SkyFive Properties Blog

Projects involving the roof of your home or business are among the most significant investments you will ever make. Transparent project management will go a long way in providing a stress-free replacement roofing experience. If you find yourself wondering about the status of your current roof, you should contact a roofing contractor to help you determine what needs to be done.

There are several telltale signs that can indicate replacement roofing is necessary. The need for a roof replacement could arrive even sooner than expected due to general environmental or other deterioration factors requiring immediate attention. If you notice any of the following signs that your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, contact a roofing contractor for an estimate.

Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles that are damaged and worn can appear curled or cracked. Some shingles may even be missing entirely. This is a sure sign that professional attention is needed before a leak develops and damages the structure of your home, your furniture, and keepsakes. 

Water Stains or Cracking Paint Spots

If you notice stains or cracked paint on the interior or exterior of your home, your first thought may not be to check the roof for damage! However, that is likely the culprit of this troubling sign you may need a replacement roof.

Mold or Moss Growth

Any moss or mold growth (mushrooms, too) is a scary sign indicating that moisture is being trapped in your roof where it should not be. In time, this will badly damage your roof; to avoid further damage, be sure to have a proper inspection scheduled as soon as you notice this sign.

Light Visible in Attic

Being able to see light pouring through the ceiling seems like an obvious sign that a replacement roof is needed, right? However, this one is often overlooked because you probably do not spend much time in the place you need to be to notice this sign! Indications of this require a thorough inspection of your attic space, so calling professionals is your best bet.

Sagging Roof
When you (and everyone else) can easily see that your roof is sagging, there’s no question a roofing replacement is in your near future. This situation can become dangerous quickly, and only a professional should do the inspection to find out exactly which steps need to be taken next.

Water Leaking

Anytime water is leaking into your home, you know there’s serious trouble. Damage to your valuables can happen very quickly, so this is not a time to wait and see what happens. Call a trustworthy roofing specialist right away if you notice water leaks.

Age Considerations

Eventually, even if you don’t notice obvious signs that your roof requires replacement, it may be the right time to do it. Once the roof on your home or investment property approaches 20 years old, you should consider options for updating this important piece of the property’s value.

Choose a Trusted and Reliable Roofing Replacement Contractor

It’s best to have a reliable roofing replacement contractor do a thorough checkup on your roof instead of climbing up there yourself, which can be a dangerous task. 

Whether your goal is maintaining your current home or increasing the value of your investment property, choosing a trustworthy professional should be high on your list of priorities. Working with a trustworthy roofing construction contractor who prioritizes integrity and the highest quality workmanship will put your mind at ease and ensure you make a valuable investment.

Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/roofers-roof-roofing-craft-2891664/

Acquiring your initial residence is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience for you. Florida, with its alluring offerings, can be an ideal location to establish your permanent residency.

But don’t let your excitement make you overlook important factors. You have to be careful when you are up to make this huge decision.

To ensure that you won’t have to regret it later, here we round up some mistakes that first-time homebuyers in Florida tend to do. Just go through them so that you can be careful and prepared.

The Home Price In Florida

At the very beginning, let’s check out the market situation of Florida’s real estate so that you can decide your budget easily.

According to Redfin, the current average home price in Florida is $449,999. And the home price varies in different counties. The median home price in one of the wealthiest counties, Palm Beach County, is $500K as of January 2023.

Based on New Home Source data, Palm Beach Gardens is one of the most expensive places to live in palm beach county. The average home price here is $1,053,125. And if you want to live in an high-end gated community like Bay Hill Estates, you have to spend on average $2,181,100.

Anyway, lower-budget options are also available in other cities. Cape Coral, Dunedin, Fort Walton Beach, Lakeland, Vero Beach, etc are the places where you can buy homes at affordable prices.

The Mistakes A New Home Buyer Should Look Out

You have to be careful before taking your step to buy your first home. Below we have arranged some common mistakes that a first-time home buyer usually makes.

Taking Decisions Without Proper Research

Investing in real estate involves a lot of money. One single mistake can create a great loss. So, do proper research and analysis. Focus on how much you can spend. After finding a few suitable homes, look at the property tax, neighborhood situation, local amenities, market trends, and so on.

Incorrect Mortgage

Depending on your situation, you should choose an adjustable-rate mortgage or fixed-rate mortgage. The current mortgage rates in Florida are like the following-

• 5.973% for a 30-year fixed
• 5.146% for a 15-year fixed
• 6.610% for a 5-year adjustable-rate mortgage

Think carefully before signing your contract as a wrong decision can impact your finance for many years. Unfortunately, many homebuyers tend to get the wrong mortgage.

Exceeding Budget

Don’t let your emotion overpower your rational consideration. Many buyers do this mistake while investing. For your future financial security, you should not cross your budget.

While doing the primary research, you must set up your budget. You know, buying a property involves additional costs. As a result, if you decide to buy a home beyond your budget, the additional cost will be a big burden for you.

No Long-Term Plan

Buying a home needs a long-term plan. You should not buy a house in Florida just for enjoying the mesmerizing view of the rising market value.

Think about communication, public transport, school, hospital, or any other important institution when picking up a location. You can talk with your real estate agent and get their help to find the perfect location within your budget.

Not Giving Attention to Home Owner Association

As first-time buyers, many people don’t know the power of Home Owner Associations (HOA) in Florida. To co-exist peacefully you have to maintain their rules.

So, look at the rules and regulations of your local HOA before moving into the area. If there is an existing rule that may create problems in your regular life, you should know about it beforehand. Otherwise, it will be too late after already make your purchase.

Don’t Read The Contract Properly

Real estate contracts tend to be complex. Some terms are only understandable by the professional and it’s almost impossible for a regular person to understand them.

However, a contract paper is such a thing you should not look over even a single sentence. Therefore, you should get a help of an experienced person while going through the terms and conditions. In this way, you can avoid future problems.

Purchasing a home for the first time might make you confused enough that you make a mistake easily. However, just by watching out for the above-mentioned points, you can be on the safe side.

The real estate market in Florida is quite secure. Safe investment and a peaceful environment – if you want both, Florida is simply the right place for you.

If you are lucky enough to have your dream home in this state, take your first step without any hesitation!

Buying a property is probably one of the most significant investments you’ll make. Unfortunately, the process can be overwhelming. This is especially true if there are countless options available in the real estate market. Whether you’re purchasing a townhome, house, or condo, the choices are limitless. All you need is to research carefully to make a well-informed decision.

If you’re confused about the properties for sale in Vancouver, you can make the buying process easy with the help of professionals. These professionals have in-depth knowledge and experience in real estate, helping you make a wise choice suitable for your needs and budget.

Before you buy a property in Vancouver, here are the other things to consider:

Budget

According to a Coquitlam realtor, before you buy any property, you must consider your budget. Having a budget in mind will save you time looking for your preferred property. However, when setting a budget, be realistic. Think of your financial goals and unexpected expenses.

Regardless of how you want to finance your home purchase, you may need to pay a large sum. This may include the closing costs and down payment. Aside from these, you also have to budget for other ongoing costs such as your monthly mortgage payment.

Needs And Wants

Create a list of your wants and needs. Everything you want might not be realistic within what you can afford. So, ask yourself about what you want or need in a property. Then, narrow down what you really need. Everything else included after your requirements will only be a bonus.

As you check out various homes for sale, make sure to bring your list of wants and needs. This will guide you when looking for the right property to buy. However, regardless of your preferences, you must still pay attention to the property’s condition, structure, and price. This way, you’ll get the best value for investment.

Location

Another critical factor to consider is the location. While the property’s price and condition can be adjusted, you can never modify its location. So, never take the site for granted when buying a property, particularly if you have specific needs like accessibility to amenities and institutions like schools.

The property’s location may also determine various things that may influence and affect a home’s value. These may include school choices, quality of life, social opportunities, and commute times. Regardless of what your dream home looks like, you mustn’t sacrifice location. It’s better to adjust your preferred price range than to compromise the location.

Neighborhood

Before you buy any property, you must always do a background check of the neighborhood. Not all communities are the same, and others may not fit your needs. So, take a walk and ask around about your preferred neighborhood. Whether you’re living on your own or planning to have a family in the future, it’s crucial to live in a community with a secure and safe environment.

An excellent neighborhood is accessible to hospitals, grocery stores, educational institutions, and other establishments. Depending on your preferences, look for a property that provides convenience to you and your family. Since the neighborhood is a personal choice, think of the one that fits your unique needs, mainly if you’re a first-time homebuyer.

Size

Size is a vital consideration that most home buyers often overlook. No matter what your budget is, refrain from buying a property with a bigger space. A big house means paying more utility bills and maintaining a larger space, which may cost you a lot of money.

To avoid that, think of your current home’s size and how much space your belongings need. You may also ask your family members about their space requirements. Sometimes, considering your lifestyle needs may also be handy when choosing a property with the right size, mainly if you often host a party at home. If all houses for sale are bigger than you need, consider townhomes or condos instead.

Property’s Condition

Before you finalize your decision, inspect and check the property’s condition to ensure it’s in great shape. You may hire or work with a reliable home inspection expert to know the possible issues that may cause future surprises.

For example, if you’re buying an old property, you may encounter areas that need minor and major renovations, costing you more over time. If you want to purchase a new property, ensure you’re satisfied with the design and features to avoid frustrations.

Conclusion

There are countless things to consider before buying a property. So, keep the above list in mind to avoid purchasing the wrong property for your needs. If possible, hire or consult real estate professionals to make the process easy and less complicated, especially if it’s your first time buying a property in Vancouver.

Buying a home is a big decision that requires a lot of planning and research. It’s important to be aware of the common mistakes that people make when buying a home, especially if you’re looking to buy in Virginia. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common mistakes that people make when buying a home in Virginia and how to avoid them.

Not getting Pre-approved for a Mortgage

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when buying a home is not getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This can be a costly mistake, as it can limit your options when it comes to finding the right home. When you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, you’ll have a better idea of what you can afford and what type of home you should be looking for. Additionally, it will give you a more significant bargaining chip when negotiating with the seller.

Not having a Home Inspection

Another common mistake that people make when buying a home is not having a home inspection. A home inspection is a thorough examination of the home’s condition, and it can reveal any potential problems that the home may have. Without a home inspection, you may not be aware of any issues with the home until it’s too late. This can be costly, and it’s essential to have a professional inspect the home before you make an offer.

Not considering the Long-Term Costs

When buying a home, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect home. However, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of owning a home. This includes things like property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. You want to make sure that you can afford the home in the long run, not just when you first buy it.

Not doing your Research

Not doing your research when buying a home can be a mistake, as it can lead to missing out on the perfect home or neighborhood. For example, if you’re buying a home in Chantilly, you might not be aware of a new school being built in the area or an upcoming community center if you haven’t done your research. This means you could miss out on the opportunity to live in a highly desirable area with great amenities.

Additionally, researching the local market conditions can help you find a great deal on a home, such as a home that has been on the market for a while and is priced below market value. Not researching can also lead to overpaying for a home. By doing your research, you can ensure that you find the perfect home in the perfect location at the right price.

Not having a Clear Idea of your Wants/Needs

Not making a firm list of wants and needs when buying a new home can be a mistake, as it can lead to purchasing a home that doesn’t meet your needs or wants. When buying a new home, it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for and what you’re willing to compromise on.

For example, if you need a home with a large backyard for your children to play in, but you’re willing to compromise on the number of bedrooms, it’s important to make that clear to yourself and your real estate agent. Without a clear list of wants and needs, you may find yourself looking at homes that don’t fit your criteria, and you may end up buying a home that you’re not completely satisfied with. Additionally, having a clear list of wants and needs can also make it easier to filter through properties and avoid wasting time on homes that don’t meet your requirements.

Not hiring a Real Estate Agent

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes that people make when buying a home is not hiring a real estate agent. A real estate agent can help you navigate the home-buying process, and they can provide valuable insights into the local market. They can also help you find the right home and negotiate with the seller on your behalf.

In conclusion, buying a home in Virginia can be a fulfilling experience, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes such as not getting pre-approved for a mortgage, not having a clear understanding of the closing costs, and not hiring a reputable inspector. By taking the time to research and plan ahead, you can ensure that your home-buying experience is a successful one. Remember to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent, and take your time in finding the right home that meets all of your needs. With the right approach, you can find your dream home in Virginia and make it a place you’ll love for years to come.

Lighting can have a tremendous effect on your home. Using appropriate lighting can make your house more beautiful. If you are designing your home, inside and out, here are some of the best tips that you can consider to transform your home into the best possible ways.

1. Use Eye-Level Wall Fixtures – It’s typical to use the overhead lighting in almost every room in the house. While it can match perfectly in some areas, there are places where a change in lighting is necessary. Overhead lights often produce unsightly shadows, especially ones on high ceilings. It can be an issue, especially on bathrooms and bedrooms. So instead of using them, consider using eye-level wall fixtures, such as sconces. Also, most wall fixtures are not glaring, as they are usually inside cases or covered with fabric or glass.
2. Use Mirrors Effectively – Despite not a light source, mirrors can be used to create beautiful lighting designs for your home. Mirrors can reflect light, and when placed at the right places, can make a room beautiful. Some of the best places to put them are in front of light sources, such as windows. Aside from lighting, they can also make a room appear bigger.
3. Consider How Much Light You Need – When designing your home, determine how much lighting rooms need. But how much light do you really need? It depends on the room and how big it is. Naturally, smaller rooms will need less lighting, whereas kitchens will need more lighting compared to a dining room. For a more detailed guide, you can find some information on the internet from interior designers.
4. Try Curtains and Blinds – Natural lights are some of the best sources of lighting. It’s free and has many benefits. However, there are many ways to improve how you use it. Many designers use double curtains, which consist of a sheer and opaque curtain. During the day, the sheer curtain can block the decrease of heat while allowing light to enter the rooms still. The opaque curtains add dimension and can be used to cover the windows entirely to block light. Blinds and shutters are also excellent choices.Not only do these improve your lighting, but they can also make a huge difference in your heating and cooling bills. You can also try using outdoor curtain lights to look magical in front and back of other kinds of window treatments.
5. Use Outdoor Lights – When setting up lighting for your home, you’ll also want to include your outdoors, especially your patio. For your deck, you can use composite decking lights to illuminate your patio. Not only does it create beautiful ambients, but it also provides extra safety. Aside from deck lights, you can use upward lighting to showcase decorative pieces in your deck. It works well with tall plants, which can make them more dramatic.
6. Understand Task Lighting and Mood Lighting – When choosing your lighting design, consider whether you should use task or mood lighting. Task lighting is solid, specific, and focused, which usually comes from single fixtures. On the other hand, mood or ambient lighting can be achieved by using multiple light sources, which can create soft and diffused lights. So where should you use them? Use task lighting on rooms where you do work, such as your office or in the kitchen. As for mood lighting, use it in rooms where you want a relaxing and calming ambiance, such as your bedrooms.
7. Use Lighting To Create Focal Points – Focal points draw the attention of people into areas of interest. When used correctly, it can remarkably improve a room. One easy way to achieve this is by using lighting. Our eyes are always drawn to the brightest areas in the room. Placing recessed lights or upward lights on certain places can provide effective focal points. It can also reinforce other points, making it more noticeable, such as placing it near fireplaces.

There are many other ways to transform your home using adequate lighting. However, the trends change often, and lighting techniques always improve. Try to read more updated guides and tips on the internet on how to set up your lighting. Learn more about technical information about lighting, as it can’t be discussed all in one seating. If you are still unsure, it’s best to ask help from an expert. It may cost you some money, but it still is an excellent investment.

Interior design is a major concern for new homeowners or people looking to impress with their space. When one cannot delegate the matter to the best professionals in the field, there can be a lot of confusion about the best way to proceed. Here are a few sensible, effortless and cost-effective ways to elevate your interior design to the peak of contemporary allure.

Don’t Be Perfect

Perfect and symmetrical arrangements may have worked out in interior design decades ago but they now give a dated and unimpressive feel. Consider fusion styles and an asymmetrical look for that fashionable, contemporary interior design that is highly sought-after and makes it seem like you engaged a designer for your space.

Consider less common storage solutions, mismatched furniture and interesting room layouts for a modern and yet throwback, bohemian design. Striving for perfection can make a room seem formal and clinical while imperfection is what makes a space feel cozy and home-like.

Invest In Lighting Fixtures

The scope for lighting in the main living space and also in the bedrooms has a greater effect on the overall vibe than most people think. The tone of the light and indeed how well placed lighting fixtures are, determines mood, atmosphere and even the usability of a space. Depending on the overarching theme of your interior design, opt for artistic modern or vintage lighting fixtures and change up the style, color and placement of these fixtures for an interesting play on the available light.

If you live in an apartment where natural light or windows are scarce then installing more lighting fixtures and solutions becomes paramount. Make use of lanterns, twinkle lights, smart bulbs, table and floor lamps and even more innovative varieties like moon or star lamps. Plenty of research has shown that the right type of colored or warm lighting can uplift a bad mood or seasonal depression. If you want a stylish twist to your bedrooms and living spaces, invest in lighting and pay attention to the effect it can have. If you do have large windows Nashville blinds when chosen well can be a beautiful addition and can really enhance how natural light filters through during the day.

Choose A Fixed Color Scheme 

Designer homes and apartments are very much about specific color schemes that are followed throughout. Homes can either be relatively neutral and monochromatic or with brighter tones. There can also be a combination of the two with an understated backdrop and bright but tasteful pops of color. Color is a huge determinant of how comforting and cozy any home feels so this is a factor worth getting right. Different colors induce different feelings so decide on your vibe and choose colors accordingly when it comes to wall paint, furniture, and décor accents.

Personalized Comfort Makes All The Difference 

Cozy home styles like Hygge have taken the world by storm since they emphasize that home is where you go to relax and unwind and remove the stress of the day. Add personalized comforting elements like cushions, pillows, blankets, fabric, rugs, mugs, and even figurines. Comforting elements can elevate the interior design and even make the space seem more practical along with warding off feelings of sadness.

Adding candles and aromatherapy solutions like an essential oils diffuser to create an atmosphere of relaxation works wonders for making a house feel like a home in the truest sense. Functional additions like trays and containers or slide-out storage options can go towards that feeling of personalized comfort since practicality is very important. Proper maintenance is essential for having a comfortable space so always have periodic roof inspections carried out by a Seattle roofing contractor, especially during a change in season.

Tone Down The Clutter

A simple yet designer trick for elevating your interior design is to adopt a minimal persona when it comes to your interior décor. Pick and choose statement pieces and large art pieces rather than cluttering your tables and shelves. You can be minimal when it comes to furniture as well especially for a smaller space as that will open up the space to the eye and create less clutter. Good housekeeping includes having a clean and organized space as these two qualities automatically elevate your sense of style. Remember less is more!

Entrances And First Impressions 

Your entryway is the first impression any visitor has of your home. Redesign it to make it functional and aesthetically pleasing with flower pots, art, rugs and maybe even a lamp. The entryway does include your porch and lawn if you are redesigning the interior scheme of your house.

As a homeowner in Miami, you are always concerned about protecting your home. After all, it is, if not your largest investment, certainly an important one. You worry about natural disasters hitting the area where your home is located, tree branches falling on its roof, leaks, and many other adversities. You may also worry that you might lose your job at the worst possible time and be unable to keep up with your mortgage payments. Or maybe when you are facing an issue, your insurance will not come through as you expect. If this happens to you, you need a knowledgeable insurance claim attorney to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Before anything unexpected happens, be ready with the right protection for your valuable property. Here are three types of insurance that every homeowner in South Florida should have.

Homeowner’s Insurance

Four types of coverage are included in the typical homeowner’s insurance policy. These include dwelling and personal property, medical payments, personal liability, and additional living expenses. This policy is meant to protect a homeowner from loss and damage to their property and the valuables within it.

Please note that flood insurance and earthquake damage are not covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy. It is recommended that if you live in an area where flooding is common, you purchase a separate flood insurance policy. The same applies to earthquake insurance if your area is prone to this natural event.

Mortgage Insurance

Buying a mortgage insurance policy means that you will be protected against default. It also means that the lender will give you the loan even when they consider you to be a higher risk. In general, if the down payment you put on the property is smaller than 20 percent, your lender will require this policy. Your policy may allow you to pay the premiums monthly or annually. You may also want to consider disability insurance to have protection should you die or become disabled.

You should ask your insurance company whether it is possible to cancel your mortgage insurance policy once the loan balance has been reduced to a certain amount. Also, ask what specific requirements you would have to meet for this cancellation to take effect.

Title Insurance

Lenders require that you have title insurance to protect them against loss when you face claims by others against your new property. Your lawyer may offer this type of insurance as part of their services when they examine the title and provide an opinion. The fee your lawyer will charge you may include the title insurance premium, or you may purchase it directly from a title insurance company or a title agency.

Keep in mind that a title insurance policy is not meant to protect you. If you are worried about others having claims against your new home, you should look into buying an owner’s title insurance policy. This way, should a claim occur, you will be protected against the possibility of facing financial devastation by being uninsured. Ask whether it would be less expensive if you purchase it at the same time as the title insurance that the lender requires.

All these policies can add up to a significant amount of money. It pays to compare rates among various companies, always asking what services and limitations on coverage each policy includes. You may discover that a higher rate will better serve your needs. If your home is new, make sure to include coverage of claims by contractors.

Moving is an expensive business, so it is sensible to find ways of cutting the cost where you can, whether you are removing into an impressive mansion or a small apartment.

One of the best places to save money is undoubtedly on the packaging. More often than not, you can find plenty of cardboard boxes for free, you just need to know where to look, and there’s no point in paying for boxes that you will need to dispose of after the move when you can get them for free.

That being the case, here are some of the best places to find free moving boxes right now:

1. Craigslist

Craigslist is an excellent source of free cardboard boxes because let’s face it, most of us have more cardboard boxes lying around than ever before thanks to online shopping, and most of us do not want to hold on to them for longer than necessary, so a quick request on this website is likely to prove fruitful.

2. Local stores

Before you book your move with North American Van Lines, hit up your local stores to see if they have any boxes that they would be willing to let you have. Most stores, as you can imagine, have lots of huge cardboard boxes lying around that once contained stock, often, they are only too happy to let you take them and make use of them because it saves them the job of having to dispose of them,

Stores are often the best source of boxes because their boxes tend to be larger and more durable due to being used to transport large quantities of stock for sale.

3. Freecycle

Freecycle is a really useful website that aims to help people save money and reduce the amount of waste we all create by letting people ask for and offer their stuff up to other members. So, as you can imagine, it is an excellent palace to try and find free cardboard boxes. Simply post your request and you are sure to be inundated with offers in your local area in no time at all.

4. Apartment buildings

Apartment complexes are a place you might not think of looking for new boxes, but because people are moving in and out all the time, it is often a great place to find them. Usually, if you speak to the apartment manager, he or she will be able to point you in the right direction of some unwanted boxes, and you will be doing them a favor by taking them off their hands.

5. Recycling centers

Your local recycling center might also be home to a few boxes, but be sure to ask before you sell them as not all recycling centers let the public reuse their stuff.

As you can see, there are lots of sources of free moving boxers out there, so if you’re already counting the cost of moving day, why not give them a try? You could save more than you might think.

If you’re thinking of changing your residence and you’ve been looking for apartments for rent in Florida, you probably know all too well the hassle that comes with it. There is a myriad of things to consider, like where you want to stay, whether or not you need a garage, your budget, the safety of the neighborhood, and perhaps what you should have when you move in. Using a rental locator may be the solution to all your problems.

Not sure whether working with apartment locators will help you get your dream home? Here’s all you need to know about rental locators and the benefits of working with them

What Is a Rental Locator?

Apartment locators are typically licensed real estate professionals who specialize in doing the initial legwork involved in renting. Their main task is to help renters find a home that meets their unique needs. In this role, they often work with property owners to find the best match, explain crucial details about the property location to home seekers, help evaluate the lease conditions, and help their clients assess their options and make informed decisions.

That said, you’re sure to have an easy time looking for a new place to call home with the help of a professional apartment locator. But what exactly are the merits of using a rental locator?

The Benefits of Using a Rental Locator

Rental locator services are one of the best ways of finding desirable homes that meet the unique criteria that you’re seeking. This is because it takes the guessing out of locating an apartment by enabling you to choose specific price ranges and amenities you need in your new apartment.

Most locators have websites through which renters can request locator services. You can also pay them a visit at their offices, especially if you prefer face-to-face meet-ups.

Whether you choose to request apartment locator services online or visit your locator’s physical location to talk to them directly, using a rental locator comes with many benefits that can significantly help your apartment search.

They’re Local Experts

Rental locators know the place you wish to move into, much like locals who live there do. Your locator knows which places are safer than the others and which neighborhoods are pricier to live in. What’s more, you don’t have to stress about the proximity of your home to essential goods and services – apartment locators know that, too.

Aside from being on the “in” regarding rental rates, locations, and amenities, rental locators also have the inside scoop. Since they exclusively work in the rental industry, they know where to find the best rental apartments, not to mention, how, when, and where to get the best home deals.

They Can Save You Time and Money

Another reason you should consider using a rental locator to find an apartment is that they’ll do all the upfront legwork for you. Once you explain to your locator precisely what you’re looking for, they’ll handle the extensive research upfront and narrow your options down to a select few. This makes the entire house-hunting process faster and much easier.

Since experienced rental locators have long-term relationships with most regional property owners, they’re often able to secure financial benefits for their clients. For instance, you might be able to get the first month free in some of the larger apartments in the area as a move-in bonus. What’s more, you won’t have to spend your money on locators as they are usually paid by the complexes.

They’re a Valuable Rental Industry Resources

Do you have an idea of the fair market value of a studio apartment in Florida? Perhaps not, and if you don’t, you risk paying too much. In the same way, if you’re not privy to some of the amenities and benefits some local apartments come with, you could easily end up missing out. Generally, experienced rental locators have already conducted their research and can offer the much-needed insight into what’s fair and what’s not across the board.

Should You Use a Rental Locator?

The process of relocating is hectic and tiresome enough without the hassle of having to look for an apartment. Using a rental locator to help you find the right apartment is the perfect way to ensure that you get a home that meets all your unique needs and preferences.

New Open Property Group research found that England is facing both a significant homeless and housing crisis. In England, between January 2022 and March 2022, 74,230 households were found to be homeless or threatened with becoming homeless.

Out of the 74,230 households that were found to be homeless or threatened with homelessness, 25,610 of these were households with children.

Is the rising cost of living the biggest factor or is it the lack of new housing and social housing supply? Over 1 million households in England are currently waiting for Social Housing and with Social housebuilding in England being at its lowest rate in decades, patterns are starting to emerge.

Since 1991, there has been an average annual net loss of 24,000 social homes. The Government’s ambition is to build 300,000 new homes per year, with around half of these being built for Social housing. Despite this, only 216,000 new homes were supplied in 2020/21.

Open Property Group Managing Director, Jason Harris-Cohen said:

“The figures surrounding homelessness are more than worrying, especially as they do not reflect the immediate cost of living crisis. It really is a double-pronged attack, with a reduction in available social housing and a crisis in the private rental sector.

In March 2022, a report revealed tenants in the UK spent 42% of their take-home wages on private rent. If you calculated that figure today, it will have risen as rents have become more expensive every month since the report was released. With spiraling energy bills, fuel costs that remain stubbornly high, and an Autumn Statement from the Government that points to tax hikes, simply earning a wage isn’t enough to survive.

Even for private sector tenants who are just managing to cover their costs, the threat of homelessness can come from a different source. A recent survey by Cherry Plc found 28% of landlords questioned are planning to sell their properties, with the potential for thousands of tenants to be made homeless. In fact, the loss of a private tenancy is the second leading trigger of homelessness in England.

It is a dangerous cycle to be in. An increasing number of homeless tenants will be chasing a decreasing number of available private rental properties as more landlords look to sell up and exit. Tenants unable to find an alternative place to rent – or find they can’t afford rising rents – will then discover the pitfalls of the social housing sector. A ‘lose-lose’ situation will emerge.

The Government’s forthcoming rent cap in the social housing sector does nothing to address the homelessness crisis as you actually have to be in a property to benefit from the initiative. The focus needs to shift in two directions. Firstly, there needs to be an aggressive social housing build program, which must include traditional council houses that can be offered to the most in need first.

Secondly, more must be done to keep current landlords in the private rental sector as a supply and demand imbalance creates havoc. When a mass of landlords sell up, it leads to higher rents, less choice, and increased homelessness. The Government should reverse some of the punitive landlords measures it has introduced, starting by reinstating mortgage interest tax relief and they should strongly consider scrapping the additional stamp duty bill on second home purchases.” We hope that with more stability in UK bond markets, we will continue to see more competitiveness in bank lending rates, although we anticipate that the base rate set by the Bank of England will rise further.”

Source 1: 2022 House of Commons Library

Source 2: Shelter Organisation

Source 3: Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government

For more information please visit www.openpropertygroup.com

About Open Property Group

Open Property Group is a professional house-buying company that helps people sell their properties quickly. They buy all types of properties, in any condition, throughout England and Wales.

Homeowners benefit from selling their house fast, with a completion date fixed to the owners’ requirements. By selling directly, you pay no agent fees ‎and can plan ahead with certainty. We also pay your agreed legal costs too.