5 Things To Do Before Buying A Home
The process of buying a home can be somewhat daunting when you think about all the steps, requirements, and paperwork involved. On top of that, buying a home is one of the largest purchases you can make, which can be a bit scary. To help you sort through the mental chaos that can accompany this type of transaction, we’re sharing 5 things to do before making the leap to being a homeowner. 1. Analyze Your Financial Health Before rushing into a 15-30 year commitment, you should definitely step back and make sure now is the right time for you to buy a home. It’s easy to get caught up in societal pressures and make decisions based on what friends or family members are doing, or think you should be doing. At the end of the day though, you’ll be the person responsible for the mortgage, so you want to make sure that now really is the right time for you. When reviewing your financial health, you’ll want to look at the following: Your savings - Ideally you want to have 3-6 months of living expenses saved up, plus money for closing costs. Your Spending - You’ll want to have a solid grip on how much money you spend on a monthly basis. Be sure to calculate things like utilities, food, car maintenance and payments, student loans, clothing, kids’ activities, credit card payments and other loans, entertainment, retirement savings, etc. Auditing your monthly expenses will help you realize if adding the expense of home ownership is doable. Your Job Security - Did you just start a new job? Are you happy with your current employment situation? These are questions that matter, because making any rash changes with your employment can gravely impact your financing options for a home. Also, if you’re miserable at your current job and don’t see yourself staying there much longer- it might not be the best time to commit to a home loan. 2. Have an Idea of What You Want Having an idea of what kind of home and features you’re wanting is a good measure to take before you get deeper into the home buying process. Identify the style of homes you’re willing to invest in, and which types are off the table. Consider the differences between single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and mobiles homes, to assess if they would be a fit for your needs. Then, make a list of features that you’re wanting in your new home, and rank them from can’t live without, down to the least important. Having your preferences already listed out and knowing what will and won’t work for your needs, will be beneficial once you get a realtor involved. 3. Get Pre-Approved In order to get pre-approved for a home loan, you’ll need to find the right lender first. This is something you’ll want to shop around for, as some lenders may offer lower interest rates, quicker closing times, or more loan options that fit your needs. Once you find the right lender for you, you’ll want to get pre-approved for your home loan. The process to get a pre-approval will let you know if there are any issues with your credit or current financial situation. If there are any obstacles, you’ll have the opportunity to work with a credit analyst to get your financials in order. Once you’re pre-approved, you have a shopping budget for your home, plus your pre-approval letter will let sellers know you’re serious. 4. Determine How Much House You Can Actually Afford Just because your lender approved you for a certain amount of funds, doesn’t mean you have to spend that much. You’ll want to consider the monthly expenses of your new home- including the monthly payment, homeowner’s insurance, taxes, and any improvements or repairs you’ll be making. Now factor that into your other monthly expenses (from step 1) and make sure you’re not leaving yourself financially strapped each month. 5. Find a Realtor Now it’s time to find the right realtor for you. This is also not someone you want to just randomly choose. Having the right agent for your needs can make a world of difference in the home-buying process. Do your research, ask questions, and consider referrals from family and friends who have had positive experiences with their realtors. You definitely don’t want to navigate the home-buying process alone. Having an experienced realtor will lessen the stress, make the experience more enjoyable, and can protect you from any unforeseen legal matters. Real estate agents have access to MLS listings, they know how to properly negotiate to get you the best price, and they understand the legal jargon of complex transactions. Schedule a Free Consultation With Vergara Realty Group If you’re ready to move forward with purchasing a home, feel free to contact our office to set up a free consultation. Call 254-652-4744 or email us at pedro@vergararealygroup.com
15 Affordable DIY Projects to Increase Your Home Value Before Selling
Are you looking to add value to your home before you sell, without going into debt or draining your savings? With a little sweat, elbow grease, and maybe some inspiration from Pinterest, you can tackle these DIY projects to upgrade your home! We’re sharing 21 easy and affordable DIY projects you can do to increase your home value before selling. DIY Home Interior Projects Paint the walls - Chances are if you’ve lived in your home for over a year, or if you have children or pets, your walls likely have scratches, stains, or other small imperfections. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders. If you’re selling your home, opt for neutral color schemes. Add Crown Molding - This addition can really have a dramatic effect on your home. Not great with cutting angles? Not to worry, head on over to Lowes or Home Depot with measurements in hand and have the store associate cut the right angles for you. Update Light Fixtures - Unattractive or outdated light fixtures can make a room appear dull and uninspiring. Modernize all or at least the main light fixtures, for an instant uplift. While you’re at it, we recommend replacing outlet covers and switch plates too. Install Ceiling Fans - Ceiling fans can cut down on energy costs, which makes them worthy to install. What homeowner is against saving money on a monthly basis? Upgrade Window Coverings - You’re not doing your home any favors with horizontal aluminum blinds, vertical plastic blinds, or paper shades. Consider replacing those with plantation shutters or wooden blinds. Restore Hardwood Floors - If you have hardwood floors hiding under the carpet, you might consider putting in some time and elbow grease to restore them. Revealing beautifully restored hardwood floors will be cheaper than installing new flooring, plus they’ll give your home added character. Paint or Stain Cabinets - For a kitchen (or bathroom) upgrade, without an expensive price tag, try painting or staining your current cabinets. Not sure which is right for your cabinets? Here’s a great read to help you decide, How to Choose Paint vs Stain for Cabinets. Update Knobs and Drawer Handles - While you’re at it, updating your cabinet hardware will only add to the new paint (or stain) job. You can also replace doorknobs around the home for another nice touch. Install a New Front Door - Your front door is one of the first parts of your home that visitors see and interact with. Installing a new, beautiful front door can have a dramatic effect on first impressions. If a new front door isn’t in the budget, consider repainting your front door. Here’s a great article on Front Door Colors for Instant Curb Appeal. Install a Backsplash - Another great and easy project for your home is installing a new backsplash in the kitchen. Backsplashes come in a variety of materials and designs, so you can add protection to your wall and style to your kitchen. Add Additional Storage - Whether you build a new bathroom cabinet, add floating shelves in the kitchen, or purchase a utility shelf to add to the laundry room- storage space is always a hot commodity in homes. Expanding storage wherever possible will definitely increase your home’s value. Hang Mirrors - For small rooms or narrow hallways, consider hanging mirrors for added depth. DIY Home Exterior Projects Repaint the Exterior of Your Home - Adding a fresh coat of paint on the exterior of your home can prevent it from looking old or run-down. Be sure to also give the exterior window frames some attention too. If repainting your home is not within your budget, rent a power washer and give it a thorough cleaning. You’d be amazed at what a difference this can make. You can also power wash your driveway, sidewalks, and patio to brighten them up. Update Landscaping - A neglected lawn can really bring down the overall appearance of your home. Always have your lawn freshly mowed and your trees and shrubs trimmed. Other additions to consider are flowers, landscaping stones, mulch, and garden decor. Create an Outdoor Living Space - Sprucing up the backyard patio to create an enjoyable space to spend time is always a plus. Things you can add: stylish patio furniture, outdoor lighting, an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area, a modern fire pit, or even a meditation garden. As you can see the possibilities are many if you’re willing to put in the work. Hiring a professional isn’t always needed if you have a positive attitude and the time and energy to invest in home projects. When you’re ready to sell, don’t hesitate to give me a call! I’m here for all your real estate needs in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex area.
19 Places To Tee Up In The DFW
Looking for a great fairway to try out that new driver? How about a new country club to hit the links at? Fortunately for you, if you’re in the DFW metroplex, there are plenty of amazing golf courses to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape with a full 18 holes, a driving range, or just want to get in a quick 9 on your lunch break, finding a nearby green won’t be a challenge. We’ve put together a list of 19 different golf courses around the Dallas Fort Worth area that are worth checking out. Photo Source: dallasnationalgolfclub.com Dallas Dallas National Golf Club1515 Knoxville St. Dallas, TX 75211Phone: (214) 331-4195https://www.dallasnationalgolfclub.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 7326 Trinity Forest Golf Club5000 Great Trinity Forest WayDallas, TX 75217Phone: (214) 646-3570https://trinityforestgc.com/ Stevens Park Golf Course1005 N. Montclair AvenueDallas, TX 75208Phone: 214.670.7506https://www.stevensparkgolf.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6285 Tenison Park Golf Course3501 Samuell BlvdDallas, TX 75223Phone: 214.670.8385https://tenisonpark.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 7078 Grapevine Cowboy Golf Club1600 Fairway DrGrapevine TX 76051(817) 481-7277https://www.cowboysgolfclub.com/ Holes 18 Photo Source: arlingtongolf.com Arlington Chester W. Ditto Golf Course801 Brown BlvdArlington, TX 76011Phone: 817 275 5941https://www.arlingtongolf.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6712 Meadowbrook Park Golf Course1300 E. DuganArlington, TX 76011Phone: 817-275-0221https://www.arlingtongolf.com/ Holes 9 ~ Yardage 3353 Lake Arlington Golf Course1516 W Green Oaks BlvdArlington, TX 76013Phone: 817-451-6101https://www.arlingtongolf.com/ Holes 18 Tierra Verde Golf Glub7005 Golf Club Dr. Arlington, TX 76001817-478-8500https://www.arlingtongolf.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6975 Fort Worth Diamond Oaks Country Club5821 diamond Oaks Dr NFort Worth, TX 76117Phone: 817-834-6261https://www.diamondoaksclub.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6850 Photo Source: colonialfw.com Colonial Country Club3735 Country Club Cir.Fort Worth, TX 76109Phone: 817-927-4200https://www.colonialfw.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 7010 Whitestone Golf Club10650 US-377Fort Worth, TX 76126Phone: 817-249-9996https://www.whitestonegolf.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6491 Rockwood Golf Course1851 Jacksboro Hwy.Fort Worth, TX 76114Phone: 817-624-1771https://www.fortworthgolf.org/-rockwood Holes 18 Pecan Valley Golf Course6400 Pecan Valley Dr.Fort Worth, TX 76132Phone: 817-249-1845https://www.fortworthgolf.org/-pecan-valley-golf-course Holes 36 ~ Yardage 6577 Meadowbrook Golf Course1815 Jenson Rd.Fort Worth, TX 76112Phone: 817-457-4616https://www.fortworthgolf.org/-meadowbrook-golf-course Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6363 The Golf Club Fossil Creek3401 Clubgate Dr.Fort Worth, TX 76137Phone: 817-847-1900https://www.thegolfclubatfossilcreek.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6865 Euless Texas Star Golf Course1400 Texas Star PkwyEuless, TX 76040Phone: 817-685-7888https://www.texasstargolf.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6936 Photo Source: ironhorsetx.com North Richland Hills Iron Horse Golf Course6200 Skylark Cir. North Richland Hills, TX76180Phone: 817-485-6666https://www.ironhorsetx.com/ Holes 18 ~ Yardage 6580 Keller Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club600 Promontory Dr.Keller, TX 76248Phone: 817-498-1414https://www.skycreekranch.com/ Holes 18 As you can see, there is no shortage of quality golf courses in the DFW metroplex. Small, economic, luxurious – whichever your preference, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.If you’re looking for a home or great neighborhood with plenty of golf access nearby, - give us a call at Vergara Realty Group. We can help you narrow down the best area or neighborhood to accommodate your needs.
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