Uncategorized December 19, 2023

Real Estate Brokerage – Love it, or List It!

There are many key components of a high-performing Real Estate Brokerage for Agents. Embarking on a career in real estate can be a thrilling journey, full of opportunities for growth and success. As an agent, aligning yourself with a reputable real estate brokerage like ERA Town & Campus Realty is a crucial step towards achieving your professional goals. In this article, we will delve into the key components that make a real estate brokerage stand out and contribute to an agent’s success.

  1. Brokerage Reputation and Branding: A reputable brokerage establishes trust in the market and can significantly impact an agent’s credibility. Look for brokerages with a strong brand presence, positive client reviews, and a history of successful transactions. The brokerage’s reputation will not only attract potential clients but also enhance your own professional image.
  2. Training and Development Programs: A high-performing brokerage invests in its agents’ success by offering comprehensive training and development programs. These may include workshops, seminars, and online courses covering various aspects of real estate, from market trends to negotiation skills. Access to ongoing education ensures that agents stay competitive and adapt to the ever-evolving real estate landscape.
  3. Technology and Marketing Tools: In today’s digital age, technology is a game-changer in the real estate industry. A brokerage that provides cutting-edge technology and marketing tools equips its agents with the means to streamline processes, reach a broader audience, and stay ahead of the competition. Look for brokerages that leverage digital platforms, CRM systems, and online marketing strategies to enhance your efficiency and effectiveness.
  4. Supportive Leadership and Team Culture: The leadership and culture within a brokerage play a pivotal role in an agent’s success. A supportive and collaborative environment fosters a sense of belonging and encourages teamwork. Seek out brokerages with leaders who are invested in your professional growth and create a positive, inclusive culture where agents can thrive.
  5. Comprehensive Brokerage Services: A well-rounded brokerage offers a range of services beyond basic transactions. These may include property management, legal support, and financial assistance. A one-stop-shop for real estate services enables agents to provide a holistic experience for their clients, strengthening client-agent relationships and increasing the likelihood of repeat business and referrals.
  6. Commission Structure and Incentives: The financial aspect is, of course, a significant consideration. A competitive commission structure and additional incentives can greatly motivate agents. Look for brokerages that offer fair compensation and reward high performance through bonuses, recognition, or other incentives. This ensures that your hard work is duly acknowledged and rewarded.
  7. Networking Opportunities: Successful real estate agents understand the importance of networking. A brokerage that facilitates networking events, conferences, and industry partnerships can provide valuable opportunities for agents to build connections, share insights, and expand their professional network. These connections can open doors to new clients, partnerships, and business opportunities.

Choosing the right real estate brokerage is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your career as an agent. By considering these key components—reputation, training, technology, leadership, services, compensation, and networking—you can align yourself with a brokerage like ERA that not only supports your immediate success but also contributes to your long-term growth in the dynamic world of real estate. Want to talk more about your career? Simply fill out this form

Uncategorized December 14, 2023

Sell My Home – Tips of the Pros

Sell my Home? Is the time right? It can be an exciting but challenging process. To maximize your chances of a swift and successful sale, it’s crucial to present your property at its best. From enhancing curb appeal to decluttering and staging, here’s a comprehensive guide on how ERA Town & Campus Realty Agents help prepare your home for a sale that will attract potential buyers and secure the best possible offer.

1. Sell My Home? Curb Appeal Matters: 

The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see. Make sure it creates a positive and lasting impression:

  • Landscaping: Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and plant colorful flowers to add vibrancy.
  • Exterior Repairs: Address any visible issues such as peeling paint, loose shingles, or broken steps.
  • Front Door: A fresh coat of paint or a new door can make a significant impact. Ensure the doorbell works and is in good condition.

2. Deep Clean and Declutter: Less is More

A clean and clutter-free home allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Take the following steps:

  • Deep Cleaning: Scrub floors, clean carpets, and pay attention to details like baseboards and light switches.
  • Declutter: Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that doesn’t contribute to the overall aesthetics.
  • Storage Solutions: Invest in storage bins to neatly stow away personal items during open houses.

3. Repairs and Maintenance: Address Minor Issues

Small issues can become deal-breakers for potential buyers. Ensure that all systems are functioning optimally. If you aren’t certain, contact a licensed home inspector for a pre-listing inspection:

  • Plumbing and Electrical: Fix any leaks, drips, or faulty switches. Consider hiring a professional for a pre-sale inspection.
  • Painting: A fresh coat of paint in neutral colors can make the home feel well-maintained.
  • Flooring: Repair any damaged tiles or floorboards. Consider professional cleaning for carpets.

4. Stage Your Home: Create an Inviting Atmosphere

Staging involves arranging furniture and decor to highlight your home’s best features and create a welcoming environment:

  • Furniture Placement: Arrange furniture to showcase the flow of each room. Avoid blocking natural pathways.
  • Neutral Decor: Choose neutral colors for decor and furnishings to appeal to a broad range of tastes.
  • Lighting: Ensure each room is well-lit. Clean windows, replace light bulbs, and open curtains to let in natural light.

5. Sell my home? Hire Professional Photography: Capture Your Home’s Best Angles

In the digital age, most homebuyers start their search online. Professional photographs can significantly impact a buyer’s perception:

  • High-Quality Photos: Hire a professional photographer to showcase your home in its best light.
  • Virtual Tours: Consider creating virtual tours to give potential buyers a comprehensive view of your property. Show it how you would want to sell my home to you.

6. Set the Right Price: Research the Market

Work with your real estate agent to set a competitive and realistic asking price:

  • Market Analysis: Research recent sales in your neighborhood to determine a fair market value.
  • Consult with Professionals: Seek guidance from real estate agents and appraisers to ensure your pricing strategy aligns with market trends.

7. Create a Warm Welcome for Showings: Personal Touches Matter

During showings, make your home feel inviting and memorable:

  • Aromas: Light a subtly scented candle or bake cookies to create a pleasant aroma.
  • Temperature Control: Keep the temperature comfortable, especially in extreme weather.
  • Personalized Touches: Leave a personalized note or brochure highlighting key features of the home.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to preparing your home for a successful sale. Remember, presenting your property in the best possible light not only attracts potential buyers but also increases the likelihood of receiving competitive offers. Good luck on your home-selling journey!

Uncategorized December 13, 2023

Military Relocation Real Estate Brokerage

Military relocation, also known as a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), is typically a swift and immediate order. A real estate agent should be well-informed about various aspects specific to military personnel and their unique needs. Our Columbus, MS office is located just off the Main Gate to Columbus Air Force Base and has served many of our Country’s finest in their time of PCS. Here are some important considerations the Agents of ERA Town & Campus Realty keep up to speed on:

  1. Understanding Military Requirements:
    • The military’s policies and regulations regarding relocations, allowances, and timelines. Each branch of the military may have specific guidelines.
  2. Knowledge of Military Installations:
    • Be aware of the local military bases, their facilities, and the surrounding communities. This includes information on base amenities, housing options, and commuting distances.
  3. VA Loan and Financing:
    • Understand the Veterans Affairs (VA) loan process and eligibility criteria. Many military personnel use VA loans, so being knowledgeable about this financing option can be crucial.
  4. Timely Communication:
    • Military moves often have strict timelines. Being prompt and efficient in communication is crucial. Keep in touch with the client and be prepared to adjust schedules to accommodate their unique needs.
  5. Understanding Per Diem and Allowances:
    • Military members may receive per diem allowances during relocation. Knowing the details of these allowances can help in guiding clients on budgeting and housing options.
  6. Familiarity with Temporary Lodging:
    • Military families may need temporary lodging upon arrival at the new duty station. Be able to provide information on local hotels, temporary housing options, and any military-specific lodging facilities.
  7. Proximity to Schools and Services:
    • Consider the proximity of potential homes to schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. Families with children may prioritize proximity to good schools, so be knowledgeable about the local education system.
  8. Military-Friendly Communities:
    • Identify neighborhoods that are known for being military-friendly. These areas may have support networks and services catering to military families.
  9. Flexibility with Paperwork and Processes:
    • Military relocations often involve additional paperwork and coordination. Be flexible and willing to navigate through any specific requirements related to military moves.
  10. Security Clearance Issues:
    • Be aware of security clearance issues that may affect the choice of housing. Some military members may require homes in specific areas due to security clearance restrictions.
  11. Local Resources:
    • Provide information on local resources and support services available to military families, such as spouse employment assistance programs and family support services.
  12. Knowledge of Relocation Companies:
    • Familiarize yourself with companies that specialize in military relocations. They may have resources and expertise to facilitate the moving process.

By addressing these considerations, our real estate agents can better serve military clients and make the relocation process smoother for them. Additionally, establishing a strong understanding of the unique challenges and requirements faced by military families can help build trust and rapport.

Uncategorized December 12, 2023

Starkville MS Real Estate Zillow

Starkville Real Estate Search Zillow: Know thy foe.

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, homebuyers and sellers are presented with a plethora of options for finding their dream property or connecting with potential buyers. Two popular approaches to house hunting include traditional local searches and the digital realm of platforms like Zillow. In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both methods to help you make an informed decision on how to best navigate the real estate landscape. So, Starkville, MS real estate or Zillow?

Local Searches:

  1. Personalized Insights:
    • Local real estate agents possess invaluable knowledge about neighborhoods, school districts, and community vibes that may not be readily available online.
    • Establishing a direct connection with a local real estate expert allows for personalized insights and recommendations tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
  2. Hidden Gems:
    • Not all available properties may be listed online. Some sellers prefer a more discreet approach and rely on local real estate agents to find qualified buyers without broadcasting their sale to the entire internet.
  3. Networking Opportunities:
    • Local searches foster networking opportunities with real estate professionals and potential neighbors. These connections can provide valuable information about the local market, upcoming developments, and insider tips.
  4. Hands-On Experience:
    • Touring neighborhoods and attending open houses offers a hands-on experience that helps you assess the true ambiance of an area and determine whether it aligns with your lifestyle.

Zillow and Online Platforms:

  1. Vast Inventory:
    • Online platforms like Zillow provide access to a vast inventory of properties, making it easier to browse a wide range of options from the comfort of your home.
  2. Convenience:
    • The convenience of online searches allows users to filter properties based on specific criteria, such as price range, number of bedrooms, and amenities, streamlining the house-hunting process.
  3. Data-Driven Decision Making:
    • Zillow and similar platforms offer extensive data, including property history, market trends, and price comparisons. This information empowers users to make data-driven decisions during the buying or selling process.
  4. Quick Updates:
    • Online listings are updated in real-time, ensuring that users have access to the latest information about available properties and market trends.

Considerations for a Balanced Approach:

  1. Local Expertise and Online Research:
    • Combine the benefits of local expertise with the convenience of online research. Leverage the insights of local real estate agents while also exploring online platforms to widen your scope.
  2. Utilize Technology to Enhance, Not Replace:
    • While online platforms provide a wealth of information, they should complement, not replace, the personal touch of local real estate professionals who can offer context and nuance.
  3. Balance Digital Efficiency with Personal Experience:
    • Strive to strike a balance between the efficiency of digital platforms and the personal experience gained through on-the-ground exploration of neighborhoods and properties.

Ultimately, the choice between local Starkville real estate search Zillow and online platforms like Zillow depends on your individual preferences, priorities, and the unique aspects of the real estate market in your desired location. By combining the strengths of both approaches, you can maximize your chances of finding the perfect home or connecting with the right buyer in today’s dynamic real estate landscape. Engaging an agent from ERA Town & Campus Realty provides you the best of both worlds. If you are more hands-on in your approach, you can send them options you find online and ask for their opinions on the market price, area, proximity to important landmarks to you and much more.

Uncategorized December 11, 2023

Real Estate AGENT – What is an agent?

Real estate agents, as licensed professionals, have fiduciary duties to their clients. The National Association of Realtors binds agents by a code of Ethics. If an agent is not a member (REALTOR(r)) they still owe clients fiduciary duties. These duties are legal and ethical obligations that require agents to act in the best interests of their clients. Here are the key fiduciary duties of a real estate agent:

  1. Loyalty: Real estate agents must be loyal to their clients and prioritize their clients’ interests above their own. This means avoiding conflicts of interest and not taking actions that could compromise the client’s position.
  2. Disclosure: Agents have a duty to disclose all relevant information to their clients. This includes any potential conflicts of interest, information about the property or the transaction, and any other details that could impact the client’s decision-making process.
  3. Confidentiality: Real estate agents are privy to sensitive information about their clients and their transactions. They must maintain confidentiality and not disclose any information without the client’s consent, except when required by law.
  4. Obedience: Agents must obey their client’s lawful instructions. This means following the client’s directions in the real estate transaction, as long as those instructions are legal and ethical.
  5. Reasonable Care and Diligence: Real estate agents are expected to exercise reasonable care and diligence in their work. This includes staying informed about the real estate market, property values, and relevant laws and regulations. Agents should also diligently work to meet their clients’ goals.
  6. Accounting: Agents are responsible for handling their clients’ funds and property with care. They should keep accurate records of all transactions and financial dealings related to the client’s property or transaction.
  7. Skill and Competence: Real estate agents are expected to have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide competent representation to their clients. This involves understanding the real estate market, contracts, and other relevant aspects of the industry.

These fiduciary duties create a relationship of trust and confidence between the real estate agent and the client. Violating these duties could lead to legal consequences and damage the agent’s professional reputation. It’s important for both parties to clearly understand and agree to these obligations at the beginning of their working relationship. The agents of ERA Town & Campus Realty are thoroughly trained and reminded of just what these duties mean and stand for. It’s our standard of business.

Uncategorized November 15, 2023

Condo for Sale – But Why Buy a Condo?

Condo for Sale near me? Or should I buy a house…? Choosing between buying a condo and a single-family home depends on various factors, and each option has its own set of advantages. Living in a college town like Starkville, MS has lots of benefits. But is a condo right for you? Here are some benefits of buying a condo instead of a home:

  1. Affordability:
    • Condos are often more affordable than single-family homes, making them an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those with a limited budget. Visit erastarkville.com condo listings to see some condos for sale and the local pricing.
  2. Maintenance and Repairs:
    • Condo associations typically handle exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common area repairs. This can be beneficial for homeowners who don’t want to deal with the responsibilities of maintaining a house and yard.
  3. Amenities:
    • Just a condo for sale? Amenities count, too. Condo complexes often come with shared amenities such as pools, gyms, clubhouses, and security features. These amenities may be more cost-effective compared to maintaining them in a standalone home.
  4. Community Living:
    • Condos provide a sense of community living. If you enjoy being close to neighbors and having common spaces for socializing, a condo might be a better fit than a single-family home.
  5. Security:
    • Condos often have security features such as gated entrances, surveillance systems, and sometimes on-site security personnel, providing a sense of safety and peace of mind for residents.
  6. Location:
    • Condos are often located in urban or desirable areas where it might be more expensive or difficult to find a standalone home. If location is a top priority, a condo may offer better options. Many times once you see a “Condo for Sale” sign, many other buyers already know about it. Contact your local ERA agent and get ahead of the crowd.
  7. Lower Utility Costs:
    • Condos are generally smaller than houses, resulting in lower utility costs. Heating, cooling, and maintaining a smaller space can be more energy-efficient and cost-effective. View the local rates for Starkville.
  8. Investment Potential:
    • Condos can be a good investment, especially in areas where housing demand is high. They may appreciate in value over time, offering potential financial gains.
  9. Easier Resale:
    • Condos can be easier to sell in certain markets due to their lower price point and appeal to a broader range of buyers.
  10. Limited Responsibilities:
    • Condo living often means fewer responsibilities related to property management. The homeowners’ association (HOA) takes care of many aspects, leaving residents with less to worry about.

It’s essential to consider your lifestyle, preferences, and financial situation when deciding between a condo and a home. While condos offer several advantages, individual preferences and needs can vary, and some may prefer the independence and space that comes with owning a single-family home.

Uncategorized November 14, 2023

The Golden Triangle of Mississippi

The term “Golden Triangle” typically refers to a region in the southeastern United States, and there are several areas that go by this name. One notable Golden Triangle is located in Mississippi, encompassing the cities of Columbus, Starkville, and West Point. The Golden Triangle Development Link has helped generously in growing this area to everyone’s benefit. Here’s a general overview of what living in the Golden Triangle, MS, might be like:

  1. Cultural and Educational Hub:
    • Starkville: Home to Mississippi State University, Starkville is a vibrant college town. The university brings a youthful energy to the area, with cultural events, sports, and diverse activities.
    • Columbus: Known for its rich history, Columbus features antebellum homes, historic districts, and museums. The city hosts events celebrating its heritage, including the annual Pilgrimage.
  2. Education Opportunities:
    • The presence of Mississippi State University in Starkville contributes to a robust educational environment. The university offers various academic programs and cultural events, enhancing the overall quality of education in the area.
  3. Economic Landscape:
    • The Golden Triangle has a diverse economic base, including manufacturing, agriculture, and education. Columbus, for example, has a history of manufacturing and is home to the Columbus Air Force Base.
  4. Recreational Activities:
    • The region offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for recreational activities. With parks, nature reserves, and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, residents can engage in activities like hiking, boating, and fishing.
  5. Community Atmosphere:
    • The smaller communities within the Golden Triangle foster a close-knit atmosphere. People often know their neighbors, and community events contribute to a sense of belonging.
  6. Historic Charm:
    • The Golden Triangle boasts a rich history, particularly in Columbus, where historical sites and architecture provide a glimpse into the past. The city has preserved its heritage while adapting to modern times.
  7. Climate:
    • Like much of Mississippi, the Golden Triangle experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers tend to be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild. This climate can influence outdoor activities and lifestyle preferences.
  8. Transportation:
    • The region is well-connected by highways, making it relatively easy to travel within the Golden Triangle and to nearby cities. Public transportation options may be limited, but private vehicle ownership is common.

ERA Town & Campus Realty has the Golden Triangle of Mississippi covered for all of your real estate needs. Contact one of our agents today to talk shop and learn more about living in Mississippi’s Golden Triangle.

Overall, living in the Golden Triangle, MS, offers a mix of educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities within a community-oriented environment. The presence of a major university, historical significance, and a diverse economic landscape contribute to the region’s unique character.

Uncategorized October 24, 2023

How to Sell my Home Without a Realtor

Hiring a professional to do a service should always yield better results than doing it yourself. A professional painter can paint straighter lines with less mess, and finish the job faster than you can by painting yourself. It doesn’t mean you ‘cannot’ paint yourself, but the end result will be evident if it was done by a professional or DIY. This is why many homeowners choose to hire a real estate agent, often referred to as a REALTOR® (a member of the National Association of Realtors), to sell their house. We have compiled a basic list of “how-to’s” for selling your home without a Realtor. For reference, we described how ERA Realtors perform these tasks. Here are just a few reasons you should hire a professional to handle the job for you:

  1. Expertise and Knowledge: Realtors have a deep understanding of the real estate market, including local market conditions, pricing trends, and the legal and financial aspects of buying and selling homes. They can provide valuable insights and advice to help you make informed decisions. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Research tax records for sales prices near you. Never take a neighbor’s word for what they sold their home for. They always peacock at the opportunity to brag.
  2. Pricing Strategy: Realtors can help you determine the optimal selling price for your home based on a comparative market analysis (CMA). This ensures that your home is competitively priced to attract potential buyers while maximizing your return on investment. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Hire an appraiser (Typically about $750 per residential appraisal).
  3. Marketing and Exposure: Realtors have access to multiple listing services (MLS) and a network of other real estate professionals, allowing them to market your property to a wide audience. They can create professional listings with high-quality photos and descriptions, conduct open houses, and use various marketing channels to reach potential buyers. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Utilizing social media, paid advertisements in local publications, and mail outs to neighbors (Typical expense: $500 for a successful marketing program)
  4. Negotiation Skills: Realtors are skilled negotiators who can represent your interests in dealings with buyers and their agents. They can help you secure the best possible deal and navigate through the negotiation process, which can be complex. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Know EVERY aspect of the contract you are using, and how they affect your bottom line AT CLOSING, not at the time of signing. If you aren’t familiar, hire an attorney to write a contract for you that does know every aspect and their affect on your transaction (Typical expense: $500+)
  5. Legal and Regulatory Expertise: Real estate transactions involve numerous legal and regulatory requirements. Realtors are well-versed in these aspects and can guide you through the paperwork, contracts, disclosures, and potential legal issues to ensure a smooth and legally compliant sale. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Same as #4.
  6. Time and Convenience: Selling a home can be a time-consuming process, from marketing and showing the property to managing inquiries, negotiations, and paperwork. Realtors can save you time and alleviate the stress associated with the process. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Don’t miss a single appointment to show your home. Every showing is valuable and could be your next Buyer. Even if it means taking off work, you need to be available at the Buyer’s convenience to show the home. Buyers are available when they’re available, have the home ready to show and your schedule open.
  7. Access to a Network: Realtors have connections within the real estate industry and can tap into their network to find potential buyers or connect you with other professionals such as home inspectors, appraisers, and mortgage brokers. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Have a list of references ready to go before you ever tell someone the home is coming up for sale. Things happen fast in a real estate transaction. Scrambling to find Lenders, Inspectors, or Companies to do repairs can cause unnecessary delays in your closing.
  8. Handling Complex Situations: If unexpected issues or complications arise during the sale, such as inspection problems or financing challenges, Realtors can use their experience to navigate these situations and find solutions. No two real estate transactions are the same. Every transaction presents its unique challenges. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Be prepared for hiccups and challenges. They happen. Knowing the right move to make when they present can save you $1000’s in unexpected expenses.
  9. Improved Visibility and Credibility: Having a real estate agent can lend credibility to your listing, as many buyers feel more comfortable working with a professional. This can attract a wider range of potential buyers. Be mindful that many Buyers engage a professional to help them find a home. This is especially true if they are not familiar with a new market they are relocating to. How to Sell my home Without a Realtor: Be willing to allow Realtors to schedule appointments with you. They will discuss the fee for their service in representing the Buyer prior to showing your home. This fee is typically paid at closing.
  10. Maximizing Sale Price: A skilled Realtor can help you stage your home effectively, offer suggestions for minor repairs or improvements, and provide guidance on how to make your property more appealing to buyers, potentially leading to a higher sale price. More often than not your home can actually be sold for more than what you think it would sell for by making just a few minor adjustments. How to sell my home without a Realtor: Hire an appraiser to evaluate your home value (typically $750+). Hire an interior decorator to help you prepare the home for market (Typically $500 minimum, $150/hour).

While there are costs associated with hiring a Realtor, their expertise, marketing capabilities, and negotiation skills can often result in a smoother, more profitable transaction, making the commission fee a worthwhile investment for many home sellers. However, it’s essential to choose a Realtor carefully and discuss their fees and services before entering into an agreement. The agents of ERA Town & Campus Realty are experienced, knowledgeable, and provide many of these services built-in to their payment for services. Does this article help answer your question of How to Sell my Home without a Realtor? Hopefully the answer is to Contact one of our agents and let us take the stress away.

Uncategorized September 26, 2023

How Much is my Home Worth?

Do you ask yourself frequently “How much is my home worth?” Knowing the value of your home is essential, whether you’re considering selling, refinancing, or just curious about its current market worth. If you wonder how much your home is worth, here are a few methods to help you find your answer:

  1. Online Valuation Tools: Numerous websites and platforms offer free online home valuation tools. Popular ones include ERA.com Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. These tools provide estimated home values based on publicly available data and other factors. While they can provide a rough estimate, they may not be entirely accurate and further research is always recommended.
  2. Hire a Professional Appraiser: Hiring a certified appraiser is one of the most accurate ways to determine your home’s value. Appraisers are trained to assess a property’s condition, features, and its comps in your area. They provide a detailed and unbiased valuation report. The cost of this service varies among appraisers, but typically ranges from $500-1000. Many banks require a certified appraisal for loans and refinances.
  3. Consult an ERA Real Estate Agent: ERA Real estate agents are familiar with local market conditions and can provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This report includes recent sales of similar properties in your area, helping you understand your home’s value. The best part of going this route, is there is no fee for this service. ERA Agents are always happy to give you an estimated value on your home. This opinion on price cannot be used for financing but can give you a good idea of what your home is worth.
  4. Online Real Estate Listings: Browse online real estate listings in your area to see the prices of similar homes. This can give you a rough idea of what similar properties are selling for.
  5. Attend Open Houses: Visiting open houses for properties similar to yours can help you gauge the condition and features of those homes and compare them to your own.
  6. Local Tax Assessment Office: You can contact your local tax assessment office to find out the assessed value of your property. Keep in mind that this value might not always align with market value. Mississippi does not require Sellers to disclose what a home sold for, so this is not always an accurate approach, but it can give you a good idea of approximate sales prices in your area.
  7. Home Improvement Appraisal: If you’ve made significant improvements to your home, such as adding a new bathroom or renovating the kitchen, consider getting an appraisal specifically for those improvements. This can add value to your property.
  8. Keep Up with the Local Market: Stay informed about the local real estate market by reading local news, attending real estate seminars, or following real estate trends in your area. The EASIEST way to do this is to subscribe to ERA’s Neighborhood News monthly newsletter. Once a month you will get sales data on what homes have sold for near you. Contact one of ERA Town & Campus Realty’s agents today and subscribe to keep up with this valuable information.

Remember that the value of your home can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including market conditions, economic factors, and changes to your property. For the most accurate assessment, consider a combination of these methods and consult with a professional appraiser or real estate agent.

Uncategorized September 18, 2023

Buying Real Estate – Hidden perks

Buying real estate can offer several potential benefits, depending on your individual circumstances and investment goals. Many people focus in on the short-term benefit of owning property, but there are several hidden perks to being a property owner as well. Here are some of the key advantages of investing in real estate:

  1. Appreciation: Real estate has historically appreciated in value over time. While there are no guarantees, owning property can potentially provide you with long-term capital appreciation, allowing your investment to grow in value.
  2. Rental Income: If you buy a property with the intention of renting it out, you can generate a steady stream of rental income. This can help cover the property’s expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance costs, and more.
  3. Tax Benefits: Real estate investors can often benefit from various tax advantages, such as mortgage interest deductions, property tax deductions, depreciation allowances, and more. Consult a tax professional to fully understand these potential benefits.
  4. Portfolio Diversification: Real estate can be a valuable addition to a diversified investment portfolio. It doesn’t always move in tandem with the stock market, so it can help spread risk and reduce overall portfolio volatility.
  5. Leverage: Real estate allows you to use leverage by borrowing money to purchase properties. This means you can control a more substantial asset with a relatively small amount of your own money. If the property appreciates, your return on investment can be amplified.
  6. Hedge Against Inflation: Real estate can be a hedge against inflation because property values and rental income often rise with inflation. This can help protect the purchasing power of your investments over time.
  7. Forced Savings: Owning real estate can encourage disciplined savings as you pay down your mortgage. Each mortgage payment you make builds equity, which is essentially a form of savings.
  8. Control: Real estate investment provides you with a level of control over your investment that you may not have with other assets. You can make decisions about property management, renovations, and more.
  9. Passive Income: If you hire a property management company to handle the day-to-day responsibilities of property ownership, real estate can provide a source of passive income, requiring less active involvement on your part.
  10. Potential for Business Opportunities: Real estate investments can lead to various business opportunities, such as flipping properties, developing land, or running a short-term rental business.

It’s important to note that real estate investments also come with risks and challenges, including property management issues, market fluctuations, and liquidity concerns. Therefore, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research, assess your financial situation, and consider your investment goals and risk tolerance before buying real estate. Contacting a knowledgeable local REALTOR to be an advocate for you is a crucial step in the process. Additionally, seeking advice from financial professionals, real estate experts, and tax advisors can help you make informed decisions about real estate investments.