Blog Post

Getting Pre-Approved if You Want to Win!

Lori Todd • June 5, 2020

Are you really ready to buy a home?

The current market conditions are strongly in favor of the Seller. There is a lack of inventory so Sellers are able to push their prices up a bit. However, the record-low interest rates allow Buyers to afford more house for the same money.  In a Seller's market, we often see multiple offers and even offers over asking price.  For a Seller to even consider a Buyer's offer, it is critical for a Buyer to provide a pre-approval letter from their lender showing that they qualify for a mortgage, unless the buyers are paying cash, of course.  

Before looking at one house, Agents should require their clients to obtain a letter of qualification.  If not, it's truly a waste of everyone's time.  Even if you're unsure if you want to buy and you think you might just go look first, don't. It's not the right process and it's not doing you or anyone else any good.  In addition to being pre-qualified, it's a good idea to work with a local lender as that could make your offer even stronger.  Do you think a Seller would choose an offer with a mortgage from a bank they've never heard of that is not even anywhere near the area OR would the Seller choose an offer from a well-known, local lender who has a great reputation of closing loans in a timely manner? 

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By Lori Todd October 8, 2021
Although you may be renting a place for a short time or a year or two, having a rental can feel so temporary. There are many ways to create a more permanent feel without spending a bunch of money or making unapproved alterations. Start with decorating. One of the easiest ways to make your rental feel more homey is to decorate and accessorize. By adding plants, candles, throw pillows and other home decorating items, you can quickly create a warm and inviting space. If you're not permitted to put nails in the walls, you can use products that are temporary, such as double-sided tape or non-sticking hangers for wall art. In addition to the inside, you can also consider adding some decoration to the exterior. Whether it's only a simple welcome mat or a welcome mat along with a door wreath, flowers or holiday decorations, adding to the exterior can make your entry more inviting and cheerful.
By Lori Todd September 26, 2021
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By Lori Todd March 31, 2021
Combining the effects of the pandemic with the housing shortage, the rental market is as tough as the sales market right now. We are experiencing the highest retention in history with tenants choosing to renew their leases rather than move to a different rental. The housing shortage has also caused the rental rates to rise, some seeing more than 5% annual increase. What does that mean for the future rental market? Some forecasting shows that the rental market will continue seeing rental rate increases for the next few years while some believe the market is due to level off in the next year. Until local, state and federal governments can help the private sectors in creating more affordable housing and less government restrictions, Bloomington will continue to struggle with the high cost of living. Although it's a Seller's market right now, it may be a good time for Tenants to consult with a Realtor to see if it is a good time to consider purchasing. Studies show that lifetime wealth is substantially better for those who own real estate versus those who have rented. To learn more, contact our office for a free consultation.
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