Category Archives: Real estate market outlook

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate

Navigating Your Housing Dilemma: 
 Starter Home vs. Forever Home

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Photo by Freepik

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, I like to analyze the real estate market and give you my most honest advice and feedback. October for some reason is always the busiest month of the year for me and I have helped a few buyers and sellers achieve their goals and dreams, even though our interest rates are currently above 8 percent.

That’s one reason, we need to understand how to enjoy home ownership in any market conditions. As the guest author Erin Reynolds wrote in her article below, a homebuyer should weigh the benefits of a starter home. You can find more info about Erin Reynolds on diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

When it comes to the age-old question of whether to invest in a more affordable starter home or go all-in on a forever home, the decision can be a daunting one. Your choice of a home is not just a financial decision; it’s a life decision. In this article, courtesy of Running for Real Estate, we explore key considerations that can help you make an informed choice that suits your current circumstances and future aspirations.

Weigh the Benefits of a Starter Home

The prospect of entering the real estate market is often less intimidating with a starter home, given the lower upfront costs. This kind of home offers you a way to start building equity rather than paying rent. Additionally, starter homes often have the potential for appreciation. For example, investing in a neighborhood that’s in the early stages of gentrification could lead to significant returns in a few years.

Recognize the Drawbacks of a Starter Home

On the flip side, starter homes often come with limitations, such as restricted space, which may not be suitable for a growing family. There’s also the possibility that you could outgrow the home quicker than you anticipated. Resale can be challenging as well, particularly if the market takes a downturn. For instance, homes in areas that become oversaturated with new developments could see a decrease in property value.

Understand the Advantages of a Forever Home

A forever home brings with it the promise of long-term stability. Unlike starter homes, these properties typically offer more room for growth and a variety of desirable amenities like nicer appliances, updated kitchens and baths, and more yard space. Imagine a spacious yard or extra bedrooms that could one day become a nursery or home office.

Consider the Pitfalls of a Forever Home

Forever homes certainly come with their own set of challenges, such as higher initial costs, which might necessitate a larger down payment or a higher mortgage rate. You’re also committing to a specific location for a longer period, and maintenance or upkeep can be significantly more demanding. For example, larger properties might require regular professional landscaping, something you’d need to budget for.

Plan for the Future

When considering which type of home to buy, think beyond the immediate concerns and anticipate your long-term needs. Life changes like marriage or having children can drastically impact your living situation. Moreover, it’s vital to consider the resale potential of the home. For example, a house in a good school district will likely be easier to sell down the line.

Connect with a Great Broker

Navigating the complex real estate landscape, whether you’re considering a starter home or a forever home, typically hinges on partnering with a reputable agent who comprehends both your unique needs and the dynamics of the local market. A skilled broker like Carmen Micsa, can be your guiding light, helping you navigate the intricacies of the buying process, identifying properties that align with your preferences and budget, and providing invaluable insights into the ever-changing real estate market conditions.

Explore Mortgage Options

Understanding the types of mortgages available can significantly impact your monthly payments and overall affordability. Different mortgage options have various interest rates and terms that can either constrain or stretch your budget. For instance, a fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable payments, while an adjustable-rate mortgage might provide lower initial payments but can fluctuate over time.

Safeguard Your Investment

Once you determine what to buy, it’s crucial to factor in the costs of insuring your property. Homeowners insurance covers damage to your home’s structure, theft of belongings, and injuries on your property. However, for comprehensive coverage against home system or appliance breakdowns, you’ll need a home warranty — an annual contract that can protect heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing systems, and appliances. Understanding these insurance and warranty options is vital as you weigh the decision between a starter home and a forever home, and this site could be helpful in making a well-informed choice that aligns with your long-term financial security and lifestyle preferences.

The choice between a starter home and a forever home is a deeply personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering your financial situation, and keeping an eye on the future, you can make a decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Remember, your home is not just a structure; it’s a place where memories are made and dreams are realized.

Choose wisely, and your home will be the foundation of a bright future.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Home Improvements, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Relocation, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

Essential Tips for Moving While Starting a Home Business

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Our real estate market is as hot as the 100+ degree Sacramento weather

Image via Unsplash

As the broker/CEO of my Dynamic Real Estate, Inc. company, my favorite part is being in the trenches, helping my sellers and buyers. July has been a super busy month for me working with sellers and noticing that moving can be a challenge, especially for people working from home, which is why I accepted the article below by guest author Erin Reynolds. You can find more info about her at diymama.net | erin@diymama.net.

If you are considering starting a company from home, then you need to look around and determine if you have the space necessary to support your family and accomplish your business goals. If you don’t, then it may be time to move. But how difficult is it to accomplish both? Here are some tips from Running for Real Estate to help you start your business and have a successful move at the same time.

Finding the Right Property for Your Needs

The first step that you will want to take is to find a home that will allow you to live and work comfortably. Research the town or area where you plan to move and once you find the best city, sign up for alerts for houses that are up for sale that meet your criteria. You will probably want to start by looking at the area of the prospective homes and see how many rooms they have. You may want to have space between your office and where your kids will be so you can have the quiet that you need to get your work done.

If you need to get a rental in the meantime, no worries! There are plenty out there, so you can afford to be picky. In addition to price, check the amenities to find the perfect fit for your needs. This has the added benefit of allowing you to learn more about an area before purchasing a home, as well.

Make Moving Easier

Since you will have a lot on your plate with your business, you will need to find ways to split your time or make the moving process easier. We never realize how much stuff we own until we decide to move, so to make things more manageable, The Spruce notes that you should start decluttering each room one by one while you remove the items you no longer need and donate them to a charity so they can be used elsewhere.

Think Realty points out that you should also consider hiring professional movers to make things much easier. A good moving company will help pick up your stuff, load the truck, then drive to your new destination and help you unpack. That way, you can focus more on your business. When looking for movers, make sure to do your research by looking online and reading previous customer reviews so you can get a real feel for the company. Once you have a shortlist, ask for quotes so you can get a good deal.

Keep Your Business Running During Your Move

If you don’t want to wait to start your business until after your move then you will want to have some solutions for how you will keep your company going during the transition. For instance, you can access your files from anywhere by using a cloud computing solution, like those offered by Amazon or Microsoft. That way, you can download or modify your paperwork no matter where you are in your travels.

If you decide to start your business after the move, use a formation company to help you establish a limited liability company. They can make it easier for you to start an LLC. In just a few minutes, they can walk you through the process online, ensuring that your business is set up with full legal compliance.

Next, it’s time to start spreading the word about your business! First, create a well-designed logo that makes a memorable first impression, builds brand awareness, and separates your business from the others. If you’re on a tight budget, instead of paying for a design service, you can use a tool to create your text logo. Go online and design a creative logo by choosing a style and icon and adding any pertinent text. You’ll be able to view an assortment of logos for inspiration and customize fonts and colors of your choosing.

Like organizing a move, becoming an entrepreneur can be challenging. As you can see, though, with some thought and smart planning, you can successfully move while starting a new business at the same time. Search the rental market to help you learn more about the area, plan your move carefully, and upgrade your marketing game to keep your business running smoothly.

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide you, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or any other of my books.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446.

Also, mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount).

Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Moving, Post Pandemic Real Estate Trends, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Selling Your Home

FOUR POST PANDEMIC REAL ESTATE TRENDS

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The Good, the Bad, and The Ugly of Our Post Pandemic Real Estate Market

I like to compare our 2021 Sacramento real estate market to one wild roller coaster ride that besides having twists, turns, and upside down loops sending thrill seekers on the verge of fear and elation, it also has unexpected highs and lows that I correlate to our high real estate prices and extremely low interest rates oftentimes below 3 percent. Our real estate market’s frenzy and desperation, especially on the buyers’ side, is directly related to the sudden decline in housing inventory at the beginning of 2021.

Needless to say, I have never experienced this bidding war before in my 21 years in the business as a real estate broker. And how ugly are these bidding wars? How much over the asking price is enough, you might ask? I have had an offer accepted for my buyers at $50,000 over the asking price, and we had to remove appraisal and loan contingencies to be the winning bid.

The good: offer accepted for my happy clients! The bad: $50,000 over the asking price no matter of the appraised value. The ugly: I have submitted about 15 offers for my buyers before their offer got accepted for $425,000, which is such a hot price point. However, with patience, perseverance, and my professional guidance, my clients are happy homeowners. And in the case of other buyers of mine, I got their offer accepted on the very first try, so some luck never hurts.

This wild roller coaster ride has resulted in the following four unique real estate trends:

  1. Million-dollar home sales have had a 126.92% increase since last year. Additionally, as Ryan Lundquist, our local appraiser expert points out in his Sacramento Appraisal blog, there were 94.9 percent more sales above the $750,000 and 27.3 percent fewer sales under $400,000 price range. We have highs in our real estate market not seen since 2006.
  2. The prevalence of the ADU – an Accessory Dwelling Unit is a permanent dwelling unit that may share at least one wall with the primary residence (attached) or be a stand-alone structure (detached) from the primary residence. ADUs provide permanent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.), or little homes built in the backyard of the main house, as the city of Sacramento is willing to approve ADUs either one home up to 1,200 sq. ft., or two homes 600 sq. ft. each depending on the lot size and setbacks. The approval of the ADUs is an important step in increasing price affordability and addressing Sacramento’s scarce inventory – see more info in my interview about the tiny homes trend with KCRA news.
  3. The big migration, which according to a LinkedIn data, show more workers moving to smaller US cities and away from larger cities in 2020 compared to 2019. Sacramento is in top five smaller US cities as far as positive growth in inflow over outflow of workers.
  4. Sellers’ confidence expected to grow as vaccine distribution is in full force, providing more peace of mind to sellers looking to make their move. According to Zillow economists, who show that 63 percent of sellers are also buyers, sellers’ mobility has increased for the following reasons: their desires to upgrade or upsize their homes, move to different neighborhoods, downsizing, and wanting a better work from home situation. 

For more information on the ADUs and the tiny homes and what type of approval process you need to have one in your backyards, stay tuned, as I will have a meeting with the city and county officials next week!

For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide and uplift you during these uncertain and crazy times, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book is going to Girls on the Run Sacramento chapter organization.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs), or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Fixer upper, Home Improvements, Home inspections, Home maintenance, Makingyourhomeyourown, Moving, Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Remodeling, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging, Selling your home in the winter, Staging Your Home for More Money, Uncategorized

THREE key questions to ask before buying your first rental property

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By Katie Conroy, the creator of Advice Mine. She enjoys writing about lifestyle topics and created the website to share advice she has learned through experience, education, and research.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

With so many people investing in real estate these days, you may be thinking about taking the leap into being a landlord. It’s a move that can bring a lot of perks and profits if you plan carefully. So before you start looking for a residential or vacation rental, be sure to connect with an experienced agent from Carmen Micsa and go through these essential questions to help you make the right decisions.

What Costs Should I Be Concerned About?

If you are looking to buy an investment property, you already know that you will need to prepare for the initial cost of that home. Coming up with a reasonable price range is one of the most important financial considerations you can take when preparing to purchase a rental property, so think carefully about what your desired price range should look like. Depending on market trends in your preferred location, you could end up picking homes that are slightly above your target price and offer less, but you should research real estate trends carefully before doing so to see if a buyer’s or seller’s market exists. Keep in mind that Sacramento homes have been selling at a median price of $395,000 over the last month.

Aside from the cost of buying your first investment property, you should also be prepared for other expenses associated with owning a rental. If you are buying a vacation property, hiring a management company should be included in your budget, since an experienced property manager can provide 24/7 customer service, on-demand professional cleanings, and easy-to-understand info about bookings. By ensuring you and your guests have access to these perks, you can net more bookings and more glowing reviews.

What Upgrades Should I Be Focused On?

Chances are, you will need to make some repairs and improvements to your investment property before you list it as a vacation or residential rental. There are some pros and cons to marketing your home either as a long-term or short-term rental, so also be sure to think about these as you make your initial upgrades and repairs.

For both vacation and residential rental properties, investing in new paint for the exterior of the home can be an effective way to boost curb appeal, although this sort of improvement project can be a big job that necessitates detailed planning, thorough preparation and appropriate tools. The size of your home and materials needed will determine how much you’ll spend to freshen up your property’s exterior.

Wondering what color to use for your home’s exterior? If you want to add curb appeal to your investment property, most experts recommend shying away from bright hues and using pops of color in your landscaping or even for the front door. Speaking of landscaping, if you’re concerned about keeping your investment property secure, you can also consider using protective plants in the front yard.

What Other Steps Should I Take to Ensure Profits?

Creating a plan for your finances and home improvements can ensure some ROI for your rental property. If you want to maximize that ROI, there are some other measures you can use to attract potential renters and protect yourself from potential losses. You can start by making sure that your rental rates are not too high or low for your property and area. While you don’t want to miss out on potential profits by setting rental rates too low, you also don’t want to lose potential tenants because similar properties have much lower rental rates.

To boost profits and keep your own stress levels low, you may also want to consider using a manager to help out with your first investment property. While using a property manager means paying additional fees, the expertise and guidance you will receive in return can be well worth the added expense. Plus, you may be able to deduct management fees from your taxes as a rental property owner.

Owning an investment property can be worthwhile. You just need to take the right steps from the start. Take stock of overall expenses, necessary upgrades and get a read on what you can expect when it comes to making a profit. With a smart approach, you will see profits roll in much faster, and ensure ROI on your rental.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or seasoned investor, Carmen Micsa will provide you with outstanding and dedicated real estate service! Call (916) 342-2446 or email carmenmicsa@yahoo.com to schedule a meeting!

Real estate, Real Estate agent, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your Home Faster with Staging

Sacramento Real Estate Inventory Low – Six Ways A Good Real Estate Agent Can Help You Find the Right Home and Beat Out the Competition

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After 20 years in the business as a real estate broker, helping buyers and sellers, I am just as baffled as you are by our Sacramento real estate market. What is going on? Weren’t prices supposed to go down? Not really! For instance, in August our real estate prices have reached the highest point in more than a decade. Sacramento county’s median price was $425,000 up from $386,000 last year in August, Placer County was $538,750 up from $500,000, and El Dorado County $570,000 from $525,000.

My new listing in Elk Grove. This beautiful Laguna home with Quartz countertops is very well-priced at $429,000. Showing appointments available!

Low Inventory

According to my esteemed appraiser colleague, Ryan Lundquist, our shortage of homes available for sale is due to a few important factors, as he explains in his blog Why is Housing Inventory so Low?

  1. Our pandemic – sellers are reluctant to put their homes on the market and have a bunch of strangers come through their homes.
  2. More demand from buyers due to historical low interest rates below 3 percent.
  3. Lack of new construction and not having enough building units available.
  4. Shift in demographics, as people choose to live in their homes longer.
  5. Increased migration, as Californians move to Idaho, Texas, and Nevada the most, and some Bay Area residents move to Sacramento, where home prices are much more affordable.

Six Ways A Real Estate Agent Can Help you Become a Homeowner in our tight Market

  1. My favorite way to find homes for my buyers when our listing inventory is tight is to walk the neighborhood they are interested in and drop off flyers telling homeowners that I have a qualified buyer ready to buy. Over the years I found a few homes this way and my buyers were able to buy the house without having to overbid, or deal with multiple offers.
  2. Social media is a great way to connect people and their needs.
  3. For sale by owners are another great way to find homes that are not listed on the MLS. When dealing with for sale by owners, or sellers who want to sell on their own, it is important to have an agent represent you as the buyer, making sure that you are guided by a professional and that you don’t end up having problems in the future due to repairs, or lack of proper disclosure from the sellers.
  4. Expired listings have also been a great way for me to help my buyers find homes and negotiate down on the price for them, since these are homes that used to be on the market and did not sell. Once again, a good agent, who is willing to go the extra mile for you, can sure help you find a good home by searching the MLS data for you.
  5. Pocket Listings are another great way to find listings that will soon hit the market, but the agents have not listed the homes on the MLS yet. As a real estate broker, I have numerous connections and do a lot of networking with other professionals like myself, and I can sometimes find my clients the right home before it even hits the market.
  6. Calling neighbors who are not on the do not call list on behalf of my clients and letting them know that I have a client looking to buy and move in the neighborhood.

To sum things up, when our market is so heated up and our listing inventory low, it is time to work with the best agent, who will find creative ways to help you find and buy the right home, so feel free to call me or text me, and I would love to help you. However, before getting serious about buying a home, the first and most important step is getting pre-approved by a good lender, who will guide you through the whole process and give you an estimate of your monthly payments. One of my preferred lenders is Eric Elovski with Essex Mortgage, and you can apply directly on his website http://www.ericwillclose.com to get pre-approved for the loan.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs), or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Condos and townhomes, Contract negotiating when buying or selling a home, Legal documents for your aging parents, Moving, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter

Legal Documents You Need for Your Aging Parents

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By Arthur Bretschneider, CEO & Cofounder, Seniorly.com


As your parents grow older, it’s important to make sure you will be able to step in if they become unable to make medical or financial decisions on their own. It’s also critical to ensure you have the legal documents needed to make sure their end-of-life wishes are carried out. The team at Seniorly.com has put together a list of essential legal documents every aging adult should have. If your mom or dad doesn’t already have them in place, discuss the need for them as quickly as possible. 

Legal Documents to Obtain Before Your Parent Moves to Assisted Living

Before your parent moves into an assisted living community, part of the admissions process will involve preparing specific legal documents. Make sure you have this paperwork in place before they make their move.

HIPAA Authorization Form

The Health Information Portability and Accountability Act, often simply known as HIPAA, lays out legal standards for ensuring an individual’s health records and information are kept private. This means that healthcare professional can’t share information with you about your parent unless they have provided you with written consent for you to receive this information. A HIPPA authorization form is a straightforward yet critical document for parents to complete. This form authorizes doctors, medical facilities, and other healthcare professionals to keep you and other family members your parent approves informed on their medical status. Most doctor’s offices have them on hand, and they only take a few minutes to complete.

Durable Financial Power of Attorney

A durable financial power of attorney provides you or another appointed agent the authority to take care of financial transactions on your parent’s behalf. Keep in mind, your loved one has to be mentally competent when the document is created. The durable power of attorney differs from a standard power of attorney in that it will remain effective even when your parent is unable to make decisions. When your parent passes away, this document is automatically terminated.

Durable Medical Power of Attorney

A durable medical power of attorney names at least one person to make medical decisions on your parent’s behalf if they’re unable to communicate or make decisions on their own. It’s wise to have more than one agent in case one cannot be reached when there’s an emergency. Take time to discuss your parents’ wishes on critical medical decisions in advance so you are able to carry out their wishes if they become too ill to direct their own medical care.

Physical Assessment Form

Before your aging parents enter an assisted living community, their doctor will be required to complete a physical assessment form. It provides information relating to your parent’s medical history, current diagnoses, behavioral or cognitive status, and sensory or physical limitations they may have. Within the assessment, the physician can also indicate what therapy or medical services are needed by your loved one, as well as information on the amount of assistance that may be necessary with self-care and daily living tasks.

Legal Documents for End of Life

A few specific legal documents are needed to dictate your loved one’s end-of-life wishes as well as what happens to their estate when they are gone.

Living Will

A living will, often called an advanced directive, allows your parent to record their wishes for end-of-life care. It keeps family members from having to agonize over tough medical decisions in the future. Your parent can use a living will to make it clear whether they would like life support to be used in the case of a permanent coma, persistent vegetative state, or terminal condition. It can also be used to specify in which situations they would like to receive water and food via feeding tube, and when they’d like to be provided with comfort care.

Last Will and Testament

A last will and testament states what happens to your loved one’s assets after they pass away. It can include their property, money, estate, and possessions. Failing to have a will means that the government will determine how to divide your parent’s property, regardless of their wishes. When creating a last will, they’ll need to list beneficiaries and appoint an executor and alternate executor. By drafting a last will and testament, parents ensure their estate is taken care of according to their wishes instead of the will of the government.

DNR

A Do Not Resuscitate or DNR document informs medical professionals that your parent does not want cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or advanced cardiac life support if their heart stops or they stop breathing. A DNR differs from a living will in that it’s a medical order actually written and signed by a physician, making it a legally recognized medical order. In some states, the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) serves the same function as a DNR form.

Other Important Documents to Have on Hand

You should have several other important healthcare, financial, and personal documents on hand as well, including your parent’s:

  • Personal medical history
  • Insurance card
  • Long-term care insurance policy
  • Tax returns
  • Deeds to all property
  • List of bank accounts
  • Documentation of debts and loans,
  • Stock certificates, brokerage accounts, savings bonds
  • Life insurance policies
  • Organ donor card
  • Marriage and/or divorce papers
  • Birth certificate
  • Social security card
  • Military records (if applicable)
  • Driver’s license
  • Passport

Many thanks to our guest writer for this information article that outlines all the necessary documents needed when selling a home for their aging parents. For more info on Seniorly.com, please go to their website.


For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount)! Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter, Uncategorized

Sacramento 2020 Real Estate Forecast for Buyers and Sellers

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At the end of each year, most people are focused on new year’s resolutions, as well as being happier and more prosperous. As we all know, our prosperity is tied to a few economic factors, such as unemployment, stock market, and real estate, to name just a few. When it comes to buying a home, buyers want to make sure they are buying the right house at the right price, which makes the real estate forecast an exciting moment at the end of the year. On the other hand, sellers want to make the most money when selling their home, so they also watch the market and try to find the perfect moment to sell, especially if they don’t have any immediate urgency or need to sell. Before delving into specific market details, I can tell you even though I don’t have a crystal ball, I have 2020 vision, a joke I am borrowing from one of my dynamic agents, that our 2020 real estate market will be great for both buyers and sellers for the following reasons:

  1. The average 30-year, fixed mortgage interest rates will dip to 3.7 percent in 2020, down from 3.9 in 2019. Lower interest rates equate to more purchasing power.
  2. California Association of Realtors 2020 Housing Market Forecast sees a small uptick in single family homes sales of 0.8 percent next year. California median home price is forecast to increase 2.5 percent, followed by a projected 4.1 percent increase from 2019.
  3. With prices slightly going up, sellers will continue to cash in on their equity in order to move into a bigger home, downsize, or move out of state, which approximately 30 percent of sellers will do.
  4. The lack of inventory nationwide was a major theme in 2019. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of REALTORS®, warned often that first-time buyers would have a difficult year, as the housing crunch became most acute in entry-level price points. Unfortunately, low inventory of affordable homes will continue in 2020. “Real estate is on firm ground with little chance of price declines,” Yun said during the Forecast Summit. “However, in order for the market to be healthier, more supply is needed to assure home prices as well as rents do not consistently outgrow income gains.”
  5. The rise of the iBuyer will continue in 2020, but my personal recommendation is to go the traditional way, or at least get a second opinion, as you will make on average $20,000 to $30,000 more on your home after paying the commission. The fast cash offers are not that hassle free and are usually about 80 percent of your home value. They also come with request for repairs and added fees, so don’t give away your equity, because I can get you a strong offer, as is with no repairs if necessary with a fast close and the least amount of hassle.

To search free listings, please go to http://dynamicsacramentohomes.com/
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Buying or selling, Home inspections, Home maintenance, HVAC, Real estate, Real estate and home ownership, Real estate market outlook, Running and real estate, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Sacramento spring market, Sacramento spring real estate market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter

Keeping Up with Your HVAC System: Tips for Homeowners

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Photo via Pixabay by ElasticComputeFarm

 

 

For most homeowners, the joy of having something to call their own is tempered by the upkeep and maintenance that must be done. When you own a home, you also own everything that comes with it, from the furnace to the lawn, and those things become your responsibility. While many home projects can be tackled as DIY weekend jobs that won’t empty your wallet, others can be quite costly and require a professional to handle. When it comes to your HVAC system, sometimes it’s a little bit of both. However, keeping up with cleaning and maintaining your system all year-round will prevent any major issues and keep your home clean at the same time.

 

The HVAC system is a pricey piece of machinery, so it’s important to make sure you take very good care of it and call in a pro when necessary. Changing filters is the easiest way to keep it running smoothly, but you can also make sure the area around the outdoor system isn’t overgrown and that it has plenty of ventilation.

 

Keep reading for some great tips on how to keep your system running well all year.

 

Have It Checked Every Season

 

It’s a good idea to have your unit checked out at the start of each season, especially if you live in an area that has great temperature changes throughout the year. Having a professional make sure everything is in good working order could help prevent costly repairs down the line, and it will help you ensure that the system will be ready to go when you need it the most. Hot summers are particularly hard on these units, so call a pro when fall rolls around.

 

Learn the Ins and Outs of Your System

 

There are several ways you can take care of your system yourself, such as changing the filter often and grooming the area around the outdoor unit, but it’s important to understand how it all works before you make any changes. This will help prevent damage to the unit and injury to yourself, so read up on the system using online guides prior to attempting any maintenance.

 

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

 

The quality of the air in your home can have an impact on everything from your family’s ability to sleep to allergies and breathing issues, so it’s imperative that you take steps to ensure that your HVAC system is clean. This means changing the filter often — typically once a month will work best when you run it every day — and check the return ducts to make sure they’re clear of debris and don’t have any tears or cracks, which can pull pollutants from outside and distribute them in your home. Not only can this affect the air quality, but it can also leave behind dust and pollen.

 

Keep Your Lawn Tended

 

Your lawn can have an impact on your HVAC system because the outdoor unit can become blocked by grass, leaves, and other debris. Keep these items away from your system by weeding, cutting the grass often, and making sure animals steer clear of the unit. Make sure branches and twigs are cleared from the area often, especially in fall and winter, and cover the unit with a heavy tarp before you cut the grass to prevent clippings from flying into it.

 

Keeping up with your HVAC system can be quite a job, and it can be a costly one if you aren’t careful. Taking pains to make sure the area around your unit is clean and free of debris is a big step since the system can pull in outside elements and pollute the air inside your home. With a little research, you can find the best ways to take care of your system without going broke.

 

Blog written by Suzie Wilson who is proud to announce that her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House, is COMING SOON to online retailers and bookstores near you!

 

I am always busy during the winter months, selling my listings, or helping my buyers buy the right home, so please mention this blog and you will receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Pricing your home right, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Seller's market, Selling Your Home, Selling your home in the winter, Tips for a Successful Open House

What You Need to Know When Selling Your Home During the Off-Season

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Image Courtesy of Pexels.com

 

Most of us know that the big selling times for homes are spring and summer. That doesn’t mean, however, that we need to feel panicky if we must sell our home in autumn or winter. There are strategies to make this season the one to successfully sell your property.

 

Maintain Curb Appeal

 

This is the perfect time of year to make your property look cheerful and bright, despite gray days and colder weather. As the seasons change, consider putting a festive wreath or some simple decoration on your front door to make it inviting. Touch up paint where needed, including your mailbox and the trim around your door. Don’t overlook smaller nuances as well, like cleaning the windows to give your home a bright shine or updating your house numbers for a fresh new look. Just because many plants are dying down for winter slumber does not mean our homes cannot look lush and gorgeous. A winter flower garden can be beautiful and add a colorful touch as a border or in pots by the door. Holly, snowdrops and hellebores are all excellent cold-weather options.

 

Stay on Top of Maintenance

 

You also need to think about ease of access to your home, especially when the temperatures drop, as there may be a few more hazards to consider during the colder months than in warmer ones. If you live in an area where snow is abundant, you are probably used to shoveling your driveway. However, you need to think not just of your family’s car getting in and out of the garage, but of buyers coming up to the home. That means you should shovel the entire driveway and every walkway around the house. It looks nicer and keeps buyers in a happy mood due to ease of access, but also makes navigating any open house showings you host a safer endeavor. Keep your gutters clean and clear, ensure your pipes are insulated, and that your chimney is ready; a nice fire can add a cheerful touch to any open house.

 

Bring on the Light

 

A bright home full of light sells better than one that is dim or dark. Adding lighting is more important now than ever, as the colder seasons also tend to turn dark earlier than the rest of the year. Make sure you add white light. It’s warm without coming off as too artificial. Put lamps on bedside tables and in dark corners of rooms, and consider installing some hanging fixtures or mounting lights on the walls themselves. If you have screens on your windows to keep out bugs in the summer months, it may be best to remove them during winter. This will bring in a startling amount of natural light, something we should be striving for during open house showings. Keep pieces such as your couch coverings and pillows, curtains, drapes, and table runner a pale color to reflect light.

 

Sweet Little Extras

 

Does a chilly house sound appealing to you? Is it a place you want to return to when the weather outside is nippy? No, and buyers agree, so keep your home heated and cozy. Little niceties can go a long way to making your home stand out, such as providing treats for visitors to nibble on while they tour your house. To emphasize how comforting your property is, consider brewing some hot chocolate for guests to enjoy or lighting some festive holiday candles in different rooms. Make sure whatever scent you opt for is not overpowering, as nothing is worse than one that’s too strong and artificial.

 

You don’t need to worry about selling a home during the off-season if you make some smart preparations. Keep your curb appeal sharp with attention to detail and pops of color, and make sure your home is bright and easy to navigate. Add in some sweet extras, and you may be surprised by how quickly your home flies off the market this fall or winter.

Blog written by Suzie Wilson who is proud to announce that her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House, is COMING SOON to online retailers and bookstores near you!

 

I am always busy during the winter months, selling my listings, or helping my buyers buy the right home, so please mention this blog and you will receive a free market analysis of your home, no strings attached.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate market outlook, Running and art, Running and real estate, Running tours, Sacramento real estate, Seller's market

Sacramento Real Estate Developments & Our Thriving Art Community – Art Meets Real Estate

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With the continued growth of our real estate market and prices climbing, Sacramento is still affordable especially for Bay area buyers who agree that Sacramento is a thriving community with great nightlife, according to some Bay area newspapers, a flourishing art community, and an amazing bike trail system for various recreation purposes.

Staff writer Ben van der Meer of the Sacramento Business Journal has recently come to our Sacramento Association of Realtors  and talked about future developments happening in Natomas, Folsom, and, of course, downtown.

 

Grateful to listen to a wonderful presentation at our monthly broker meeting held at Sacramento Association of Realtors.

 

Sacramento’s Real Estate Projects

 

  1. Natomas has 3,000 entitles, but unbuilt homes.
  2. Folsom will have a 6,900 new units being built . The Folsom plan will add about 350 homes a year.
  3. Rancho Cordova will also build 6,700 homes with a master plan being developed that would add about 12,189 new homes. Rancho Cordova has the advantage of being close to the Lightrail.
  4. Downtown has 2,200 entitled or under construction units.
  5. Sacramento has a lot shortage with a supply of about 5,700, which is approximately a year’s worth.
  6. J St- 11-story project in midtown with 175 units being built, some as small as 440 sq. ft.

 

Some of the building projects.

 

Despite all these great new building projects, staff writer Ben van der Meer pointed out that new housing supply will continue to stay slim, which creates a shortage of new listings and inventory.

 

Sacramento’s Wide Open Walls – Art Meets Real Estate

 

Another reason to be excited about our Sacramento real estate market and all the new projects is the Wide Open Walls new murals that adorn Sacramento’s old and new buildings. With more building and development, the art movement is evident. More than 50 local, national, and international artists have produced some amazing art, using various techniques, such as spray painting.

 

A poignant and suggestive art mural and portrait of a child.

 

Along with enhancing the cityscape, Sacramento Congresswoman Doris Matsui said a thriving arts scene can be an economic driver for the city.

 

Portrait of Lady Gaga on the Golden One building, where I recently saw her in concert. Gaga-ism at its best done by Southern California artist Christina Angelina.

 

I was lucky to take the Wide Open Walls running tour done by one of my fellow runner friends Jenn Kistler-McCoy and organized by our best local running store Fleet Feet. Jenn is the founder of Sacramento Running Tours. She leads walking and running tours of our beautiful city and has tremendous energy, passion, dedication, and knowledge about Sacramento’s culture and history.

 

 

A collage of the art murals reflecting different themes, artists, and painting techniques. A feast for the eyes, heart, and soul! Sacramento moooves us with its sophistication – not a Cowtown anymore!

 

 

Due to the constant developments and our growing art movement, Sacramento will continue to be a wonderful place to live a lot more affordable than the Bay Area, so let’s be proud of our buildings – inside and outside with all their stories and adorning art.

 

 

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers

A Quick Recap of Our 2016 Sacramento Real Estate Market and What to Look for in 2017!

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2016 Sacramento Real Estate Market recap

As we are getting close to leaving 2016 behind and usher 2017, it will be helpful to look at our November numbers and stats to understand where we are heading and what the new year will have in store for us. These numbers deal only with Sacramento county, but if you need stats for other counties, please feel free to click on Ryan Lundquist’s excellent blog that I quoted below.

  1. The median price is the same as it was in August 2007.
  2. Housing inventory is 22% lower than the same time last year (there is only a 1.36 month housing supply).
  3. Sales volume was 17% higher this November compared to November 2015.
  4. There were only 36 short sales and 34 REOs in the county last month.
  5. Cash sales are down 11% this year.
  6. The median price is $325,000 and is down 2% from the height of summer and 12% higher than last year.
  7. The  average sales price at $349,659.

2017 Real Estate Outlook

 

So with these stats in mind, I know that you want to receive the answer to the what I call the crystal ball question: “So how will our real estate market be next year?”

My answer is evasive and honest at the same time. “We never know exactly what the new year will bring, but according to economists and Realtor.com, we will see a 7% increase in value.”

This might be exciting news, but as Ryan Lundquist astutely pointed out in his wonderfully written and researched blog http://www.sacramentoappraisalblog.com, this is what our market has been doing for the last two years, which means that Sacramento will continue on the same steady path. Additionally, even though the Sacramento Bee called Sacramento the 4th hottest real estate market in the country, just because median prices went up 7%, it doesn’t mean that actual values increased by that much.

Getting a Loan and 2017 Interest Rates

 

These are some of our predictions for 2017 together with the fact that interest rates will go up by about half a point, but they are still super affordable. Today I have also had the pleasure and honor to talk about this on Real Life Lending 105.5 FM radio show hosted by Eric Elovski McKay who is one of my preferred lenders due to his extensive knowledge of the lending industry, his hard work, dedication, and professionalism. To apply for a loan with Eric, just go to his website http://www.ericwillclose.com.

With Eric Elovski McKay, host of Real Life Lending

Another important report that helps us real estate professionals is presented by our California Association of Realtors. According their forecast the California median homes price, this is not just Sacramento, is forecast to increase 4.3 percent in 2017, representing the slowest rate of price appreciation in six years. C.A.R president Pat Zicarelli also predicts that “San Francisco Bay Area will experience a decline as home buyers migrate to peripheral cities with more affordable options.”

Overall, we all need to be excited and positive about the new year, and let’s prepare our Champagne glasses for a prosperous, better, and brighter 2017.

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

Buying and selling a home, Real estate, Real estate market outlook, Sacramento buyers, Sacramento real estate, Sacramento sellers, Uncategorized

Sacramento Real Estate Market Outlook for 2017- Prices Going Up or Down?

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As the title of my blog is running for real estate, I am pleased to combine my passion for real estate with running. Moreover, rest assured that I will run and hustle to help you buy or sell a house the same way our bunny Peter runs up and down the stairs in this video! I believe in being quick and efficient in taking care of all your real estate needs, so never hesitate to call me with any questions. No strings attached!

 

 

As we approach the end of the year, almost everybody wants to know what to expect in the coming year, especially because of the elections and the rumors about interest rates going up, which are not just rumors. Interest rates will be going up a little bit in 2017, according to Oscar Wei, senior economist for California Association of Realtors.  During our monthly meeting at Sacramento Association of Realtors, Wei did a detailed presentation on our real estate market- see entire link and forecast below.

http://www.car.org/3550/pdf/econpdfs/09-29-2016_EXPO_Forecast_Final.pdf

10 Key Points to Remember as We are Heading Towards the End of 2016 and Ushering 2017:

 

  1. Real estate is still considered a very good long-term investment.
  2. Listings inventory is still low, making is more difficult for first-time buyers to afford to buy.
  3. Long-time homeowners are not moving that often and wait about 10 years to move, choosing instead to remodel their homes and stay.
  4. Boomers are not moving as often.
  5. Builders are still not building enough new homes, which contributes to a lower supply of homes.
  6. Interest rates are below 4% for now until the FED will decide what to do.
  7. Consumer confidence is 9-year high.
  8. Unemployment rates are 8-year low.
  9. Majority do not plan to sell their home when they retire.
  10. Most homeowners, as a matter of fact 92% of them, have equity in their homes, which is why we have seen a very low supply of short sales and foreclosure homes.

 

10 Key Points to Remember about 2017 Market Outlook:

 

  1. We will see a modest price increase in 2017 of about 3%.
  2. A 2% increase in sales.
  3. The American dream and homeownership is still very important for the Millennials.
  4. Investors buyers are dropping, but still active in the lower-priced market.
  5. Unemployment in California will be around 5.3%.
  6. Interest rate projected at 5% in five years.
  7. Home prices will grow steadily next year.
  8. Biggest challenge for buyers in 2017: lack of affordability.
  9. Buyers will need to educate themselves on our market, the various loan programs, and the down payment assistance.
  10. Pursue your dreams and find a way to build your own equity by stopping to rent and buying a home.

 

For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!

 

 

Tips and thoughts about running and real estate.