lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Mortgage Rates Rising

September 30, 2022 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Mortgage Rates Rising

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Anyone considering buying or selling Highlands NC real estate is aware of the fact that mortgage rates are rising. The rise is daunting for many. For buyers, this means a higher cost for buying a home. For sellers, this can mean that fewer people are looking to buy or will want to lower offers to offset the overall purchase cost. Ultimately, while mortgage rates are rising, real estate transactions will continue to occur.

Look for options

Anyone looking to purchase a Highlands NC home for sale should take time to shop around for a mortgage. Interest rates have a big effect on the overall cost of a home over time. As a result, when rates rise buyers look at more creative ways to finance real estate. Meeting with private lenders, banks, and mortgage companies can help buyers locate the best rate available while also examining different types of mortgages. A REALTOR will be able to recommend reputable local lenders. Interviewing as many lenders as possible will leave buyers with knowledge and options.

Adjustable rate mortgage

A buyer may consider an adjustable rate mortgage as opposed to locking in a 30-year traditional fixed rate loan. An adjustable-rate mortgage offers a lower rate for a certain time and then will ratchet up. Many buyers hope that by the time the low rate expires interest rates will have come down and they can refinance. An adjustable-rate mortgage is just one option for finding a lower rate.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying property in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Additionally, I can connect you with reputable local lenders. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Experts: Buyers Should Shop Around for a Mortgage as Rates Rise” from REALTOR Magazine.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Don’t Skip Inspection

September 26, 2022 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Don’t Skip Inspection

Don’t skip the inspection when buying Highlands NC real estate. While there is no law requiring a home inspection, it is a contingency that is a part of most purchase contracts. Even buyers purchasing a remodel or an as-is home should have the inspection. An experienced Highlands NC REALTOR will ensure that a contract includes a host of contingencies to protect the buyer and his investment.

Importance of a home inspection

A home inspection ensures that a buyer understands the condition of a Highlands NC home. Additionally, it is important to understand that every inspection report, even on a brand new home, will reveal items that require attention. However, often these items are small. Big items will require a deeper examination, like issues with the roof or foundation. In short, a home inspection will help a buyer make a sound investment and avoid being caught off guard by issues, big or small.

Can you skip the inspection?

A buyer can absolutely skip a home inspection. While not recommended, it is possible. In a hot market buyers often omit contingencies in an effort to have an offer stand out. If a home is going to be completely razed then an inspection may not be necessary. However, even a Highlands NC home being sold as-is to remodel should have an inspection. Underlying issues could turn a fixer-upper opportunity into a real money pit.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying real estate in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while preparing you for the buying process. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to buying Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Some Buyers Waive Inspections to Avoid Delays” from REALTOR Magazine.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Security & Safety Important

September 22, 2022 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Security & Safety Important

Lynn Kimball, your key to Highlands NC real estate

Security and safety are important when selling Highland NC real estate. A home is personal and contains important personal items. As such, it is critical for a seller to feel safe and protected throughout the selling process. Enlisting the services of an experienced Highlands NC REALTOR will provide the security necessary to navigate the process with confidence.

Showings

Every seller has a different comfort level when it comes to showings. Some do not give much thought to buyers coming and going and this can be nerve-wracking for others. When a Highlands NC REALTOR is in charge it is a necessity that a buyer walks through a Highlands NC home for sale with a REALTOR. There are also times when a seller requires his REALTOR to be present for all showings. The important thing is that a seller feels comfortable with the showing process.

Personal items

Everyone has personal items that they want to keep safe. This could include sensitive documents, jewelry, heirlooms, and more. Instead of worrying about these items, they should be stored away or locked up so that they do not pose an issue or concern. Additionally, a home office should always have important documents filed away so as not to be in plain sight. Take the time to walk around a home and put away anything you do not want others to see.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling homes in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while providing you with a complimentary listing presentation. My goal is to keep you informed and have you comfortable with the process. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Safety Tips for Showing Your Home” from Realty Times.

Highlands NC Real Estate, Sellers Not Always Honest

September 18, 2022 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Sellers Not Always Honest

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

When it comes to Highlands NC real estate, buyers should be aware that sellers are not always honest. Sellers are required to disclose issues with a home. Unfortunately, often sellers do not disclose important information which can lead to surprises for buyers. While there is recourse for buyers who are consciously misled, many issues are minor. An experienced Highlands NC REALTOR will work hard to get full disclosure.

What is disclosure?

Disclosure in a real estate transaction is a requirement for sellers to reveal issues with a home. This can include everything from informing a buyer about a tricky door lock to a leak in the roof. Every home is flawed to some degree. After all, every home inspection will reveal a list of items that are in need of repair or replacement. Ultimately, not every item on an inspection list is a big deal. Additionally, a homeowner may not be aware of every little thing.

Ask questions

Buyers should push for full disclosure. Likewise, when sellers sign off on disclosure statements, they are holding themselves accountable. It is important to not only get a statement but ensure that the questions are asked. A buyer cannot force honesty but by asking the right questions can certainly get as much information as possible about a Highlands NC property.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about real estate in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Understanding the process is an important part of every transaction. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Survey: 94% of Sellers Don’t Disclose Property Defects” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Homes, Curtains & Shades Frame Windows

September 14, 2022 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Curtains & Shades Frame Windows

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Curtains and shades frame windows and add design flare to Highland NC homes. Whether simple or ornate, window treatments can change the look and feel of any room. Understanding how to best compliment the style and design of a home and its rooms is important. While some homeowners have a natural eye for design, others require the help of a professional. An experienced Highlands NC REALTOR can help recommend local designers and window treatment experts to help you complete the design of your home.

Windows are coveted

Windows are a critical component of every Highlands NC home. In addition to letting in light, windows embrace the stunning views offered by our mountain setting. As such, how they are highlighted in a home is important. Nature and light are what is important to most homeowners and it is important how they are framed. More often than not it is important to let the focus be on the window and its view and not the window treatment.

Room dictates window treatment

Every room has different needs. A bedroom, for example, requires window treatments where a living room, kitchen, or dining room may not. Additionally, many people like having blackout shades or curtains in a bedroom to ensure a good night’s sleep. A bathroom is typically a room that requires window treatments as well. A shade is easy to pull down and offers privacy. Ultimately, window treatments serve as both a design element and a privacy element.

Many choices

There are so many choices when it comes to window treatments, Draperies can be simple, with the material in solids or stripes. Or, draperies can be ornate. Similarly, sheer curtains can have a little oomph from a fabric valance. Of course, there are myriad other choices as well, from roman or roller shades to wood shutters and tinted windows. Taking a look online at sites like Houzz and Pinterest can open up a world of options and help people decide upon their own style.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while sharing design trends I am seeing at the moment. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Et Tu, Draperies? The Rise of Roman Shades” from Realty Times.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate? Make Needed Repairs

September 10, 2022 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate? Make Needed Repairs

Lynn Kimball, your guide to Highlands NC real estate

Are you selling Highlands NC real estate? Make the needed repairs to your home. The reality is that items that need fixing will appear on a home inspection list. Additionally, potential buyers will notice obvious issues. Ultimately, fixing, repairing, and replacing can help a Highlands NC home for sale look its best when it hits the market.

Assess the condition of a Highlands NC home

Walk through a Highlands NC home prior to listing it. This is a great time to make notes on what is working, what needs attention, and how a home looks. In the end, your list will reveal which repairs and which will require a professional. Making repairs will pay off in the end.

What to look for

Surfaces in a home should be in good condition. This includes counters, walls, and floors. Walls should be free of holes and may benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Likewise, flooring should be clean and in good condition. Carpets should be cleaned but if they are worn they should be replaced. Likewise, hardwood floors may need refinishing. Another important thing to inspect would be doors, drawers, and windows. Everything should open and close easily and repaired if they do not.

Systems and appliances

The plumbing, electrical, hot water heater, and HVAC systems should all be operable in a home. Repairs and replacements will go a long way when it comes to the home inspection process. Likewise, all of the major appliances in a home should be operable. When too many items in a home are out of order it will have a negative effect on how buyers look at the home.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling Highlands NC homes. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while sharing a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “10 Things That Will Absolutely Kill Your Home Sale” from Realty Times.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Project or Perfect?

September 6, 2022 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Project or Perfect?

Lynn Kimball, answering all of your Highlands NC real estate questions

Buying Highlands NC real estate requires an understanding of what you are looking for and one question to ask is whether you are looking for a project or a perfect, move-in-ready home. It is a good question. After all, some buyers are looking for a home that can be renovated to suit their needs. However, others are certainly looking for an easy transition with no work needed. An experienced Highlands NC REALTOR will help buyers evaluate their needs.

Renovations add time, costs, and stress

It is important to recognize the time, money, and stress that can come along with a remodel. Hopefully, a fixer-upper can come with a lower price tag to make up for some of these accommodations. But to avoid these issues altogether, many buyers look for a move-in-ready home. While no perfect home exists it is certainly possible to find something close! Choosing a home that is ready to live in is very attractive.

Make a home what you want it to be

The upside of buying a Highlands NC home with the intention of renovating it is that you will be putting your personality into the home. Renovating can add value to a home while also providing the opportunity to create a home that suits the needs of buyers. Additionally, a fixer-upper can come with a lower price tag which helps accommodate for some of the additional costs that come with remodeling.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on current market conditions while sharing current home trends with you. Buying a home requires a great deal of consideration. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to buying Highlands NC real estate.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Photos Make Impact

September 2, 2022 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Photos Make Impact

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Photos make an impact when selling Highlands NC real estate. The majority of home searches start online, making photos the first thing that buyers see. This makes photography an essential element of marketing. As a result, selecting a photographer and preparing a home for photos are a priority. Your Highlands NC REALTOR will use photography as a tool to attract buyers to your home!

Prepare a Highlands NC home for photos

A Highlands NC home should be staged for photos just as it should be staged for showings. The preparation for photos may be a bit different, however. Lighting, positioning of artwork and furniture, and moving things around to maximize space and size is essential. While everyone can take photos with a smartphone these days, hiring a professional is important. Not everyone can take a photo that can showcase rooms in a home to their best potential.

Marketing plan is important for selling

Locating the right Highlands NC REALTOR involves interviewing. The listing presentation should always include a marketing plan. Additionally, photography should be a big part of this plan. Take the time to examine local websites and look at listings. If you are not impressed then you should not consider that particular REALTOR.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while sharing a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

 Click here to read “6 Ways to Get Your Listing Ready for Photos” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Homes, Repair or Replace Appliances?

August 30, 2022 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Repair or Replace Appliances?

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Many owners of Highlands NC homes wonder, should they repair or replace appliances? It is a great question. How much effort should we put into keeping appliances alive? And, when should we call it quits? The answer is complicated because appliances have been difficult to find in recent years. Additionally, service technicians are fully booked out. As a result, patience is a necessity whether repairing or replacing!

Considerations

Many homes in Highlands NC are older and, as a result, have older appliances. The age, condition, and availability of an appliance come into play when deciding whether repairing or replacing is in order. Furthermore, appliances become discontinued and sizes change. If a built-in ice maker can no longer be found in the same size then a homeowner is faced with a challenge. Is it worth renovating a kitchen to make room for a new size of a particular appliance? Can your current appliance be repaired?

Cost

The cost of a repair and the cost of a replacement should be weighed. As a general rule, the repair cost shouldn’t be more than half of the value of a new appliance. Likewise, is there a built-in value related to a new appliance? A new appliance will likely be more energy efficient than the older version. This can add value to energy consumption as well as reduce the carbon impact of a home.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “When to Repair or Replace Your Appliance” from House Logic.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Don’t Miss Final Walkthrough

August 25, 2022 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Don’t Miss Final Walkthrough

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Don’t miss the final walkthrough when buying Highlands NC real estate. The final walkthrough is the last step made prior to closing. Ultimately, this is when a buyer ensures that the home being purchased is in the condition that it is expected to be in. No buyer wants to be caught off guard when he walks into a Highlands NC home as the owner for the first time!

What to look for

Most Highlands NC real estate transactions have some issues to repair as the result of the home inspection. Additionally, many home sales include a list of inclusions and exclusions. When walking through a home during the final walkthrough a buyer should makes sure that everything expected to be in the home is in the home. Likewise, a buyer should ensure that every promised repair has been made.

Mistakes happen

There are issues that can occur during the final walkthrough of a Highlands NC home. For example, a seller may take an appliance and replace it with a less expensive version. Or a contract to purchase a Highlands NC home for sale might include the window treatments but an owner may take them. Sometimes these mistakes occur by accident and sometimes they are intentional. Ultimately, the final walkthrough provides an opportunity to make sure a buyer understands the condition of the home prior to signing the closing documents.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball today to learn more about buying homes in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on current market conditions and home trends. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “The final walk-through before closing: A checklist” from Bankrate.