SkyFive Properties Blog

Where there is a will, there are definitely many things that could go wrong. Dealing with the death of someone dear can be difficult. The grieving, the memories, the estate, or the debt left behind can be overwhelming to handle. If the terms included in the will that was drafted and signed are simple, the executor can easily distribute the estate among the beneficiaries.

However, the situation transforms completely when there is no will, no beneficiaries, and lots of debt to be handled. In these cases, probate will be needed. To navigate your probate faster and smoother, hiring a specialized lawyer is a good idea. Probate lawyers will be able to help you manage everything from estate taxes, correctly filling in the documents, accessing the assets, or mediating potential conflicts between beneficiaries.

In this article, we will have a look at five things you want to do and pay attention to before hiring your probate lawyer.

• Assess your situation

The first thing you want to do before choosing your lawyer is to assess your situation. There are rarely two identical wills. Everyone has different wishes, estates, and values. Some people might leave behind material things such as money, properties, and other valuables, while others might leave behind less tangible requests such as guardianship for their children.

Depending on your current age, status, and situation, you might want to look into probate lawyers that specialize in your type of will and estate planning. If you want to leave behind a generous sum of money, then you might want to look into a probate lawyer that knows all about how to handle and distribute it correctly. Avoid lawyers that do probate as a side hustle and choose a professional probate attorney to help you out.

• Sympathy can get you a long way

The next thing you want to consider before hiring your probate attorney is if they are sympathetic to you and your needs or not. Just like in any other business, lawyers will provide you with their services in exchange for monetary compensation. However, by definition, probates involve death, loss, and suffering. The last thing you want to do is to hire a probate lawyer that is insensible to your situation and the wishes of the deceased.

Jeff B., Springfield probate attorney, advises to “look for lawyers that are sympathetic, compassionate, and understanding of your situation. Look for someone who can answer all your questions without annoyance and with utmost patience. Some characteristics you want to look for in your next probate lawyer are sympathy, availability to answer your questions, knowledge, objectivity, and sincerity.”

The characteristics you want to avoid in a probate lawyer are insensitivity, unavailability, lack of knowledge, and the tendency to make rushed decisions.

• Prepare the paperwork

Hiring a probate attorney does not mean that your job is done and that there is nothing else left for you to do. On the contrary, this is when your actions and your implication are needed the most.

To ensure that the process will go smooth and to avoid any potential problems that might arise, you want to start collecting and preparing all the paperwork. The more documents you manage to provide your lawyer with, the better the chances to have a successful probate process.

Some of the most important documents you want to collect are the death certificate or a copy of it, the last will of the deceased, any codicils the person might have left behind, bank statements, any financial document you have access to, a list of all the assets your loved one left behind, and a list of the people named in the will (make sure to include their names, their addresses, or any other relevant contact information you might have from them).

• Understand the process and the costs involved

Another thing you might want to do before you hire your probate lawyer is to understand the process and what it involves, and the potential financial burden it might have on you. You would be surprised to find just how many people are not aware of the fact that not every death leads to probate.

Probate refers to the process of legally distributing and transferring assets after one’s death. It is commonly encountered when the deceased’s estate is listed only in their name. The higher the sum of money, or the number of properties and assets that have to be transferred to the heirs, the higher the chances to deal with probate.

At the same time, make sure to ask about the costs involved, and how much you will be able to get back. Check whether the lawyer will ask for a flat rate or an hourly one and what it covers. Find out if you are eligible for compensation for your executor role. The more you know, the better you will be prepared to handle the process and its costs.

• Check-in with the family

The last thing you want to do before hiring your probate attorney is to check in with your family and determine the level of potential resistance. Even the closest family members turn into enemies when faced with the decision of splitting the inheritance of a loved one. The more extended and intertwined a family is, the greater the chances for drama and troubles.

Communicate this with your lawyer if you are aware of bad family relationships or if you sense any potential threats coming from their side. This way, if any of the members will contest the will, you and your lawyer will be prepared to handle the situation.

Understand that the will can come with both assets and debts that have to be paid. If you are the executor and you have to carry out the final wishes of your loved one, be prepared to be put in a compromising position with the other members of your family.

Conclusion

Finally, dealing with both the loss of a loved one and carrying out their last wishes can be emotionally and physically draining. To ease some of the stress, you want to hire a professional probate lawyer who will help guide you through this challenging time in your life.

via:pexels

Townhomes are quickly becoming one of the more popular real estate options in today’s market. These fantastic homes are an excellent real estate option for a number of reasons:

• They’re affordable
• They are a great investment opportunity
• They offer a sense of community
• They’re perfect for families, young couples, and retirees alike

Townhomes not only provide the perfect mix of affordability, privacy, and community, but they are also perfect for a number of different lifestyles and budget types. More and more, homebuyers are opting to settle down into a cozy neighborhood featuring rows of townhomes rather than a more rural single-family home or a pricey downtown condo.

If you’re hoping to shop around for a townhome in 2022, here are five places where you’ll find the best real estate options:

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Over the last few years, Nashville has become one of the hottest destinations for families and aspiring entrepreneurs. This capital city has drawn a flock of new homebuyers with its amazing music scene, burgeoning job market, and affordable cost of living.

In addition to its many charms, Nashville is also home to a wide variety of townhome communities that cater to a variety of lifestyles and budget types. From trendy downtown neighborhoods to sprawling suburban developments, there’s sure to be a townhome community in Nashville that fits your needs.

If you’re considering a townhome in Nashville, expect to pay around the mid $200,000s to mid $300,000s, although homes for sale can be found anywhere from the high $100,000s to about $800,000.

2. South Loop, Chicago

Over the last few decades, Chicago has undergone a number of changes. Once a sprawling metropolis on the verge of collapse, this great city has been reinventing itself to become one of the most exciting and diverse cities in America.

One of these exciting changes is its ongoing transformation from a largely residential city to a bustling cosmopolitan center featuring some of the best bars, restaurants, and shops in the country. One of the most exciting places in this thriving city is the ever-expanding South Loop, where you’ll find tons of new townhomes that are perfect for young families and professionals alike.

Townhomes for sale in South Loop vary in cost, but average between the mid $400,000s and high $500,000s. Some of the more luxurious real estate options list for over $1.5 million, offering a great range of prices for all budgets.

3. Phoenix, Arizona

As one of the hottest cities in America, Phoenix has become a mecca for both retirees and young families alike. After all, who wouldn’t be attracted to year-round warm weather, affordable homes, and endless attractions and amenities to enjoy?

Townhomes have become a popular real estate option for those relocating to Phoenix and there’s a great selection of townhouse developments to choose from! You’ll find a wide range of options, from traditional townhomes with two stories to luxurious single-level estates.

If you’re looking for the perfect townhome in Phoenix, you can find a range of styles and prices. Smaller townhomes can be found in the high $100,000s to mid $200,000s, while larger and more upscale new construction developments are selling for more than $2 million.

4. Austin, Texas

Often hailed as the most livable city in America, Austin offers affordable housing, an amazing job market, and a wealth of entertainment options for all ages. It’s no wonder that so many are flocking to this Texas metropolis!

Austin is also home to a wide selection of townhome developments offering great real estate opportunities. You’ll find everything from traditional townhomes built in rows to fabulous new construction developments boasting the top market trends.

If you’re interested in relocating to Austin and are hoping to find a beautiful townhome to reside in, expect to pay anywhere between $300,000 to $600,000 as this is the price range that the typical townhouse falls between.

5. Durham, North Carolina

Durham is one of the most up-and-coming cities in North Carolina, and its townhome market is booming! This charming city is home to a great mix of young families, professionals, and retirees, all of whom are drawn to Durham’s excellent schools, diverse job market, and beautiful parks and gardens.

As you can imagine, if you want to become a homeowner in Durham, the first place many turn is the thriving townhome market. There’s a great selection of these properties available and they vary greatly. For instance, you can find small one- to three-bedroom starter homes in the high $100,000s to mid $300,00s, while luxury, three-bedroom options can be found for upwards of $800,00.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a townhome in one of America’s most exciting and up-and-coming cities, be sure to check out Durham! With a booming job market and plenty of things to do, it’s no wonder this city is attracting so many people.

Looking for a great place to live and a solid investment? These five places are good bets for both! There are so many fantastic cities that are constantly building new townhome developments and this list is just the start! You can find a great townhome in any of these vibrant locales and more, so do some research and find the best place to suit your lifestyle!

When you own property, it is one of the best situations you can be in regarding financial investments, as there is always a way to make a lot of money from it – in fact, there is often more than one way. If you are keen to make as much money as possible from your property, then it’s good to bear in mind that there are a lot of ways to do that. In this post, we are going to take a look at just four of those ways that you might want to consider. You might be surprised at how effective these can be, and how lucrative they can prove to be for your wallet.

Image Source – CCO License

Rent Out A Room

If you have enough space and you happen to have a spare room, then renting this out is going to be one of the best possible ways to make a little more money from the property as a whole. Usually this is just a case of advertising the room in the local area and then trying to find someone trustworthy that you can give the room to. However you do it, it’s important that you are considering this at least, as it can be an extremely effective way to make a little extra money from your home.

Build An Add-On

Perhaps you want to rent out a room but you don’t actually have one spare. In fact, believe it or not, there is a way around this: you can simply build an add-on to your property and then rent that out instead. You’ll need to put some money into doing so, but any that you do you are surely going to make back in good time anyway. There are a lot of designs you might want to try out, but modern ADUs are particularly popular across the world, so that is an option well worth considering.

Turn It Into A Showhome

This one is a little strange, and you won’t want to do it if you are keen to retain your own personality in your designs in the home. But turning your home into a showroom is something that you can do to actually make quite a lot of money, and it is absolutely worth doing if you are keen to do that as effectively as you would hope. A showhome can earn you money by being shown around to guests and members of the public, so that’s something to consider.

Base Your Startup There

Finally, remember that a home can always also be a great place to base a startup. If you have an idea for a business that you would like to try out, then you might as well try starting it from home. You might be surprised at how easy this can be and how effective, and you can even claim tax revenue back on any energy you use, and a portion of your internet bill too. Most homes have enough space for a startup, so this is something to consider at least.

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The concept of a “dream home” is something that resonates with a lot of people. For One reason or another, there seems like an endless number of possibilities when it comes to pursuing an ideal living space.

A home can be many things, of course. It can be a financial asset that allows you to accrue equity or to home refinance. It can be a place to relax and unwind with your loved ones. It can be a workshop for a small business venture of yours.

Ultimately, people sometimes get into trouble with hunting for their dream home in a number of ways. First and foremost, it’s important to get a clear sense of just what you’re actually looking for in your dream home?

Here are a few reliable pillars of a “dream home” that everyone should keep in mind, regardless of their specific preferences.

The right feel and atmosphere

This, of course, is the “specific preferences” part of the equation — but it’s also more than that.

It’s possible to love a home “on paper,” because of the “checklist features” that it has, but to not love the feel and atmosphere of it.

Ultimately, a home could have a dozen bathrooms, a great garden, and a good location. But if it just doesn’t feel right to you, then you shouldn’t buy it — unless you’re planning to resell.

Our homes are an intimate part of our lives. Like all the other intimate parts of our lives — including our relationships with others — there’s more to the picture than “features.”

What ultimately has the biggest impact on making a dream home a “dream home” is that it resonates with you. It might be that you could remodel your home to improve its feel and atmosphere. But then again, maybe you couldn’t. “Feel” and “atmosphere” are always highly personal, nuanced, and difficult to unravel.

A home you can grow into

What separates a “dream home” from a “nice place to hang out” is largely a matter of timeframe and context. When it comes down to it, a dream home should be the kind of place you can grow into over time.

When shopping around for your dream home, then, consider things like its suitability as a future family home. Or the ease with which you could modify the place and build an extension.

Your dream home should suit your dreams, not just your current needs or preferences.

Somewhere that meets your practical needs in the here and now

Although a dream home needs to be “future-friendly,” it also has to meet your needs here and now.

Many people invest in “project homes” that they build up over time. But unless you’re happy living somewhere else for years while preparing your dream home, this may not be ideal.

When looking for your dream home, consider important factors like how it will cater to your current family situation. How well-positioned it is for your day job. And so on.

Ideally, you’ll be able to thrive in your home as soon as possible.

The great thing about making investments in real estate is that there are so many different options. But what is the right choice for you given the current chaos that the Coronavirus has caused and the new fears of a potential recession in 2022?

Is buying a condo a good investment? Yes, if you are buying at the right time in the market cycle, interest rates are low (if you are financing), and you plan on living in the condo as your personal residence for a few years. If you can check the boxes on those three high-level criteria, you should be able to move forward with your condo purchase with confidence.

Keep in mind that, in general, there are pros and cons to any real estate purchase. Condo purchases are no different. Read on to learn more about condo investments and how to make the best decision in the current economy of high economic uncertainty.

What is a Condo?

Before you can decide if a condo is a good investment, let’s talk about what a condo is and what makes it different from a townhouse or other type of home. A condo (short for condominium) is a building that’s been divided into several units, like the condos around downtown Orlando FL. The units are sold separately to individual owners. Each unit in a condo comes with its own deed or title.

Any common areas in the condo, such as an elevator, community area, parking, roofing, and external walls, belong to all of the unit owners. Everyone is responsible for sharing the cost of maintaining common areas.

Who makes decisions about common areas? Who manages everything? The Condominium Association is in charge of maintaining the building and making decisions. The owners of the units in a condo pay a fee to the association who is in charge of upkeep.

The primary, and most important, difference between a condo and just about every other type of real estate building is the plot or land. Every owner in the condo shares ownership of the land the condo is built on. That’s why when the land value of a condo goes up, all of the units in the condo benefit. The same is true when the land value goes down. That begs the question, “is a condo a good investment after all?”

What Makes a Good Investment?

Generally, a real estate investment is considered good when the value of the property is worth more than the purchase price. That’s the simplest way to think about good investments. But when it comes to purchasing homes, there’s more to consider.

Finding Value in an Unstable Market

The Coronavirus has caused an incredible level of chaos amongst all asset classes. The stock and bond markets provide immediate movement based on responses to the emotions of the masses. Real Estate markets take more time to release data as the basis for decision making.  They are by nature more illiquid than other paper assets.  The current market sentiment is extremely fearful.

This environment of fear should provide a significantly slower transaction volume for the balance of 2020. That will put pressure on sellers, which should create many interesting opportunities for you as a condo buyer. Do not feel intimidated by making offers that are 10-15% below the listing price of a condo.  You can always go up in price, but it is next to impossible to get the other side to go down in price after your initial offer.

Buying Condos for Personal Use

Maintenance costs and home improvement costs can quickly take an investment from good to bad. A big loan with high-interest rates may not be a good investment for condos, either. It depends on whether the value of the property increases fast enough to cover the interest on the loan.

If you can only control the interior of a condo, your improvements may not be enough to dramatically change the value. On the contrary, you may risk needing to invest so much in improvements that you recoup the costs. Make sure you know the total cost before you take the plunge.

Here are some of the most luxurious South Beach Condos

• One Ocean South Beach
• Beach House 8
• Marea South Beach
• Faena House

Buying Condos for Rental Property Income

If you’re planning to rent out your condo, the sum of the monthly mortgage, cost to maintain the property, and condo association fees are really going to impact whether or not a condo is a good investment for you. You’ll need to set the rent high enough to cover all of those costs, and if that exceeds the going rent in your community, you’ll be out of luck.

However, if you can get the condo at a very low price, the investment could be worth it. Just keep in mind that very lowly priced condos need to be thoroughly vetted. Make sure you know the reason the price is lower than the value.

Expenses to Carefully Consider

When it comes to condos, consider all of the costs, not just the purchase price. Add in the condo association fee, the costs to maintain the unit, and any improvements you plan or need to make. Then, consider whether the property value is likely to go up or down. Is the property well-maintained? How old is the building? What common areas are going to need to be fixed or replaced soon? If you own a unit in a condo, those things could increase your condo association fee.

Condo vs House

There are actually fewer differences between owning a condo and owning a house than people think. Homeowners association costs can just be as high – or higher – than condo associations. They can also be just as restrictive about what you can do to the outside of your home, or with your yard.

The difference from an investment perspective comes from what you actually own, and what you don’t. When you buy a house, you typically own everything including the land underneath your home and around it. You own the roof, the driveway, and in some places, you may even own the sidewalk in front of your home!

The same cannot be said for a condo. When you own a condo, you own the inside walls, what’s attached to them, and your floors. You don’t own the external walls, and shared walls will have their own rules based on the condo association guidelines.

When you buy a home, you buy insurance for that home. You pay for all of it. When you buy a condo, the condo association may pay for your roof insurance, for example. Sometimes, out of pocket expenses are less with a condo than with a house of similar value.

Think of a house purchase as a completely whole purchase with nothing shared. Even if a homeowner’s association where the external things like yards, parking lots, sidewalks, and community areas are maintained, the homeowner owns their property and its plot.

Condo vs Townhouse

Townhouses are unique. They are not like homes and not like condos, either. For example, a townhouse owner owns the roof over the home, but the roof could be maintained and insurance by a homeowner’s association. With a townhouse, there are shared walls and usually some restrictions on what can be done to them.

But like a home, people who own townhouses own their yards and plots. Changes to them are subject to city laws and homeowner’s association by-laws, where applicable. Townhouse owners pay insurance similarly to homeowners. And generally, there is no shared ownership of anything beyond shared walls.

Like a condo, the common areas in a townhouse community belong to everyone to use, and the association maintains them. However, a huge difference is that a townhouse owner doesn’t share ownership, the association or community owner does. If you buy a townhouse, you may benefit from the increased value of the property surrounding your home, but it’s not in the same way as a condo owner would.

Condo vs Apartment

A condo and an apartment are very different. They may look and feel the same, but condo units are considered properties, and apartment units are part of one larger property.

Apartments are leased. When you lease an apartment, you don’t own any of the property and you’re not on the hook to maintain the property. Property insurance is carried by the building’s owner, not the renters (though part of the lease may go toward that). The walls and anything permanently affixed to the walls – like cabinets – are owned by the company or person that bought the building.

Count the costs

In the end, “Is a condo a good investment?” is a question that depends on many things. Whatever you decide to do, count the costs. Condos are excellent choices for many buyers and investors, but they are unique. It’s worth it to take the time to really know what you’re getting into. First-time buyers – whether investors or not – should consider talking to some of the owners in the building to get their feedback. It is also worth looking at what external factors may positively or negatively impact the property’s value, and the length of time you plan on keep it.

The living room is probably your favorite place to spend enjoyable hours with your loved ones. It’s often where we spend most of our time at home (at least our waking time, anyway). Because here is where you’ll entertain visitors, you’ll want to go above and above with the décor. This area of the home provides a first impression, so make it appear warm and welcoming. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot on it; just ensuring that your living room has certain key items will be enough. Let’s take a look at the ones that make the room feel cozy and comfortable.

Photo by Taryn Elliott from Pexels

A Vibrant Color Scheme

Investing in a paint job is the easiest way to brighten up your living room for winter. A vibrant color scheme gives warmth and improves the atmosphere of the whole area. When it comes to strong palettes, you have plenty of options, ranging from navy to dark charcoal, berry colors, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and earthy tones. If you want to keep things more neutral, use a striking color or texture on an accent wall and a milder tone on the remaining walls.

A Comfortable Sofa

This feature is something you just can’t ignore. Whether it’s summer or winter, you’ll want your sofa to be the focal point of the space. However, adding some soft and bright pillows can instantly transform it into a winter-ready space. You can offer additional comfort by layering it with warm shawls and blankets. Simply settle into a chair or snuggle up on the sofa for a relaxing evening watching your favorite movie.

Use Ottomans

A soft, velvety ottoman is an excellent way to add coziness and warmth to your living room. They’re fantastic for resting your feet on and can also function as a coffee table with the addition of a tray. Ottomans with storage are also available, making things even better and offering a storage solution for a smaller room. If you pick a warm hue for your ottoman, it will also brighten the area.

A Fireplace

This is a no-brainer since, at this time of year, you can’t have a cozy living room without a fireplace. An electric fireplace is an excellent alternative to a real one since it’s simple to set up and produces no smoke. This holiday season, treat yourself to the best electric fireplace and take your living room design to the next level without breaking the bank. There are several alternatives to choose from, so doing some research can help you select the best one.

Use Natural Light

When it comes to how attractive your living room is, you can’t underestimate the importance of natural light that filters into it. Dark living rooms are uninviting and might make you feel depressed and cramped. The more natural light you can let in, the more comfortable your living room will feel, even if it’s a smaller room to begin with.

Greenery

Greenery is an additional feature that helps to warm up any space. Bringing the outdoors in is a terrific idea that won’t break the bank. Put some pots around the room or try sprucing up a wall to make a mini vertical garden. You can add floating shelves and small herbs planted in old coffee cups. With a little work, you can create an elegant and tasteful space.

Add Personal Items

Nothing beats adding family photographs to make your living room seem welcoming and cozy. Adding these images makes your living room feel more personal, which is why emoving family photos when arranging your property to sell is a good idea. If you’re not selling and you want the space just for you, having pictures of friends and family around is perfect.

Living Room Rugs

Area rugs over plain flooring provide warmth and texture while also improving the aesthetic attractiveness of the living area. Choose a size that extends from just under the front legs of the couch to under the coffee table. You can put small rugs around the corners. To give a touch of sophistication to the space, choose neutral hues and subtle patterns.

If you prefer to forego the rugs and have a different kind of flooring, make sure it matches the feel of the room. Have a look at carpet, hardwood, and vinyl floors to determine exactly which one is the right choice. Warming up your living room with these components won’t need a lot of time or money. Simply be creative and put these ideas into action to see – and more importantly, feel – the difference.

When you buy a homeowner’s insurance policy to protect your home, you expect it to cover any damage that may occur to your house. After all, that’s what insurance is for right? Well, not always. One of the most frequent questions insurance professionals get is does insurance cover water leaks? The answer is, it depends. As unsatisfactory as that answer maybe, you really need to understand your homeowner’s insurance policy and its coverages before a leak occurs. But, there are general guidelines to leak coverage that most insurers follow.

Sudden and Accidental Water Damage

Most homeowners’ insurance policies will cover water damage related to plumbing failures. This means that if a leak occurs because of a burst pipe or damaged water heater, your homeowner’s policy will likely cover it after you pay your deductible and up to the maximum amount your policy allows. Your policy may cover the damage according to three separate clauses:

• Dwelling coverage – This part of your homeowner’s insurance policy covers the actual structure of your house. In many cases, water leaks will lead to damaged floorboards, walls, and ceilings. If the leak is sudden and due to a failure in plumbing, you will typically have a dwelling coverage deductible that will need to be paid before the insurance company will cut you a check for the damages up to the maximum covered by your policy.
• Property coverage – This part of your homeowner’s insurance policy will reimburse you for personal property (i.e. televisions, furniture, clothing, etc.) that is damaged by water from a sudden leak. How these items will be covered, though, depends on how you initially set your policy up.
  • A replacement cost policy means that your belongings will be reimbursed at the price it will cost to replace your items with new comparable items.
  • A market value policy means that your belongings will be reimbursed at their depreciated cost (i.e. what they would be worth used on the open market).

A replacement cost policy will be more expensive upfront, but you’re sure to be able to replace your items with brand new ones. You’ll pay less each month or year for a market value policy, but you’ll also receive less in reimbursement if a leak damages your items.

Keep in mind that some belongings like jewelry and fine art are only covered up to a specified maximum that may not cover their true value. You may want to add an additional policy rider to cover a higher amount for these special items.

• Additional Living Expenses coverage – This part of your homeowner’s insurance coverage would only kick in if you are unable to live in your home for a period of time due to the water leak and resulting damage. In this event, you would be reimbursed for food, travel, and lodging expenses for the time you’re unable to use your house.

Leaks from Normal Wear and Tear

The bad news is that most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover leaks that result from normal wear and tear or a lack of maintenance. This means that if your toilet springs a leak because you didn’t repair a crack in the base and water leaked out slowly, causing damage to the floorboards over time, your policy will probably not cover it. It also means that if a leak occurs to a toilet because of its age, this would be considered normal wear and tear leak.

For this reason, it’s important to keep your plumbing in top shape. If you have a tree with roots that like to clog your pipes, have a professional clean the pipes out at least once a year. Inspect your toilet every time you clean it for hairline cracks or potential leaks around the caulking and bolts. If you see anything concerning, either repair your toilet or replace it. This is much cheaper than the resulting damage from a slow leak that isn’t covered by insurance.

Sewage Backups

Water damage from sewage backups is almost never routinely covered by homeowner’s insurance policies, even if the backup isn’t your fault (i.e. the city sewer system gets overwhelmed due to a major storm). Fortunately, you can purchase a rider on top of your basic homeowner’s insurance policy that will cover damage from sewage backups. These riders are so inexpensive that it’s a no-brainer to buy this coverage. In the event of a major backup, you won’t have to worry about contamination or damage from the water.

Mold Damage

Even if your policy does cover your water leak, it may not cover mold damage, which can often be quite extensive, especially if you don’t catch the leak right away. As with sewage backups, you can purchase a rider that will cover mold damage, and because mold damage claims can often top $30,000, the rider is an inexpensive way to guard against a major financial hit. Plus, you may have to leave your house for a while during mold removal or remediation, so you’ll want to make sure your Additional Living Expenses coverage is adequate for this purpose.

Keep in mind that if you live in a mold-prone area like states in the humid southern part of the U.S., mold coverage riders will be significantly more expensive than in other parts of the country. But, in comparison to the amount of money it will cost to rid your home of mold in the event of a leak, the rider is most likely still a bargain.

Check Your Policy Now

The best action you can take right now is to check your homeowner’s insurance policy for the details of water leak coverage. Your policy may be different from the standard, so don’t take anything for granted. If you find your policy lacking in any area, take steps now, before you have a leak to ensure you are covered when and if the time comes that you need to use your insurance policy.

Conclusion

In the end, no two homeowner insurance policies are exactly alike, and you can even customize your plan to meet your specific needs. If you’re worried about water leak coverage, do something about it now. Contact your insurer to verify coverage and add the necessary riders to cover any possible water leak damage.

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Beachfront homes are popular all over America. They are especially popular in places like Miami, Florida, but what if you’re looking for a beachfront home in another location? Are there any other cities with the same promising properties that make buying a beachfront house worth your time?

Here are five of the best places to buy beachfront houses besides Miami.

Huntington Beach, California

Huntington Beach is a city in Orange County, California. It is known for its long, wide beaches and the waves that make it a popular spot for surfing. The city is also home to the Huntington Beach Pier, which offers a great view of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re looking for a beachfront property in Huntington Beach, you’ll find plenty of options. The median price for a beachfront home in Huntington Beach is approximately 1.1 million. However, there are a variety of houses that fall on either side of that number offering stunning water views, ideal access to the beach and many exciting amenities.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Huntington Beach is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, delicious restaurants, upscale shopping and incredible sunsets.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake located on the border of Nevada and California. It is known for its surrounding mountains, which include Mount Tallac. The city of South Lake Tahoe, California has several beachfront properties available at affordable rates. You can find a number of homes for sale that are right on the beach for under $1 million.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious property, the city of Incline Village, Nevada offers some of the most expensive beachfront homes in the area. However, even if you don’t have millions of dollars to spend, there are many opportunities to find a beautiful beachfront home near Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe is the largest Alpine Lake in the country and boasts a wide range of things for its residents to see and do all year long. From stunning views of the mountains to fun activities on the water, Lake Tahoe offers something for everyone. In the winter, the area is transformed into a magical wonderland of snow which brings visitors from all over the world. While in the summer, it’s a beautiful retreat for hikers and boaters alike.

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is a city on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. It is well known for its wide, sandy beaches which make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and fishing.

The median price for a beachfront home in Ocean City is about $750,000. However, there are plenty of homes for sale at all different price points. Ocean City also offers a variety of rental options, which makes it easier to find a beach house that fits within your budget while still offering all the amenities you could want.

Ocean City is a playground for people of all ages offering something to see and do around every corner. The city is home to an assortment of attractions, including the Ocean City Boardwalk. This beautiful boardwalk stretches for two miles along the beach and offers many fun shops, dining options and games for all visitors to enjoy. There are also several annual festivals you can attend in Ocean City throughout the year like “Sunfest” and “Maryland’s Crabfest“.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head is a resort town located on an island off the coast of South Carolina. It is known for its 12 miles of white-sand beaches, numerous golf courses and luxurious resorts.

The median price for a beachfront home in Hilton Head is about $2 million. However, there are still some great options at more affordable prices. There are also many rental properties available in Hilton Head.

Hilton Head is a beautiful coastal town filled with lush tropical vegetation and palm trees. It has something to offer everyone who visits, from golfing and horseback riding to biking and shopping at the many outlet malls located in the area. The island also offers several annual festivals like “The Beach Festival”, “Concert in the Sky” and “Sea and Sand Festival”.

Delray Beach, Florida

Delray Beach is a resort city located in Palm Beach County, Florida. It is known for its lively downtown area and its beautiful white-sand beaches.

The median price for a beachfront home in Delray Beach is approximately $1 million. However, there are still some great affordable properties available in Delray. Delray Beach is home to many exceptional coastal communities such as Seven Bridges. This amazing neighborhood boasts some of the cities best real estate options and top-tier amenities for its residents to enjoy.

Delray Beach is a vibrant city that is perfect for anyone who loves to be close to the action. The downtown area offers a variety of restaurants, bars and shops for visitors and residents alike to enjoy.

There are so many beautiful beachfront communities in the United States that are perfect for anyone looking to purchase a home. These five towns are just a small sampling of what is available. From Ocean City, Maryland to Hilton Head, South Carolina, there is something for everyone when it comes to finding your dream beachfront home. So, if Miami is not the right fit for you, don’t worry, there are plenty of other amazing beach towns to choose from.

Homeowners can save thousands when selling their homes through listing agents and real estate investors. But, according to the National Association of Realtors, just 1% of homeowners currently list their properties with brokers. This means most homeowners can’t take advantage of this strategy to get top dollar for their houses. To sell your property fast, you’ll likely need to enlist the services of a real estate investor such as we buy houses Greenville, who buys houses quickly before reselling. Here are some mistakes that you could be making right now if you want to avoid headaches as well as save thousands on your house sale!

Not Knowing Your Property Market Value

The initial step in selling is determining what your property is worth. You’ll need to do this by researching comparable properties in your area. There are many options to go about doing so:

Visit real estate websites or local newspaper classifieds. This is a great way to search for homes that have recently sold in your neighborhood. If you’re looking at houses that have been on the market for some time, contact your agent and let them help you identify recent sales in your area.

Call up friends who own their own homes and ask how much they paid for theirs.

Request your realtor to provide you with information on recent sales in your area, including the number of bedrooms and baths, parking space, lot size, etc.

Hiring or Not Hiring a Realtor

It depends on what you want to accomplish. If you’re looking for a quick sale and don’t mind paying a premium, then yes, it might make sense to go that route. But if you want to optimize your return on investment and are willing to put in some time and effort, then hiring a realtor is worth considering. Here’s why:

1. You’ll get more exposure.
2. You’ll have access to professional services like staging and photography.
3. You’ll avoid making costly mistakes.
4. You’ll have someone to call if you run into problems.
5. You’ll have someone who knows the market.

When they sell their house, one big mistake is that they don’t know what it takes to get top sales for their home. Most sellers think that they need to put up some signs and wait for buyers to show up. The truth is that many things go into getting top dollar for your home. You may be surprised to learn how much time and effort goes into selling your house quickly.

The best way to find a good realtor is by word of mouth. Ask your friends and family who their favorite realtors are. You may even want to ask some of your coworkers about their experiences working with realtors.

Expecting the Asking Price

If you’re selling your home in today’s market, it is essential to understand how much time and effort goes into each process stage. This part of the process is more accessible when planning and preparing before listing. If you know what to expect as you move through the steps, you can make better decisions about hiring professionals and when to do things yourself. Moreover, if you have a plan for managing the sale of your home, you will be able to stay on track and avoid common pitfalls that many sellers do.

The best way to determine your home is worth it is by appraisal. An appraisal is a professional assessment of value based on comparable sales data for homes that are similar to yours. The appraiser will compare recent sales in your neighborhood and sales in nearby communities to come up with a number.

Hiding Major Problems

The seller is responsible for any repairs to the property and must pay all costs associated with those repairs. If the home seller does not repair or replace damaged items promptly, the buyer may do so at their expense. The property seller is also responsible for paying any fees related to the sale of the property.

You must remember: if you do not correct the problem before it occurs, you will likely lose a significant portion of potential buyers who wish to purchase a turnkey house. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when inspecting homes for sale. Many states require companies to disclose certain financial relationships between their executives.

In some states, real estate agents may be required to inform potential homebuyers about any significant defects they find during an inspection. However, in most cases, sellers don’t need to tell prospective purchasers about these problems unless they specifically ask for them.

The Bottom Line

Homebuyers need to be prepared mentally and financially for more-or-less ideal and less-than-ideal scenarios. Learn all you can about selling your own home, so you know what to do if something goes wrong. Selling a property is not simply listing it online for a few days. It’s also about getting ready mentally and financially before you list it. Be prepared to think about all possible outcomes before listing your house. Think about how much money you could lose by selling it at a low price. Sellers’ remorse can be worse than no regret at all. It’s better to plan. If you avoid the costly mistakes stated above, you’ll be a lot closer to getting your most important transaction done right.

The value of your home is a number calculated by real estate agents and can be used to measure how much your house is worth. According to research done by Zillow in 2018, the average value of homes in the U.S. was $226,800, but this number will vary depending on where you live. For instance, an average home in California would have a higher value than an average home in Ohio because more people want to live here, and there’s less space available for new houses.

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There are various things you can do to raise the price of your home. By making a few simple changes, you can make your home more appealing to potential buyers and get a better return on your investment when it comes to selling.

Here are five simple ways on how to increase the value of your home:

Increase the Amenities

The most important thing you can do to increase the value of your home is to improve its amenities. The more features your house has, the better it will be worth. Upgrade any outdated appliances and install energy-efficient systems such as Sopris solar, which can also act as a backup power plan in case there is a blackout.

You can also add new fixtures that will make life easier for your family members, including multiple water outlets in the kitchen and laundry room, built-in bookcases in a library nook, a second refrigerator or freezer, and an extra sink outside of the kitchen. When the time to sell comes, many buyers may pass on homes that don’t have these upgrades unless they’re listed at a great price.

Add Storage Space and Bring In Light

One of the best things you can do to make your home more appealing is to add storage space. By adding a closet, attic, or garage, you’ll allow potential buyers to see how they could use the extra space in their own home. You can also increase the value of your home by bringing in more light. This can be done by installing windows or skylights and painting white walls. Bright colors will also help make your home feel larger and more inviting.

Fix up the Outside

The outside of your house is just as important as the inside when it comes to increasing its value. Ensure all of the landscaping is well-maintained and that the paint job is in good condition. You may also want to consider adding a patio or deck to the property. This will not only increase the value of your home but will also make it more enjoyable to live in. Also, note that an under-deck ceiling drainage system can provide great value.

Make Sure the Wiring and Plumbing are up to Date

If your house is more than a few years old, it’s likely that the wiring and plumbing are no longer up to date. This can be a big turnoff for potential buyers, so it’s essential to address these issues before putting your house on the market. Fixing any leaks, replacing obsolete wiring, and updating the plumbing can be costly but will be well worth it in the end.

Clean up the Interior

The interior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it’s important to make sure it’s clean and organized. Remove any clutter from the rooms and make sure all surfaces are clean. You may also want to consider repainting the walls in a neutral color and replacing any outdated furniture. These simple changes will help make your home look more appealing to buyers and will increase its value in the process.

Conclusion

The market for homes is hot, and it’s only going to get hotter. That means now is a great time to upgrade and sell your home. But first, take some time today and find the true value of your home and get to know how much your house could be worth on the open market.