Posts by Marsha Park

Buying a home is the American dream that many families hold. We all know it's never cheap to purchase a home, and may take a couple years to save for an appropriate downpayment. But, how much should you save for a downpayment on a home? Typically, it is suggested you save 5% of your maximum budget. Meaning, if your budget for purchasing a home is $180,000, you should save $9,000 for a down payment. With the right tips and tricks, you will be able to save up for a down payment in no time. Try these tips on saving money for a down payment, turning your dream of purchasing a home into a reality! 

Develop a Savings Plan

Taking time to create a savings plan will help you stay organized on spending habits, along with developing a timeline. If you are looking to move in two years, calculate how much you need to save each month to have a 5% down payment you're seeking. In order to make a savings plan, you will need to carefully comb through your weekly and monthly spending to figure out the amount you are able to save in a certain timeframe. Some things to include when making your monthly budget include:

• Gas expenses
• Grocery shopping 
• Rent/monthly housing payment
• Car Payments/insurance 
• Utility bills
• Emergency funds 
• Miscellaneous expenses 

Avoid Mindless Spending

Along with making a savings plan, make a note to avoid mindless spending. Once you start to manage your spending habits, you will quickly notice the amount you spend without even realizing it. Doing so could easily save you a couple hundred dollars a month. 

Take Your Time

Buying a new home is exciting, and it can be hard to not rush the process. Perhaps you are ready for this next step in life. However, it's important to remember not to get ahead of yourself. Take your time with the homebuying process, and be sure to not bite off more than you can chew. When you are ready to start the home buying process, contact the expert real estate agents at Choice Properties! Whether you are a first time homebuyer or experienced in the process, our team is eager to assist. 

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

For those who spend Saturday mornings with a cup of coffee and HGTV, home staging may seem like a piece of cake. However, when selling your home this may be the most important factor in the selling process. Staging your home for potential buyers allows them to view themselves and their family within the space, increasing the chance of them making an offer. It's important to be careful and make the right moves when staging a home to avoid missing out on a sale. Of course, when working with a Choice Properties real estate agent, we will assure all home staging needs will be addressed properly. The next time you're binge watching a home show, ask yourself, are they making these home staging mistakes?

Not Taking the Potential Buyers into Consideration

The first thing one should do when staging a home is take a minute to consider the audience. Who is most likely to show interest and purchase the home listing? Will they be a young family? An older, retired couple? Answering these questions will help the design process go as needed, according to the demographic. 

Overdesigning the Space

Contrary to belief, there is a such thing as over designing the space. In these scenarios, less is more. Staging a home to sell is about creating a space that the buyers can imagine themselves in for years to come. Take this moment to remove a majority of personal items from your home, although it may feel emotional. Easy ways to make the home inviting without overdoing it is to paint an accent wall, update window blinds, and minimal accent pillows and rugs. 

Personalising the Home Staging

Staging a home is without a doubt the best way to draw in potential buyers, intriguing them to make an offer. But, be careful about personalizing the home and scaring interested families away. Refrain from having your style and personality shine through on the home staging, as everyone has a different taste. For example, avoid repainting the kitchen any bright colors, or leaving small knick knacks lying around. Although these are important to you, it may feel loud and cluttered to others. 

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. 

Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

If your family has recently purchased a home and relocated to a new area, congratulations on starting a new adventure! Although it may feel scary and new at first, this refreshing path will guide you to the next chapter in life. Children may feel worried about starting the school year in a new environment, with new teachers and friends. Practice these tips on helping your child adjust to a new school after moving to ensure the school year goes smoothly. 

Start the Conversation Early

It's important to give your child enough time to process the change. This can be done by having an open and honest conversation about the move and starting a new school. Take this time to learn their fears and concerns, offering reassurance along the way. Now is the time to get them excited about the new start, reminding them of all the fun information they will learn at school and the friends they'll make along the way. Although this conversation might not take their fears away, it lets them know that you are here for them during this transition. 

Create a Routine

Before school officially starts, familiarize your child with the school routine to get them prepared. Show them what school mornings will look like, where the bus stop is, and show them the route to get to school. This allows them to become familiar with the idea and not fear the unknown. 

Visit the School Prior to the First Day

Most schools in Logan County offer orientation days, where parents and children have the opportunity to visit the classroom to meet other students and their teacher. Use this time to walk around the school, showing your child where their classroom is and getting them familiar with the area. Although the first few days of school may still feel overwhelming for them, this will let them know what to expect.

Sign Up for Extracurricular Activities 

Encouraging kids to get involved is a great way for them to make friendships and feel like they are a part of something great. This could be a sports team, music class, or after school club. Your child may need the extra push to get through their shyness and hesitation, which is normal! When they are out of their comfort zone is when friends and memories will be made. 

Choice Properties offers you a chance to find the home of your dreams. We work with your budget and ideas in mind to support your ultimate vision. Call us if you are ready to check out the available inventory or to speak with a reputable agent who can assist you with your home buying needs.

Buying a new home is an exciting time in life! Whether you are a first time homebuyer or experienced in the homebuying process, it is a huge accomplishment. However, the downpayment and monthly mortgage isn't the only costs that come with owning a home. Homeowners insurance may often be overlooked by first time homebuyers, as it's not a popular topic of discussion. When financing through a bank, homeowners insurance is typically required. Although it's required, it's most certainly worth the cost. Navigating through various homeowners insurance policies may feel confusing. Here is what to look out for when searching for the best homeowners insurance, ensuring you're paying the best price for the best coverage. 

1. Coverage

Coverage is the most important factor when searching for the right homeowners insurance. Most offer an array of coverage policies which are broken down by the amount protection they offer. This means how much the insurance company will replace your valuables after a natural disaster or a loss. The three main types of coverage policies include:

• Cash Value Replacement Coverage: This option will replace the cash value of the items lost, while taking into account the depreciation of your personal items.

• Full Replacement Coverage: Full replacement coverage will reimburse you the complete cost of your items, at today's cost. Meaning there is no depreciation. 

• Guaranteed Replacement Cost Coverage: If your home is a total loss, this coverage will completely reimburse the actual cost with no coverage limits, in today's dollar amount.

2. Additional Coverage Plans

There are an array of coverage plans that you can add to your existing policy, for even more protection. Many opt for this if they live in an area where natural disasters are known to occur. This may include:

• Flood Insurance: Those who live in areas prone to flooding are encouraged to purchase an add-on of flood insurance onto their policy. This will ensure your items are covered following an event of a flood or severe storm surges.

•  Earthquake Insurance: This plan will protect your values and items in an event of an earthquake. Those residing in California are more inclined to include this policy onto their plan. 

3. Get Three Quotes Before Making a Decision

Just as you browse and shop for your new home, you will want to do the same for homeowners insurance. Take this time to consider what you need within a policy, in terms of the coverage needed and where you reside. For example, those buying a home in Ohio most likely do not need earthquake insurance. By shopping around and learning pricing and options available, you will be able to make the best decision.

Choice Properties offers you a chance to find the home of your dreams. We work with your budget and ideas in mind to support your ultimate vision. Call us if you are ready to check out the available inventory or to speak with a reputable agent who can assist you with your home buying needs.

Generally, real estate is often a smart and rewarding investment option. It is a great way to produce an ongoing income and can be a smart investment if the property value increases over the years. However, buying an apartment complex, restaurant, or piece of land may become expensive. It's important to be sure you are financially stable to start investing in real estate, and consider the ongoing maintenance costs as well as gaps between tenants. So, should you invest in real estate? Here are some tips to see if it's the right path for you:

Pay Investments in Cash

Most financial experts advise against taking out a loan for an investment project, which should be taken into consideration before investing in a piece of real estate. If you do take out a loan, it's suggested you're able to afford the monthly payment without relying on renters income. Keep in mind, there can be a high turnover with renters as there may be gaps in time where there are no renters on the property. This may become more of a financial burden if you are not able to afford the mortgage without renters, which could negatively impact your credit and create financial issues in the long run. Paying in cash eliminates these worries. 

Plan Out Expenses

When purchasing real estate, whether for personal or investment reasons, it's always smart to plan out your expenses. Consider the cost of taxes, maintenance repairs, utilities, and building upkeep. When planning expenses, estimate the cost you will be asking for your rental property so that fees and other expenses are covered. 

Research the Property

When investing in real estate that you plan on selling down the road, it's crucial to thoroughly research the property. Look into development plans or new roads that are being expected to be built to ensure it does not impact the property value. Also take time to research nearby neighborhoods for market value, if the area is up-and-coming, and other external factors. 

Investing in real estate is an appealing idea to many! With the proper planning and steps taken, it can be done well and successfully. If you are interested in starting the steps to investing in property, contact a Choice Properties real estate agent today!

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Making the leap from renting a home to owning a home is a huge reward! The hard work and savings have finally paid off and you are now ready to work with a real estate agent on making your dream a reality. But, perhaps you're wondering what to expect when buying your first home. It's natural to feel a sense of stress when making a large investment, as there will be a shift in responsibility and life changes. However, don't let this scare you out of your dream! Owning a home is one of the best accomplishments you will experience in life. Check out this guide on going from a renter to a first time homeowner to fully embrace each step. 

Increase in Responsibility

The best part about owning a home is having the freedom to make the space unique to you. You can paint the walls, replace kitchen cabinets, plus take full advantage of the financial savings that come with buying a home over renting a home. These are intriguing benefits of buying a home, but it's important to remember the increase of responsibility that also accompanies homeownership. This means being financially able to make any unexpected repairs, such as a broken cooling or heating. 

Repairs, Renovations, and Updates

Chances are, when buying your first home the house will need minor repairs or updates. Many incorporate this within their budget when looking at homes on the market. Becoming a homeowner means repairing broken appliances or leaky faucets, as well as any additional expenses. When working with your trusted real estate agent during the home buying process, take time to assess damages or repairs that will need addressed both in the short term and long term. If you do come across a home emergency that needs addressed as soon as possible, reach out to neighbors in your community for referrals.

Miscellaneous Home Buying Expenses

Unfortunately, there's more to simply getting a mortgage and buying a home. There is the cost of the house, but other upfront and miscellaneous expenses that may catch you off guard. It's important to educate yourself on the hidden, unexpected costs of purchasing a home. Here are some extra expenses to consider:

• Home inspections 

• Home insurance

• Closing costs (Lender fees, Appraisal, Title, Escrow fees, Interset)

• Maintenance and repairs

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Making the decision to sell your home may come with a range of emotions. It's nostalgic to see this chapter of your life come to an end, yet exciting to start a new journey. Selling your home may feel like a stressful time,  but when working with a trusted real estate agent it's quite the opposite! The biggest factor to selling your home is hosting an open house, allowing potential buyers to take their time exploring the home. Of course, when working with a Choice Properties real estate agent, we will go above and beyond to ensure your home selling needs are met and handled. Here is our guide to hosting a successful open house. 

What is an Open House?

An open house is an event in which the home for sale can be visited by interested buyers without having an appointment. Your Choice Properties agent will manage the staging of your home by arranging refreshments, snacks, welcoming visitors, and offering tours of the property. 

What Should I Do Before an Open House?

It's important to allow potential buyers to feel welcomed into the home. This is an opportunity for them to envision themselves in the space, making it crucial to have both exterior and interior cleaned and maintained. When posting your home to sell, prepare for an open house by cleaning the outdoor space. You should:

• Mow the lawn
• Trim overgrown bushes and trees
• Touch up on chipped paint
• Clean/organize the garage
• Power wash driveway 

Once the exterior of the home is in tip-top shape, it's time to move inside! Consider this checklist of preparing for an open house:

• Set the temperature to a comfortable level 
• Depersonalize the space
• Organize and clean closets 
• Deep clean the kitchen, including stove, backsplash, and countertops 
• Clean bathrooms, preparing fresh soap and hand towels
• Vacuum and shampoo carpets 

The main benefit of hosting an open house is to help the home sell quickly. Taking the time to prepare the exterior and interior of your home will help the open house go smoothly, where your expert real estate agent will take it from there. 

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Buying a home offers the chance to completely make the space unique to you and your family. The blank slate allows those to fill the space with their style, expressing their personality in every room. Whether you're comfortable in a rustic home, modern, or country-chic, it is entirely up to you! If you're looking for something new and fresh, consider trying the design trend on the rise: minimalism. Minimalism means inviting only the essentials into your space, while limiting clutter and miscellaneous items. Here is how you can bring minimalism into your newly purchased home. 

Choose Neutral Colors 

The first step to introduce minimalism to your space is selecting a neutral color scheme. It is suggested to go with soft whites or light gray for a minimalistic-feel, which allows natural light to pour into the space while making the room feel welcoming. If you crave more color, go for a powder pink! 

Furniture and Materials

Similar with colors, you will need to find a balance of materials. Combining different materials, such as natural wooden floors with a metal coffee table creates an industrial, yet warm style. Incorporating organic materials into your custom build will always be on trend. The most important key is still choosing furniture that you find comfortable. Don't settle for a stunning couch that offers zero comfort!

Declutter and Add Storage

Perhaps the biggest aspect of choosing a minimalist design is decluttering. If you don't feel comfortable donating items you are currently not using, consider using a storage unit for the time being. More homeowners are opting for a minimalist design as a way to start fresh and live simply. Decluttering and only keeping the essentials allows you to do this, feeling rejuvenated and stress-free in your personal space. 

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.