luxury lifestyle

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Chad Carroll

Once considered something of a novelty for agents, Instagram has emerged as one of the best ways to market properties. With a combination of creativity, diligence, and the successful application of Instagram know how, the following group of successful real estate gurus show the 86 percent of the industry not yet sold on Instagram, how business gets done. If you’re in the industry, Instagram is the perfect platform to show off your listings and your competency too. Pay close attention to the excellent leadership of the following companies.

The Agency

The Beverly Hills luxury lifestyle and luxury real estate brokers, The Agency just inspire. That’s all there is to it. Looking through their shares on Instagram I know I would pick from their listings if I had the millions it takes to buy one of these properties. 192,000 fans prove I am not the only one inspired. 38,000 plus likes on the following share punctuate my point.

Dusty Baker

This young and energetic California real estate pro is another social media phenom who understands how to engage with a personal touch. With just over 14,000 followers Dusty is not breaking any internet meme contests, but the fans he does have are engaged by family images and that special touch that makes people feel comfortable online or at an open house. Check it out when Dusty shares he and his wife’s happiest moments.

Cindy Ambuehl

Actress turned stunning Los Angeles real estate guru, Cindy Ambuehl has 41,500 fans on Instagram. Like other successful agents on social media, she understands the power of authenticity when she shares personal moments with her, her husband @DonDiamont and their 7 boys. I guess I should mention that Cindy works with The Agency too – maybe there is some correlation of excellence in social media there?

Chad Carroll

South Florida’s Chad Carroll is another superstar of Instagram for real estate dealing. Chad has a whopping 509k followers who check their feeds for the coolest properties on Instagram. This guy has not only sold $1.5 billion worth of luxurious properties, but he is also at the top of the South Florida food chain among agents. The share below now has almost 13,000 likes. Bravo Chad!

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Douglas Elliman powers his Instagram dominance with gorgeous photos of some of America’s most amazing properties. This all-star has a powerful Instagram army numbering over 120,000. The property-gram from the Hamptons below tells the tale.

#Hamptons or #Florida? Which beach view do you prefer? Comment 1 or 2 below ? 1️⃣ In the #Hamptons, discover 25 Potato Road Sagaponack South, New York, a 6 beds, 5.5 baths ultra-luxe modern oceanfront residence listed for $29,995,000 by Justin Agnello and James Keogh at The Atlantic Team, and @erica0305g. This home is an exceptional balance of California beach chic and sophisticated modern design. #EllimanHamptons 2️⃣ In #Surfside Florida, explore 9001 Collins, S-1003, a 4 beds, 4.5 baths home at the #FourSeasonsResidences @thesurfclubmiamibeach listed for $12,995,000 by @pabloalfarorealestate. Enjoy the best of both views with a very ample oceanfront terrace and sunset/skyline views. #EllimanFlorida

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Douglas Elliman Real Estate (@douglaselliman) am Feb 19, 2019 um 10:19 PST

Fredrik Eklund

This bestselling author and star of Bravo’s MDLNY seems to doing everything right. His 1.1 million fans on Instagram attest to his influence and the quilty of his engagement. I feel bad putting two superstars from the same New York area in this roundup, but the fact Eklund works with
Douglas Elliman does not detract from the level of expertise needed to attract leads on Instagram. Let me put it this way, if you have celebrity influence in any business, you’re well advised to use it where appropriate. This share with nearly 30,000 likes makes my point.

Shawn Elliott

One of the most popular Instagram followings out there belongs to Shawn Elliott, one of Long Island’s and America’s most successful luxury real estate pros. The Managing Director of Nest Seekers Ultra Luxury Division, Shawn has 31,200 followers as of this writing. The real power of his “gramming” is not about following alone. Shawn has a rare grasp of imagery and the way potential buyers perceive value and beauty. The real estate pro also knows how to engage without boring his following to death. The account is about more than business, which is what differentiates social media gurus from hard selling encyclopedia salesmen. Here’s Shawn with a familiar face from the movies.

Luis Iglesias

Instagram accounts that feature awe-inspiring photography have a distinct advantage. Luis Iglesias Group has forged this reality into one of the most alluring sales tools on Instagram. The close to 95,000 fans of this account get to feast their eyes on photographic candy equal to any Hollywood studio account. Check out how this Miami real estate boss melds stunning imagery with compelling texts to beckon his clients hither. Amazing. Take note and the lesson here. Social media management at this level does not come cheap, and I should know. Iglesias is backing his investment with this account.

Matthew Sweat

This Keller Williams pro in Lake Tahoe has melded his skills as a photographer and sales agent into a compelling Instagram effort worthy of mention. Though Sweat has less than 5,000 followers, the quality of his shares are incomparable.

Toll Brothers

Many do not consider America’s most admired home builders to be a real estate company, but for my money they take the American dream a step farther. This Fortune 500 company is consistently ranked the number 1 homebuilder in the world. And with nearly 90,000 fans on Instagram, it’s clear the company knows a thing or two about media. I cannot help but mention how high net worth individuals would seem to benefit from creating their lavish dreams from the ground up. Take a look at this home.

A last note on Instagram for those of you who are agents. Building trust via your social media prowess is a proven winning strategy now. With most agencies only paying lip service to Instagram and other platforms, forward thinkers like the agents mentioned can get a leg up on the competition. If your business is important to you, we can only recommend you emulate the most successful professionals like the ones illustrated here. Excellence in business is not new under the sun, and copying what these superstars do seems like child’s play for me.

Phil Butler is a former engineer, contractor, and telecommunications professional who is editor of several influential online media outlets including part owner of Pamil Visions with wife Mihaela. Phil began his digital ramblings via several of the world’s most noted tech blogs, at the advent of blogging as a form of journalistic license. Phil is currently top interviewer, and journalist at Realty Biz News.

Latest posts by Phil Butler (see all)

Source: realtybiznews.com

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In the days where much of the shopping for home can be done from home, a place has to be pretty special to lure us outside. These home-design retailers aren’t just shops—they’re experiences:

Swoon is located along the main drive in the sleepy town of Santa Clara, and the new boutique is a decor-lover’s dream. Designer April Hickman transformed an old brick bungalow into a shop with a swanky vibe that takes hold the moment visitors step inside the entry, where a dazzling chandelier and a dark mural wallpaper deliver drama from the get-go.

Designer April Hickman of Swoon. Photo credit Emma Stewart Photography
Swoon. Photo credit Emma Stewart Photography

Nancy Van Matre’s décor and lifestyle shop in St. George, Cosy House, is designed to help others create a welcoming air—with fresh, clean, timeless and comfortable style—for their homes.

Native Flower Company. Photo courtesy of Native Flower.

The Garden Store is not only Salt Lake’s cherished destination for unique gifts, furnishings and décor for the home and garden, but it has also served as a beloved retreat, offering a happy escape and gratifying retail therapy. With welcoming spaces and inspiring displays, The Garden Store is curated with an approachable yet elevated aesthetic, enlivened with just enough whimsy to keep things interesting.

Native Floral Company is a spacious, urban-style boutique teeming with fresh flower arrangements, bloom bundles, indoor plants, stylish vessels, gifts cards, candles, treats and much more. The open space also hosts classes and workshops for plant enthusiasts and floral hobbyists.

For unique home décor, luxurious accessories and exceptional gifts, visit O.C. Tanner Jeweler’s Home & Lifestyle Department on the third floor of the flagship store in Salt Lake City. Highly curated, there are always new offerings from well-known and recently discovered designers and artisans. (The Park City location also offers pieces selected for mountain luxury lifestyle.)

See more stories about our community in our City Life Section. And while you’re here why not subscribe and get six issues of Salt Lake magazine delivered to your door.

Source: saltlakemagazine.com

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Welcome to the captivating world of luxury homes in Sarasota, FL, where elegance meets coastal charm. Sarasota is renowned for its exquisite properties that redefine the standard of living through their luxury home features. If you’re in the market for a luxury home in Sarasota, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking waterfront residences that offer panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. 

So what are the most sought-after home features that luxury homebuyers desire in this upscale market? From the convenience of a private boat dock and beautiful wine cellars to enhance your experience, Sarasota’s luxury homes are meticulously crafted to exceed expectations and provide an unparalleled living experience for buyers seeking the pinnacle of luxury, convenience, and comfort. In this Redfin article, we explore the top amenities and popular luxury home features in Sarasota.

1. Water view

Owning a home with a mesmerizing water view grants residents the privilege of waking up to breathtaking panoramas. A water view offers a sense of serenity, inspiration, and tranquility, allowing residents to connect with nature and experience a heightened level of relaxation. 

Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee on the balcony or hosting gatherings with a backdrop of sparkling waters, a water view adds a touch of tranquility and charm that elevates the living experience to new heights. The mesmerizing vistas not only create a sense of serenity but also offer a constant reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds the home. Embracing the soothing sounds of waves or enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the water, a water view enhances every moment, making everyday life feel like a retreat in a private coastal oasis. 

2. Backyard oasis

With Sarasota’s pleasant year-round climate and lush surroundings, it’s the perfect place for homeowners to create their own personal sanctuary within the privacy of their backyard. These meticulously designed outdoor spaces often feature sparkling swimming pools, soothing spas, verdant gardens, and luxurious lounging areas. 

Whether you’re hosting memorable gatherings, unwinding with a good book, or having dinner while enjoying the sunset, a backyard oasis becomes an extension of the home, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. This sought-after luxury feature allows homeowners to embrace the idyllic Sarasota lifestyle, basking in the beauty of nature, and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

3. Wine Cellar

For those of us who enjoy a good glass of wine, having a wine cellar in your home – often decked out with exotic woods and glass walls – offers a dedicated space to safely store and showcase your collection of vintages. A cellar also serves as a private retreat for tastings and entertaining, creating an immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.

4. Beachfront property and a private boat dock

Beachfront property or private beach access is hailed as the epitome of luxury in Sarasota. The beach becomes an extension of your backyard, offering a private sanctuary where you can relax, unwind, and bask in the breathtaking beauty of the Gulf of Mexico.

With the city’s prime location along the Gulf of Mexico and numerous inland waterways, Sarasota is a boater’s paradise, and a private boat dock is also a luxury home feature, providing direct access to the shimmering waters. The convenience of a dock opens up a world of possibilities for boating enthusiasts, allowing them to embark on leisurely cruises, fishing expeditions, or adventurous water sports right from their own backyard. 

Water access can really elevate a home listing in Sarasota and set it apart from the rest. The allure of living near the water is undeniable, and luxury homebuyers seek the unparalleled lifestyle that comes with easy access to the beach and a private boat dock. 

5. Electric car charging

In the era of sustainability and eco-conscious living, the luxury home market is witnessing a rapid rise in the popularity of electric car charging as a coveted feature among potential homebuyers. As electric vehicles become increasingly prevalent, homeowners are seeking the convenience and efficiency of having a dedicated charging station right at their doorstep while reducing their carbon footprint. 

Luxury homes equipped with electric car charging capabilities offer a seamless and eco-friendly lifestyle choice. The presence of a charging station not only caters to the growing number of electric vehicle owners but also signifies a commitment to environmental responsibility. This feature allows homeowners to effortlessly charge their vehicles at home, eliminating the need for frequent visits to public charging stations. Home listings with integrated electric car charging tap into the desires of environmentally conscious buyers who seek the perfect fusion of luxury, convenience, and sustainability.

6. Expansive lots

In the rapidly growing luxury market of Sarasota County, the demand for large lots has increased exponentially among buyers. As the region experiences unprecedented growth, the scarcity of expansive land parcels adds an exclusive appeal to luxury properties. The allure of a large lot lies in the abundance of space it offers, allowing homeowners to create their own private oasis and tailor their surroundings to their unique desires, whether it’s sprawling gardens, expansive outdoor entertaining areas, or the ample privacy.

Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Sarasota

The prestigious neighborhood of Bird Key attracts discerning homeowners seeking the pinnacle of luxury lifestyle. From meticulously crafted architectural designs to exquisite interior finishes, Bird Key homes boast a blend of timeless charm and contemporary allure that homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices for. The prime waterfront location – with breathtaking views of the Sarasota Bay, Gulf of Mexico, and picturesque canals – is also a major draw. 

The demand for homes in Bird Key remains high due to the limited inventory and the exclusivity associated with the neighborhood. The scarcity of available properties, combined with the exceptional amenities and lifestyle offerings, contributes to the higher price tags seen in this coveted neighborhood.

In fact, the average median sale price for homes in Bird Key was $1,850,000 in May 2023.

This figure significantly exceeds both the national median sale price and the city of Sarasota’s median sale price by over $1.3 million, highlighting the desirability of these upscale communities.

A final note on luxury home features in Sarasota

From beachfront living and private boat access to a backyard oasis and water view, these luxury home features enhance the lifestyle and elevate the experience of homeownership. As the luxury market continues to flourish, potential buyers are presented with a wealth of options. 

If you’re buying a luxury home in Sarasota, your Redfin Premier Agent is equipped to offer valuable insights into the local market, including insight into the neighborhoods, highly sought-after amenities, pricing trends, and available luxury properties.

Source: redfin.com

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Nestled in a region known for its vineyards, farmland, and beautiful landscapes, Brentwood, California, has tons to offer the 66,000 people who choose to call it home. The city’s location offers a balance of calm suburban living with convenient access to the hustle and bustle of larger cities like San Francisco and Oakland. While its outdoor activities, community events, and the Mediterranean climate appeal to many, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of relocating to Brentwood.

But is Brentwood, CA, a good place to live? Luckily, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking at homes for sale in Brentwood, apartments for rent, or are just curious about what the area has to offer, this Redfin guide is for you. To give you a taste, here are 10 pros and cons to consider before moving to Brentwood, CA. 

5 pros of living in Brentwood, CA

There’s a lot to love about Brentwood, from warm weather to convenient access to nature and big-city living. Here are six benefits of living in Brentwood. 

1. Location

Brentwood is located conveniently near untouched nature and major metropolises. It’s about an hour’s drive from San Francisco and even closer to Oakland, making it possible for residents to commute for work or easily enjoy their amenities. This gives people the ability to enjoy a quieter, more suburban lifestyle while still having easy access to big-city benefits like diverse dining options, cultural attractions, sports events, and shopping.

2. High-quality living

Brentwood is known for its luxury suburban homes and upscale neighborhoods, often with well-kept yards and beautiful landscaping. Housing options can vary from comfortable single-family homes to large estates, ensuring there’s something to fit a variety of lifestyle preferences.

If you’re looking for a luxury home in Brentwood, you’ll find plenty of options, ranging from $800,000 homes to multi-million dollar properties. Make sure to connect with a local Redfin Premier agent for knowledgeable, customized service.

3. Outdoor activities

Brentwood is nestled among several natural attractions, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. Local parks, trails, and golf courses offer plenty of space for recreational activities. Particularly notable is the proximity to Mount Diablo State Park, which offers extensive hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and stunning panoramic views at the summit. Other popular options include Marsh Creek Regional Trail, Contra Loma Regional Park, Round Valley Regional Preserve, and Big Break Regional Shoreline. 

If you’re in the mood for parks in the city, consider checking out City Park, a popular community gathering spot located in downtown Brentwood, or Blue Goose Park, which is named after a historic train. 

4. Wine culture

Brentwood and its surrounding areas boast a thriving wine industry, with numerous wineries and vineyards that add to the region’s charm. Residents have the unique advantage of being able to indulge in wine tastings and tours, immersing themselves in the artistry and craftsmanship behind winemaking. 

Popular wineries and vineyards for tasting and touring include Tamayo Family Vineyards, Hannah Nicole Vineyards, and Vine + Grain.

5. Community and culture

Brentwood hosts a variety of community events throughout the year that provide entertainment for all ages. The Brentwood Farmers’ Market offers an array of fresh local produce and artisan goods, while festivals like the popular Brentwood CornFest celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage with music, food, and activities. If you like music, the city hosts Concerts in the Park every summer, bringing live music to the city during warm evenings.

5 cons of living in Brentwood

While Brentwood has many positives, there are notable downsides as well. Here are five to be aware of before making the move. 

1. High cost of living

One major downside of living in Brentwood is its high cost of living. While many people may enjoy the luxury lifestyle that Brentwood offers, it’s prohibitively expensive for others. 

Housing, in particular, can be costly. For example, the median sale price for a home in Brentwood is $816,000, nearly twice the national average. Apartments are also expensive, with a one-bedroom apartment costing an average of $2,525.

2. Traffic and commuting

While Brentwood’s location offers easy access to larger cities, commuting can be challenging. The freeways can become congested, especially during peak rush hour periods. While there are public transportation options, they can also be time-consuming. This means that if you live in Brentwood but work in San Francisco, for example, you will likely have a long commute each day.

3. Hot weather

Brentwood’s weather is generally pleasurable, but summers can become excessively hot. The city is in a hot Mediterranean climate, meaning summer temperatures frequently reach into the high 90s to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat waves can make this even worse. If you aren’t used to hot weather or don’t enjoy it, summers will be challenging. 

4. Limited nightlife

Brentwood is a quieter city, so its nightlife options may seem limited, especially when compared to larger cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles. While there are restaurants and bars in the area, you won’t find a vibrant nightlife scene. 

If you’re in the mood for good food, though, there are plenty of options, including Shirasoni, Chianti’s, and Baltaire. 

5. Growth and development

Brentwood has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, with its population increasing nearly 300% since 2000. This has transformed the area from a small agricultural town to a more developed suburban city. While this growth has brought many conveniences, it also brought more traffic, pollution, and less charm. If you want to move to Brentwood for its small-town feel, you may be slightly disappointed.

Source: redfin.com

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What is luxury real estate really? On today’s podcast with luxury expert Harold Clarke, we discuss what luxury real estate is and what Realtors need to know in order to truly serve high-net-worth clients. In addition to offering advice on breaking into the luxury niche, Harold shares strategies that agents can use to corner any market. We also discuss how COVID-19 affected Hawaiian real estate, what luxury living looks like in 2022, and why real estate agents should always be truthful with clients.

Listen to today’s show and learn:

  • About Harold Clarke [3:46]
  • What luxury real estate really is [4:21]
  • Five-star service at home [8:28]
  • Understanding how high-net-worth clients feel [12:03]
  • Current events and how they affect luxury real estate sales [13:28]
  • How COVID-19 has changed Hawaiian real estate markets [14:25]
  • Why interest rates aren’t affecting luxury sales in Hawaii [16:48]
  • Advice on getting into the luxury niche [18:34]
  • Why you can’t fake expertise in the luxury niche [22:32]
  • One of Harold’s best recent experiences with a client [24:11]
  • Collecting clues for follow-up [25:42]
  • Interacting with people from all walks of life in Hawaii [26:35]
  • Harold’s advice for real estate agents: be truthful [27:26]

Harold Clarke

Harold X Clarke knows quite well the nuances of wealth, through intimate experience. He developed a strong sense of ownership for the real issues and tough decisions required of individuals with great wealth at a young age. His competitive and perfectionist instincts, coupled with a deep, personal understanding of the wealthy elite’s mindset, allowed him to develop his proprietary method of catering to the discreet needs of the world’s most discerning clientele.

Recognizing big-box corporate real estate brands fall increasingly short fulfilling the real estate needs of the UHNW, and observing the small number of developments in the world that check all the boxes for these individuals, Mr. Clarke founded private real estate consultancy Harold Clarke Advisors for the world’s top .001% of individuals and global developers, to reshape the luxury lifestyle market and fill the void.

Related Links and Resources:

Thank You Rockstars!

It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.
-Aaron Amuchastegui

Source: hibandigital.com

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For home sellers, attempting to time the market amps up the pressure during what’s already an extremely stressful period. List too early, and you may give up some profit. List too late, and your home could linger too long on the market.

The best time to list your home for sale in the U.S. in 2023 passed you by a few weeks ago, according to Realtor.com’s analysis. During the week of April 16-22, sellers benefit from more buyers, higher prices and less competition from other listings compared to the average week.

But don’t despair, the market hasn’t reached the worst time of year to sell yet.

“Conditions for sellers are better in the spring and remain pretty good beyond the week we identified as the best,” said Danielle Hale, chief economist for Realtor.com. “The worst time of year for sellers is in late fall.”

More: The Pull of a Pool Is Strong, Even in Drizzly Britain

The three worst weeks of the year for sellers in 2023 are expected to be Nov. 5-11, followed by Oct. 29-Nov. 4, and Oct. 22-28, according to Realtor.com’s research.

“Buyer demand slows in the late fall, so it could take longer to sell and you may not get as good a price,” Ms. Hale said. “If there’s no need to sell right then, you may be better off planning to sell in the year ahead rather than just as buyers are focused on the holidays.”

While early spring is best for sellers, there’s potentially less competition from other sellers in late summer and early fall, Ms. Hale said. From mid-November to January buyer demand slows, but because there are fewer listings on the market, that time of year is slightly better for sellers than late October to early November.

“When to list your house depends on what you’re concerned about,” Ms. Hale said. “You can typically sell your house at a higher price earlier in the fall but you’re potentially competing against other sellers. If your home doesn’t compete well, maybe you’re better off a little later in the fall.”


Seasonality in the Housing Market

Most people assume that home sales patterns are dictated by the weather. After all, the spring housing market is widely identified as the busiest of the year and many people think that’s because after hibernating for the winter buyers are ready to move.

“Most metro areas have the same worst week or best week to list your home,” Ms. Hale said. “That’s because seasonality in housing markets has more to do with life events and cultural conventions such as school schedules and holidays than with housing market trends. The weather has an influence, too, in some places because it’s easier to see houses when there’s no snow on the ground.”

More: A Drought-Tolerant Garden Can Benefit the Environment and Add Value to a Home

Regional Variations in Home Sales

Still, different markets have seasons that can be good or bad for sellers.

“In the Miami market, September is by far the worst time of the year to list a home because you’re fully back in the swing of things such as school, activities and other commitments,” said Michael Martirena, co-founder of the Ivan and Mike Team at Compass in Miami. “It’s less than ideal to disrupt the busiest month of life to put a home on a market.”

In New York, listing your home just before Thanksgiving and anytime in December can be challenging, according to Jeremy Kamm, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Warburg in New York City. Mr. Kamm recommended waiting instead until after the start of the new year if possible.

“Fortunately, most agents would likely agree with this philosophy and therefore there’s limited inventory being released during this time, so if your home stands out in any way or you’re willing to hit the market with discounted pricing, you may still be safe,” Mr. Kamm said.

MANSION GLOBAL BOUTIQUE: 9 Stylish Home Picks From Women-Led Businesses

July and December are the worst months to list your home in Chicago, said Julie Busby, founder and president of the Busby Group with Compass in Chicago.

“In July, people want to spend time enjoying the summer weather,” she said. “In December, people are busy with the holidays and less inclined to attend an open house.”

Bill Aboumrad, broker/owner of Legacy Real Estate & Associates ERA Powered in Fremont, California, said he typically recommends that sellers put their homes on the market after Super Bowl Sunday to avoid the November-December holiday season and use January to prep their house for buyers.

“The other two times of the year that are a challenge are during graduation season and back-to-school season,” Mr. Aboumrad said. “Listings that are on the market during those times see a significant reduction in traffic. Each one of those phases lasts about two to three weeks.”

Mr. Aboumrad recommended that sellers wait until after June 15 in graduation season and after Labor Day to bypass back-to-school activities.

More: When to Consider Giving Your Listed Home a Breather From the Property Market

Tips for Selling at the Wrong Time

If you must sell at a less desirable time of year and don’t want to spend a lot to renovate, Mr. Kamm recommended pricing your home accordingly.

“Edit the home decor and design and make it as inviting as possible,” he said. “Staging can be expensive, but editing is easy. Adding some small touches and changing up accessories will bring some fresh character, too.”

Creative marketing may be required if you’re selling in the off-season, too.

“Think out of the box and don’t do what everyone else does—it’s time to stage the home to perfection, host an elegant event, and make sure you hire an agent who has a PR company and an SEO webmaster to ensure your listing is getting the attention and press it deserves,” said Mr. Martirena.

More: Should You Underprice Your Home to Induce a Bidding War?

If you’re selling in Chicago in July, Ms. Busby suggested bringing in a snow cone vendor to entertain the kids while their parents house hunt.

“In December, we work closely with our relocation contacts because many of the buyers looking at this time of year are relocating for work,” Ms. Busby said.

Ms. Hale, meanwhile, added that any home can still be sold at the “worst” time of year. “That’s particularly true this year because there are half as many homes for sale as there were before the pandemic,” she said. “Sellers are still in pretty good shape at any time of year because of the lack of competition.”

Click for more in-depth analysis of luxury lifestyle news


Source: mansionglobal.com

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The National Association of Realtors released its 2013 National Housing Pulse Survey recently, and they’ve been sharing bits and pieces for free on their blog.

A more interesting tidbit shared over the weekend shed some light on the sacrifices home buyers make in order to scrounge up enough cash to buy a piece of property.

Ditching the Luxury Lifestyle

The top cutback made by all buyers was on “luxury items” or “non-essential items,” which is pretty standard if you’re gearing up to purchase anything expensive.

Of all buyers surveyed by NAR, 32% indicated that they had to cut back in those departments.

Broken down further, 42% of first-time buyers said they had to ditch such items, compared to just 26% of repeat buyers.

Entertain Yourself

The second biggest concession was entertainment, with 26% of all buyers indicating that they had to forego fun while saving up to buy a home.

Again, many more first-time buyers (35%) had to make this sacrifice compared to seasoned repeat buyers (20%).

Whether you’re in the market to buy a home or not, you should limit how much you spend on entertainment, which can add up in a hurry.

I Don’t Have Anything to Wear

The third biggest hard decision a prospective buyer had to make involved clothing, with 20% indicating that new clothes were on hold.

More than a quarter (27%) of first-timers had to wear their old clothes while home shopping, compared to 15% of repeat buyers, who perhaps felt more at ease with the process.

It’s certainly easier to buy a home the second or third time around, knowing the potential pitfalls and setbacks that can occur.

At the same time, the housing and mortgage market is constantly in flux, so what worked five years ago might not fly today.

How Does Camping Sound?

The fourth biggest guilty pleasure given up was vacationing, which 13% of buyers said they canceled to pursue their home buying crusade.

Again, more first-time home buyers (14%) cut back in this category compared to those who’ve already been there (11%).

Believe it or not, there are plenty of times when buyers or refinancers are out of town are critical periods during the loan process.

Don’t go on vacation if you know your loan documents might need to be signed, or if you’re anywhere in the process for that matter.

There’s a good chance you’ll need to sign or fax an important document, so stay close to home until the loan funds.

Ride a Bike

The fifth biggest sacrifice buyers made was either selling an existing vehicle or deciding not to purchase one, though only six percent of respondents noted this.

It was again higher for first-time buyers (7%) than repeat buyers (6%), but just barely.

For the record, you shouldn’t make any significant purchases when shopping for a home, especially something that requires a loan, like a car.

If you take out another loan around the same time you take out a mortgage, your credit score will likely take a hit, and you could even have issues with your debt-to-income ratio exceeding the allowable limits.

Conversely, selling a car could actually help you in the affordability department if you had an associated car loan/lease that you could now remove from your DTI calculations.

So those were the top five sacrifices. Some respondents (6%) also reported taking a second job to earn some extra income for the home purchase.

Just note that while it’s great to earn some extra dough, a short-term, part-time job likely won’t be used for qualification purposes.

Overall, 53% of buyers said they didn’t need to make any sacrifices at all, so perhaps affordability isn’t a concern just yet. Either way, save up, season your assets early on, and be ready to document everything!

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

Paris Hilton’s multi-million-dollar houses with husband Carter Reum

Our favorite hotel heiress started the year in the best possible way as a new mom to her baby boy, Phoenix Barron Hilton Reum, whom she welcomed with husband Carter Reum in January 2023. She also moved into a new place in the semi-remote mountains high above Beverly Hills. With the baby’s arrival, the couple […]

The post Paris Hilton’s multi-million-dollar houses with husband Carter Reum appeared first on Fancy Pants Homes.

10 Incredible Apartment Pools in Omaha

Need a place close to home to stay cool? We’ll impress you with these apartment pools in Omaha.

The post 10 Incredible Apartment Pools in Omaha appeared first on The Rent. Blog : A Renter’s Guide for Tips & Advice.