May, 2018 - Benefits of Homeownership
Uniontown, PA - Homeownership has been a part of the American dream since the beginning, and today that dream is stronger than ever.
“Homeownership strengthens communities, builds wealth and creates vibrant neighborhoods,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Bruce Roby. “The National Association of Realtors® found that homeownership has a positive impact on both education and happiness levels.”
Homeownership creates jobs in the local and surrounding community. Every home purchase creates as much as $52,000 of economic activity in Pennsylvania, according to research by the National Association of Realtors®.
That’s why the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® and the Fayette Board of REALTORS® are supporting House Bill 1981 (Bizzarro, D-Erie and Brown, R-Monroe) and Senate Bill 1066 (Fontana, D-Allegheny and Mensch, R-Montgomery), both of which would create a First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account Program in Pennsylvania. The First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account Program would provide an incentive for Pennsylvanians to save toward the purchase of a first home and the money saved could be deducted on state income tax returns. Parents and grandparents would be eligible to save for children and grandchildren as well. To encourage your legislator to support the First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account legislation, visit FirstHomePA.com
“Studies also show that most renters who become homeowners have a higher level of housing satisfaction,” Roby said. “Homeowners are also more likely to be healthier.”
“Homeowners are more satisfied socially,” he added. “Research shows that owning a home impacts the economic future of homeowners. And, as Realtors®, we hope to help people achieve that dream.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“Homeownership strengthens communities, builds wealth and creates vibrant neighborhoods,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Bruce Roby. “The National Association of Realtors® found that homeownership has a positive impact on both education and happiness levels.”
Homeownership creates jobs in the local and surrounding community. Every home purchase creates as much as $52,000 of economic activity in Pennsylvania, according to research by the National Association of Realtors®.
That’s why the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® and the Fayette Board of REALTORS® are supporting House Bill 1981 (Bizzarro, D-Erie and Brown, R-Monroe) and Senate Bill 1066 (Fontana, D-Allegheny and Mensch, R-Montgomery), both of which would create a First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account Program in Pennsylvania. The First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account Program would provide an incentive for Pennsylvanians to save toward the purchase of a first home and the money saved could be deducted on state income tax returns. Parents and grandparents would be eligible to save for children and grandchildren as well. To encourage your legislator to support the First-Time Homebuyers Savings Account legislation, visit FirstHomePA.com
“Studies also show that most renters who become homeowners have a higher level of housing satisfaction,” Roby said. “Homeowners are also more likely to be healthier.”
“Homeowners are more satisfied socially,” he added. “Research shows that owning a home impacts the economic future of homeowners. And, as Realtors®, we hope to help people achieve that dream.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
April, 2018 - Fair Housing Act Marks 50th Anniversary
Fayette County – This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act.
The act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 11, 1968, is recognized each April. It prohibits discrimination against homebuyers or renters due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability. Realtors® have a strong hand in ensuring fair housing for all.
“The Fair Housing Act changed the housing industry half of a century ago,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Bruce Roby. “Realtors® pride themselves in following the act, along the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics, providing an opportunity for housing for all.”
On the other hand, homebuyers searching for their dream home should not ask Realtors® about these same demographics, such as the race, schools or religion, of a neighborhood.
“Some homebuyers simply don’t realize it is illegal for a Realtor® to give this information,” Roby said. “The Fair Housing Act prevents Realtors® from providing this information, as it may steer some homebuyers toward or away from certain neighborhoods. The Fair Housing Act gives everyone the opportunity to live where they choose to regardless of race, religion, sex or disability status, so they can achieve the American dream of homeownership.”
If consumers believe they have experienced a fair housing issue, they should contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission at phrc.pa.gov.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
The act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 11, 1968, is recognized each April. It prohibits discrimination against homebuyers or renters due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability. Realtors® have a strong hand in ensuring fair housing for all.
“The Fair Housing Act changed the housing industry half of a century ago,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Bruce Roby. “Realtors® pride themselves in following the act, along the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics, providing an opportunity for housing for all.”
On the other hand, homebuyers searching for their dream home should not ask Realtors® about these same demographics, such as the race, schools or religion, of a neighborhood.
“Some homebuyers simply don’t realize it is illegal for a Realtor® to give this information,” Roby said. “The Fair Housing Act prevents Realtors® from providing this information, as it may steer some homebuyers toward or away from certain neighborhoods. The Fair Housing Act gives everyone the opportunity to live where they choose to regardless of race, religion, sex or disability status, so they can achieve the American dream of homeownership.”
If consumers believe they have experienced a fair housing issue, they should contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission at phrc.pa.gov.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
March, 2018 - Engage in spring cleaning to freshen home
Uniontown – With spring around the corner, now is the time to declutter and clean, said Bruce Roby, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®.
“Warmer temperatures are coming in, and now is the time to prepare homes for the spring and summer seasons,” said Roby. “While it is easy to remember to do the basics, like dusting and vacuuming, now is a great time to do a deep cleaning.”
Roby suggested washing walls and baseboards, scrubbing ceilings and light fixtures and cleaning the dishwasher and washer and dryer. It also helps to declutter, he suggested donating or trashing the things you haven’t used in the past year.
“Tackling a project this big may seem overwhelming,” Roby said. “I suggest breaking it up by room, and making sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies before you begin. It doesn’t all have to be done in a day. Being thorough will be better in the long run.”
Take time to organize and arrange things you do use, and make a plan to keep your home clutter-free. It will make next year’s spring cleaning that much easier, said Roby.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“Warmer temperatures are coming in, and now is the time to prepare homes for the spring and summer seasons,” said Roby. “While it is easy to remember to do the basics, like dusting and vacuuming, now is a great time to do a deep cleaning.”
Roby suggested washing walls and baseboards, scrubbing ceilings and light fixtures and cleaning the dishwasher and washer and dryer. It also helps to declutter, he suggested donating or trashing the things you haven’t used in the past year.
“Tackling a project this big may seem overwhelming,” Roby said. “I suggest breaking it up by room, and making sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies before you begin. It doesn’t all have to be done in a day. Being thorough will be better in the long run.”
Take time to organize and arrange things you do use, and make a plan to keep your home clutter-free. It will make next year’s spring cleaning that much easier, said Roby.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
February, 2018 - Benefits of using a Realtor®
Fayette County –Whether you are buying or selling your home, navigating a real estate transaction can be tricky.
Fortunately, a Realtor® can help guide you through this expensive, emotional deal.
“While some people think they can sell or buy on their own, it can be a complicated matter,” said Bruce Roby, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “Working with a Realtor® allows consumers to tap into the professional’s expertise, knowledge and skills, making this huge transaction go more smoothly.”
With an ever-changing market, Realtors® have the tools to properly price, list and market homes, as well as the ability to show for-sale homes that are just right for the buyer in the area.
“Realtors® know their local communities, so they understand the local market conditions. They’re on your side, representing your interests in the real estate transaction,” added Roby.
What sets Realtors® apart from real estate agents is their adherence to the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics. The code is more than 100 years old and is a comprehensive document that outlines professional responsibilities owed to clients, customers, other Realtors® and the general public. Consumers can read more about the Code and how it benefits them at nar.realtor/code-of-ethics.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
Fortunately, a Realtor® can help guide you through this expensive, emotional deal.
“While some people think they can sell or buy on their own, it can be a complicated matter,” said Bruce Roby, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “Working with a Realtor® allows consumers to tap into the professional’s expertise, knowledge and skills, making this huge transaction go more smoothly.”
With an ever-changing market, Realtors® have the tools to properly price, list and market homes, as well as the ability to show for-sale homes that are just right for the buyer in the area.
“Realtors® know their local communities, so they understand the local market conditions. They’re on your side, representing your interests in the real estate transaction,” added Roby.
What sets Realtors® apart from real estate agents is their adherence to the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics. The code is more than 100 years old and is a comprehensive document that outlines professional responsibilities owed to clients, customers, other Realtors® and the general public. Consumers can read more about the Code and how it benefits them at nar.realtor/code-of-ethics.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
January, 2018 - What you need to know about financing for home buying
Fayette County – Do you know what financing options are available to you when you purchase a home?
“Consumers should be aware of all the financing opportunities they can use when they are buying a property,” said Bruce Roby, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “There are opportunities beyond the standard mortgage and down payment options they may be familiar with.”
Here in the commonwealth, the majority of homebuyers are opting to use a 30-year mortgage to purchase their homes.
The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® found in their Welcome Home survey that homebuyers were more likely in the fourth quarter of 2017 to use a 30-year mortgage than in previous quarters, while all-cash buys took a dive.
“It’s important for homebuyers to work with a Realtor® so they understand the resources for financing a home purchase, as well as what is their best option,” he. “Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage is one of the first steps a homebuyer should take, so they know what properties are realistically in their budget.”
While many potential homebuyers feel deterred by student loan debt, in most areas, owning is less expensive than renting.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“Consumers should be aware of all the financing opportunities they can use when they are buying a property,” said Bruce Roby, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “There are opportunities beyond the standard mortgage and down payment options they may be familiar with.”
Here in the commonwealth, the majority of homebuyers are opting to use a 30-year mortgage to purchase their homes.
The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® found in their Welcome Home survey that homebuyers were more likely in the fourth quarter of 2017 to use a 30-year mortgage than in previous quarters, while all-cash buys took a dive.
“It’s important for homebuyers to work with a Realtor® so they understand the resources for financing a home purchase, as well as what is their best option,” he. “Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage is one of the first steps a homebuyer should take, so they know what properties are realistically in their budget.”
While many potential homebuyers feel deterred by student loan debt, in most areas, owning is less expensive than renting.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
December, 2017 - Planning for emergencies key to safety success
While no one wants to think about emergency scenarios, preparing for one is a necessary step homeowners must take.
“If you don’t have an emergency plan in place, today is the day to make one,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Make sure you have a plan for your children and pets too. An evacuation plan, shelter plan and communication plan should all be prepared, and everyone should know what to do in an emergency.”
A first-aid kit is also a good resource to keep easily accessible. Keep a list of each family member’s necessary medications nearby as well. Back-up batteries and portable cell phone chargers can also be helpful in an emergency.
Practice also makes perfect. “Going over the plan with your family will lead to a smoother response in the unfortunate case of an emergency,” she said.
Keeping yourself informed is also critical. If possible, tune in to local television and radio during potential emergency situations to know what the plan of action is, and how your family should react.
Finally, getting trained in CPR and first aid is an inexpensive asset that could provide invaluable. “Having a member of the household trained to provide CPR and first aid can be lifesaving during a critical emergency,” she said. “It’s worth it to get the training and certification. It may save a life.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“If you don’t have an emergency plan in place, today is the day to make one,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Make sure you have a plan for your children and pets too. An evacuation plan, shelter plan and communication plan should all be prepared, and everyone should know what to do in an emergency.”
A first-aid kit is also a good resource to keep easily accessible. Keep a list of each family member’s necessary medications nearby as well. Back-up batteries and portable cell phone chargers can also be helpful in an emergency.
Practice also makes perfect. “Going over the plan with your family will lead to a smoother response in the unfortunate case of an emergency,” she said.
Keeping yourself informed is also critical. If possible, tune in to local television and radio during potential emergency situations to know what the plan of action is, and how your family should react.
Finally, getting trained in CPR and first aid is an inexpensive asset that could provide invaluable. “Having a member of the household trained to provide CPR and first aid can be lifesaving during a critical emergency,” she said. “It’s worth it to get the training and certification. It may save a life.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
October, 2017 - Realtors® lessen stress of home buying process
Moving into a new home is rewarding, but getting to that point can be stressful for some homebuyers, according to a recent Welcome Home study released by the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors®.
“The association has conducted these surveys over the last three years and we’ve found that finances continue to be the most stressful part of buying a home,” said Jackie Fiano, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “When you work with a Realtor®, they’ll encourage you to have your finances in order and to be pre-qualified to help alleviate some of that stress.”
As the market continues to change, homebuyers are experiencing stress from other issues as well. “We’re seeing that homebuyers are concerned about whether their current home will sell so they can purchase a new home,” she said. “And the lower number of homes on the market makes it more stressful because consumers are having to make decisions quicker and place competitive bids, or they risk losing a property they like.”
The survey also showed that more homebuyers are using non-traditional financing to purchase their homes. The use of Veteran’s Affairs loans rose slightly, with 4 percent of consumers using a VA loan to finance their home purchase.
“Thirty-year mortgages are still the most popular,” Fiano said. “Cash is the second most popular way to pay for a home, followed by a 15-year mortgage.”
“Understanding the nuances of buying and selling a home can help alleviate some of the stress during the homebuying and selling process. The value of working with a real estate professional is that they are a trusted resource for the consumer to rely on to help them navigate this important transaction,” Fiano added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“The association has conducted these surveys over the last three years and we’ve found that finances continue to be the most stressful part of buying a home,” said Jackie Fiano, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “When you work with a Realtor®, they’ll encourage you to have your finances in order and to be pre-qualified to help alleviate some of that stress.”
As the market continues to change, homebuyers are experiencing stress from other issues as well. “We’re seeing that homebuyers are concerned about whether their current home will sell so they can purchase a new home,” she said. “And the lower number of homes on the market makes it more stressful because consumers are having to make decisions quicker and place competitive bids, or they risk losing a property they like.”
The survey also showed that more homebuyers are using non-traditional financing to purchase their homes. The use of Veteran’s Affairs loans rose slightly, with 4 percent of consumers using a VA loan to finance their home purchase.
“Thirty-year mortgages are still the most popular,” Fiano said. “Cash is the second most popular way to pay for a home, followed by a 15-year mortgage.”
“Understanding the nuances of buying and selling a home can help alleviate some of the stress during the homebuying and selling process. The value of working with a real estate professional is that they are a trusted resource for the consumer to rely on to help them navigate this important transaction,” Fiano added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
September, 2017 - Tips to keep your home safe
Fayette County, PA – Many homeowners consider their neighborhood safe, but every community experiences some level of crime. Homeowners can take a few steps to help keep their homes safe in every town.
“It’s always a good idea to be proactive,” said Fayette Board president, Jacqueline Fiano. “Whether your neighborhood has experienced minor vandalism or larger break-ins, you can take action to help prevent crime in the future.”
One of the most important steps is getting to know your neighbors, what type of cars they drive or if they are having a repairman at their home. “It can be as simple as knocking on their door to introduce yourself. There’s also a popular website called Nextdoor.com, which allows neighbors to connect with one another online,” Fiano said. “This allows neighbors to collaborate and keep their neighborhoods safe.”
“Keeping doors closed and locked at all times is a deterrent for many crimes and never open the door to anyone you don’t know,” she said. “Many auto break-ins involve an unlocked car. There are many cases of someone entering a garage with the door up when the owners are working in the backyard. It’s good practice to get into the habit of keeping doors locked whether you’re home or not.”
Trimming shrubbery around the doors and windows of a home helps maintain a safe area. Making sure the yard and walkways are well lit also provides additional safety.
“Be observant of suspicious people or vehicles in your neighborhood – even repairmen and workers and if their behavior seems out of the ordinary, notify the police,” Fiano added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“It’s always a good idea to be proactive,” said Fayette Board president, Jacqueline Fiano. “Whether your neighborhood has experienced minor vandalism or larger break-ins, you can take action to help prevent crime in the future.”
One of the most important steps is getting to know your neighbors, what type of cars they drive or if they are having a repairman at their home. “It can be as simple as knocking on their door to introduce yourself. There’s also a popular website called Nextdoor.com, which allows neighbors to connect with one another online,” Fiano said. “This allows neighbors to collaborate and keep their neighborhoods safe.”
“Keeping doors closed and locked at all times is a deterrent for many crimes and never open the door to anyone you don’t know,” she said. “Many auto break-ins involve an unlocked car. There are many cases of someone entering a garage with the door up when the owners are working in the backyard. It’s good practice to get into the habit of keeping doors locked whether you’re home or not.”
Trimming shrubbery around the doors and windows of a home helps maintain a safe area. Making sure the yard and walkways are well lit also provides additional safety.
“Be observant of suspicious people or vehicles in your neighborhood – even repairmen and workers and if their behavior seems out of the ordinary, notify the police,” Fiano added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
August, 2017 - Tips to Help Save on Energy Cost
Fayette County – Energy efficiency is an important feature many buyers consider when looking at a new home. There are simple changes to make sure a house is as energy efficient as possible.
“A buyer might want to check to see if an energy audit was performed on the house,” said Jacqueline Fiano, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “If one hasn’t been conducted, they can request one during the home inspection.”
There are other cost-effective steps to improve energy efficiency:
“While these changes aren’t as exciting as other home improvements, they do help reduce your costs,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“A buyer might want to check to see if an energy audit was performed on the house,” said Jacqueline Fiano, president of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. “If one hasn’t been conducted, they can request one during the home inspection.”
There are other cost-effective steps to improve energy efficiency:
- Caulk and seal around entries into the house. Take the time to caulk and seal around windows, doors, plumbing lines and electrical wires. It takes time, but the benefits are worth it.
- Replace lighting with CFLs or LEDs. Old incandescent light bulbs use much more electricity and often homeowners forget to change a few of the lights in the house.
- Program the thermostat. Many homeowners don’t take advantage of their programmable thermostats. Using the programmable feature ensures the furnace isn’t heating the house while they’re gone.
- Check the temperature on the water heater. Homeowners can lower the temperature to 120 degrees on a tank water heater and it will maintain a certain amount of hot water throughout the day.
“While these changes aren’t as exciting as other home improvements, they do help reduce your costs,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
July, 2017 - Kitchen renovations help resale value
Fayette County – Kitchen improvements are one of the most appealing renovations homeowners can do to make their property more attractive to homebuyers.
“Some buyers may not consider a property if the kitchen is too dark and dated. Kitchen renovations not only help bring more offers on your home, they help you gain equity as well,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Remodeling is also beneficial to the homeowner who may simply want to enjoy their home more.”
Kitchen remodeling can run the gamut from simple upgrades to a complete overhaul.
“The least expensive ways to freshen the look of your kitchen are with paint and new lighting,” Fiano said. “It doesn’t mean you have to paint the walls white, softer blues and greens also work. And avoid wallpaper, which often dates a home.”
Replacing cabinets can be a costly expense in kitchen remodeling. “The cabinets are often what appear the most dated with their style, color and fronts,” she said. “While you might be able to consider refinishing your cabinets, you should talk with a professional to determine if this strategy will work for your property or if you’d be better off with a full redesign and replacement.”
Countertops and the sink are worth considering, although homeowners should remember that granite isn’t the only choice. “Laminates are much more appealing today and should be considered,” she said. “And usually when the countertop is replaced, the sink must be as well.”
When it comes to appliances, ones that are not working need to be replaced. “The refrigerator upgrade is a noticeable one,” Fiano said. “Try to avoid having a collection of different colors of appliances and match new appliances to the existing ones.”
Flooring should be replaced, especially if it’s very worn or dated linoleum or vinyl.
“As always, consult with your Realtor® for recommendations on what changes will add the most value to your home and help you get the highest resale price,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“Some buyers may not consider a property if the kitchen is too dark and dated. Kitchen renovations not only help bring more offers on your home, they help you gain equity as well,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Remodeling is also beneficial to the homeowner who may simply want to enjoy their home more.”
Kitchen remodeling can run the gamut from simple upgrades to a complete overhaul.
“The least expensive ways to freshen the look of your kitchen are with paint and new lighting,” Fiano said. “It doesn’t mean you have to paint the walls white, softer blues and greens also work. And avoid wallpaper, which often dates a home.”
Replacing cabinets can be a costly expense in kitchen remodeling. “The cabinets are often what appear the most dated with their style, color and fronts,” she said. “While you might be able to consider refinishing your cabinets, you should talk with a professional to determine if this strategy will work for your property or if you’d be better off with a full redesign and replacement.”
Countertops and the sink are worth considering, although homeowners should remember that granite isn’t the only choice. “Laminates are much more appealing today and should be considered,” she said. “And usually when the countertop is replaced, the sink must be as well.”
When it comes to appliances, ones that are not working need to be replaced. “The refrigerator upgrade is a noticeable one,” Fiano said. “Try to avoid having a collection of different colors of appliances and match new appliances to the existing ones.”
Flooring should be replaced, especially if it’s very worn or dated linoleum or vinyl.
“As always, consult with your Realtor® for recommendations on what changes will add the most value to your home and help you get the highest resale price,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
June, 2017 - Curb Appeal Attracts Buyer
Fayette County – The exterior of a house makes a lasting first impression on potential homebuyers. It’s important to take the time to freshen the curb appeal.
“You want buyers to see a house that has been well-cared for when they first see the property,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “A little work and investment makes a world of difference and shows homebuyers that your home has been lovingly maintained.”
Fiano advises homeowners to look at their home with a fresh perspective. “Walk across the street and look at your house like someone else would. Is the paint on the shutters and door faded? Do you have overgrown shrubbery hiding the front of the house? These are things potential buyers will notice before they ever enter your home,” she said.
A new coat of paint helps a house appear well-maintained, especially areas faded over time. “You can also add color by incorporating one or two large pots with a distinct color like red or yellow, which are appealing to buyers,” she added.
A well-manicured lawn is also enticing to buyers. Create distinctive clean edges around the garden beds and walkways. A fresh layer of mulch gives the landscaping a professional appearance.
A thorough cleaning also makes the house shine. “Washing the windows and masonry give the property an extra boost,” she said. “Think about adding or upgrading your outdoor lighting to highlight the features of the house. You don’t want to make it look like a runway, but you do want to make the home look safe and inviting.”
“As you work with your Realtor®, be open to suggestions they make to help sell your home quicker. Their expertise will help you add value to your home,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“You want buyers to see a house that has been well-cared for when they first see the property,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “A little work and investment makes a world of difference and shows homebuyers that your home has been lovingly maintained.”
Fiano advises homeowners to look at their home with a fresh perspective. “Walk across the street and look at your house like someone else would. Is the paint on the shutters and door faded? Do you have overgrown shrubbery hiding the front of the house? These are things potential buyers will notice before they ever enter your home,” she said.
A new coat of paint helps a house appear well-maintained, especially areas faded over time. “You can also add color by incorporating one or two large pots with a distinct color like red or yellow, which are appealing to buyers,” she added.
A well-manicured lawn is also enticing to buyers. Create distinctive clean edges around the garden beds and walkways. A fresh layer of mulch gives the landscaping a professional appearance.
A thorough cleaning also makes the house shine. “Washing the windows and masonry give the property an extra boost,” she said. “Think about adding or upgrading your outdoor lighting to highlight the features of the house. You don’t want to make it look like a runway, but you do want to make the home look safe and inviting.”
“As you work with your Realtor®, be open to suggestions they make to help sell your home quicker. Their expertise will help you add value to your home,” she added.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
May, 2017 - Upsizing a Home to Meet Current and Future Need
Fayette County – Many homeowners begin with a house that perfectly fits their needs, but as their lives change, they consider upsizing their homes.
“That once ideal home becomes less than what’s needed when life happens,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Marriage, children, pets and taking care of aging parents often necessitates upsizing to a larger property. When considering the new purchase, it’s important to keep in mind several things.”
“First, consider how much space you currently need and what are your future needs,” Fiano said. “Then take a look at your budget to see how much you can afford. There are online mortgage calculators that help you estimate how much house you can afford.”
Next consider where you want to be in the near future. “Your children may be infants now, but consider what type of neighborhood is conducive for children and where would you like them to attend school to help you narrow your choices,” she added.
Assess the reality of how much time can be devoted to house maintenance and repairs. “Purchasing a home that requires renovations may not be your cup of tea,” Fiano said. “Before purchasing a larger home that needs a lot of work, seriously consider if you have the time and money to do so.”
In addition, take serious stock in what works and what you don’t like in your current location. “Does your home need more living space? More closets? Does your family require more bedrooms? Taking a full inventory of your current home helps you direct your focus to your future home needs,” she added. “Using a Realtor® throughout the process will help you access your needs and focus on finding the home of your dreams.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“That once ideal home becomes less than what’s needed when life happens,” said Fayette Board of REALTORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “Marriage, children, pets and taking care of aging parents often necessitates upsizing to a larger property. When considering the new purchase, it’s important to keep in mind several things.”
“First, consider how much space you currently need and what are your future needs,” Fiano said. “Then take a look at your budget to see how much you can afford. There are online mortgage calculators that help you estimate how much house you can afford.”
Next consider where you want to be in the near future. “Your children may be infants now, but consider what type of neighborhood is conducive for children and where would you like them to attend school to help you narrow your choices,” she added.
Assess the reality of how much time can be devoted to house maintenance and repairs. “Purchasing a home that requires renovations may not be your cup of tea,” Fiano said. “Before purchasing a larger home that needs a lot of work, seriously consider if you have the time and money to do so.”
In addition, take serious stock in what works and what you don’t like in your current location. “Does your home need more living space? More closets? Does your family require more bedrooms? Taking a full inventory of your current home helps you direct your focus to your future home needs,” she added. “Using a Realtor® throughout the process will help you access your needs and focus on finding the home of your dreams.”
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
April, 2017 - April Marks Fair Housing Month
Fayette County - Homeownership is becoming more reflective of the growing diverse populations within Pennsylvania. The Fair Housing Act, which is recognized in April, works to protect both multicultural clients as well as Realtors® who serve this expanding market.
“The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability,” said Fayette Board of RELATORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “The National Association of Realtors®’ Code of Ethics also supports equal opportunity on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.”
As homebuyers look for information about a neighborhood they’re interested in, they may think their Realtor® should discuss information such as school districts, crime statistics, or the ethnic make-up of a neighborhood.
“I know many times a client may ask for details regarding a school near the house they’re looking at,” Fiano said. “The federal Fair Housing Act and the state fair housing laws prohibit Realtors® from discussing this type of information to avoid the potential of steering to or away from a specific neighborhood. Consumers should look for online resources regarding school district attributes or the safety of an area to help them decide which neighborhood best meets their needs.”
“Ultimately, buying and selling a home are some of the most significant events in a person’s lifetime,” she added. “Research shows that owning a home impacts the economic future of homeowners. And, as Realtors®, we believe people have a right to live wherever they can afford to live.”
If consumers believe they have experienced a fair housing issue, they should contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission at phrc.pa.gov.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.
“The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability,” said Fayette Board of RELATORS® President Jacqueline Fiano. “The National Association of Realtors®’ Code of Ethics also supports equal opportunity on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.”
As homebuyers look for information about a neighborhood they’re interested in, they may think their Realtor® should discuss information such as school districts, crime statistics, or the ethnic make-up of a neighborhood.
“I know many times a client may ask for details regarding a school near the house they’re looking at,” Fiano said. “The federal Fair Housing Act and the state fair housing laws prohibit Realtors® from discussing this type of information to avoid the potential of steering to or away from a specific neighborhood. Consumers should look for online resources regarding school district attributes or the safety of an area to help them decide which neighborhood best meets their needs.”
“Ultimately, buying and selling a home are some of the most significant events in a person’s lifetime,” she added. “Research shows that owning a home impacts the economic future of homeowners. And, as Realtors®, we believe people have a right to live wherever they can afford to live.”
If consumers believe they have experienced a fair housing issue, they should contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission at phrc.pa.gov.
The Fayette Board of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Fayette County.