Do you wonder why your Real Estate Agent advises you to get pre-approved by a lender before they'll show you homes? In the ""olden days it wasn't that big of a deal because homes were inexpensive and there was no such thing as "Buyer Agency" but, in the past 25 years or so, sellers have seen too many contracts fall through due to buyer financing. While it's not my business how much you make, I want to make sure that I'm setting up the correct search criteria for you before I show you homes in person. Your lender has a fiduciary responsibility to k

eep your personal information confidential. All I need is a letter from the lender and information from you on what your needs and wants are.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A "GUARANTEED OFFER"?

You may choose a Brokerage to list your home because you saw their ad for a "Guaranteed Offer".  Your interest is piqued so you call the Brokerage. Most likely they'll give you this option but, most people will list the home with them, instead...

But they got you to call them!

Without haste, I'll just give you the deets:

A guaranteed offer will be lower than market value. The property is an investment for the buyer which may be an agent from the Brokerage or one of their investors. This is the price you pay to not have showings.  In a market in which homes are selling, the average seller should not have the need a guaranteed offer. In a market in which homes are selling and you're expecing your well-earned equity, why would you accept less?

Who needs a guaranteed offer?

Sellers with homes in distressed condition that may be too much cost or work for a seller to get ready to compete with similar homes.

Sellers who need money quickly.

Heirs of a home.

Sellers who are going through a difficult time in their lives and need to get out from under the monthly costs (divorce, illness,

The buyer/agency will either keep the property as a rental or they will put a little work into it and sell it at a profit.  If you have the time and money, it would be in your financial best interest to do it yourself.

PREPARING YOUR HOME TO SELL

If you're ready to sell your home, you would, obviously, want to sell it for the highest possible price. AMIRIGHT?  In order to do that, the price you list it for is extremely important.  All regions may not be the same but, in Middle Tennessee, we price the home in line with the homes that have sold in the current market.  If you price the property too high for the market, you'll be on the market for a longer time. The whole point of this is to get buyers in the door. Price using"Apples to Apples". Your home should compare to the sold properties in the following ways:

• Age (within the same era)
• Size (similar in square footage, number of bedrooms and baths)
• Condition (are the sold homes updated? Is yours? If not, are you willing to make any upgrades? Upgrades can bring approximately 3x their cost in value)
• Construction (brick with brick, etc)

To find your current market value, you will need to compare your home to the most similar homes that have recently SOLD/CLOSED.  The reason that you're using only sold comparable properties is because the sales price shows what buyers are willing to and have paid, in the CURRENT market (prices can fluctuate).  Compare the photos in the sold listings in the market analysis (that your Real Estate Professional provided to you) to your home so you can see how your home compares, aesthetically.  If your home is not updated and the comparable properties are, it should be obvious that your home won't bring the same price (with some exceptions such as there being no comparable homes to compete with at the time). If your home is updated and the comparable properties are not, you know that you can price at the top or over the highest priced sold property and vice versa.

ACTIVE listings are not comparable properties to use for price comparisons.  They're your competition.  These prices aren't proven.  If they are priced higher than the homes that have sold then the sellers haven't followed their agent's advice on pricing.  Some sellers want to price higher thinking that a buyer will negotiate.  This may work with used cars but it doesn't work the same way with resale homes. If you price too high (again, there are exceptions such as if there is something special about your home that stands out above the others), your home will stay on the market longer.  If you're priced above the value of your neighborhood's median amount, some buyers may never see your listing come up meaning that they will never view your listing. Buyers' agents in this area know that, if priced correctly, the home will normally sell for 98% to 101% of the asking price so they advise their buyers not to make a lower offer early in the listing. Sellers are known to not want to negotiate early in the life of the listing. The first week is the strongest time your home will ever be on the market because buyers are looking at new listings as they come up. You will never get this time back!

HOWEVER; you can use the too-high priced listing down the street to your advantage.  Price correctlyb and price a small amount below them, and your home, if in comparable condition, should sell at it's asking price before theirs.

 Tips for preparing to sell that will help to get a buyer, quickly that don't require a large investment of time or money.

• The first thing the buyer will see is your "curb appeal". Mow the lawn, pull weeds and repair any issues you see. Passers-by will want to see more. The'll either call your listing agent or their buyer's agent.
• Inside: Remove all clutter from counters, tables, etc.  Store or get rid of items you don't use on a regular basis or haven't used in years.
• CLEAN goes a long way!  Clean the entire home from top to bottom, inside and outside. clean the exterior; removing dirt and webs off the front door, clean the mailbox! On the inside, clean inside and behind appliances, clean to the corners of every room, make sure there are no webs on the ceiling. A clean home will enhance the desirability EVEN IF THE HOME NEEDS WORK!

 Click here to get an estimate of how much your home is worth in today's market.

When purchasing a home, it's essential to inspect the electrical and plumbing systems to ensure that they are in good working order. These systems are crucial to the functionality of the home and can be costly to repair or replace if they are not up to par. Here are some reasons why it's important to inspect electrical and plumbing systems when buying a home.

Firstly, the electrical system is responsible for powering the home and can be a major safety hazard if not inspected properly. An outdated or poorly maintained electrical system can lead to electrical fires or even electrocution. A professional home inspector can identify any potential issues with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or outdated panels, and provide recommendations for repairs.

Secondly, the plumbing system is responsible for delivering clean water to the home and removing wastewater. A malfunctioning or outdated plumbing system can result in leaks, water damage, or even health hazards. A home inspector will inspect the plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, and water heaters, to ensure that they are in good condition and up to code.

Thirdly, any issues with the electrical or plumbing systems can result in costly repairs or replacements. For example, replacing an outdated electrical panel can cost several thousand dollars, and repairing a burst pipe can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars in water damage. By identifying any potential issues during a home inspection, you can negotiate repairs or a lower price with the seller, or even back out of the sale altogether if the issues are severe enough.

In conclusion, inspecting the electrical and plumbing systems when purchasing a home is a critical step in the home-buying process. A professional home inspector can identify any potential issues and provide recommendations for repairs, which can save you time and money in the long run. By ensuring that the electrical and plumbing systems are in good working order, you can feel confident that you're making a sound investment in your new home.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A PROFESSIONAL HOME INSPECTION 

When purchasing a new home, it's important to conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that you're making a sound investment. Home inspections can reveal hidden problems that could end up costing you a significant amount of money if not addressed promptly. Here are the five most important things to look for during a home inspection.

Structural integrity: This is one of the most crucial aspects to look for during a home inspection. You should look for any signs of damage or potential issues with the foundation, roof, walls, and flooring. A home inspector will be able to identify any structural problems and make recommendations for repairs. If the home has a basement, it's especially important to check for any signs of water damage, mold, or cracks in the walls.

Electrical and plumbing systems: The electrical system is an important aspect of the home that you need to inspect carefully. Make sure it is safe and up to code, and check for any signs of wear and tear in the wiring. The plumbing system should also be in good working order, without any leaks or signs of damage. A home inspector will be able to identify any potential problems and advise you on the best course of action.

Roof and exterior: Another important aspect of the home to inspect is the roof and exterior. Check for any damage to the roof, walls, windows, and doors, and make sure the exterior is in good condition. A damaged roof can lead to leaks and water damage, while damaged walls and windows can be costly to repair. A home inspector will be able to identify any problems and make recommendations for repairs.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems: The HVAC system is responsible for heating, cooling, and ventilating your home, so it's important to ensure that it's functioning properly. A home inspector will check for any signs of wear and tear, as well as any issues with the ductwork. If the HVAC system needs to be replaced, this could end up being a major expense, so it's important to address any problems promptly.

Interior amenities: Finally, it's important to inspect the interior amenities such as kitchen appliances and bathrooms. Look for any signs of water damage, mold, or other health hazards. Check the kitchen appliances to ensure that they're in good working order, and inspect the bathrooms to make sure they're in good condition. A home inspector will be able to identify any potential problems and make recommendations for repairs.

In conclusion, a home inspection is a critical step in the home-buying process. By looking for these five key areas, you can ensure that you're making a sound investment and avoid any costly surprises down the road. If you're considering purchasing a new home, make sure to hire a professional home inspector to conduct a thorough inspection.

Becoming a first-time homeowner is a big step in anyone's life and it can be a little intimidating, especially if you're in the United States where property prices are high and the mortgage process is complex. With a little bit of preparation, (a job) and the right strategies in place, anyone can become a homeowner. Here are the top 5 strategies to help you become a first-time homeowner.

Find an Experienced Realtor® to partner with: Buying a home typically requires a variety of forms, reports, disclosures, and other legal and financial documents. A knowledgeable real estate agent will know what's required in your market, helping you avoid delays and costly mistakes. There’s a lot of jargon involved in a real estate transaction; you want to work with a professional who can speak the language. A real estate agent can be a valuable resource when it comes to buying your first home. They can help you find properties that fit your budget, negotiate with the seller, and guide you through the closing process. Make sure to find an agent who is familiar with the local market and has experience working with first-time homebuyers.

Saving for a down payment is one of the most important steps in becoming a homeowner. In the United States, a down payment of 20% is required for a conventional mortgage unless you're okay with paying PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance), but there are options for lower down payments as well. Start by setting a goal for your down payment and create a budget that allows you to save a little each month. You can also look into first-time homebuyer programs that offer down payment assistance for those who qualify.

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a great way to know what you can afford and gives you a stronger bargaining position when you're ready to make an offer on a home. During the pre-approval process, a lender will review your financial information, including your credit score and income, to determine how much you're eligible to borrow. A good credit score is crucial when it comes to getting approved for a mortgage. Start by getting a copy of your credit report and fixing any errors. Then, focus on paying your bills on time and reducing your debt. A higher credit score will not only increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage, but it will also help you get a better interest rate.

Be flexible and open-minded. While it's important to have a clear idea of what you're looking for in a home, it's also important to be flexible and open-minded. Keep in mind that you may need to make some compromises in order to find a home that fits your budget. Be open to different neighborhoods, home styles, and property types, and remember that you can always make changes to a home after you buy it.

In conclusion, becoming a first-time homeowner in America takes some planning and preparation, but with the right strategies in place, you can achieve this goal. Start by saving for a down payment, improving your credit score, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, working with a real estate agent, and being flexible and open-minded. Good luck!

THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKING WITH AN EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL (IN ANY FIELD)

• When it comes to tackling a project or solving a problem in any field, working with an experienced professional can make all the difference. Here are a few reasons why working with an experienced professional is important:
• Knowledge and expertise: An experienced professional has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their field. They have been working in the industry for a significant period of time and have likely encountered a wide range of problems and challenges. This knowledge and expertise can be invaluable in helping you to achieve your goals and overcome obstacles.
• Problem-solving skills: An experienced professional has developed a keen understanding of the industry, and they know how to tackle problems and find solutions. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions that can help you to find the best approach to a problem or project.
• Professional networks: An experienced professional has likely built a strong network of contacts in their industry. They can use these contacts to help you to find resources, connect with other professionals, or open doors that might otherwise be closed.
• Mentorship: An experienced professional can act as a mentor, providing guidance and advice as you navigate the industry. They can help you to avoid common mistakes, learn from their experiences, and develop the skills you need to be successful.
• Efficiency and effectiveness: An experienced professional can help you to achieve your goals more efficiently and effectively. They know the industry inside and out, and they can help you to avoid time-consuming and costly mistakes.
• Licenses: A Professional who has a license has an authority to answer to.  Protecting a license means it's unlikely that they will "rip you off"
• Insurance: A licensee with insurance has to be insured for mistakes made on the job.

In conclusion, working with an experienced professional in any field can help you to achieve your goals more efficiently and effectively. They can provide valuable knowledge, expertise, problem-solving skills, professional networks, and mentorship

I'm a host of a National TV show called "American Dream TV: Selling Nashville" which airs on the CW, FOX, Prime, ABC and other National Stations. 

The show isn't a reality show.  It's just me showing you around some of the lesser known spots in and around Nashville and interviewing interesting people who make up what Nashville is all about. 

Franklin, TN. Bands in the Barn

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