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Older homes can charm potential buyers with their character, history, and craftsmanship. However, purchasing an older property requires just as much (sometimes more) careful consideration as newer builds. To ensure it's the right fit for your needs and budget, there are several items to investigate.

We strongly recommend hiring a home inspector, no matter what home you're looking to purchase. This can help alleviate concerns and protect buyers from jumping into a contract on a home that requires more than they want to give. Here are a few questions you may want to ask:

- "What's the condition of the roof, foundation, and structure?" 
These are critical components of any home, and knowing more about them will help you avoid costly surprises later.

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Buying a home is a significant milestone, but before starting the search, most buyers need to be financially prepared to qualify for a mortgage. Securing a home loan involves a detailed review of your financial health, and preparing in advance can make the process smoother. Here are some key steps to improve your chances of qualifying:

• Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a crucial role. Most lenders use it to assess your creditworthiness and determine the interest rate you'll receive. Typically, a score of 620 or higher is required for most conventional loans, although some government-backed loans (like FHA) may accept lower scores.

Before applying for a mortgage, check your score with a free credit report from all three…

In today's world, where sustainability and cost-efficiency are becoming increasingly important, energy-efficient upgrades to your home not only help the environment but also save dollars over time. One of the most beneficial ways to offset the cost of these upgrades is through energy-efficient rebates offered by many governmental and utility programs. 

For those unfamiliar with the term, energy efficient rebates are financial incentives provided by governments, utility companies, or other organizations to encourage homeowners to invest in energy-saving technologies and practices. These rebates can significants reduce the upfront costs of upgrades, allowing more accessibility and affordability. Common examples include:

• Appliances: Purchasing…

Ensuring your home is a safe haven should be a top priority for every homeowner. From preventing accidents to deterring intruders, here are some essential tips to help you protect everyone and everything under your roof. 

1. Secure Your Entry Points
The first line of defense against unwelcome persons is securing your doors and windows. Invest in sturdy deadbolt locks on exterior doors and a strike plate for added reinforcement. You can also install window locks, if they're not already in place. Make sure all entry points are well-lit. Motion sensor lights may also be a worthwhile purchase.

2. Install a Security System
A reliable security system can provide peace of mind by alerting you to potential threats. Modern systems offer a range of…

Moving homes is an exciting but often stressful experience, and it can be even more challenging with beloved pets. Our pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so a sudden major change can cause anxiety and confusion. However, with careful planning and thoughtful prep, you can ensure a smooth transition for humans and furry friends alike.

Preparing for the Move

Before moving day arrives, start by gradually introducing them to moving supplies like boxes and packing material. Maintain a consistent routine with feeding, walking, and playtime to keep them calm. If you have a particularly anxious pet, it may be helpful to proactively discuss options with your vet, such as calming aids or additional techniques.

If you're moving to a new city,…

"Top 5" F.A.Q. From Buyers

1. "Should I talk to my lender or find a home I like first?"
   
   Our advice is always: Talk to your lender! Before offering on a home, it's important to know how much home you can afford and how much money you'll need to buy a home. Your preferred lender will want to take a look at your finances and talk about a monthly payment that's realistic. They will crunch some numbers and be able to provide the maximum loan amount you're "Pre-Approved" for overall. These days, having a Pre-Approval Letter from your lender can be crucial when making an offer. It shows the seller that you're serious and have your financing in order. 
   
   
2. "What does the timeline/process of buying a home look like?"
   
   When using a lender, the standard timeline…

It's almost summer, so bring on the sunshine! With warmer weather approaching, it's time to uncover those pools. Whether you currently own a pool or are looking to purchase a home with one, we've got some tips for prepping and maintaining your own private oasis. 

Opening Your Pool

• Algae grows faster when temps are higher than 65, so don't wait too long to open your pool.
• Pool water should be fully drained and replaced every two to three years to avoid a build-up of algae and to extend the life of your investment.
• If you notice there's standing water on your cover, be sure to use a sump pump to drain it. This will help you avoid damaging the cover and will prevent too much of the excess from leaking into your pool water. 
• It's also…

So you've decided to list your home and need someone to do the heavy lifting to get it sold? Maybe your family is growing or you're ready to downsize? Looking for the ideal space to call your first home? It's time to call a real estate professional! Choosing the right agent can seem like a daunting task, but we've put together a guide to help keep things simple.

Do I Really Need a Real Estate Agent?

Although you can list and sell your own home, there are many benefits to hiring an agent. A realtor is working in the local market every day, so their knowledge of current pricing trends is invaluable. This can ensure you make the highest profit possible on your home. They know what buyers are looking for and how to stage your home to grab the…

It has been quite the whirlwind of a real estate market over the last few years here in Chattanooga, TN. We hit all time lows with interest rates as well as all time highs with home value increases. Homes were selling in less than 24 hours and with little to no contingencies. Throughout 2022 and 2023, we started to see that change a bit as the interest rates began to increase which changed a lot of people’s buying power. It has been all over the news and social media lately that interest rates are expected to drop in 2024 which would mean a lower mortgage payment for buyers. While you may be saying to yourself, “I’ll wait to buy a home when the interest rates drop,” we’re here to discuss why that may not be in your best interest. While we can’t…

The holiday season is a magical time of year, and there's nothing quite like having friends and family in the comfort of your own home. We have seen so many people purchase their first home in the recent years which creates the perfect opportunity to host holiday gatherings for the first time. Whether you purchased your first home or moved into a new home, we've put together a list of 10 essential tips to help you host an unforgettable gathering and make lasting memories during this special time of year. 

1. Create a Warm Welcome 

Begin with a festive entrance to set the tone for your gathering. Consider placing a wreath on the front door, adding twinkling lights, or placing a seasonal doormat to greet your guests with holiday cheer. 

2.…