Explore these essential Realtor advice topics every homeowner should consider—brought to you by our trusted local professionals who know how to protect what matters most.
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Click Link – Listen To Advice / Before You Buy
- Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified — and why that matters.
- Know your credit score and how it affects your mortgage rate.
- Understand the full scope of closing costs — it’s more than just the down payment.
- Research local property taxes and how they impact your monthly payment.
- Don’t make major purchases (cars, furniture, etc.) before closing.
- Understand what a real estate agent actually does for you.
- The importance of having your own buyer’s agent (not just using the listing agent).
- The difference between a pre-approval and a loan commitment.
- How to prioritize wants vs. needs in your future home.
- Learn how to read a property disclosure form.
- Why location, neighborhood, and school district matter — even if you don’t have kids.
- The emotional trap of “falling in love” with a house too soon.
- How interest rates impact your monthly mortgage — even 0.5% makes a difference.
- Understand the timeline of a home purchase from offer to close.
- Why you should attend the home inspection — and what questions to ask.
- How contingencies protect you in a real estate contract.
- What an appraisal is and how it affects the loan and offer.
- How escrow works and what it’s used for.
- What’s negotiable in a home purchase besides price.
- The difference between earnest money and a down payment.
- What to expect at a final walk-through.
- How to assess a neighborhood for resale value.
- Why you shouldn’t skip a home inspection, even on new builds.
- Understanding PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) and how to remove it.
- Why your Realtor should be a skilled negotiator.
- Understanding title insurance and why it’s essential.
- How to factor in maintenance costs in your monthly budget.
- The difference between buying a condo, townhouse, or single-family home.
- How a Realtor helps protect you legally during the purchase process.
- The reality of multiple offer situations — and how to prepare for them.
Click Link – Listen To Advice / After You Buy
- What to do during your first week in your new home.
- How to set up and organize important home ownership documents.
- Tips for changing the locks and securing your property.
- How to set a realistic home maintenance schedule.
- Understanding your property tax timeline and payment process.
- Why you should consider a home warranty (and what it covers).
- How to build an emergency repair fund.
- Intro to homestead exemptions and how to apply.
- When and how to file for a change of address.
- How to set up utilities, trash collection, and internet quickly.
- Seasonal maintenance checklist for homeowners.
- How to find and vet local service providers (plumbers, electricians, etc.)
- Simple DIY fixes every homeowner should know.
- How to schedule annual HVAC, roof, and foundation checks.
- What to know about home insurance renewals and coverage.
- Understanding your home inspection report after the purchase.
- Budget-friendly ways to personalize your new space.
- Which home upgrades add the most value over time.
- Tips for choosing paint colors and furniture that suit your space.
- Why you should live in your home for a few months before making major renovations.
- How to connect with your neighborhood or HOA.
- Best apps and tools for managing home ownership.
- How to introduce yourself to neighbors (and why it matters).
- Safety tips for your new neighborhood.
- How to find local events and businesses in your area.
- When to consider refinancing your mortgage – (possible loans).
- Understanding home equity and how to build it.
- Why it’s smart to track your home’s market value annually.
- Tips for creating a long-term property investment plan.
- How to keep your Realtor in the loop for future upgrades, valuations, or referrals.