Real Estate Advice

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

  1. Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified — and why that matters.
  2. Know your credit score and how it affects your mortgage rate.
  3. Understand the full scope of closing costs — it’s more than just the down payment.
  4. Research local property taxes and how they impact your monthly payment.
  5. Don’t make major purchases (cars, furniture, etc.) before closing.
  6. Understand what a real estate agent actually does for you.
  7. The importance of having your own buyer’s agent (not just using the listing agent).
  8. The difference between a pre-approval and a loan commitment.
  9. How to prioritize wants vs. needs in your future home.
  10. Learn how to read a property disclosure form.
  11. Why location, neighborhood, and school district matter — even if you don’t have kids.
  12. The emotional trap of “falling in love” with a house too soon.
  13. How interest rates impact your monthly mortgage — even 0.5% makes a difference.
  14. Understand the timeline of a home purchase from offer to close.
  15. Why you should attend the home inspection — and what questions to ask.
  16. How contingencies protect you in a real estate contract.
  17. What an appraisal is and how it affects the loan and offer.
  18. How escrow works and what it’s used for.
  19. What’s negotiable in a home purchase besides price.
  20. The difference between earnest money and a down payment.
  21. What to expect at a final walk-through.
  22. How to assess a neighborhood for resale value.
  23. Why you shouldn’t skip a home inspection, even on new builds.
  24. Understanding PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) and how to remove it.
  25. Why your Realtor should be a skilled negotiator.
  26. Understanding title insurance and why it’s essential.
  27. How to factor in maintenance costs in your monthly budget.
  28. The difference between buying a condo, townhouse, or single-family home.
  29. How a Realtor helps protect you legally during the purchase process.
  30. The reality of multiple offer situations — and how to prepare for them.

Click Link – Listen To Advice / After You Buy

  1. What to do during your first week in your new home.
  2. How to set up and organize important home ownership documents.
  3. Tips for changing the locks and securing your property.
  4. How to set a realistic home maintenance schedule.
  5. Understanding your property tax timeline and payment process.
  6. Why you should consider a home warranty (and what it covers).
  7. How to build an emergency repair fund.
  8. Intro to homestead exemptions and how to apply.
  9. When and how to file for a change of address.
  10. How to set up utilities, trash collection, and internet quickly.
  11. Seasonal maintenance checklist for homeowners.
  12. How to find and vet local service providers (plumbers, electricians, etc.)
  13. Simple DIY fixes every homeowner should know.
  14. How to schedule annual HVAC, roof, and foundation checks.
  15. What to know about home insurance renewals and coverage.
  16. Understanding your home inspection report after the purchase.
  17. Budget-friendly ways to personalize your new space.
  18. Which home upgrades add the most value over time.
  19. Tips for choosing paint colors and furniture that suit your space.
  20. Why you should live in your home for a few months before making major renovations.
  21. How to connect with your neighborhood or HOA.
  22. Best apps and tools for managing home ownership.
  23. How to introduce yourself to neighbors (and why it matters).
  24. Safety tips for your new neighborhood.
  25. How to find local events and businesses in your area.
  26. When to consider refinancing your mortgage – (possible loans).
  27. Understanding home equity and how to build it.
  28. Why it’s smart to track your home’s market value annually.
  29. Tips for creating a long-term property investment plan.
  30. How to keep your Realtor in the loop for future upgrades, valuations, or referrals.
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