Don’t Overextend Yourself: Smart Advice for First-Time (and Any!) HomebuyersBuying a home is an exciting milestone, but it’s crucial to avoid a common pitfall that can turn your dream into a nightmare: overextending your budget. Just because you qualify for a certain loan amount doesn’t mean you should borrow it. Let me explain why staying within a safe budget is key to financial peace of mind.The Danger of OverextendingHistorically, your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio—what you spend on debt compared to what you earn—should be around 28% when purchasing a home. However, some lenders approve DTIs as high as 50%. While this might seem like good news, it can spell trouble for buyers.Here’s why: Hidden Costs Add Up: Many assume their mortgage payment will remain steady, but rising property valu... 11/30/2024

Why Builders Love Flat Paint: The Secret Behind New Home FinishesHave you ever moved into a new home and wondered why the walls are painted with flat paint instead of eggshell? It’s a choice builders make for a reason—several, actually!Here’s why builders prefer flat paint: Easy Touch-Ups: Contractors often have to go back in to touch up scuffs, dents, and dings left from construction work. Flat paint is perfect for touch-ups because it blends seamlessly, unlike eggshell, which can show touch-up marks. Cost-Effective: Flat paint is often cheaper than eggshell. Builders save on costs, especially when covering large areas, and that savings can be passed on to you. Durability During Construction: With all the traffic in a newly built home—contractors, electricians, plumbers—walls take a be... 12/01/2024

Can you guess the price of this home in Moores Mill subdivison? Step inside one of Auburn’s most sought-after neighborhoods—Moores Mill! Today, I’m filming at a stunning home that’s the perfect blend of charm and convenience. Located just minutes from shopping, delicious restaurants, Auburn University, downtown Auburn, and Tiger Time, this neighborhood truly has it all. But here’s the fun part—I want you to guess the price of this home! Drop your guesses in the comments below and see how close you get. Whether you’re spot on or way off, it’s all part of the fun!Moores Mill is a hot spot for buyers, and homes here don’t last long. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Auburn, don’t miss out on working with me—I know this market like no one else. Follow me for all things real ... 11/28/2024

How Many Visits to a Home Under Contract Are Enough?Once a home is under contract, buyers often wonder how many times they should visit the property. Is a home inspection and final walkthrough sufficient, or should buyers return for additional reasons, like taking measurements or introducing the home to family and friends?While it’s natural to be excited about your new home, frequent visits can create stress for sellers. Many are busy packing and preparing for their move, and they may feel pressured to keep the home in “show-ready” condition—even when it’s filled with moving boxes and chaos.Balancing Excitement with RespectHere’s a simple guideline to consider: Necessary Visits: The home inspection and final walkthrough are essential visits for due diligence. Additional Visits: If you n... 12/02/2024