit it, most adults have a problem putting down their devises just as much as the kids do. But sometimes we can’t avoid our screen time. Thousands of adults work in front of a computer screen every day, which progresively destroys our eyes. We may not be aware of it, but long, extensive time looking at a screen can have damaging effects on a person’s eyes. Think about it, if you are working in front of a computer all day, go home and watch television for a couple of hours, and then get on your phone to check the daily updates on social media, your eyes are constantly viewing a screen all day, almost every day of the week. WebMD classifies the damages caused by screens, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Most people suffer from CVS and not even realize. They say it is any strain or discomfort in the eyes caused by a screen, and even between 50% and 90% of those who have computer jobs suffer from at least one symptom.
Although it is sometimes unavoidable, there are ways in which we can make slight adjustments to help prevent the harming of our eyes. These adjustments include:
Taking eye breaks: It is important to give your eyes a break and take them off the screen throughout the day. It does not have to be a long period of time, just any time helps!
Wearing Blue Light Glasses: Blue Light Glasses are designed to help protect your eyes. These glasses block the blue light being projected from your computer screen and provide UV coverage.
Limit your time on social media: Browsing social media can turn into a time consuming activity if you’re not careful. Try to give yourself a certain amount of time each day to help control it, your eyes will appreciate it!
2019-09-26T08:00:00-07:002019-09-26T08:01:54-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6195The Rise of Coffee Addicts in America I’m sure we all have that one person that comes to mind when we hear the term “coffee addict”. Whether they admit it or not, it is a real thing and they just might be one of the many American’s dependent on the caffeine kick coffee gives. Whether you’re drinking it pure and black, or loaded with sugars and creams, American’s rely on coffee to wake them up in the mornings and to get them through the day. It is even said that American’s are consuming more coffee now than ever before. Without it, some feel drained, unmotivated, and even cranky. It is crazy to think that a liquid can be the deciding factor on whether one has a good day or a bad one. Little local coffee shops around town and popular franchises like Starbucks are constantly extending their menus to accommodate every coffee lover’s taste buds and caffeine needs. According to the National Coffee Association, 63% of American adults drink coffee daily. That is more than half of the nation’s adults having at least one cup of coffee a day. Some even have multiple cups, which would account for the noncoffee drinkers. Drinking coffee is even seen as a social thing. Friends and family catch up over a cup of coffee, coworkers meet and discuss business transactions over a cup of coffee, and two strangers meet for a date over a cup of coffee.
Whether you have one, two, or three cups of joe a day, bottom line is coffee reliance is on the rise for Americans….so know you’re not alone!!2019-09-25T08:00:00-07:002019-09-25T09:21:01-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6180This Year's Halloween Costume Inspiration Halloween is just right around the corner so start thinking of this year’s Halloween costumes! Nothing is more stressful than frantically running around last minute in search for a great Halloween costume. As the years progress, costumes change and become relevant to the popular movies, celebrities, and events of that year. So, whether you’re going to a Halloween party, trick or treating, or a trunk or treating event at your church, keep reading for this year’s costume inspiration.
For the Kids
Toy Story 4: Buzz lightyear, Woody, Jessie, Forky, Duke Caboom
Lion King: Simba, Nala
Jojo Siwa
For the Teens
Post Malone
Riverdale: Jughead Jones, Betty Cooper, Veronica Lodge
Stranger Things: Erica Sinclair, Dustin, Eleven
For the Adults
Marvel: Captain America, Spiderman, Iron man, Captain Marvel
Game of Thrones: Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister
Pennywise from IT
For the Couples
Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West
Bar of Soap and Loofah
The Emoji Couple
2019-09-24T08:36:00-07:002019-09-24T08:41:24-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6179Happy First Day of Fall! Look up! If you look closely at the trees you just might see a slight change of color! As of today, September 23, we have officially transitioned into fall! I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for this Texas heat to take a vacation, and I’m welcoming the cool, brisk, breeze of autumn with open arms. Along with the refreshing chill that fall brings, I am also ready for the fun festivities available only this time of year. This includes pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes, haunted houses, bonfires, football, tailgating, and so much more!
Fall Foods
We can’t forget about all the yummy seasonal foods fall brings. Either just at Thanksgiving dinner, or all season long, indulge on the dishes and desserts of fall. And don’t forget about the snacks like kettle corn, candy corn, and caramel apples! Listed are a few American traditional favorites:
-Sweet potato casserole
-Squash casserole
-Pot roast
-Chili
-Pumpkin pie
-Pecan pie
-Let’s be honest, anything with cinnamon
Fall Fashion
If the festivities and food don’t get you pumped for the fall season, fall fashion will. I, for one, absolutely LOVE fall fashion. As the weather gets a bit chilly, our wardrobe shifts to accommodate the temperature. Scarves, cardigans, sweaters, jackets, and boots are autumn staples that are soon to be worn. And we can’t forget about the cozy things like hoodies and sweatpants!
So, break out that old sweater in the back of your closet and start planning fun fall days with friends and family because the season is here! …. or maybe hold off on the sweater for a bit, we are in Texas remember. 2019-09-23T08:00:00-07:002019-09-24T08:33:15-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6114What's Happening in Bryan-College Station This Weekend?
Friday, September 20th
Enjoy a night out with live music and drinks at Hershel’s. Hershel’s is located within the Stella Hotel, be there this Friday from 7:30pm-10:30pm for a great night out!
Saturday, September 21st
Get your Aggie Football tickets!! Saturday September 16, the Aggies battle against Auburn University here at Kyle Field. Kick-off is set at 2:30pm so enjoy the afternoon cheering on the beloved Aggies.
Enjoy yoga? Join Sol Yoga and yoga lovers of the community for an outdoor yoga session this Saturday from 8:00-9:00am. Bring your friends and family to this free event at the Lake Walk Town Center. This event is open to all ages and all skill level! Don’t forget your yoga mat!
If you or someone you know is looking to adopt a pet into the family, America’s Country Store is hosting an adoption event for Urgent Animals of Hearne! These animals are currently being fostered in houses across the Brazos Valley awaiting a home. Be there from 10:00 am–1:00 pm to visit these animals. This event will repeat every Saturday until November 25, 2019.2019-09-19T09:18:00-07:002019-09-19T09:57:59-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:6110Who Is Longitude Real Estate?Longitude Real Estate represents the regions finest properties with exceptional skill using the most innovative technologies currently available. Operated in the Bryan-College Station area, Longitude Real Estate offers ultimate privacy and security, speed, and efficiency to all clients.
Meet the team
Longitude consists of 8 agents: Suzie Bush, Lynn Davis, Rusty Gerdes, Grace Liu, Saundra McCulloch, Gordon Pate, Judy Smeins, and Phyllis Young.
Suzie, specializing in the selling of new and existing homes in luxury neighborhoods as well as farm and ranches, began selling in 1999 and has had the honor of being in the top 10% of agents in the state. Rusty, graduating from Texas A&M in 1995, also holds a GRI designation with his Real Estate License and is also a real estate investor in the Bryan-College area. Lynn, Rusty's Licensed Assistant, recieved her Real Estate License in 2017. Grace, fluent in English, Chinese, and Taiwanese, is known as a listener, negotiator, and advocate for her clients since the beginning of her Real Estate Career in 1997. Saundra, a 1990 Texas A& M graduate, prides herself on hard work, her knowledge of the local market, and her numerous awards as a top producing agent since 1997. Gordon, having experience in a multitude of real estate sales areas, holds close ties with Texas A&M and the community and has been ranked in the top 5% in real estate sales since 1991. Judy, a College Station resident since 1969, has an admiration for Texas A&M and the community, and loves to serve her clients in helping them find their home. Phyllis, named the 2007 Realtor of the Year by the Bryan-College Station Regional Board of Realtors, started her real estate career in 1980.
Together, their years of full-time experience have given them a clear understanding of the mindset of home buyers and sellers and a thorough understanding of the regional marketplace.
Call 979-431-5005 or email Longitude at <a href="mailto:info@longitudebsc.com">info@longitudebcs.com</a> to get in touch with our amazing agents today!2019-09-17T15:00:00-07:002019-09-24T13:30:56-07:00Sheri Staggstag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:5510Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1303/image/3-questions-to-ask-before-buying-your-dream-home.jpg" alt="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" title="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" height="410" width="750" />
It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market.
It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home.
1. Why am I Buying a Home?
Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include schools for your children, a safe environment, more room for your family to grow, and control of your own space.
These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs.
2. What is the Trend with Home Values?
Our current economy and housing market is strong. That means home values and mortgage rates are increasing. If you are looking to purchase a home but want to stay within a budget, it may be in your best interest to move quickly. It is forecasted for these trends to continue in an upward motion, causing home values to continue to increase.
3. What About Current Mortgage Rates?
The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. Current trends show mortgage rates are rising. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home, since the rates may be even higher down the road.
Bottom Line
You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. This budget may affect the amount of time you have to search for a home, since home prices and mortgage rates are increasing. 2019-03-06T10:55:00-07:002019-03-06T10:59:13-07:00Grace Liutag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:5511Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1303/image/selling-in-the-winter-attracts-serious-buyers.jpg" alt="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" title="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" height="410" width="750" />
The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities.
Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to getting your home sold.
Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale.
Bottom Line
If you need to sell your home right away, or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2019-03-06T10:55:00-07:002019-03-06T10:59:17-07:00Grace Liutag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:5509Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1303/image/mortgage-rate-projections.jpg" alt="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " title="Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices? " height="410" width="750" />
There has been some discussion recently on home prices in relation to mortgage rates. Some believe if there is a rapid rise of mortgage rates, home prices should decrease. Logically it makes the most sense for the price of the house to drop when interest rates are rising, but this is not always the case.
This theory of home prices decreasing is typically discussed by future home buyers. As a buyer you would like to think if you are paying higher rates on your mortgage, you should be able to see a decrease in cost somewhere else. Unfortunately, these rates are rising because the economy is in better shape. As the economy succeeds, incomes rise, rates go up, as well as the price of the home.
A recent study by the John Burns Real Estate Consulting found mortgage rates have very little impact on the cost of the home. The housing market and price increases are affected by things like job growth in the area and rising wages. Coincidentally, these same factors are causing the rise in the mortgage rates since people can afford to take out more.
Bottom Line
As the economy progresses and strengthens, mortgage rates and home prices will fluctuate. It is a misconception as rates increase, home prices will decrease. Advances in the economy have shown that rates and home prices are more likely to increase together.2019-03-06T10:55:00-07:002019-03-06T10:59:09-07:00Grace Liutag:longitudebcs.com,2012-09-20:5512Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1303/image/getting-a-home-mortgage.jpg" alt="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" title="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" height="410" width="750" />
Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop around until they find a lender who is offering something that will meet the needs of their family.
Mortgage lending companies have high standards so it is important to make sure you and anyone else who will be included on the mortgage have their credit in check. The mortgage market is strict because lenders do not want to be put in a situation where they are forced to repurchase loans that are not paid on. They also do not want to end up in a litigation situation due to loan issues.
What Has Happened to the Number of Mortgages?
Due to the strict nature and requirements of the lending companies, the number of mortgages given out has significantly dropped. A report by the Housing Financial Policy Center at the Urban Institute showed that about 6.3 million fewer mortgages were given out between 2009 and 2015. The reasons behind this statistic are strict regulations and policies. These mortgages would have been granted if the lending standards where more reasonable.
Mortgage companies rely on calculations to determine if a home buyer will become delinquent on their payment. They will not give you a loan if you are too much of a risk for them. Credit history has a huge impact on this decision since lenders can see how often you pay back your debts. The history they receive is extensive. This view into your financial past causes lenders to take less risk when lending to you for your mortgage.
The Effect on the Economy
The housing market is recovering at a slower pace than it should since less potential homebuyers are being offered loans. While the market is still recovering with positive trends, fewer buyers can create a strain on other economic factors like home goods or construction jobs. Bottom Line
After the housing market boom and bust, mortgage lenders became stricter in their lending standards. It is not impossible to get a mortgage loan, but it can still be difficult for potential home buyers. Stay on top of your credit and make sure you and anyone else who is applying are in a good financial position so you can be approved for a loan. It is important to research different companies and their requirements to ensure success in getting a mortgage.2019-03-06T10:55:00-07:002019-03-06T10:59:23-07:00Grace Liu