renovation | 1st Time Home Buyer ATL

DIY Doesn’t Mean Doing It All Yourself

How handy would you say you are? Can you fix a leaking faucet or install a new backsplash? Do you own all the drills, power saws and sanders used by the pros?

It can be tempting to DIY it all — especially if you’re on a budget. After all, you can have an active role in improving your home, and save cash to put toward other things. Why wouldn’t you want to?

The truth is not all projects are suited for a DIYer — no matter how much of a shiplap expert you might be.

If you’re considering a few renovations, here’s when to put on your toolbelt and when you might want to call a pro:

In the Kitchen: You can probably replace a sink, reface your cabinets or install a new dishwasher.

Want to move the sink or add recessed lighting? You’ll want a pro.

In the Bathroom: Installing new floor tiles, upgrading your toilet seat or changing your showerhead are all tasks you can do.

If you want in-floor radiant heating or to install a tub where there isn’t one, bring in a pro.

On the Exterior: Looking for more curb appeal with a new garden bed and a fresh coat of paint on your front door? Have at it.

Substantial upgrades like installing a skylight, repairing your roof or repaving your driveway are better suited for a professional.

Structural Changes: If you’re super handy, you can probably install drywall or relocate a door.

But if you’re changing an area that’s load-bearing? Definitely call a pro.

Remember, DIY doesn’t mean doing everything yourself. You’ll want to hire a professional for anything that requires specialized knowledge. There’s no shame in asking for help from an expert.

Want to discuss what home renovations might improve your property’s value? Get in touch today.

Do’s and Don’ts of Presale Home Repairs

You’ve decided it’s time to sell your home. Your neighbor just sold for a pretty penny, but they also spent a lot on remodeling and renovations. Does that mean you need to upgrade your home to sell?

Is it worth trying to sell as is? Or will your home be passed up and stuck on the market?

Fortunately, full-scale remodels aren’t required to sell your home. Sure, a home reno might fetch more money, but it’s not always worth the time and effort.

So how do you know what’s worth fixing up? Here are the do’s and don’ts of pre-listing home renovations:

Do:

Fix trip hazards throughout (and around) the home. Uneven flooring and sidewalks, broken stairs and off-kilter ramps aren’t just noticeable to touring buyers; they’re a downright danger.
Fix pet damage and lingering odors. Scratches on doors, torn window screens and holes in the yard will only make buyers wary of further pet damage on the property.
Fix water stains. Even if you’ve fixed the pipes or plumbing issues, buyers may still worry about mildew or mold problems.

Don’t:

Make partial updates to older kitchens and baths. Mixing old and new elements only highlights the age of the space. You need to commit to a full upgrade or let the buyer do a comprehensive remodel on their own.
Decorate the home with trendy or bold colors. Neutral colors photograph better, make the space look larger and help buyers reimagine the house with their belongings. Bold and bright colors do the opposite.
Renovate beyond what your neighbors have done. Buyers are going to offer what comparable sales suggest, no matter how much money you’ve poured into remodeling.

A few repairs and upgrades can certainly make your home more marketable. But a full-scale remodel? That’s not necessary in most cases.

Are you ready to sell? Get in touch today for a comprehensive review and marketing plan for selling your home.

5 Ways to Use Your Refund Toward a Home

Who doesn’t love getting a tax refund?

It’s exciting to know that your bank balance will get a boost. But remember, a refund isn’t a bonus — it’s your hard-earned money, which is why you should make the most of it.

If you’re thinking of buying a new home this year — whether it’s your first home or the one you plan to retire in -financial planning is critical.

Expecting a refund? Make a bigger impact on your home purchase with these tips:

1. Lower Your Mortgage Rate: Did you know you can pay “points” up front to lower the interest rate of your mortgage? If you plan to stay in your home for a long time, this could result in significant savings over the life of your loan.

2. Pay Closing Costs: Closing costs average about 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price. Many buyers roll it into their mortgage and pay it off over the life of the loan. But you could use your refund to pay it up front and avoid paying interest.

3. Save for a Down Payment: In some cases, your refund could cover your entire down payment. Some loans only require 3 percent down, so this is more realistic than you might think.

4. Boost Your Credit Score: Paying down your debts can have a significant impact on your credit score and the mortgage rate you’ll qualify for.

5. Renovate or Update Appliances: Many buyers are tempted to open a line of credit to pay for these purchases, but that could negatively impact your mortgage loan. Using your refund is the smarter move.Remember, a tax refund is only one factor to consider in your homebuying budget. Get in touch today for a referral to a financial planner or mortgage lender if you need help preparing your budget. Let’s work together to plan your path to homeownership.

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DIY Doesn’t Mean Doing It All Yourself

Do’s and Don’ts of Presale Home Repairs

5 Ways to Use Your Refund Toward a Home

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