Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 12/02/2024
How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today
Buying a home in today’s market can feel like an uphill battle – especially with home prices and mortgage rates putting pressure on your budget. If you’re feeling stuck, co-buying could be one way to help you get your foot in the door. Freddie Mac says: “If you are an aspiring homeowner, buying a home with your family...
For Buyers
Buying Tips
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Posted on 12/02/2024
Make Your House the Top Thing on Every Buyer’s Wish List This Season
With the holidays right around the corner, homeowners planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait? Some may even consider taking their house off the market until next spring. But is that the best choice? Because at this time of year, your home can really stand out. Here's the thing: there are plenty of...
For Sellers
Selling Tips
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Posted on 12/02/2024
Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?
A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and that’s just not possible. Maybe that’s why, 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is instead (see chart below): If you’re feeling stressed because you don’t have the...
For Sellers
Selling Tips
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Posted on 12/01/2024
3 DIY Projects for Fun & Functional Farmhouse Style Storage
Farmhouse decor celebrates the rustic and comfortable aspects of country life. One of the many advantages of embracing this design style in your home is the opportunity to upcycle old items and give them new purpose. Here are some great ideas for DIY projects to make your own farmhouse decor. Upcycled Pallet Headboard Wooden pallets are essential to...
Design
Design
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Posted on 11/25/2024
Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs
With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown lately. Take a look at the graph below to see how many...
For Buyers
Agent Value
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Posted on 11/25/2024
Should You Sell Your House or Rent It Out?
When you’re ready to move, figuring out what to do with your house is a big decision. And today, more homeowners are considering renting their home instead of selling it. Recent data from Zillow shows about two-thirds (66%) of sellers thought about renting their home before listing, with nearly a third (28%) taking that possibility seriously. Compared to...
For Sellers
Selling Tips
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Posted on 11/24/2024
How to get equity out of your home: Alternative methods
Paying off credit card balances and consolidating debt...
Equity
Home Equity Line Of Credit
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Financial Tips for Seniors: A Guide to Securing Your Future
As we age, financial priorities often shift, and it’s essential for seniors to take a proactive approach to managing their finances. Whether you're nearing retirement or have already stepped into that phase, smart planning can ensure that your later years are both enjoyable and financially secure. A well-thought-out strategy not only helps with day-to-day expenses but can also...
Financial Tips For Seniors
Senior Financial Planning
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Aging with Dignity: Why Senior Living Could Be the Right Choice
As we age, it becomes more evident that time doesn’t slow down, and the need for support grows with it. With life expectancy increasing due to advances in healthcare and technology, many individuals over the age of 65 will find themselves in need of some level of assistance. Although staying in one's own home might seem like the...
Senior Living
Aging Gracefully
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Posted on 11/22/2024
6 Effective Ways to Enhance Physical Health in Older Adults
Promoting physical health in older adults is essential for maintaining independence, mobility, and overall well-being. Below are six tried-and-true actions that support physical health, offering tangible benefits even for those with chronic conditions. These practices can make a significant difference, whether or not an individual is already dealing with age-related health concerns. They also overlap with recommendations for...
Physical Health For Older Adults
Health Tips For Seniors
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Why Real Estate is a Smart Addition to Your Retirement Plan
Planning for retirement is a cornerstone of financial security, and as you approach your later years, it’s essential to ensure your strategy is both robust and diversified. While traditional retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are foundational, integrating real estate into your retirement portfolio can offer unique benefits. Here's a closer look at why real estate deserves a...
Real Estate Retirement Planning Tips
Retirement Planning With Real Estate
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Posted on 11/18/2024
More Homes, Slower Price Growth – What It Means for You as a Buyer
There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years – and that could be a game changer for you if you’re ready to buy. Let’s look at two reasons why. You Have More Options To Choose From An article from Realtor.com helps explain just how much the number of homes for sale...
For Buyers
Home Price
+ 7 more
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