new constructionConsidering a new build? New construction can be a great option for a lot of buyers. There’s a lot to be said for being able to customize features and buy a new home with warranties in place. It can allow you to sell an existing home without having to put yourself in a contingent-offer situation, buy you the time needed to relocate, or help you to avoid a multiple offer situation and the stress that can come with trying to secure a contract in our competitive Greenville market.

The process seems simple enough: tour a few neighborhoods, talk to the on-site agent, pick a floorplan and a lot, make your deposit, and the build begins. There are no sellers to deal with, no inspection period with repairs to consider, and no drawn-out negotiations. So why…

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We’ve all heard of various things that should never be disposed of in the kitchen sink- grease, pasta, potato peels, but milk?! Yes, indeed. While it may not damage or clog your pipes, pouring milk down your drain is actually terrible for the environment. It takes a lot of oxygen to break down milk, taking oxygen away from living organisms that need it to survive. Large amounts of milk have even been known to suffocate entire ecosystems. In fact, some places fine businesses for disposal of milk down drains. 

 

So if your milk is getting close to expiring, find another way to dispose of it- maybe a tasty batch of rice pudding, homemade Greek yogurt, or even fresh ricotta.

 


Other no-nos for your drains:

Cooking Oil and Grease: Two of…

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Selling your home in the wintertime isn't as difficult as you might think. In fact, with a little preparation and the right mindset, you can have your home sold before spring arrives! To help get you started, we've put together this list of 10 tips for selling your home this winter.

1. Price your home correctly. Winter is a great time to capitalize on motivated buyers who may be looking to take advantage of lower prices, less competition from other buyers, or tax incentives. Be sure to price your home competitively – this may even mean pricing it slightly below market value in order to attract the most interest from potential buyers, increasing competition for it, and naturally driving the price up. 

2. Make your home inviting and comfortable for…

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9 Tips to Maximize Your Home Appraisal Value

A home appraisal can help you get the desired value for your property. While a home appraisal is based on the age, amenities, condition, location and several other factors of the house, you can do your bit by conducting minor changes to enhance the look of your home. 

1. Improve the Curb Appeal

A good first impression can set the right tone for a home assessment. Keeping your house tidy, pressure washing the driveway and neatly trimming the shrubs can create a good image for the appraiser. Maintaining and cleaning your exteriors can increase the chances of getting the valuation you want.

2. Clean Your House

Though cleanliness may not directly impact your home appraisal, it can leave a positive…

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What Is a House Seller's Disclosure? Here's Why It's Important

You may be unfamiliar with a seller or property disclosure if it's your first time buying or selling a home. It plays a crucial role in the transaction and helps both parties have a common understanding of the house's condition.

The seller is required by law to provide the property disclosure. But why is the document so important? This article will provide information on its significance in selling a house.

What Is a Seller's Disclosure?

A property disclosure is a document that provides details on the condition of a property. The paperwork highlights any issues, defects or repairs. Aside from problems, the paperwork details any renovations and upgrades conducted to improve your…

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Why You Should Use Virtual Staging To Sell Your Home

Do you want to sell your home fast, in the most efficient possible way and at the best price? Virtual stagings can make all the difference in how quickly and successfully your home sells. Below explains why you should use virtual staging to sell your home and what it can do for you.

What Is Virtual Staging?

Virtual staging uses computer software to digitally insert furniture and other decorative elements into photos of empty rooms. The goal is to show potential homebuyers the property's full potential and help them visualize how the space could look and feel. A virtual stager can take an unfurnished room with bare walls and make it look like an inviting, furnished living room with a fireplace.

…

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What To Know Before You Sign a Listing Agreement for Selling a House

A listing agreement is a legally binding contract that allows a real estate agent to sell your house or property on your behalf. Signing this agreement gives your agent the green light to advertise your house to their networks in return for compensation from the sale proceeds.

Like any other legally binding contract, you should ensure that the listing agreement entails your obligations and those of your agent, as you have discussed and agreed upon. It helps to formalize your agreement to protect yourself from unforeseen tussles during the term of the business contract.

Let's take a look at this critical contract document and some of its important terms, which you should ensure…

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A Guide To Budgeting for New Homeowners

Buying a home is a common goal, and it's usually the most significant purchase people make in their lifetimes. Once the house buying process is complete, you'll know exactly how much your monthly mortgage payments will be. However, determining your utility costs is trickier, particularly if you moved from an apartment to a home. 

Utility Costs to Consider 

Based on a 2,000-square-foot home, a rough estimate for utility costs is $400-$500 per month, including electric, natural gas, water, garbage and internet service. Electric and gas costs vary according to usage,  and your bills will also be higher if you live in an area with a colder or hotter average climate. Of course, the impact on your budget depends…

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Renting vs. Buying a House: Which Is Better?

There are many things to consider when deciding between renting or buying a home. It's helpful to come up with a pros and cons list to compare the advantages and disadvantages of each. 

Advantages of Renting a Home

Below are five reasons for renting:

  • The landlord covers maintenance and repairs. 

  • Renters aren't responsible for property taxes.

  • There's no down payment required.

  • You can move with a 30-day notice.

  • If the property value goes down, it doesn't directly affect you.     

Disadvantages of Renting a Home

Here are five reasons against renting: 

  • You don't have the opportunity to earn equity.

  • Rent increases are standard.

    • …

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Is an Economic Slowdown Good or Bad for the Housing Market?

With more Americans concerned about a possible recession, is it still beneficial to buy a house? Here’s what you need to know about an economic slowdown, its potential impact on your finances and how to stay positive despite it all.

Should You Wait Until the Economy Is Good Before Buying My First Home?

It can be tempting to wait until economic conditions are ideal before buying a home, but there are several reasons why you shouldn't wait. First, interest rates are still historically low and could dip as inflation cools. Second, prices may rise as the economy improves, so it's better to buy sooner rather than later. While it's true that mortgage rates could dip in a recession, there are…

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