Articles Tagged "Homebuying help"

With 2023 almost here, it's time to think about your New Year's resolution. If your resolution is to become a homeowner in 2023, our real estate agents suggest getting an early start on your resolution by following these tips. 

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The laundry room is an often-overlooked space inside your home. You deserve to have a laundry room that is functional, organized, and enjoyable to spend time in. If the laundry room in your home is more like a messy closet than a clean oasis, then consider these laundry room makeover tips from our real estate agents.

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When faced with an empty room, arranging furniture can feel like a daunting hit-or-miss task. Over the years, our real estate agents have picked up some practical tips and easy-to-apply principles from interior designers that take the guesswork out of arranging any room in the house.

Whether you're planning a move to Augusta homes for sale or just revitalizing a dull room, taking a practical approach to furniture arranging is important. Here are some tips from the design pros that will ensure a comfortable, inviting room with maximum design appeal.

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Moving is more than just a logistical challenge: it can also set the stage for an unforgettable social event. Many of the people who have recently purchased a property from our Augusta homes for sale have gone on to host housewarming parties for their friends, family, and new neighbors.

These occasions are great for breaking the ice and helping you get settled into your new community. If you're interested in hosting one yourself, our list of tips will help you prepare. 

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For most homeowners, the term "farmhouse decor" conjures up images of an interior with rustic features that reflect a casual, rural lifestyle on a farm. However, in today's homes, our real estate agents are seeing a much more modern version of the farmhouse style that combines rustic appeal with sleek, modern design elements.

In many Augusta homes for sale, the appeal of cozy farmhouse living is combined with contemporary architectural features that bring old and new together. Take a look at some great farmhouse touches that can quickly give your home an updated, eclectic style.

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A single shade tree in your yard provides extra comfort during the summer heat while also reducing your energy consumption and carbon footprint.

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Buying a home is a big step! It's an exciting event, but it may be stressful if you're not financially prepared for the down payment. Before you start house hunting, our real estate agents suggest you start saving for a down payment that will get you into the perfect home.

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If you're a collector, you're probably passionate about your hobbies, going to lengths over the years to find just the right comics, vintage glassware, coins, dolls, or other items. After going through all this effort, you not only have time and money invested but probably also have an emotional attachment in your collections. That's why when it's time to move, you'll want to make sure your treasured items arrive at your new home safely.

Our real estate agents recommend the following ways to help safely move your collectibles:

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Color scheme trends are always changing. If you plan on buying a new home or redecorating this year, then it is important to keep current color trends in mind. The good news is that color trends for 2022 are about as exciting as they come. This year, it will be all about bright, energetic shades. As you look at Augusta homes for sale, here are some more specific color trends to keep in mind.

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Thinking about relocating next year? You'll want to make sure Augusta, Maine, is on the top of your list. Whether you're looking to begin a career, raise a family, or retire -- Augusta is the perfect place for any stage of life. Our real estate agents love telling clients all the great things about living in Augusta. Here are our top reasons why this beautiful city should be at the top of your list if you're planning a move in 2022:

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You're ready to purchase a home, but every home you're interested in sells before you even have a chance to look at it. Or, maybe you're finding yourself in a bidding war with other potential homebuyers.

Buying a home can be a stressful experience, but this stress is often amplified when you're dealing with a competitive market. Our real estate agents suggest taking the following steps when buying a home in a competitive market. 

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Adjusting to life in a new place is never easy. Our real estate agents know this better than most. We've helped many families with their home searches and know all about getting settled into a new neighborhood. Here are our team's top five tips for adjusting to life in your new town. 

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Millennial homebuyers make up a large percentage of today's buyers in the real estate market. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are currently 92 million millennials between their late 20s to late 40s in age. In the 30-plus segment, 35% earn more than $125,000 per year and 51% earn between $55,000 and $124,000 per year. On average, this group is purchasing homes priced between $300,000 and $400,000. These millennial homebuyers are looking for homes with at least 1,800 square feet, 3-4 bedrooms, and 2-3 bathrooms for growing families.

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Natural light in your home is beneficial to your health, mood, and energy level. While dark, gloomy spaces can make you feel depressed and lethargic, spaces filled with sunshine will quickly brighten your day. Augusta buyers who work with our real estate agents want homes with lots of natural light and impressive outdoor views.

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After looking at countless Augusta homes for sale, you've finally found your perfect house. The paperwork is all drawn up, and you're just about to close. But wait! First, you need to do your final walk-through. You've been through the house plenty of times, but the way it is right now is the way it will be when you buy it. It's important to make sure that everything is in order.

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There's a lot to do when buying a home, and once the closing documents are signed and the keys are in your hand, you might think that the hard work is over. However, once you actually own your new home, there are still a few things you need to do to ensure the safety of your new space and to help your family get comfortable in your new digs. Here are a few things to do after you buy your home. 

1. Change the Locks and Security Codes
   Even if the previous homeowners seem like kind people, you don't know how many people potentially have access to your new home. One of the first things you need to do is change or rekey the locks. If you want to update the look of your home's locks, you can swap the old locks for new ones. However, if you like the look of the old looks or if you're on a budget, you can have the locks rekeyed. When you have a lock rekeyed, the locksmith will adjust the pins and springs so that it fits a different key. Make sure to also change any security codes that potentially provide access to your home, like garage, security system, or gate codes. 

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A starter home is your entry into homeownership. Often starter homes are pictured as smaller properties that are more manageable for a young family to own and maintain, and something, you'll eventually grow out of and sell. The truth is that a starter home is what you make it. The exact home is the one that suits you, but there are some tips to make first time ownership easier. 

Our REALTORS® know first-time buyer concerns and have some tips to get you started.

1. Estimate Maintenance Costs
   One of the benefits of renting is that you have a maintenance person who fixes things when they break and a landlord who replaces appliances that don't work. When you own a home, that support comes at a cost. The cost is definitely worth it because you are investing in your own property and equity. When you're in charge, you can choose and customize as much as you like, including that smart refrigerator with built-in grocery inventory. But if you aren't super handy or on a limited budget, you may want to start with a smaller and more simple property to avoid larger maintenance concerns. The smaller size will help keep things manageable so you can focus on enjoying the home at your budget now.
2. Don't Skip Inspections
   Always get a quality inspection even on new builds. Newer isn't always better, so make sure you are looking for quality construction and materials. Many older starter homes have enormous potential. It's important to identify potential problems and understand the needed repairs before getting started. 

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We understand that cats, dogs, and other pets are important parts of your family. Many of our real estate agents are pet owners. When we show Augusta homes for sale, we know how to find properties that have plenty of space for your furry friends.

Just like people, pets become attached to their homes. It can be difficult for them to accept the changes that come with a move. If you take extra steps to reduce their stress, you are less likely to encounter unusual problem behavior.

Here's how you can meet their needs better during your big move:

1. Prepare Your Pet for the Big Day
   Before making a final selection of a new home, be sure your pet has a collar with identification. Update any microchip tracking services and, if you are switching veterinarians, collect current vet records. If possible, keep your pet close by rather than using a boarding facility.

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If you're self-employed and considering buying a home, our real estate agents are trained to help you through the maze of red tape associated with obtaining a mortgage. More than anything, you've got to have your paperwork in order, to satisfy the mortgage company's requirements. Being self-employed adds an extra layer to this process. 

Lenders don't make special requirements for self-employed home buyers, although it may seem like it. Regardless of where you work, they ask for proof that you are financially solvent. This includes confirmation of steady income, a good credit rating, and a low debt to income ratio. 

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Exciting thoughts of settling into your new home can distract you from the details you need to focus on during the final walk-through. While most major problems will be discovered during a home inspection, a final walk-through gives you a chance to go through the property once it's cleared out to verify that everything is in the condition you expect. 

To help you during the final walk-through of your home, Our real estate agents have prepared this easy to follow checklist for you to print off and follow as you go through the property.

Before the Walk-Through:

• Print a copy of your contract and inspection summary.
• Grab a notepad, your phone, phone charger, flashlight, & light bulb.
• Confirm time with your real estate agent. 

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When you were in school, a failing grade remained on your permanent record. Fortunately, as a home buyer, you don't need to despair if there less-than-favorable results on a home inspection report. 

Our real estate agents have extensive experience helping buyers understand and work through common problems uncovered by home inspection reports on Augusta homes for sale. Take these proactive steps before deciding the report is a deal-breaker.

• Include a Well-Written Inspection Clause
  Groundwork should be laid before the inspection even takes place. Many sale agreements provide latitude for a buyer to have an inspection completed, but there are no consequences for the seller. Make sure the home inspection clause includes recourse for a problematic report, such as renegotiating the price or walking away if you're not satisfied.

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Birds are chirping and blossoms are beginning to emerge. Just as Mother Nature awakens from her long winter snooze, home buyers around Augusta, Maine are emerging from their homes to take a peek at the beautiful Augusta homes for sale this season. This can create competition for property and buying the home of your dreams requires strategic planning on your part. If you want to submit the right bid at the right time, the following are five tips for successful springtime home bidding we recommend.

1. Secure Pre-approval Locally
   Securing pre-approval shows the seller that you have the ability to purchase the home. This puts them at ease and gives you a little leverage to negotiate. When you secure the pre-approval from a local lender, you're likely to receive preference over competitors who have pre-approvals from online or out-of-area lenders.
   
   Don't forget to polish your credit before you go in to secure a mortgage preapproval. Make sure that the information is accurate and that any discrepancies are addressed. It's also advisable to pay as much of your debt down and take steps to improve your debt-to-income ratio.

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Buying a home is an exciting time for anyone, but the excitement and emotions for a first-time home buyer can be at an all-time high. From finding the perfect home to making your first offer, your emotions may get the better of you. It's important to channel those emotions into positive thoughts and use that energy to carry you through the buying process.  

Fortunately, our real estate agents know a thing or two about buying anxiety, so we've put together this handy guide for how to avoid home offer anxiety.

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If you're in the market to buy a home this year, and you're looking for Augusta homes for sale, then make sure you're considering all of the financial factors surrounding your new home purchase. Of course, there's the purchase price and down payment that you'll be well aware of, but are you prepared for the closing costs with your new home? Don't be surprised by closing costs!

• Closing Costs Explained
  In a nutshell, closing costs are your responsibility for all of the legwork that goes into your home purchase. As a buyer, you'll be responsible for lenders fees, third-party fees, homeowners' fees, and any fees or costs associated with your title, including attorney's fees.
  
  In essence, closing costs encapsulate all of the "extras" involved in your real estate transaction and basically sets you up for a future of homeownership. While some mortgages allow you to roll closing costs into your monthly mortgage payment, be sure to set aside 2%-5% of your home's price for closing costs if you're in the planning phase of buying a home.
  
  

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Many home buyers have a vision of their perfect home as they tour Augusta homes for sale. As you work with our real estate agents, we'll work hard to check as many features as possible off your wish list. However, you may need to do a little extra to turn an "almost there" home into your dream home. For some home buyers, this may only include a few cosmetic updates, and for others, it may involve some significant upgrades. Here are six ideas to turn your dreams into a reality.

1. Figure out the role of home or the space you're hoping to update.
   Is your home often used for entertaining, and is that a passion of your family? Then, you may want to spend extra money on adding a gourmet kitchen or an entertainment room. However, if you work from home, you're more apt to need a home office or a library nook.
   
   
2. Personalize your house with some fresh paint. 
   Sometimes, you may dislike the original wall colors, especially if they don't fit your color palette and style. Professional designers suggest picking mainly neutral colors with only pops of color sparingly, like on one wall.  Adding purple or red in the bedroom or yellow or blue in a kitchen adds an element of style. However, you want to choose colors that reflect your overall style so consider your furnishings, home art, and accessories when selecting colors.
   
   
3. Change your lighting.
   Upgrade outdated light fixtures like the chandelier and try new modern pendant lighting, which includes many styles of decorative lighting. Track lighting has also become trendy since it's practical and customizable, ideal for any room in your home.  Bring more natural light into your house too by upgrading your windows and adding skylights.
   
   
4. Upgrade your fixtures.
   Sometimes changing the little things like cabinet doorknobs or faucets can make a huge difference. Remember to buy the same size, so you don't have to re-drill holes. Forgo the old-fashioned brass knobs and handles and try something like a brushed nickel. This classy design will give your home an entirely new sleek look.
   
   
5. Introduce peace and serenity.
   Add a sunroom to your house with some comfortable couches, where you can see the sunshine no matter what season it is. Consider splurging and adding a hot tub as well.  Depending on what kind you buy, they range anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. If you love plants, building a greenhouse is also an option since sitting among colorful plants is calming.
   
   
6. Convert your basement or attic into useful space.
   Having storage space is great but think about converting the basement into an entertaining or leisure room. Imagine comfortable couches, a large screen television, a video game system, and a pool table or air-hockey table.   Why not convert your attic into a large, private master suite, away from the rest of the family. Add built-in shelves to have the ability to organize and store seasonal clothing.

Are you ready to take on some home projects and transform your house into your dream home? Contact us at Sprague & Curtis Real Estate to buy or sell homes throughout the Augusta area.

There are always compromises to consider when buying a house, and sometimes you have to compromise on something you want for something you need. So, do you need a short commute time? While it may be tempting to accept a long commute if it means landing the "perfect" house, it's a compromise that many homeowners wind up regretting.

After all, how can you enjoy the home if you're spending all of your time traveling to and from work? Our real estate agents know how to strike the right balance when buying a home.  Let's take a look at how much commute time matters when searching for the right home.

How Much Time Are You Willing to Spend on the Road Each Day?

For many home shoppers, commute time feels like a right place to compromise, and that might be true if you're talking about a difference of a few minutes in either direction. The risk is that even a very long commute might suddenly start to feel palatable if you find a home located far from your target destination.

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Augusta homes for sale benefit from some genuinely unique amenities. The city of Augusta is at the heart of so much of what's exciting about Maine: The best employers, dining, shopping, and education are all within reach. It still maintains the charm that makes Maine "Vacationland." 

Our real estate agents recognize that, when it comes to real estate, time is of the essence! You might want to slow down and enjoy your new Augusta lifestyle. That's when you'll discover it's a great place to go for a walk.

If you want to take in the sights and also help maintain your health, you're in luck: Many parts of Augusta are highly walkable, and there are some great bike paths also.

But what is walkability and how can you measure it when you compare neighborhoods?

How to Determine if a Neighborhood is Walkable

The website WalkScore.com has been an ambassador of the concept of walkability. It rates a neighborhood where "most errands can be accomplished on foot" as walkable.

The most walkable neighborhoods are those where a car isn't required at all. Naturally, though, this is rare outside larger cities in the U.S. and is more likely in urban centers.

Although WalkScore.com is convenient and can get you started, it's not the last word. Whether or not an area is walkable depends on many factors, including your interests.

Walkability combines many factors:

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The merits of taking a spa day are extensive, and many people are making periodic spa visits a part of their overall wellness routine. First and foremost, a spa day helps you relax and unwind from the rigors and stress of everyday life. What you may not know is that a trip to the spa can also help you detox, improve circulation, skin tone and sleep patterns, as well as fighting those annoying signs of aging. While you're considering some of the beautiful Augusta homes for sale during your house hunt, take some time to get to know our five favorite places to enjoy a spa day.

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Home Shopping for Your Family 

When it comes to Augusta homes for sale, the thought of finding a home that is family-friendly can be a bit overwhelming. Buying a house when you have kids can be stressful enough, but without the right real estate agent- it can be a nightmare!

That's where we come in! Sprague & Curtis Real Estate is here to help with this guide filled with helpful tips you can use when buying a new home in Augusta. Here's what you should know to make your home buying experience easier. 

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There's nothing more frustrating than watching the home-buying process get derailed at the last minute. Our real estate agents have seen it happen. 

On the bright side, surprise factors that jeopardize closing on your new home are usually pretty easy to avoid – and we're here to help you avoid them. These are the five biggest things to watch out for while you're in the process of buying a house.

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If there's one aspect of buying a home that our real estate agents get asked about more than any other, it would have to be credit scores. How much does your credit really matter when you're trying to secure a loan and buy a house?

The importance of your credit score depends on a variety of factors – some financial institutions weigh credit more heavily than others – but it definitely matters. Here's what you need to know about your credit score before buying a home.

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Our real estate agents are always working hard to support our clients in their real estate goals. No matter whether you're buying your first home, trading up, or downsizing for retirement, our experts have the insights you need to succeed.

Kennebec Valley is one of the most exciting areas our team works with. Its combination of natural beauty and leading amenities is attracting more and more people from across the state and beyond. Luckily, there are many charming communities to choose from here.

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Buying a home requires planning and commitment, and one of the biggest considerations a home buyer should take into account is being prepared to make a down payment. Once you have determined how much you are able and willing to spend on a home, it's time to start deciding how you will save for a down payment. With a unique range of Augusta homes for sale, finding your next home may be easier than you think with guidance from our real estate agents. Here are a few practical ideas to help you start saving now. 

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