The Power Is Now Magazine | January, 2023

The Power Is Now Media Inc. 3739 6th Street Riverside, CA 92501 Ph: (800) 401-8994 | Fax: (800) 401-8994 info@thepowerisnow.com www.thepowerisnow.com

the power is now magazine

IMPORTANT STATEMENT OF COPYRIGHT:

The PIN Magazine™ is owned and published electronically by The Power Is Now Media, Inc. Copywrite 2022 The Power Is Now Media Inc. All rights reserved.

“The PIN Magazine” and distinctive logo are trademarks owned by The Power Is Now Media, Inc. “ThePINMagazine.com”, is a trademark of The Power Is Now Media, Inc. “Magazine.thepowerisnow.com”, is a trademark of The Power Is Now Media, Inc. No part of this electronic magazine or website may be reproduced without the written consent of The Power Is Now Media, Inc.

Requests for permission should be directed to: info@thepowerisnow.com

CONTENTS JANUARY 2023

REAL ESTATE NEWS

Pg. 12. The top 5 Real Estate trends to watch out for in 2023.

MORTGAGE NEWS

Pg. 14. Be Aware of ‘too good to be True’ Lenders!

COMMERCIAL NEWS

Pg. 16. Top 5 commercial Real Estate trends to watch out for in 2023.

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

Pg. 18. Devising creative and innovative solutions to deal with the affordability crisis in the country.

TPIN DESIGNS

Pg. 22. CRAZY Interior house designs we have our eyes on.

GREEN NEWS

Pg. 8. California’s new climate pollution plan accelerates path to 100% clean energy.

ECONOMIC NEWS

Pg. 10. Is there a balance between employment and Real Estate foreclosures?

LEGAL NEWS

Pg. 26. What’s the impact of institutional investorsin the housing market?

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pg. 28. What Is The Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire?

FROM OUR VIP AGENTS:

Pg. 31. Looking to Invest in Texas?Here’s a Simple Guide, by Sharon Bartlett.

Pg. 35. 5 factors affecting affordability in Maryland, by Emerick Peace.

Pg. 41. Sellers: Should you list your property now or wait?, by Adriana Montes.

Pg. 45. 6 tricks to help you sell your home in the winter, by Yvonne McFadden.

Pg. 49. Who Owns That Property? 5 ways to find out, by Tamra Lee.

Pg. 53. How to challenge a low appraisal, by Walter Huff.

Pg. 57. Here are some important things to look for in a modern home inspection report, by Heith Mohler.

Pg. 61. Is Making Your Curb More Appealing Underrated?, by Ruby Frazier.

Pg. 64. Emerick A. Peace. The Success Story of The Extraordinaire Real Estate Mogul Behind Keller Williams Preferred Properties In Maryland

Pg. 73. Here’s how to sell your home while buying another in Corona, CA, by Jenny Gonzalez.

Pg. 77. 10 Questions to Ask your home inspector, by Ian Batra.

Pg. 81. Simple Steps Minorities in LA can take before buying a home, by Briana Frazier.

Pg. 85. Minnesota Real Estate market update forecast for 2023, by Francine Marsolek. Pg. 89. Explained! Real Estate taxes in Denton, by Janet Petrozelle.

Pg. 93. This is how much it will cost to sell your home in El Cajon, CA, by John Costigan.

Pg. 97. This is how much will you pay in closing costs in 2023, by Norman Green.

Pg. 101. New Haven Real Estate market projections: Here’s what to expect in 2023, by Steven Rivkin.

Pg. 105. New Haven Real Estate market projections: Here’s what to expect in 2023, by Decira Pimental. Pg. 109. Is it advisable to sell or stay in your home after retirement in Menifee?, by Monica Hill.

Pg. 113. Stuck in your Sell? Here are some creative promotion strategies to attract today’s buyers, by Marina Ramirez.

Pg. 117. Homebuying is much more than the features you see on the surface, by Brandy Nelson.

Pg. 121. The top 5 things buyers hate about your house!, by Jim Clifford.

Pg. 125. How cryptocurrency will impact Real Estate financing, by Jamar James.

Pg. 129. Los Angeles Real Estate market update, December 2022, by Dolores Golden.

Pg. 133. NYC Real Estate market projections: Here’s what to expect in 2023, by Dolores Golden.

January 2023 FROM THE EDITOR

To Our Valued Readers,

Hello and welcome to our latest edition of The Power Is Now magazine. We hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the new year. We have a jam-packed issue full of exciting and informative content. As always, we’re excited to bring you the latest and greatest news and developments on the real estate market.

Last year, while great for the most part, it was a difficult year for many of us. Businesses were shutting down, inflation was at its highest, and it was overwhelming for many.

We want to encourage our readers to be hopeful and optimistic about the future. While it can be easy to get caught up in the negative news and events happening worldwide, we believe you can achieve your goals and dreams with the right mindset and determination. Whether that means buying your dream home or simply improving your productivity, we hope that our articles will inspire you to take positive action and make positive changes in your life.

In this month’s cover story, we feature one phenomenal real estate agent who has done much to change the housing narrative in Maryland and countrywide. Emerick A. Peace is a real estate genius and the Operating Partner and owner of Keller Williams Preferred Properties (KWPP). KWPP is a multi-billion dollar residential, luxury, and commercial real estate sales brokerage with more than 570 associates in Upper Marlboro, Maryland (Prince George’s County). Emerick is an extraordinaire agent, and his story is very inspiring.

In this issue, we delve into various topics that interest you. From employment data and real estate foreclosures to technological innovations and time management techniques, we aim to bring you the latest and most relevant information to keep you in the loop.

One topic that we are particularly excited about is the rise of the Metaverse and virtual property. As technology advances exponentially, it is no surprise that we are seeing the emergence of virtual worlds where people can buy and sell virtual real estate. While it may sound like something out of a science fiction novel, buying virtual property is quickly becoming a reality, and we have an in-depth feature on how it works.

We also recognize that inflation and house prices are on many people’s minds, whether they are looking to buy, sell, or rent. Our article on how inflation impacts the housing market and what you need to know as a homebuyer, seller, or renter will be an eye-opener

to many especially given that the homebuying season is in a few months.

In this issue, we also have updates on real estate markets across the country, including California, Minnesota, New York City, New Haven, and Denton, North Carolina. If you are interested in buying or selling in any of these areas, we have the latest market projections and insights to help you make informed decisions.

We also have a range of tips and tricks for buyers and sellers, including how to challenge a low appraisal and sell your home in the winter, which are some of the areas many buyers and sellers struggle with when it comes to real estate transactions.

At this moment, I want to thank our power team

for their continuous hard work and commitment to making The PIN magazine a reality and to you, our readers. We would be nothing without you. Our team is dedicated to you. We want the best for you, which means we are committed to bringing you the best from us. Take a moment and share this magazine with family and friends.

Remember, knowledge is power, and The Power Is Now!

ERIC L. FRAZIER MBA President and CEO

The Power Is Now Media, Inc.

California’s new climate pollution plan accelerates the path to 100% clean energy

California has recently announced an ambitious plan to accelerate its transition to 100% clean energy. It’s known as the “California Clean Energy Act,” which aims to aggressively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the state’s transition to 100% clean energy by 2045. This ambitious plan includes 50% renewable energy targets by 2025 and 60% by 2030. It involves expanding renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, phasing out fossil fuels, and increasing energy efficiency through stricter building codes and appliance standards. The transition to clean energy will have wide-ranging impacts on the state, including potentially affecting the real estate market through the demand for properties with clean energy features

and the construction of new renewable energy infrastructure.

One key aspect of the plan is the expansion of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. California already leads the nation in solar power capacity, and the new plan aims to increase this even further. In addition to installing more solar panels and wind turbines, the state is also promoting the use of electric vehicles and supporting the development of new technologies, such as energy storage systems and advanced grid management systems. Another critical aspect of the plan is the phase-out of fossil fuels by gradually reducing its reliance on coal and natural gas while promoting clean fuels, such as biofuels and hydrogen.

PHOTO FROM 123RF

The real estate industry is expected to play a significant role in California’s transition to 100% clean energy. Many commercial and residential buildings in the state are already starting to adopt renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient lighting systems. The new climate pollution plan is expected to accelerate this trend as more and more property owners look to reduce their carbon footprint. This will significantly impact the real estate market in the state. For example, properties with solar panels or other clean energy features may become more desirable to buyers and potentially command higher prices.

Similarly, properties near public transportation or with electric vehicle charging stations may also become more attractive.

modernize the state’s energy infrastructure, including installing new transmission lines, substations, and distribution systems. This will require significant investments of time and money and may require the state to work closely with utilities and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

Another challenge will be the need to support and assist those who may be negatively impacted by the transition to clean energy. For example, some workers in the fossil fuel industry may lose their jobs as the state shifts to renewable energy sources. It will be necessary for the state to provide support and training to these workers to help them transition to new careers in the clean energy sector.

The plan includes various incentives and policies to encourage the transition to clean energy. For example, the state offers subsidies for individuals and businesses to install solar panels or purchase electric vehicles. In addition, the plan includes measures to increase energy efficiencies, such as building codes that require more efficient appliances and stricter standards for new construction.

Despite these challenges, the benefits of transitioning to 100% clean energy are clear. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, California can mitigate the worst impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, more frequent and severe natural disasters, and declining air quality. In addition, the transition to clean energy will create new jobs and stimulate economic growth improving public health and quality of life for all Californians.

The transition to clean energy will also bring economic benefits to the state. For example, expanding renewable energy sources could create new jobs in the renewable energy sector. In addition, transitioning away from fossil fuels could reduce air pollution and improve public health, potentially saving billions of dollars in healthcare costs.

While the transition to 100% clean energy will bring many benefits to California, it is important to recognize that there will also be challenges and costs associated with this transition. One of the main challenges will be the need to

Overall, California’s new climate pollution plan is a bold and ambitious step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. By increasing the use of renewable energy and promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, the state is taking the lead in the fight against climate change and setting an example for other states and countries to follow. While there will certainly be challenges and obstacles along the way, the benefits of transitioning to 100% clean energy are clear. They will be felt by all Californians for generations to come. So, this is a very welcome move, and other states and countries should also follow this path to fight against climate change and achieve sustainable development.

Is There a Balance Between Employment and Real Estate Foreclosures?

The relationship between employment and real estate foreclosures is complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, a strong employment market can help homeowners stay current on their mortgage payments and avoid foreclosure. On the other hand, economic downturns and job loss can be major factors in the onset of foreclosures. In this article, we will explore how employment and real estate foreclosures are interconnected and consider whether a balance can be struck between the two.

On the other hand, a strong employment market can help homeowners avoid foreclosure by providing them with the income they need to make their mortgage payments on time. When people have steady jobs and good incomes, they are more likely to be able to afford their housing costs and keep up with their mortgage payments. This can help to prevent foreclosures and stabilize the real estate market.

First, let’s consider employment’s role in the risk of real estate foreclosures. A loss of income is one of the most common reasons for a homeowner to default on their mortgage. When a person loses their job or experiences a significant decrease in pay, they may struggle to make their mortgage payments on time. If they cannot catch up on missed payments, they may eventually face foreclosure. In addition to job loss, other factors that can impact a person’s ability to pay their mortgage include illness, injury, divorce, or unexpected expenses. These can lead to financial strain and increase the risk of foreclosure.

However, it’s important to note that a strong employment market does not guarantee that there will be no foreclosures. Economic downturns and other factors can still lead to job loss and financial strain, even in a strong employment market. And in some cases, even homeowners with good jobs and stable incomes may struggle to afford their housing costs due to rising prices or other factors.

So, is there a balance between employment and foreclosures? Ultimately, the answer is not a simple yes or no. It’s important to consider the many factors that can impact the housing market, including employment, interest rates, and government policies.

PHOTO FROM 123RF

One way to reduce the risk of foreclosures is to ensure that people have access to good jobs and stable incomes. This can be achieved through policies that support job creation and economic growth, such as investments in education and training, infrastructure, and research and development.

One way to address the issue of foreclosures is through government assistance programs. For example, the government may provide financial assistance to homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments due to job loss or reduced income. This can help to prevent foreclosures and allow homeowners to stay in their homes while they work to get back on their feet financially. By maintaining affordable housing, homeowners are more likely to be able

to afford mortgage payments and reduce the risk of foreclosure. Some private organizations and non-profits offer assistance to homeowners facing foreclosure. These include organizations like the National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling (NFMC) program, which provides free counseling and assistance to homeowners facing foreclosure,

Another way to address the issue is through policies that help to keep housing affordable. This can include rent control, tax incentives for developers to build affordable housing, and programs to help first-time homebuyers afford a down payment. Keeping housing affordable can make it easier for homeowners to afford their mortgage payments and reduce the risk of foreclosure.

In addition to government policies, there are also steps that homeowners can take to protect themselves from the risk of foreclosure. These include:

1. STAYING UP TO DATE ON MORTGAGE PAYMENTS: It’s important to ensure that you are paying your mortgage on time, as even one missed payment can put you at risk of foreclosure.

2. COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR LENDER: If you are having trouble making your mortgage payments, you must immediately reach out to your lender. Many lenders are willing to work with homeowners to devise a solution, such as a temporary payment plan or a modification to the loan terms.

3. SEEKING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: If you are facing financial hardship, several organizations can provide financial assistance to help you stay in your home. These may include non-profit organizations, government agencies, or even your employer.

Ultimately, the key to striking a balance between employment and real estate foreclosures is to create an environment that supports job growth and economic stability, while also assisting homeowners facing financial challenges. By taking these steps, we can help ensure that people have the means to afford their housing and avoid foreclosure while also supporting a healthy and stable real estate market.

The Top 5 Real Estate Trends to Watch Out For in 2023

The real estate market is constantly evolving, and buyers, sellers, and investors must stay up-to-date on the latest trends to make informed decisions. With that in mind, here are the top 5 real estate trends to watch out for in 2023:

1. INCREASED DEMAND FOR SUBURBAN AND RURAL PROPERTIES

In recent years, there has been a trend towards urbanization, with many people opting to live in city centers close to work and amenities. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted this trend, as people have been seeking more space and a safer environment in which to

live. This has increased demand for suburban and rural properties, which offer more room to spread out and often come with larger yards. Also, suburban properties are often more affordable than their urban counterparts, making them a more realistic option for many buyers. In addition, the trend towards remote work has made it possible for more people to live outside of city centers and still have access to employment opportunities. This has also led to an increase in demand for properties with amenities that cater to remote work, such as home offices and high-speed internet. This trend is expected to continue in 2023 as people prioritize safety and quality of life in their real estate decisions with respect and affordability.

2. THE CONTINUED GROWTH OF THE LUXURY MARKET

The luxury real estate market has been rising recently, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. Many high-end buyers are looking for properties that offer high exclusivities, such as waterfront properties, estates, and

PHOTOS FROM 123RF

mansions. In addition, there has been an increase in demand for unique properties, such as outdoor kitchens, home theaters, and resort-style pools. In addition, the lowinterest rates that have persisted in recent years have made it easier for people to afford luxury properties. Finally, the pandemic has increased demand for properties that offer seclusion and privacy, which are often found in luxury properties. As the economy recovers and more people can afford luxury properties, the demand for these homes will likely continue to grow.

3. RISE OF THE “SMART HOME.”

As technology advances, more people are looking for properties equipped with “smart” features. These features include smart thermostats, security systems, and even appliances that can be controlled from a smartphone or tablet. In addition to the convenience and efficiency benefits, the “smart home” trend will likely continue in 2023 due to these features’ added security. Smart security systems, for example, can alert homeowners to potential threats and allow them to monitor their homes remotely. In addition, smart appliances and systems can help homeowners save money by reducing energy consumption and costs. In 2023, we can expect to see an increase in demand for homes equipped with these types of features as more and more people become accustomed to the convenience and efficiency they offer.

4. GROWTH OF THE RENTAL MARKET

While the trend toward homeownership has been strong recently, the COVID-19

pandemic has caused many people to reconsider their housing options. With unemployment rates rising and the economy uncertain, more people opt to rent rather than buy. In addition, the trend towards remote work has made it possible for people to live in a wider range of locations, which may make renting a more attractive option. In 2023, this market is expected to grow as people opt for its flexibility and security.

5. INCREASED FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability has become a major focus in the real estate industry in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. More and more buyers and investors are looking for properties that are energyefficient, have low carbon emissions, and are built with environmentally-friendly materials. As concerns about climate change continue to grow, we can expect to see an increased focus on sustainability in the real estate market. In addition, sustainable buildings often have a higher resale value, which can be attractive to buyers and investors in the market.

In conclusion, these are the top 5 real estate trends to watch out for in 2023. With the increased demand for suburban and rural properties, continued growth in the luxury market, the rise of the “smart home,” growth in the rental market, and an increased focus on sustainability, it’s clear that the real estate market is constantly evolving. By staying up-to-date on these trends, buyers, sellers, and investors can make informed decisions and take advantage of the market’s opportunities.

Be Aware of ‘too good to be True’ Lenders!

As a savvy real estate investor, you know that many different lenders are offering a wide range of mortgage products. However, it’s important to be aware of lenders who may be offering “too good to be true” deals who are intentionally trying to scam you. Some may simply be inexperienced or may not have a full understanding of the mortgage industry. These lenders may be unscrupulous or may not have your best interests in mind leading to financial problems down the road. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to identify “too good to be true” lenders and how to protect yourself from falling victim to their scams. One common type of mortgage scam is the “bait and switch.” This occurs when a lender lures you in with an attractive rate or term, but then changes the terms of the loan before closing. For example, the lender may increase the interest rate or add fees that weren’t disclosed originally. Another type of mortgage scam is the “phantom help” scam. In this scam, a lender or other individual claims to be able to help you modify your mortgage or avoid foreclosure, but then charges you upfront fees and doesn’t actually provide any help

One red flag to watch out for is lenders who offer rates or terms that seem too good to be true. For example, if a lender is offering significantly lower rates than other lenders, it’s worth doing some extra research to make sure the deal is legitimate. It’s also a good idea to compare the lender’s rates and terms to those of other lenders to make sure they are competitive.

Another sign of a “too good to be true” lender is a lack of transparency. If a lender is unwilling to provide clear and detailed information about their rates, fees, and terms, it’s a good idea to be cautious. A reputable lender will be upfront about their fees and charges and will be able to explain them in detail.

It’s also important to be wary of lenders who pressure you to make a decision quickly. A legitimate lender will give you the time you need to research your options and make an informed decision. If a lender is pushing you to make a decision without giving you the opportunity to fully consider your options, it’s a good idea to be suspicious.

So, how can you protect yourself from “too good to be true” lenders? One of the best ways is to do your research. Look for reviews or testimonials from other borrowers and check the lender ’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau. It’s also a good idea to work with a trusted real estate agent or mortgage broker who can help you compare lenders and find the best deal.

Another way to protect yourself from “too good to be true” lenders is to be cautious of lenders who ask for upfront fees. It’s not uncommon for lenders to charge fees for certain services, such as processing or underwriting fees, but these fees should be disclosed upfront and should not be exorbitant. If a lender is asking for a large upfront fee or is vague about what the fee is for, it could be a sign of a scam.

It’s also important to be aware of lenders who promise to help you get a mortgage, even if you have bad credit or a low income. While there are legitimate programs available to help borrowers with less-than-perfect credit or low income, these programs are often competitive and may have strict eligibility requirements. If a lender is promising to help you get a mortgage no matter what, it could be a sign of a scam.

Finally, be wary of lenders who ask you to sign a blank or incomplete loan application or who ask you to sign documents without fully explaining them. A reputable lender will provide you with complete and accurate loan documents and will take the time to explain them to you. If you feel like a lender is rushing you to sign documents without fully explaining them, it’s a good idea to be cautious.

In conclusion, it’s important to be aware of “too good to be true” lenders when shopping for a mortgage. Look for red flags such as rates or terms that seem too good to be true, a lack of transparency, or pressure to make a decision quickly. To protect yourself, do your research, work with a trusted real estate agent or mortgage broker, and compare offers from multiple lenders. Be on the lookout for common mortgage scams like the bait and switch and phantom help, and take steps to protect your personal information. By following these tips, you can avoid falling victim to a mortgage scam and secure a mortgage that is right for you.

Top 5 commercial real estate trends to watch out for in 2023

As the commercial real estate market evolves, investors and business owners must stay up-to-date on the latest trends. Here are the top five commercial real estate trends to watch out for in 2023:

1. THE RISE OF CO-WORKING SPACES

Co-working spaces, which offer flexible, shared office spaces for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, have become increasingly popular in recent years. In 2023, we can expect to see even more co-working spaces popping up as more and more people opt for the flexibility and costsaving benefits of these work environments. One reason for the growth of co-working spaces is the increase in remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many companies have adopted remote work policies, which has led to a need for flexible office spaces for their employees. In addition to traditional co-working spaces, we may also see more specialized ones, such as co-working spaces for women, coworking spaces for creatives, and coworking spaces for startups. We can

certainly expect to see even more co-working spaces popping up as more and more people opt for the flexibility and cost-saving benefits of these work environments.

2. INCREASED DEMAND FOR SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

With the growing awareness of environmental issues, there is an increased demand for sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. In 2023, we expect to see more commercial real estate developments prioritizing sustainable design and green building practices. This could include energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and water-saving fixtures. In addition to being good for the environment, sustainable buildings can also save businesses money on energy costs in the long run. Overall, the increased demand for sustainable buildings is expected to continue in 2023 as more and more people and businesses seek to reduce their environmental impact and save on energy costs. This trend could lead to a greater focus on sustainable design and green building

PHOTO FROM 123RF

practices in the commercial real estate market.

3. THE GROWTH OF THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY

The healthcare industry is expected to continue its rapid growth in the coming years, so there will be an increased demand for healthcare-specific real estate. This includes hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. The aging population and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to the healthcare industry’s growth. As the population ages, there is a greater need for healthcare services, leading to an increased demand for hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of healthcare infrastructure, as many hospitals and clinics have been overwhelmed by the number of patients seeking treatment. This has led to a need for additional healthcare facilities in some areas. In addition to traditional healthcare facilities, we may also see a rise in telemedicine and remote healthcare, which could lead to a need for specialized real estate spaces to accommodate these types of services.

4. THE RISE OF E-COMMERCE

E-commerce has grown significantly in popularity in recent years due to the convenience and accessibility it offers. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward online shopping, which will likely continue in the coming years. During the pandemic, more consumers turned to online shopping, causing traditional brickand-mortar stores to struggle to compete with the convenience and accessibility of e-commerce, leading to a decline in demand for retail space. This may result in a shift towards smaller, more specialized stores or repurposing retail space for other uses. Also, the continued rise of e-commerce has led to an increase in demand for industrial and logistics real estate as businesses look for space to store and fulfill orders. The trend towards next-day and same-day delivery has also led to a need for strategically located warehouses and distribution centers to support efficient delivery.

5. THE GROWING POPULARITY OF MIXEDUSE DEVELOPMENTS

Mixed-use developments, which combine residential, commercial, and

recreational spaces in a single development, are becoming increasingly popular. These types of developments can offer various amenities and be attractive to residents and businesses. Mixeduse developments can also be more financially viable for developers. By combining different types of uses, developers can attract a wider range of tenants and customers, which can help to diversify their revenue streams and reduce risk. In 2023, we can expect to see more mixed-use developments built as developers seek to meet the demand for these types of spaces. Mixeduse developments can benefit businesses as they provide a built-in customer base and create a sense of community.

Overall, these trends demonstrate the continued evolution of the commercial real estate market and the importance of adapting to changing trends and technologies to stay competitive. Keeping an eye on these trends can help businesses and investors make informed decisions about their real estate strategies in the coming years.

Devising creative and innovative solutions to deal with the affordability crisis in the country

It’s an undeniable fact that many people today crave homes, which can be shown by looking at the current trends in the real estate market and the frenzy we witnessed in the last two years. Buying a place to call home and making memories will forever be a significant milestone in one’s life. You could own a home, but you would like to make a few upgrades to accommodate a larger family. Whatever your plans, you probably have noticed that securing property has become a big challenge.

Indeed, Americans are struggling not just to make a living but to find somewhere to live. The market has high demand, but very few houses are being constructed to meet that demand. In addition, the market cannot supply affordable housing across the country, which has left many buyers in limbo.

Numerous factors have contributed to this persistent housing shortage, exacerbating the country’s housing crisis. With every challenge comes to an opportunity for creativity and innovation, and the current market is forcing tech companies, entrepreneurs, and developers to think outside the box. Looking

at the west coast, for instance, Tech companies are largely responsible for the high cost of properties as entire communities have become so gentrified that the average person is forced to look elsewhere for affordable properties.

Another factor we must consider is that the FED kept interest rates so low, which pulled in many buyers, ultimately pushing the prices higher. These two forces, among others, created a ‘crazy’ imbalance in the market, leading to the situation we are grappling with today- the affordability crisis.

Still on the west coast, because it seems California is the epicenter

of the affordability crisis in the country, a report by Mckinsey concluded that the state needed to add about 3.5 million more homes by 2025, which means each year the state must add 350,000 units for the next seven years. But there are unique challenges that will make this

reality a nightmare. First, the current zoning laws do not support such a move, and second, there is land scarcity in the urban areas. These are some of the challenges that make achieving 350,000 units a year an insurmountable task. To move forward, California and the nation must look towards new innovative ideas.

REMOVING ALL BARRIERS AT THE LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL LEVEL

This will allow the country at large to add more homes and apartments. To progress on this front, the local, state, and national governments must remove the barriers, especially regulatory barriers to building homes. On that front, there are several policies being looked at in the private and public sectors to achieve better regulatory policies for housing affordability.

A case to mention is Symbium, a tech company in San Francisco that has developed

a computational law platform that mechanizes the rules and regulations of planning code to assist all stakeholders in quickly establishing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is allowed on a property. This is important and extremely helpful; it helps the industry automate the legal analysis for the planning code, and anyone can access what is possible in certain jurisdictions or on a given parcel which cuts the processing time from months to immediate response.

The computational capacity delivered through this platform helps break the administrative and regulatory barriers and demonstrates the potential for other processing innovations related to planning and zoning.

Other states like Minneapolis and Oregon have eliminated single-family zoning by breaking down the regulatory barriers that initially made this a challenge. Although 75 percent of the housing in Minneapolis was previously zoned single-family, now up to three units are allowed on any residential plot of land throughout the entire city.

“By rezoning lots that currently accommodate only one single-family house to allow duplexes and triplexes,” says Andrea Brennan, Minneapolis’s Housing Policy and Development Director, “Minneapolis effectively triples the housing capacity of some neighborhoods.”

In June 2019, the State of Oregon passed HB2001 with bipartisan support- legislation that effectively ended single-family zoning in the state. In fact, it gave power to the state to determine the legal authority to establish parameters for zoning at the local level. So far, the state of Oregon has made a bold move to assert that authority to encourage the local jurisdictions to allow more units to be built in their state.

TECHNOLOGIES TO BOOST THE SPEED OF PRODUCTION, INCREASE

PRODUCTIVITY, AND LOWER

COSTS

Another innovative firm in Silicon Valley called Entekra is focused on off-site framing. It is on a mission to increase home building productivity and reduce the time and the costs it takes to build a single unit.

Stick-built framing for a typical 2,500-square-foot house would generally take about five workers and 15 days to complete, but with the firm’s Fully Integrated Off-Site Solution and a crane, the framing can be done in just four days by a crew of four people. Effectively, this reduces prices by $25,000, saves an average of 30+days, and increases overall productivity by more than 500 percent. In addition, this system reduces errors and reduces on-site skilled labor needs.

Regarding multi-family units, another company- FullStake Modular in New York, merges modular housing with new construction technologies to bring a higher level of control, predictability, and scalability to multifamily development. This is the same company that built the modules for 461 Dean Street in Brooklyn, New York, which is the tallest modular building in the world.

CREATIVE FINANCING

Financing is one of many people’s biggest hurdles to homeownership. To that effect, Rhino, a company located in New York, partners with building owners in all 50 states to offer low-cost insurance as an alternative to cash security deposits. When a renter inquires

about a unit and says Rhino is an option, they can choose between low-cost insurance or a traditional security deposit. The transaction is made directly with the renter. The renter will receive information about the premium immediately, and then they can decide whether to pay the premium in lieu of a security deposit. Although the cost of insurance varies, it ranges between $4-7/monthly.

In addition, it is important to highlight that several companies have developed several approaches to help future buyers. One of the most popular approaches is crowdfunding to seek investors. A good example is HomeFundIt in Baltimore, an online crowdfunding platform allowing homebuyers to use gifts from family and friends for home payments. Still as a crowdfunding platform but using a different approach, Small Change in Pittsburgh connects investors with developers to build better cities . As long as you are 18+ Small Change allows you to invest in projects that involve affordable housing, community centric projects, transit oriented projects and any project that essentially makes better places for everyone.

Additionally, one of the markets that we have to look at and carefully consider is the renter’s market. These are the people getting groomed to become buyers and availing financial assistance and removing barriers to financing, especially for the minorities and the people with lower incomes is essential to ensure housing affordability. A tech company called Till, located

in Alexandria, Virginia has set a platform that transforms a renter’s ability to pay, stay and thrive in their homes through realtime data to develop payment solutions to address their needs.

What Till offers is personalized structures that reduce the avoidable costs of delinquency and evictions. Understanding that the biggest costs that many renters face is rent payment , Till helps to drive meaningful improvements across a renter’s entire financial landscape.

It is also estimated that less than 1 percent of credit reports include rent, yet, for many people, it is their largest and most consistent payment. In light of this, another tech company, ESUSU in New York offers the renters data reporting services that includes rents as a factor of credit scores. The company builds the reports for clients by partnering with property managers and public housing authorities or even working directly with landlords. By using rent payments to establish creditworthiness, ESUSU significantly lowers the cost of capital for renters who want to become buyers.

Housing affordability is not a oneoff problem that can be solved by a blanket solution. However, it is a problem to keep talking about the problem and not offering any real practical solutions. Focusing on ways to solve the problem through innovation, it will be possible to come up with multiple marvelous and creative solutions focused at the grassroot level.

CRAZY Interior House designs We Have Our Eyes on

The article below Focus on different interior designs and why their popular interior design has unique characteristics, experience, flavor, and different finishes in the interior designs. These are the most popular interior design Styles; contemporary interior design, modern interior design mid, century interior design, shabby chic interior design, farmhouse interior design, industrial interior design, electric interior design, Scandinavian interior design, and lastly, Midcentury interior design.

The first design in this discussion in this analysis is the best modern interior design; simple color schemes, clean individual elements, and a welcoming feel define the modern interior design. It uses heavy glass and steel and how he needed siding replacement in historical times modern design style. It is from a specific time from the garden Warfare buy from the dawn 20th century. The structure and architecture

are rooted in Scandinavian and German design Styles. Modern interior design Styles are all about practicality and logic, and painting walls and sculptures were taken from a group of different choices; the designer focuses on the form, not the functionality.

The major idea of this modern Style place store is to create a clutter-free home with few or no unnecessary materials the design fulfills a practical purpose. This Style Focuses on simplicity, especially on furnishing the living rooms as a child in a manner that the floor is open it concentrates on wall colors and modern art in contrasting colors.

Contemporary interior designs are the designs that are ruling nowadays. Contemporary interior design is a style business that fits in almost all rooms of the house. The bedroom, living room, and dining room, among others. Choosing a contemporary design is handy because many available and ready-assembled kitchen cabinets are beautiful and contemporary. This style is almost the style that houses are currently being designed in. contemporary design includes the following modernism; art deco historical designs at the very minimum level it’s not vague, having the characteristics mentioned above instead, it has clean lines and smooth surfaces placed in order of appearance on the space most of the furniture used are from the modern day.

Mid-century interior design styles what’s popular in the wake of the Second World War as the trend of almost every style currently the same way the midcentury interior design spread. Mid-century interior design Style although the design was done between the 40s to the 60s, houses built with this style has a retro feel with a fresh Twist of comfort and

timelessness at the epicenter. Giving it a chance to be chosen as the best interior design style, this Style is used to show house ownership. Painting or an artifact is among the main focus of the living room. Clean line and stay services are the major features of mid-century modern designs. The core idea of the mid-century modern interior design is to make an appearance of a home just like the scene in movies or television series Mad Men. Mid-century interior design Style allowed people to realize that despite making a home functional, there is a need for keeping space around the home for social activities within the home. The style is used in all shared areas on all house grounds.

Scandinavian interior design is not a design on its own; it combines several other designs to make it complete. Scandinavian interior design is simple but highly functional spaces. The Scandinavian interior design leaves spaces between rooms for interpersonal bonds or invitations; the space makes it different from other styles like minimalist design, which focuses on affordability and Necessity. The decoration in this style is rounded furniture, clean detailing, bare ornaments, and white color pallets.

Shabby chic interior design this time is characterized by; unique touch furniture, laidback vibe, and early lighting fixtures elements used in this interior design look old with a lot of

wear and tear, but the functionality is perfect.

Electric interior design style comes up with contrasting elements and designs, textures, and colors to bring up are unique feel. This is selected by house owners who prefer bold decors. A hundred combinations of styles can be used in style, then coming up with a specific output. The output depends on how you manage the combinations. The background colors are usually combinations that are not shouting this is to create a good way for the designer to choose the furniture and accessories required. The main idea of this style shows a uniquely fresh and mesmerizing style after a combination of all historical.

Industrial interior design is allowed to expose building materials like bricks on the walls or even recycled materials. This style tries to maintain space that can be used during the invitation. Industrial interior design forms have flaws and furniture in arrangement to reduce the space. It is considered one of the easiest interior designs.

What’s the impact of Institutional Investors in the Housing Market?

Institutional investors play a significant role in the housing market. These large organizations, such as pension funds and insurance companies, invest in a wide range of assets, including residential real estate. The impact of institutional investors on the housing market can be positive and negative, depending on the specific circumstances and the investors’ actions.

One positive impact of institutional investors in the housing market is that they can provide a source of capital for the development and maintenance of housing. This can help increase the overall housing supply, which can be beneficial in markets with high demand and limited supply. For example, institutional investors may invest in the construction of new housing developments or rehabilitate existing properties. This can help to address the need for affordable housing in certain areas and can also help to stimulate economic growth in those regions.

Institutional investors can also positively impact the housing market through innovative financing and investment strategies. For example, they may use financial instruments such as mortgagebacked securities or real estate investment trusts (REITs) to invest in housing. These strategies can provide a way for investors to diversify their portfolios and take advantage of the potential for returns in the housing market. However,

they can also create additional risks and complexities for the market, mainly if they are not well-understood or if they are not regulated effectively.

Institutional investors can also positively impact the housing market through their lobbying efforts and their relationships with policymakers. These investors may use their financial resources and political influence to shape housing policies and regulations that favor their interests. This can have consequences for the overall functioning of the housing market and for the ability of different groups of people to access housing.

Another positive impact of institutional investors in the housing market is that they can provide stability and liquidity. These investors have long-term investment horizons, meaning they are less likely to sell their properties in response to short-term market fluctuations. This can help reduce market volatility and provide a sense of security for other investors and homeowners. Additionally, institutional investors often have deep pockets, which means they have the financial resources to weather market downturns and continue holding onto their properties until conditions improve. This can help maintain the value of housing in the market and prevent widespread property value declines.

However, some negative impacts of institutional investors in the housing market should also be considered. One potentially negative impact is that these investors may not always prioritize the needs of local communities. For example, they may be more focused on maximizing their own financial returns, which could lead them to neglect the maintenance of their properties or to engage in practices that are not in the best interests of the communities in which they

operate. This can have negative consequences for the people who live in those communities, such as increased crime or declining property values.

Another potential negative impact of institutional investors in the housing market is that they may drive up housing prices, making it more difficult for first-time buyers and lower-income families to afford a home. This can be especially problematic in areas with a shortage of affordable housing. In these cases, the influx of institutional investors may exacerbate the problem rather than help to solve it.

Additionally, the presence of institutional investors in the housing market can lead to concerns about the concentration of ownership and the potential for market manipulation. When a small number of investors control a large percentage of the housing market, it can create the potential for collusion or other market manipulation, which could negatively affect other market participants.

Another area where institutional investors can have a negative impact is an area of gentrification. In some cases, the influx of institutional investment into a particular neighborhood or community can lead to the displacement of long-term residents as property values and rents increase. This can be especially problematic in neighborhoods with a history of disinvestment, where residents may have few other options for housing.

Overall, the impact of institutional investors on the housing market can be complex and multifaceted. While they can provide a source of capital and stability to the market, they can also have negative consequences for local communities and housing affordability. It is important for policymakers, investors, and community stakeholders to consider these potential impacts and to work together to ensure that the housing market serves the needs of all members of the community.

What Is The Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire? how can Homebuyers benefit from it?

The Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire is a community-driven effort aimed at addressing systemic racism and promoting economic equity for Black residents in the Inland Empire region of California. The initiative, launched in 2020, focuses on increasing access to affordable housing, supporting small businesses, and providing financial education and resources to Black residents in the region. Through the initiative, Black residents in the Inland Empire can build wealth, improve their credit scores, and increase their community involvement by becoming homeowners.

One of the key components of the Black Equity Initiative is creating a program to assist Black homebuyers in purchasing homes in the Inland

Empire. This program, known as the Black Homeownership Assistance Program, provides financial assistance and resources to help Black residents overcome barriers to homeownership, such as high down payment requirements and lack of access to mortgage financing.

One way the Black Homeownership Assistance Program helps Black homebuyers is by providing down payment assistance. This can be particularly useful for first-time homebuyers or those who may not have the savings or resources to make a large down payment on a home. By providing financial assistance for the down payment, the program helps reduce the overall homeownership cost and make it more accessible to Black residents.

PHOTO FROM BLACKEQUITYIE.ORG/

In addition to down payment assistance, the Black Homeownership Assistance Program also offers educational resources and support to help Black homebuyers navigate the purchasing process. This includes information on financing options, credit repair, and other important considerations for homebuyers. For example, the program may provide information on different mortgage options, such as conventional loans, FHA loans, and VA loans, and help homebuyers understand the pros and cons of each option. The program may also offer assistance with credit repair, which can be especially important for Black homebuyers who may have faced discrimination in the credit market and have lower credit scores. One of the key benefits of the Black Equity Initiative and the Black Homeownership Assistance Program is that they help to level the playing field for Black residents in the Inland Empire, who may have historically faced discrimination and barriers to homeownership. By providing financial assistance and resources, the initiative helps to increase access to affordable housing for Black residents, which can have long-term benefits for both individual homeowners and the broader community.

The Black Equity Initiative also includes several other initiatives to promote economic equity for Black residents in the Inland Empire. These initiatives include support for small businesses, financial education and resources, and community engagement efforts. For example, the initiative may provide technical assistance and resources to help Black entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses or offer financial education workshops to help Black residents improve their financial literacy and make informed financial decisions.

Another way that homebuyers can benefit from the Black Equity Initiative is through its partnerships with local real estate professionals. The initiative works with a network of real estate agents, mortgage lenders, and other professionals committed to supporting

Black buyers and helping them achieve homeownership. By working with these professionals, homebuyers can get the support and guidance they need to find the right home and secure a mortgage that meets their needs.

One of the key benefits of the Black Equity Initiative and the Black Homeownership Assistance Program is that they help to level the playing field for Black residents in the Inland Empire, who may have historically faced discrimination and barriers to homeownership. By doing this, the initiative helps increase access to affordable housing for Black residents, which can benefit both individual homeowners and the broader community. Homeownership can provide several economic and social benefits, such as building wealth, improving credit scores, and increasing community involvement which promotes economic stability and prosperity for Black residents in the Inland Empire.

The Black Equity Initiative is just one example of the efforts to address the systemic barriers Black individuals and families often face when trying to buy a home. While the initiative is focused on the Inland Empire region of California, similar programs and initiatives exist in other parts of the country. For example, the National Association of Realtors has launched several initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in the real estate industry, including the “Advancing Real Estate, Advancing Communities” program, which aims to increase homeownership among Black and Hispanic households.

Overall, the Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire and the Black Homeownership Assistance Program are important efforts to promote economic equity and address systemic racism in the region. By providing financial assistance and resources to Black homebuyers, these programs can help to increase homeownership rates and improve the economic stability of Black residents in the Inland Empire.

Looking to Invest in Texas?

Here’s a Simple Guide

By Sharon Bartlett

The Texas housing market has always been a favorable investment opportunity, especially when buying rental properties. For a long time now, investors all over the country have been interested in Texas income properties, and of course, it’s for a good reason. Texas State has a large population, with laws that are welcoming and friendly to investors, without forgetting the many great areas you can choose from for investing in real estate. To top all that up, the lone Star State is huge. It’s the second-largest state in the U.S. in population and geographical terms.

Here are some of my top reasons why you should consider investing in the Texas Housing market.

AFFORDABILITY

As the housing market recovered in most large U.S. cities, house prices in those cities rose above affordability for most buyers. For Texas, the case was different. Although the house prices have inclined in Texas over the past years, they remain affordable in many areas.

The Texas housing market appreciation rate also holds a good upward trend. According to Zillow, Texas home values have gone up 3.3% over the past year, and the predictions hold that the values will rise 3.8% within 2020. In general, Texas features a cool housing market, making it an excellent buyer’s market.

STRONG ECONOMY

Texas has had a remarkable economic growth throughout the years. In 2020, its economy is estimated to be worth $1.6 trillion and still growing. Texas economy is supported by a wide range of successful industries and leading institutions of higher learning. The state’s economic growth is also attributed to its diverse economic base that features agriculture, mining, and energy industries, without forgetting its further economic diversification through bringing in new jobs from technology, financial and healthcare services companies.

Texas also has a business friendly environment and favourable tax laws, which play significant roles in attracting large companies in the area,

such as the 50 Fortune 500 companies. For any investor, this are critical factors that come with positive influence to the real estate investments.

STRONG POPULATION GROWTH

Population growth in most parts of the U.S is mainly due to economic factors. Therefore, with steadily growing economy and diverse job opportunities in Texas, people are largely moving to Texas. On top of it, Texas features affordable housing, falling mortgage rates, and no state income tax. Most people who move there are job seekers who will also need housing. This means that Texas rental properties will ever be in high demand.

Another reason to buy investment property in Texas is that the state is already known as the most landlord-friendly state in the U.S. Also, most first time buyers end up buying investment properties in the wrong market or neighbourhood. To get the most out of your real estate investment, you must invest in a good market or neighbourhood.

SO HOW TO GO ABOUT INVESTING IN TEXAS MARKET

Conduct a Market Analysis

When making any investment, the goal is usually to make profit. Before diving into an investment blindly, conduct an investment analysis that will give you a clear picture of how much you stand to make when you put money into a property. There are online resources such as Mashivor. com that will give you cash on cash returns of an investment, the expected rental income, the expected cash flow among other metrics. Additionally, conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA). This will make comparisons of the property against similar properties.

FINDING YOUR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Finding an investment property in Texas is one of the easiest tasks. With the help of a local agent, these properties can be easily identified. You can as well check with banks in Texas and find properties in which they have failed to follow after foreclosures and have abandoned them.

If that does not work, you can liaise with the local postal office, and they can alert you on buildings whose mail is piling up. You can also opt to advertise; the local neighbors’ can be very resourceful and point you toward abandoned properties. The local realtor inventory can also be very useful; you might find an ideal vacant property there.

FINANCING THE INVESTMENT PROPERTY.

The method you choose when financing the property relies heavily on the purpose you intend to use the building. Your credit score will also come into play when deciding on the best financing method. Make sure you rank highly before applying for any mortgage. You could finance using a traditional mortgage, FHA loan, renovation loan, or loan equity home. Select the one that offers you the best deal.

When investing in properties, it is important to remember that it’s a costly venture with great rewards if done correctly. Before investing in any, do your due diligence. It would be disappointing to find surprises along the way.

5 Factors Affecting Affordability in Maryland

By Emerick Peace

We are all aware that housing is a basic need essential for a human’s daily wellbeing. Having a place you can shelter yourself is very important. It does not have to be luxurious and boogie; as long as it’s comfortable enough and safe, that’s all that matters. A house with good drainage, water supply, and electricity should be your key considerations when looking for an affordable house. The unaffordability of a good house may cause poor quality of housing, and hence someone opts to downgrade to living in a house that will be cost-effective to them. Factors that may affect affordability may include:

POPULATION GROWTH

The University of Maryland’s National Centre for Smart Growth and Enterprise Community Partners have done their statistics recently and suggested that Maryland will have to build more houses and make them affordable for a couple of years due to the rise in the population of residents that earn a low income and also meet the demands from the residents with a moderate income and people with disabilities. The flashlight has always been on the people who earn competitive salaries in the community hence there has been less focus on everyone

else. This can be done by outsourcing funds for affordable housing, eliminating barriers brought about by rezoning, and adopting a stable rent fee policy for low-income earners.

GOVERNMENT COORDINATION

Lack of coordination within the state agencies in Maryland has created a barrier to affordable housing for lowincome residents in Maryland. Government officials may lack uncoordinated efforts due to being competitors among each other, and this may lead to neglecting of funding for affordable housing. If the State neglects its mandates, the citizens in that state will suffer severely because the government should be the one to offer some neutral ground between the low, middle, and high-income earners in the society to avoid discrimination and oppression of the low and middle-income earners.

FAIR HOUSING CHOICE

The policy suggests that people under the same income bracket should have the privilege of the same housing choices regardless of their sex, color, religion, age, familial status, nationality, or disability. Maryland lacks fair housing choices since the state keeps in mind the sexual orientation of individuals to give them affordable housing, which should not be the case. The

state should develop strategies to help develop fair housing choices for all. The strategies developed should favor low, middle, and high-income earners to ensure everyone is entitled to suitable housing despite their status.

LACK OF ADEQUATE FINANCIAL RESOURCES

Inadequate financial resources are a barrier to affordable housing in Maryland since the DHCD still struggles to offer affordable housing despite being well-known for being innovative in offering good housing to both low and middle-income earners in society. The government has the mandate of offering these resources to DHCD, but due to inflation and declining revenue, the government gives a small share to them. The State has deduced many essential resources due to the declining economy that should offer adequate funds to run various government projects.

HOUSING ACQUISITION FINANCE REQUIREMENTS

The down payment of a mortgage affects the purchase of an affordable house especially for low and middleincome earners. An increase in subprime lending for the past few years have indicated that many people cannot acquire housing through ‘creative’ financing. Many banks require a down payment of some

amount before giving personal loans. Some low-income households can barely afford rent in low-income houses, too, because their lifestyle is that of food to mouth. Whatever they earn is mostly for catering to their diet rather than housing because their household can’t survive when hungry.

These are just a few factors affecting household affordability in Maryland. The economy has been affected greatly, and the cost of living has increased. Many people have lost their jobs over the years, especially in 2020 after COVID-19 set foot in the world. Many jobs came to a halt, and people had to look for alternative sources of livelihood. Many employers could not sustain their companies and pay their employees on time hence they decided to lay off some employees. Most of the people who got laid off were the sole breadwinners of their families, and hence they couldn’t afford to pay rent in the houses they lived in.

Some families had to relocate outside town to get houses that were quite affordable for them. This drastic shift affected many families, but life had to continue, and they had to adapt to the current changes.

Where Starting Over happens every day!

We’re Starting Over, Inc. - a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting people experiencing the effects of mass incarceration, systemic racism, housing insecurity, substance addiction, and mental health issues. We believe that people impacted by these issues are the ones closest to the solutions, which is why we are a Black-led and criminal justice-impacted organization engaged in this work. From experience, we’ve learned that housing is critical, but alone, it is not enough to support those exiting prisons or the streets. We not only provide transitional housing, but also include holistic services such as peer support, case management, employment, wellness, and reentry services. We also work to address the root causes of our houseguests’ difficult situations, leading grassroots organizing and policy initiatives in the Inland Empire region and statewide. Established in 2009, we’ve served over 1,400 men, women, and families in Riverside and Los Angeles Counties through the reentry and transition process.

We believe that the past does not define our future. We’re invested in creating safe and equitable opportunities for all members of our community, and especially those with past convictions. Housing opportunities are crucial for our community members and directly affect their ability to thrive.

Starting Over, Inc. is committed to reducing and eliminating the many barriers to life after incarceration. We have a deep commitment to identifying and implementing evidence-based approaches to strong communities and families. We seek to creating program/project solutions where the need exists in our community. We do lots of things at Starting Over, Inc. - but our primary goal is to address the immediate effects and root causes of incarceration, be it through housing, employment, legislation, or community organizing.

T t i l d ith i itiatives, access our services, or support our work through donations, you can or office@startingoverinc.org.

programming and projects include, but are not limited to:

We currently operate eight homes in LA and Riverside Counties open to men, women, and children, with options for sober living or harm-reduction housing All of our services are available to our houseguests, many of whom have been unable to obtain housing after being released due to their conviction histories

Our Case Management specialists provide support to our guests with obtaining necessary documents/identification and accessing insurance, education, healthcare, clothing, food, & more.

Transitional Housing Case Management Peer Support

Our houseguests are not alone - our support specialists, having experienced incarceration, addiction, and homelessness themselves - understand our guests' needs and the barriers they face. We’re here to meet our guests wherever they are in their journeys and to support them moving forward through empowerment, support with recovery, referrals, and mentorship

Family Reunification, Equity, & Empowerment (FREE) Project

Mass incarceration affects not just individuals, but families - many of our community members and guests experience family separation at the hands of the child welfare system. The FREE Project is system-impacted led and organizes parents and family members in a non-judgemental space, advising on best practices and dependency court procedures We recently sponsored and passed statewide bill that eliminates major barriers to child placement and allows family members with criminal convictions unrelated to caring for children to be considered as placement options allowing for suitable family members with criminal convictions to step up in times of crisis

Through our Path to SEED program, we connect guests and community members with employment opportunities and provide training & support regarding obtaining and retaining employment, often a major hurdle for formerly incarcerated individuals

Marshall Legal Clinic

Our free clinics provide relief for expungements, wills/trusts, immigration, and more with the support of local legal organizations

Employment Policy Advocacy

In the past year, we’ve co-sponsored and/or supported nearly a dozen statewide bills to reduce the scale of mass incarceration and its collateral consequences We’ve also worked locally to influence Riverside County to reduce criminal history look-back periods from 7 years to 3 years in 2017 and to enable youth coming out of probation to be able to stay with their family members in subsidized housing

Grassroots Organizing & Civic Engagement

Our Participatory Defense organizing model (based on Silicon Valley De-Bug) empowers family and community members in the courtroom to positively impact their loved one’s outcome and to bring them home. As fiscal sponsor and start-up organization of Riverside All of Us or None (a chapter of a national initiative of formerly incarcerated people, family members, and allies advocating for the rights of the currently and formerly incarcerated people) we ensure that system impacted leadership remains at the center of the fight to keep our community together and address the social problems that incarceration purports to solve Our community outreach team also disseminates voter registration and public health information regarding COVID-19, and we organize food and clothing relief for community members in need.

Sellers: Should you list your property now or wait?

By Adriana Montes

There has been an increase in volatility of the housing market, and a couple of sellers are on the fence since the prices have been shooting for the past years, and they are not sure if it’s the right time to list their houses for sale. As a seller, the question racing through their mind is, “Should I sell my house now or wait?” Many sellers fear the negative repurcations that may follow them when the prices drastically drop. To figure out what works best for you as an aspiring house seller, it’s good for you to weigh both pros and cons of each option you list down.

The main options may include the following:

1. Listing your property for sale

2. Warding off listing your property until the housing market balances out

3. Staying in your property for the foreseeable future

WHEN TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY

Some factors can prompt you to sell your property. They include:

LOW-INTEREST RATES

If the interest is low, it would be a perfect time to sell your previous house since you’ll save more financially when buying yourself a new home. Sometimes the low-interest rates may be disadvantageous in that they attract high demand from buyers, and after selling your home at a significant profit, you may end up struggling to get a new home since they will be scarce in supply. If that is not a headache for you, selling your house when the interest rates are low would be a great deal for a seller.

LOW SUPPLY

Suppose we are in a seller’s market (fewer houses and an influx of buyers). In that case,

PHOTOS

the seller has the power and mandate to negotiate at the closing table according to his or her selling price thus making it an ideal period to sell a house. When home buyers compete for a limited number of houses, the seller may take advantage of setting a higher price and compromise less when it comes to contingencies for any buyer wishing to purchase the house. If the buyer is urgently looking for a house, the price will not matter. Hence they’ll end up buying the house because they know they might go all around and about looking for another house and get a more expensive buyer or houses already sold out.

WHEN TO WAIT

IF YOU WANT TO RELOCATE

Relocation may be brought about by moving to a new job or office station away from town, buying a house that will accommodate your growing family, or even downsizing to a small house due to the high cost of living or personal life reasons. If your reason for selling the house is time sensitive, it’s good to consider moving to another home. Many people who relocate usually sell their houses to permanently stay in their places of relocation if at all the reason is long-term.

Some factors can prompt any seller to consider waiting for some time before considering selling the property. They include:

INCREASE IN SUPPLY

A flooded housing market will require the seller to compete for attention from buyers, and you may end up downgrading your sales to get your house sold. You may also compromise with your prospective buyers by promising them certain aspects of the house before selling, like reduced rent for the next months after payment, which would make you have great losses. If you don’t want to go through such a headache, it would be best if you do not sell your house when the supply in the housing market is high.

BEING UNABLE TO AFFORD YOUR NEXT PURCHASE

If you can’t afford to make a down payment for the new house before selling your old house, it’s best if you don’t sell your house first. This is because there are more closing costs when purchasing a new home. Especially if you didn’t make a huge profit margin when selling your previous property, you need to remember that you will need a significant amount of capital or even more when buying a new home. It’s better to save up so you can purchase your new home easily.

INCOMPLETE RENOVATIONS

If you still have pending renovations, in your kitchen, backyard, or even your bathroom, due to insufficient funds to complete the renovations, it’s best if you don’t rush into selling your house. An incomplete house is a huge turn-off to many buyers, who often picture the seller as a person who is not well-planned. Finishing all the renovation projects before listing your property for sale is advisable. If you urgently need to move out and sell your house while renovations are still in progress, it’s good to consult a realtor who will advise you in the best way possible because they have the experience needed.

The housing seller market is still booming up to date hence if you’d like to sell your house, it’s best if you do so as soon as possible before the tables turn. If your conscience is not satisfied with why you should sell your house, it’s good for you to wait to avoid regretting in the future.

6 tricks to Help You Sell Your Home in the Winter

By Yvonne McFadden

Selling a home in the winter can present unique challenges and be a bit more challenging than in the warmer months. This is due to the weather, short daylight, and holiday season which may affect the number of potential buyers since they tend to spend more time indoors and less time looking for a new property. But with proper planning and preparation, it is still possible to successfully sell your home. To increase the chances of selling your home in the winter, it is crucial to take extra steps and focus on making your home attractive to potential buyers. Some of the steps you can take are:

1. MAKE THE MOST OF CURB APPEAL.

The first impression of a home is crucial, and it’s important to make sure the exterior of your home looks as inviting as possible during the

winter. This includes clearing snow and ice from walkways and driveways, and making sure the landscaping is well-maintained. A fresh coat of paint on the front door or shutters can also make a big difference in how your home is perceived. You can also add some seasonal decorations such as a wreath or twinkling lights to make the home feel warm and inviting. Lighting is also an important aspect to make sure your home stand out during the night and evening showings.

2.

INTERIOR IS COZY. With the colder weather, buyers will be looking for homes that feel warm and comfortable. Make sure your home is well-heated and consider adding extra blankets and cozy. This can be achieved by ensuring the home is well-heated, and adding extra blankets

MAKE SURE THE

and cozy accents to make the space feel inviting. Consider also to give attention to the Fireplace if you have one, it’s a great focal point that buyers can relate to during the winter. You can also have a warm fire going during showings to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

3. MAXIMIZE NATURAL LIGHT.

During the winter, there is less natural light available, so it’s important to make sure your home feels as bright and open as possible. Keep curtains and blinds open during showings and consider adding additional lighting to make your home feel more inviting. This can make a big difference in how your home is perceived, a well-lit home can make it appear more spacious and open. Another important aspect is highlighting any energyefficient upgrades that you have made to the home such as new windows or insulation, this will appeal to potential buyers who are concerned about energy bills during the winter.

4. HIGHLIGHT THE HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY.

Winter can be a costly time for energy bills, so buyers will be looking for homes that are energy-efficient. Highlight any energy-efficient upgrades you’ve made to your home, such as new windows or insulation. This will appeal to potential buyers who are concerned about the energy bills during this time. Additionally, consider highlighting the home’s heating and cooling systems, and any smart home technology that may be included in the sale. This can also help to attract buyers as they’ll appreciate the added convenience and efficiency.

5.

CONSIDER PRICING STRATEGICALLY.

In the winter, there may be fewer buyers looking for homes, which can make it more difficult to sell. To make your home more appealing, you may have to consider pricing it competitively. Work with your real estate agent to come up with a pricing strategy that will attract buyers.. They can provide you with a market analysis of recent sales and tell you what similar homes in your area are selling for.

6.

STAGE YOUR HOME TO SHOW OFF ITS FEATURES.

As the potential buyers are not able to fully appreciate the outdoor space or the pool. it’s important to show off and draw attention to the indoor features that make your home unique and stand out, instead of the outdoor spaces that may not be as attractive during the winter. Consider hiring a professional stager to help you arrange furniture and decor to best highlight the features of your home, and make it look more appealing to potential buyers. They can Highlight the fireplace, the entertainment system, or any other features that will help your home stand out.

By following these tricks, you can make your home more attractive to buyers even in the colder months. Remember to work with a real estate agent who has experience selling homes in the winter, they can guide you in your marketing, pricing and also can advise you on what potential buyers are looking for at this time of the year. The key to selling your home in the winter is to highlight the features that make your home warm and inviting, and to price it competitively. With a bit of effort, you can attract buyers and make your home stand out in the market.

Who Owns That Property? 5 Ways to Find Out

By Tamra Lee Ulmer

Determining the ownership of a property can be important for various reasons, such as verifying the ownership status before making an offer on a property, checking the ownership of a property that you are currently managing, or simply wanting to know more about a property in your neighborhood. There are several ways to find out who owns a property, including searching public records, using real estate websites, accessing property tax records, reviewing the property deed, and conducting a title search. It is essential to use multiple sources and verify the information you find to ensure that you have the most accurate and up-to-date information. In this article, we will explore these methods in more detail and provide tips on effectively determining who owns a property.

It is essential to know how to find out who owns a

property reliably and legally. Here are 5 ways you can do so:

1. PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH

One of the most common and straightforward ways to determine who owns a property is to search public records. Most county or city government offices maintain records of property ownership and transactions, often available for public access.

To search public records, you can visit the county or city government office or access the records online through the county or city’s website. Some states also have a statewide property records database that you can search for.

In addition to property ownership information,

public records may include information on the property’s tax status, zoning, and any liens or mortgages. Examples of public records include birth, death, and marriage certificates, property tax records, and real estate transactions.

2. REAL ESTATE WEBSITES

Many real estate websites provide information on properties and their owners. Some of these websites, such as Zillow and Redfin, offer a wealth of information on properties, including property value estimates, sales history, and ownership information.

While these websites can be useful resources, it is essential to remember that the information they provide may not always be accurate or up-to-date. It is always a good idea to verify the information you find on these websites with other sources.

3. PROPERTY TAX RECORDS

Property tax records are another source of information on property ownership. Most county or city government offices maintain records of property tax payments and assessments, often available for public access.

To access property tax records, you can visit the county or city government office or access the records online through the county or city’s website. Some states also have a statewide database of property tax records that you can search for.

4. PROPERTY DEED

A property deed is a legal document that establishes the ownership of a property. It includes the name of the property’s current owner(s) and any previous owners. It may also include information on the property’s location, size, and any encumbrances or restrictions on the property. To find the owner of a property using the property deed, you can follow these steps:

Obtain a copy of the property deed from the county or the city government’s office

• Review the property deed to find the owner’s name. The owner’s name is typically listed on the deed as the grantor or the grantee.

• Check for any conveyances or transfers of ownership.

• Verify the information with other sources. to confirm the ownership information you find on the property deed and ensure that you have the most accurate information.

5. TITLE SEARCH

A title search is a comprehensive review of the public records related to a particular property. A title company or an attorney typically performs it. It involves a search of the property’s deed and other public records to confirm the ownership of the property and any liens or encumbrances on the property.

A title search can be a useful tool for verifying the ownership of a property, especially when you are considering purchasing a property or taking out a mortgage on the property. However, it is essential to remember that a title search is not a guarantee of the property’s ownership or condition.

In conclusion, finding out who owns a property can be important for various reasons in the real estate industry. There are several ways to do so, including searching public records, using real estate websites, accessing property tax records, reviewing the property deed, and conducting a title search. It is essential to use multiple sources and verify the information you find to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information. By following these methods and best practices, you can effectively determine the ownership of a property and make informed decisions about your real estate transactions.

HOW TO CHALLENGE A LOW APPRAISAL

By Walter Huff

Alow property appraisal can be a frustrating and unexpected obstacle for both buyers and sellers in the real estate market. An appraisal is an unbiased estimate of a property’s value, and it is used to determine the lending value of the property for a mortgage or refinance. However, if the appraisal comes in lower than expected, it can cause problems for the sale or purchase of the property. In this article, we will discuss some strategies for challenging a low appraisal and potentially increasing the value of the property.

1. UNDERSTAND THE APPRAISAL PROCESS

The first step in challenging a low appraisal is to understand the appraisal process and the factors that go into determining a property’s value. An appraiser will typically consider

factors such as the property’s age, condition, square footage, location, and recent sales data for similar properties in the area. By understanding these factors, you can identify any potential errors or discrepancies in the appraisal that may be contributing to the low value.

2. REVIEW THE APPRAISAL REPORT

After receiving the appraisal report, it is important to review it thoroughly and identify any errors or omissions. Look for discrepancies in the property’s square footage, the age of the property, or any other factors that may affect the value. If you find errors, you should bring them to the attention of the appraiser and request that they be corrected.

3. PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you feel that the appraiser did not take certain important factors into consideration, you can provide additional information to support your case. For example, if the property has been recently updated or remodeled, you can provide documentation and photos of the updates to the appraiser. You can also provide information about comparable sales in the area that may have been missed by the appraiser.

4. CONTACT THE LENDER

If you are unable to resolve the issue with the appraiser directly, you can contact the lender and explain your concerns. The lender may be able to provide additional guidance or may be willing to consider alternative appraisals.

5. HIRE A SECOND APPRAISER

If you still disagree with the appraised value, you can consider hiring a second appraiser to provide a second opinion. Be sure to select an appraiser who has experience with similar properties in the area. This can be costly but might give you the proof you need for your case.

6. APPEAL TO THE APPRAISAL MANAGEMENT COMPANY

Appeal to the Appraisal Management Company: If the appraiser is an employee of an Appraisal Management Company (AMC), you can appeal to the AMC to have the appraisal reviewed. The AMC may take a second look at the appraisal and make any necessary corrections. It’s important to understand that this process may take some time and may require additional fees.

7. COMMUNICATE WITH THE APPRAISER

One of the key things that can help you to challenge a low appraisal is good communication with the appraiser. Provide them with all the relevant information and documents, and be sure to ask questions if

you have any concerns or doubts. Also make sure the appraiser is aware of any special features or upgrades that might have been made on the property.

8. NEGOTIATE WITH THE BUYER OR SELLER

If the low appraisal is affecting the sale or purchase of a property, the buyer and seller may be able to negotiate a solution. For example, the seller may be willing to reduce the price of the property to match the appraisal value, or the buyer may be willing to make up the difference in cash.

It’s important to note that challenging a low appraisal can be an uphill battle and not all appraisals can be changed. However, by following these strategies, you can increase your chances of success and potentially increase the value of your property.

As a general advice, it is important to maintain good communication with the appraiser throughout the process, and to remain professional and respectful. The appraiser is an unbiased third party and ultimately wants to give an accurate valuation of the property. It is a good idea to gather all the necessary information and make a persuasive case to the appraiser and lender, rather than trying to pressure or lobby them. And as always, consulting a professional real estate agent and lawyer can be helpful in these situations.

In conclusion, challenging a low appraisal can be a frustrating and difficult process, but by understanding the process, and reviewing the report, providing additional information, contacting the lender and the AMC, or hiring a second appraiser, you will have a better chance to challenge a low appraisal and potentially increase the value of your property. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that not all appraisals can be challenged and you may not always achieve the result you desire.

Here are Some Important Things to Look for in a Modern Home Inspection Report

By Heith Mohler

Home inspectors are an essential part of the life of any home seller. The main aim of conducting inspections is to ensure that the property is safe and secure for any human being. Hiring a home inspector would be ideal for a homeowner who would want to list his or her property for sale. The inspector will conduct various assessments professionally and give out various recommendations in the form of a report for the home seller to look into. The reports might be long and detailed and, at times, hard to read especially if there are detailed terms. As a home seller, you should quickly ask the inspector what you don’t understand and not overlook any small issue indicated on the report.

ROOFING PROBLEMS

Purchasing a new roof is quite costly, and repairing the leaks may be difficult because it may be hard to tell where the leak originates or if there are other leaks. Roof leaks, when not detected early enough, may result in mold problems that make your house smell all damp, and the paint on the walls may chip off, making the house unattractive. If the report indicates an active or past leak or the roof has worn out and may require a fix very soon, you should visualize this as a big issue as a seller. It would be best for a home seller to consider purchasing a new roof, no matter the cost. You can request the seller to offer you an installment payment method if you can’t afford the whole cost of purchasing the new roof.

PHOTOS FROM 123RF

HVAC ISSUES

This includes heating, cooling, and ventilation system problems which are quite expensive to manage. Installing a new ventilator may cost you a fortune hence it is good to be keen on the report about how worn out the systems are, how long they’ll last and what needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

PEST CONTROL ISSUES

The house inspector should be keen on checking for any signs of pest infestation. If spotted, it would be best to fix the issue as soon as possible. It would be annoying for a buyer to move into a house infested with pests such as termites which may cause great harm to any wooden surfaces around the house. This may make the buyer opt to move out, and he or she may leave bad reviews about your house, which may scare away buyers. It would be best for you to be keen on the pest-related issues on the report and act on them accordingly as a home seller by hiring an expert who will look into the damage thoroughly and ensure that the home is pest free. Ensure that you repair all damages caused by the pests after the issue has been eliminated completely.

BASIC SAFETY ISSUES

The home inspector is on the lookout for standard safety items on his or her checklist, and they may include:

SMOKE DETECTORS

Does the house have smoke detectors? Are they installed correctly and in the right places? If there is an issue the inspector has indicated regarding the smoke detectors, it’s good for the home seller

to look into it closely since this is an essential feature in any household.

GROUND FAULT INTERRUPTERS

Does the house have these special plugs that protect the property from shock, especially where water and electricity are in proximity? If the interrupters are faulty, it will be indicated in the report hence as a home seller; it’s good to think about installing a new interrupter to avoid instances of your house being struck down by lightning when the storms strike the ground.

STAIRS

Are the steps safe in terms of height and angle? Are they uniform? Are the handrails correctly installed or are they faulty? If there is any hitch, the inspector will indicate it in the report hence it will be good for the home seller to consider doing the repairs to avoid accidents when someone is using the stairs to go up or down the areas around the house.

THE FOUNDATION AND EXTERIOR ‘ENVELOPE’ ISSUES

A professional inspector will quickly check out what shields the house from elements such as water and bad weather conditions. He will go around the house spotting any cracks in the foundation, look at how well the rain gutters are installed, and if they have any leaks. He or she will also look at the drainage system around the compound and how the window seals have been installed. All hitches will be indicated on the report hence the home seller should be quick to inquire about the possible solutions that would get rid of the issues.

An inspector’s report is essential in determining what needs to be repaired in case of any hitches. Hiring a professional inspector will save you the shame of selling out a house unsuitable for sale. It’s good for a home seller to be keen on any recommendations made by the inspector about the property since they are the ones who know what it takes for a house to be perfect for a buyer to want to purchase it.

Is Making Your Curb More Appealing Underrated?

By Ruby Frazier

When selling homes, it is not just what is inside that counts; the exterior is just as important. Homeowners heavily invest in creating the best curb appeal for their homes. It is no doubt that a drab curb appeal can make a buyer cringe before he or she even walks through the front door, while a handsome, well-planned design could get you that offer that will sell your home.

In reality, curb appeal can be achieved through multiple methods such as exterior decorations installation, repainting of the exteriors, and extensive landscape.

Adding eye-catching elements to the home exterior, such as staging charming benches and subtle art, is a modern way of creating an appealing impression. Allowing the buyer the opportunity to picture his or her family playing in the yard or swinging on the porch-swing could mean the difference between an offer and waiting another week on the market. It is imperative that the seller gives the impression that he or she takes care of the home, and a pristine front yard is a fantastic way to do that.

A great option may include adding concrete steps to offer a clear path through lush but not

PHOTOS FROM 123RF

overgrown landscaping. Alternatively, the exterior can be livened using vegetation such as bright annual blooms lined with dark mulch. Other curb appeal options include the introduction of gravel pathways, tying the house’s neutral tones with its landscape.

Additionally, letting the front yard be overrun by vegetation such as ivy or weeds can prove to be a major eyesore. Maintain your lawn’s grass, shrubs, and other vegetation, so there is an adequate ground cover but not excess. You must be careful that your grass is mowed when prospective buyers come to look at your home. Nothing looks worse than an overgrown lawn. The buyer then begins to wonder what else you have not been taking care of.

In some cases, a winding stone walkway can be provided as an inviting path to the front entrance if you have more foliage.

Clearing overgrown plants create a strong statement for your home. In reality, while evergreens provide a great way to have all year-round color enhance your curb appeal, if not planned and consistently trimmed, they can grow too long and large, compromising the curb appeal.

You want the buyer to be able to see your home from the street, and if there are too many

overgrown trees, then you may want to consider trimming the dense branches. Be sure to have this professionally done to avoid harming the trees.

Another way to maintain great curb appeal is by keeping the front door clean and attractive. This can mean anything from a fresh coat of paint to new hardware. The little aspects of your home like this can be overlooked. Additionally, it is advisable to ensure that the driveway and property are free of trash, poorly packed cars, or other non-essential objects.

Keeping freshly mulched front garden beds or planting colorful flowers that create an interesting look is another aspect of maintaining premium curb appeal. It is necessary to add color using perennial flowers that do not require yearly replanting and annuals that reflect the work you did in the flower bed that season. Flowers such as Shasta daisies and lavender are great places to start, especially because of the pleasant aroma that lavender emits.

It is not exceedingly difficult to maintain a beautiful exterior in your home. All it takes is some new mulch, a coat of paint, a bench, and a well-manicured lawn. Making sure that the grass is mowed and the leaves are raked can be tedious; however, selling your home for more money will more than makeup for it.

EMERICK A. PEACE

The Success Story of The Extraordinaire Real Estate Mogul Behind Keller Williams Preferred Properties In Maryland

In today’s current market, it would seem that the big residential spaces are getting bigger, making the industry more concentrated, mature, and in a way, consolidated. In many cases, this growth is driven by outside investment. Today’s Story is about Emerick A. Peace, the face of Keller Williams Preferred Properties.

THE BEGINNING AND THE POWER OF COMMUNITY

Emerick Peace came from a singleparent household; his dad died when he was two. His mother, the one person who has contributed to his successes, raised five boys with a wage of less than $10 an hour and ended up owning three properties that were clear and accessible. That was phenomenal!

“That’s a deep conversation right there. You know, I grew up in West Baltimore, and the truth is it was a community, and although I did not have a father and my house, I had my brothers who told me, ‘don’t do what we do; you do something different because you are different’”

Although it was tough because, during these formative years, boys need their fathers to help guide and mold them for adulthood, while Emerick never had that, he is appreciative that the community around him stepped in and contributed in one way to the man he’s become.

“I had my neighbor across the street; he was a married gentleman who washed his car every Saturday and was an upstanding pillar. He poured into me; the pastor poured into me.

I had a couple of teachers, like my sixth-grade teacher and my 12th-grade teacher, who poured into me, and so in that space, I did not have that father figure in my house per se. However,

I had a community around me that helped guide me to a certain place.”

When looking at the success stories, especially for the Black Community, it is easy for the building blocks for the success of the person to get lost in the individualistic story of rising from the ashes where everything was horrible and that the protagonist of the story, (Emerick) did everything in his power to rise from the horrible conditions of his community or the place that he was raised from- this is often the narrative sold by many success black people. Still, for Emerick, he acknowledges that his community shaped a great deal of his success.

This is a true virtue he has carried in his heart from his teenage years. Those who know him can attest that Emerick loves to build communities around him.

“I think that you’ve been amazing at building community,” said Bo Menkiti, a long-time friend of Emerick, in an interview with Emerick.

The ‘AHA moment’ for Emerick came in his early 40s, when he was retrospecting and asking himself the question, ‘why me.’

He recalls having that conversation with his brother, who looked at him and said, “why not you?”

“The lightbulb went on, so I had to inventory my life to figure out ‘why me’. I went back, and I counted the people who poured into me. I looked at the different influences people poured into me….that’s when I started to understand that these people played such a tremendous part in my life, and I had no clue of what was going on, and it wasn’t until I got in my 40s that I understood this.”

JOINING THE AIRFORCE

Emerick joined the airforce when he was 17 years old, which was an interesting time and experience

for him. Before joining the military, in all the 12 years he had spent in high school, he recalls only encountering 5 white people regularly, including his teachers. When he joined the military, it was the complete opposite. There were only 4 black people.

“So now I’m in this environment where I had to adapt to a social climate where I was like a fish out of water, but what I understood was that I had to be me.”

Although racial profiling isn’t standard in the military, Emerick, at one point, experienced it from a colleague who kept staring at him while training. When he confronted the man, he said, “Well, I was told that black men had tails, and I was looking for your tail.”

Remember, at the time, Emerick was just 17, and he hadn’t gotten much exposure from the world to know that discrimination was happening. However, he recalls quickly adapting to the culture and never letting such views affect his morale.

He went on to serve for 20 years and five months. He got 6 Air Force Commendation Medals.

In that process of being in the air force, I understood the community a little differently because even in that space, there were always older gentlemen around me who took me under their wing, and they told me what not to do and kept me out of trouble. …. I always understood that someday, these folks are taking care of me; I gotta take care of other people.

While in the Air Force, Emerick developed a sense of responsibility, especially regarding the Black Community. He recalls that, in a way, he

understood that he was the direct representative of black people.

GROWING WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED AND MAKING THE BEST OUT OF IT

“Opportunity presents itself when you present yourself as being ready to take advantage of it, and what opportunity means to me means that I have an opening where I could pursue a venture, or I have an opportunity to put into pursuing a way to enhance who I am in my business, and there’s a way for Me to improve my professional my financial status and basically what I’m saying is that opportunity is only an opportunity when you’re prepared to take. Advantage of it If you’re not prepared to take advantage of it, it wasn’t an opportunity.

Speaking of opportunities, Emerick shares an interesting point of view. He argues that if a person thinks they are prepared for an opportunity, they are not prepared. He says that a person who has done his research understands the sacrifices and what it takes to get the job done is rightfully prepared for the opportunity. In a way, you have to proactively pursue an opportunity and prepare for it while moving.

With such a huge force as Keller Williams, many newbie agents might feel like they are not getting enough support or a tap on the shoulders from people like Emerick. Therefore, they do not realize that they have such a powerful force backing them up, which means a lot of the time, opportunities will get lost even without them realizing it. And this goes for all agents across the board, not just in Keller Williams, and this applies to everyone, not just real estate agents.

Emerick argues, “we got to step out of ourselves to do the things others are doing that we espouse. You and a lot of times, we stay within the confines of either the market center or even our region to some degree, and we just have to be open and be willing to open ourselves up and, more importantly, open ourselves up in a space where you’re coming from contribution and sometimes you got to donate some things for people to really see who you are.”

GETTING INTO THE INDUSTRY

Emerick has a signature to his life—a certain style with which he lives. It is to make the most of every chance he gets and help others to do the same. It’s a lesson he learned from his mother and part of why his blessings continue to flow. The bottom line for Emerick is the difference he makes with the chance he’s given.

Apart from being one of Maryland’s most influential real estate moguls, he is also an Operating Partner and owner of Keller Williams Preferred Properties (KWPP). KWPP is a multi-billion dollar residential, luxury, and commercial real estate sales brokerage with more than 570 associates in Upper Marlboro, Maryland (Prince George’s County). Keller Williams Preferred Properties is the undisputed #1 real estate brokerage (market share, transaction, and sales volume) in

Prince George’s County, Maryland, and one of the largest single-office brokerages on the eastern coast. KWPP is ranked #443 of 84,000 residential brokerages in the United States, according to the 2018 Swanepoel Real Trends Report, and #35 in Keller Williams worldwide. Its operational footprint runs throughout the Baltimore and Washington DC Metropolitan Area, primarily in Washington DC and Prince George’s, Maryland.

LIFE AS AN AGENT

Emerick began his real estate career in 1992. He is a certified REO representative and relocation specialist and received numerous sales awards, including; Rookie of the Year, New Home Sales Life Time Achievement, Prudential Leading Edge Society, Coldwell Banker Chairman’s Circle, multiple ReMax and Local Board Platinum awards, Keller Williams Realty Quadruple Gold and 100% Plus Club. He is the franchise owner of Maryland’s largest 100% African American-owned real estate office.

helped us be able to purchase the building,” said Patricia Long, the location’s active Interim Team Leader/Broker.

Referred by FSC’s Board of Directors Chair Kenneth White, KWPP provided $1,120,000 in direct financing to this business by utilizing the VLT, EDI, and BEF Funds which assisted in purchasing the entire office building on McCormick Drive. The veteran-owned business can now be a “one stop shop” for its clients. “We have lender partners here in the building and mortgage partners,” said Long. These partners work alongside the agents to assist the company in running smoothly.

Emerick is also the President of the Prince Georges County Chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. He has served on the Board of Directors and Vice President of the 5,000-member Prince George’s County Association of Realtors. Currently, he is a member of the Board of Directors for Housing Options Planning Enterprise, Inc. (HOPE), a local 501(c) (3) HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Additionally, Emerick is one of only 68 real estate professionals to ever be inducted into the Prince George’s County Association of Realtors Hall of Fame.

A DEEP DIVE INTO KELLER WILLIAMS PREFERRED PROPERTIES

Keller Williams Preferred Properties (KWPP) found their hub in the heart of gorgeous Prince George’s County in Largo, Maryland. The realtor professionals serve clients all over the DC Metropolitan area while based in the county. “FSC First was one of the finance entities that

KWPP started in 2004 and was originally located in Upper Marlboro, MD. The firm started with 28 agents. To accommodate the firm’s growth, KWPP moved to its present location in 2017. In 2018 it had 558 agents and had closed over $1 Billion in sales. This caused it to be ranked #30 in profit out of all 825 Keller Williams franchises. The firm’s primary focus is real estate sales in the Suburban Maryland and DC markets. While there is significant competition in that marketplace (including another 16 Keller Williams franchises), KWPP is the number one real estate office in Prince George’s County, outpacing its nearest competitor in sales. Management attributes its position in the market to implementing Keller Williams’ business systems, insight into ownership, and recruiting top agents.

Equipped with a full shower, a gym, and even a prayer room, Keller Williams “Wanted to make it a place where any customer or client or anyone that comes into [the] space would know that we care just from walking into the space,” proclaimed Long. We were happy to assist this

company in transforming more than a 15,000 sq. ft. office space into a workable environment and a haven.

This business has created over 15 new jobs, broadened the commercial tax base, promoted industry economic growth, and supported minority-owned businesses.

In March 2020, Emerick Peace and Patricia Long supported FSC First in a senate hearing in which Shelly M. Gross-Wade, President & CEO of FSC First, introduced the KWPP story to persuade the Maryland General Assembly to support the Governor’s Fiscal Year 21 budget, which included a new $17 Million in funding for the VLT programs in Maryland.

SUCCESS IS THE ONLY OPTION FOR THE BRAVE.

Emerick has over 28 years of real estate sales experience with over thousand eight hundred (1,800) successfully negotiated settlements from all aspects of the business (REO, probate, short sales, auctions, and traditional sales). He oversees the operations of “The Peace Team,” a twenty million-dollar-plus sales and marketing team. His career highlights include the Prince George’s County Association of Realtors Hall of Fame and a host of sales, leadership, and community service awards. He has committed countless hours to volunteer and serve the residents of Prince George’s County through the Boys and Girls Club, public school career days, donations of dictionaries, book scholarships, clothes and toy donations for the homeless, free homeownership fairs and education sessions, along with numerous other events and activities.

Emerick has been quoted in national publications on multiple occasions, a guest speaker on several Washington DC and Baltimore radio and television programs, hosted a panel on C-Span and was a national speaker with FraserNet and The M.O.S.E.S. Movement and Kelvin Boston’s MoneyWise Financial Empowerment Tour. Emerick is a six-time decorated 21-year retiree from the United States Air Force.

Boasting a background in the real estate industry that stretches more than seventeen years, Emerick understands the value of communicating with and educating the public. “To make good decisions, people must be knowledgeable about the process and their options.” Whether people are buying or selling, Emerick remains committed to keeping the lines of communication open at all times. His regional expertise and strong customer service orientation allow people to receive the quality service they want and deserve. Emerick’s work ethic and fundamental business principles can be attributed to his 21-year career in the U.S. Air Force and his mastery of his niche market.

Apart from being a phenomenal real estate agent, Emerick believes in the power of collaboration and team spirit. One of his colleagues, Bo Menkiti recalls back to the time when he was starting, and because there was no Keller Williams in D.C, he

...and that was the launching pad for KWCP. From the beginning, when we were getting started, this relationship has been fundamental to me, and supporting each other as we grew. So I’m very appreciative of that.” Bo Menkiti

THE STEPS TOWARDS SELF IMPROVEMENT

To become a leader and to improve yourself in the areas that you may be lacking, Emerick suggests reading and watching, and familiarizing yourself with the current developments.

I’m a reader and a watcher; I read excerpts and information relevant to what I am moving or gearing myself toward to make me smarter and more intelligent in that space, and I watch. I’m an avid educational video watcher, so I do that internally. If there’s anything that I ever do if you ask me about it, you better believe I’ve researched it five, six, seven times sideways up and down to the left to the right, and that’s how I make myself better with whatever I put my foot in.”

franchise is that what I understood was that I had to educate this community in a different way and I had choices of other brokerages what I wanted to do is.”

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO RUN A $100 MILLION TEAM?

In Emerick’s words, “Great people with strong teams they’re good at a few things, they’re not good at everything. You can’t be good at everything, but it comes back to the book one thing. What’s the one thing you can do that by doing it makes everything else either easy or necessary, or where are your gift zones in that space? People also have to identify with gift zones, what they’re passionate about, and play to their strengths.”

From a real estate perspective, Emerick says he would travel all over the country to take a class. He remembers that at one point, he had to go to Seattle to take a CCIM Class just to get a new experience outside what he was used to. He also remembers taking another class before the pandemic in Southern California on Coaching and personal development.

“So whenever I have to go to get the knowledge that I’m reset, I’m seeking your help to find it. I would go, and I will figure out a way to bring it back and apply it, which also means that the other reason why I have a Keller Williams

had to incubate in Emerick office;

Here’s how to sell your home while buying another in Corona, CA

By Jenny Gonzalez

Selling a home and buying another simultaneously can be daunting, especially if you’re trying to juggle the logistics of two major transactions simultaneously. However, with careful planning and the right support, it is possible to successfully sell your home while simultaneously looking to purchase a new one in Corona, CA. There are a few key steps you’ll need to take to ensure a smooth and successful process, including determining your budget and financing options, getting your current home ready to sell, looking for a new home while your current home is on the market, negotiating the terms of the sale and purchase, and coordinating the move. Here are a few tips to guide you on how to sell your home while buying another in Corona, CA.

1. DETERMINE YOUR BUDGET AND FINANCING OPTIONS.

Before looking at new homes, it’s important to have a clear idea of how much you can afford. This will help you narrow your search and ensure you’re not overspending. It’s also a good idea to talk to a lender and get preapproved for a mortgage, as this will give you a better idea of how much you can borrow and make you a more competitive buyer when you find a home you want to make an offer on.

2. GET YOUR CURRENT HOME READY TO SELL.

Before buying a new home, you’ll need to focus on getting your current home ready to sell. This includes making necessary repairs, decluttering and staging the space,

PHOTOS FROM 123RF

and pricing it competitively. If you’re unsure where to start, consider working with a real estate agent who can guide you and help you navigate the process.

3. LOOK FOR A NEW HOME WHILE YOUR CURRENT HOME IS ON THE MARKET .

Once you have your current home on the market, it’s time to start looking for a new one. This can be a time-consuming and stressful process, especially if you’re trying to sell your current home at the same time. To make things easier, consider working with a real estate agent who can help you find homes that meet your criteria and schedule viewings around your availability.

4. MAKE AN OFFER ON A NEW HOME AND NEGOTIATE THE TERMS.

Once you’ve found a home you want to make an offer on, it’s time to negotiate the terms with the seller. This can be a delicate process, as you’ll need to consider factors like the price, closing date, and any contingencies you might want to include (such as a contingency on the sale of your current home). Your real estate agent can help you navigate these negotiations and reach an agreement that works for you and the seller.

5. CLOSE ON THE SALE OF YOUR CURRENT HOME AND THE PURCHASE OF YOUR NEW ONE

Once you’ve successfully negotiated the terms of both the sale of your current home and the purchase of your new one, it’s time to close on both transactions. This will involve signing a bunch of paperwork, paying

any necessary fees and closing costs, and transferring ownership of the properties. Having a lawyer or other legal professional review the documents is a good idea to ensure everything is in order before you sign.

6. COORDINATE THE MOVE.

Once you’ve closed on both the sale of your current home and the purchase of your new one, it’s time to start planning your move. This can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to juggle the logistics of selling and buying simultaneously. To make things easier, consider hiring a professional moving company to handle the heavy lifting, and start packing and organizing your belongings well before your move-out date.

7.

CONSIDER TEMPORARY HOUSING OPTIONS.

Depending on the timing of the sale and purchase of your homes, you may need temporary housing while you wait to move into your new home. Some options include renting a furnished apartment, staying with friends or family, or even booking a short-term rental through a platform like Airbnb.

8.

KEEP AN OPEN LINE OF COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT AND OTHER PROFESSIONALS.

While selling your home while buying another, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your real estate agent, lender, and any other professionals you’re working with. This will help ensure that everything stays on track and that potential issues are addressed quickly.

Selling your home while simultaneously looking to purchase a new one can be a challenging process, but with careful planning and the right support, it’s doable. Following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the process smoothly and successfully sell your home while buying another in Corona, CA.

10 Questions to Ask your Home Inspector

By Ian batra

Ahome inspector is a qualified personnel who observes and makes reports regarding a real estate property when it has been listed for sale. His mandate is to assess the property’s condition, for example, plumbing, electrical work, heating, and cooling systems, water and sewage systems, and fire and safetyrelated issues. In other words, the home inspector is the one who makes observations that would affect the value of the property. Questions that you would ask your home inspector may include:

WHAT CERTIFICATIONS OR LICENSES DO YOU HAVE?

Figuring out a home inspector’s certifications will help determine if the person is qualified for the task. You can ask if the person underwent any training and what comprehensive programs they went through to get certified. Some states require that a home inspector should be licensed before operation.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHARGES?

Before asking about their charges, it’s good to have a snippet of how much it costs to hire a home inspector. The average salary of a home inspector is around $320. This may vary according to the size of the property at hand. The larger the property size, the higher the cost of the inspection.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THE HOME INSPECTION?

Home inspectors usually conduct professional assessments to ascertain if the property is suitable for sale. Some of the areas of investigation may include:

• Roof Inspection

• Mold inspection

• Cracks in walls

• The functionality of smoke alarms

• Attic inspection

• Signs of damage or improper repairs

• Gaps in the bathroom and kitchen caulking

• Issues with appliances, such as the water heater

• Adequate water pressure

• Unpleasant smells that may bring out bigger issues in the near future

A professional home inspector’s overall assessment will clear any doubts a person may have about their property.

DO YOU HAVE ERRORS AND OMISSIONS INSURANCE?

The errors and omissions insurance is a liability insurance the home inspector covers if he or she misses out on a major defect when assessing, such as a busted boiler. This helps accountability purposes so that the home inspector is attentive to details.

HOW BIG OF A PROBLEM IS THIS?

No house inspection is ever perfect. A home inspector who is attentive to details will identify some flaws, no matter how small or big. A problem may be small to one buyer, and to the other, that little problem may be why they did not purchase the house. Hiring a house inspector is worth every little coin in your pocket because they are the ones who will ascertain what needs to be fixed so that your house is worth enough for sale.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND A PROFESSIONAL?

Professional house inspectors usually have connections with their local communities since they have worked hand in hand with repair companies, buyers, real estate agents, and sellers from all parts of the world. They will be able to recommend anyone near your vicinity who is the best fit to do some repairs in case there is a hitch. This will spare the buyer the burden of researching for someone who would repair it, and you are not sure if the person would fix the issue or end up worsening it.

ARE THERE ANY AREAS YOU DIDN’T CHECK?

Home inspectors are sometimes limited in what they can assess during the inspection. They can’t knock down a wall to check if it’s firm enough. Mold inspections, for example, may need special equipment for detection, and some home inspectors may not have them. This may require you to hire a specialist to handle the tests, and the home inspector can recommend you the best expert to hire.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT THIS MEANS?

Home inspectors will not analyze the report with you in detail. It is up to you as the seller to thoroughly review the report and ask any

questions that may give you doubts. The inspector will be more than willing to give you an explanation and give you the best advice since he or she is a professional.

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO BE FIXED?

The seller should ask the home inspector for an unbiased and honest opinion on what they’d recommend improving the house’s sales. No matter how badly the inspector may criticize the hitch that needs to be fixed, a seller should not take the opinion at heart but ensure that they work on the issue so that they don’t end up regretting it in the future.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO FIX?

It’s important for the inspector to advise the buyer of the major fixes that need to be made because it may frustrate the seller to the extent of them feeling like they will not want to sell the house again.

The quality of your sales in the housing market will entirely depend on the questions you ask your home inspector. The more inquisitive you get, the more knowledge you get, and furthermore, you have paid for the service hence you should utilize it to the fullest. Great sales will be made if the home inspector is fully satisfied with all the fixes he has recommended.

Simple Steps Minorities in LA Can Take Before Buying a Home

By Briana Frazier

Owning a home is considered by many to be the defining characteristic of the American dream. Homeownership can ignite feelings of pride regardless of race, and there is nothing more permanent than owning a home. Everyone should own a home. Unfortunately, getting on the homeownership ladder is not as easy as it used to be, especially for minorities. Buying a house requires planning, research, and effort to make the best decision possible.

Prospective homeowners must take time to save money and get their finances in order. They must also take the time to acquire the right mindset, which will come from reading, attending classes, and researching real estate markets, financial planning principles, and real estate finance. Buying a house is usually one of the

largest purchases a person will achieve in their lifetime.

Therefore, one should ensure they are doing it correctly and fully prepared for what is next. Ignorance is not an excuse under the law; it is the same in real estate. You must know what you are doing and be financially prepared to do it.

Buying a home should be a blessing and not a curse brought upon by the financial burden that should have never been incurred in the first place. Why does it happen? The most recent real estate statistics regarding minorities suggest that many minorities were unprepared for homeownership and made an unwise decision about the size of the home they bought and the

type of financing they obtained. Today the struggle to own property for minorities is even more difficult, not because they cannot afford to buy it, but because of the impact of the Great Financial Crisis and their financial literacy.

Planning to buy a home should start even before you start looking to buy a home. Every person should take some simple steps before buying a home.

GET AN EDUCATION

Being a homebuyer starts with getting educated. You do not need a bachelor’s degree to be a homeowner since you can self-educate. The easiest and cheapest way to get educated is to read books and a lot of them.

PAY OFF ALL CREDIT CARD DEBT

Use credit as a convenience for cash. Never buy anything with a credit card that you cannot pay for in cash immediately. This is how you incur debt. If you can’t afford it today, chances are you will not be able to afford it tomorrow. Keep the plastic in your pocket.

PAY OFF ALL INSTALLMENT DEBT, ESPECIALLY CAR LOANS

Pay cash for your car or use short-term financing for 6 months or less. Debt is a monkey on your back. No one needs a monkey on their back. The goal is to be debt free and keep zero balances on your credit cards. Final note: Buy used cars and buy them at the auction for cash.

OBTAIN THE RIGHT TYPE OF CREDIT

Stay away from unsecured or secured finance company loans, auto loans, and payday loans. This is the worst type of credit you can obtain. These companies were created to exploit poor people. Stay away from check cashing centers and rent-to-own companies, and open a bank account immediately. Credit is a tool of convenience and not a bonus income to live on.

USE CREDIT AS A TEMPORARY EMERGENCY FUND/BACKUP

Until you have achieved your goal for your emergency savings plan, use credit as a backup. You should have no less than 24 months of your income in open and available lines of credit. Obliviously you need good credit to do this. These lines of credit should not have an annual fee and must maintain a zero balance at all times because the line is for emergencies. You may not be able to avoid the annual fee. If not, consider the fee, the price you pay for not having an established emergency fund. Once your emergency fund is established, you can reduce your open lines of credit to no more than 12 months of your monthly income because you have to save that equal to 24 months of your household income to survive in case of an emergency.

Minnesota Real Estate Market Update Forecast for 2023

By Francine Marsolek

Housing prices in Minnesota are rising significantly due to the competition between buyers eyeing the same properties. The housing value in Minnesota has increased by 10.1% since January this year and 25.4% since 2020. Its prices are expected to shoot up-coming 2023 due to its demand.

There has been a decrease in the rate at which houses are sold in Minnesota, which indicates that the housing market is returning to normal. The market hitches began in 2020 when COVID-19 set foot in the world, and hence there was a disruption to the normal real estate market. The reduced rating is an advantage for prospective buyers tired of being outbid by other buyers.

The demand for housing greatly affects its pricing. Real estate agents in Minnesota have predicted that the prices will level up in the future or slightly increase due to the increase in the rates of interest. The sales in the real estate market are expected to decline with a 0.8% margin next year. The drop in sales would

lead to an increase in negotiation power by the prospective buyer, and the home seller will have to downgrade his or her sales so that he or she does not lose a buyer.

A real estate reporter quoted, “If home shoppers and sellers have unrealistic expectations, they could find themselves in a stale-mate in the coming years.” This suggests that the housing market in 2023 could be termed a ‘nobody’smarket’, meaning that it will neither be friendly to buyers nor sellers. A typical market is anticipated in Minnesota in the coming years despite the shortage in the supply of houses. Buyers will still be pickier when looking for a home, even when the supply of houses is low.

The growth in prices will begin reducing, and they will eventually decline. This is an indication that housing prices will stabilize afterward. Real estate experts have predicted no recession, but a shift in financial, economic, and geopolitical events would disrupt real estate housing in Minnesota.

There is a possibility that there will be an increase in the number of houses being listed by home sellers to prospective buyer, which would gradually lower appreciation to some extent. Since many houses in Minnesota are quite pricy, not everyone can afford to buy them unless you’re a high-end investor, thus making very few residents able to afford a medium-priced house in Minnesota.

An increase in housing prices is propelled by low mortgage rates, which was a thing in the past, but the result is anticipated to continue slowing up to 5.4% in 2023. High mortgage rates reduce the purchasing power of a prospective buyer, and the monthly cost of funding the sale will be an average of more than $2,430 in 2023. This is almost a 28% increase in mortgage payment as compared to this year, 2022, and doubles the payment of buyers who purchased properties in 2021.

Real estate experts predict that the total inventory will grow by 22.8% in 2023 compared to 4.0% in 2022. However, while keeping the historical contexts of inventory in mind, the inventory level is likely to reduce by 15% less compared to the average reduction in 2019.

Whether it’s right for a buyer to purchase a house in Minnesota or the right time for a seller to list his home depends on how the person visualizes it. Some buyers have a strong instinct that it’s not the right time to buy a house in Minnesota due to increases in mortgage rates and house prices. However, for home sellers, it’s the best time to list their houses for sale since an increase will bring out more inventory in the seller’s optimism.

The lack of newly constructed housing supplies is yet to go back to 2007. It will be impossible to quickly purchase land, get regulatory approval, and spike supply. Thus, the real estate market is not likely to crash at any point.

HOME BUYERS’ STATISTICS OVER THE YEARS IN MINNESOTA

• A typical homebuyer financed 94% of the home price.

• % of Home buyers found their home via:

• Online: 51%, Real Estate Agent: 29%, Yard Sign: 4%, Friend or Relative: 10%, From Seller: 5%, Home Builder: 1%, Print Media: 1%

• 26% of home buyers were first-time home buyers with a median age of 26.

• 89% of Buyers said they would go with their real estate agent again or recommend them to others.

• A real estate agent or broker was used by 86% of buyers to purchase their homes.

• Home sellers’ statistics over the years in Minnesota

• Friends or family referred 36% of sellers who used a real estate agent, and 27% used the agent with whom they previously worked to buy or sell a home.

• Recent sellers typically received 100% of the listing price, and 38% reported lowering the asking price at least once.

• 73% of Sellers said they would use the same agent again.

• When it came to selling their home, 86% of sellers used the services of a real estate agent.

• The average sold home was on the market for two weeks.

When deciding what real estate property to invest in, it’s good to research and consult various realtors who have been in the field for many years. The consultation will save you the cost and pressure of regretting in the near future in case things don’t go as planned. Ensure that you are well conversant about the property you’d like to invest in and do some site visits before spending all your coins to buy the house.

Explained! Real Estate taxes in Denton

By Janet Petrozelle

As a real estate investor, it’s important to have a solid understanding of all the various factors that can impact the value of your investments. One of these factors is real estate taxes, which can significantly impact your bottom line. This article will delve into the specifics of real estate taxes in Denton, North Carolina, explaining how they are calculated, when they are due, and what exemptions and deductions may be available to property owners. Whether you are a seasoned real estate investor or new to the game, understanding real estate taxes is essential for making informed investment decisions in the Denton market. So, let’s dive in and take a closer look at real estate taxes in Denton.

In Denton, real estate taxes are collected by the Denton County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office. So, how are real estate taxes calculated

in Denton? The tax rate for real estate in Denton is set by the Denton County Commissioners Court and is based on the value of the property in question. This value is determined by the Denton County Appraisal District (DCAD), which performs property appraisals every year to determine the market value of all taxable real estate in the county (Denton County Appraisal District, n.d.). The DCAD uses various methods to determine the market value of a particular property, including analyzing comparable sales in the area, reviewing property improvements and features, and considering the overall economic conditions in the region (Denton County Appraisal District, n.d.). It’s important to note that the market value of a property is not necessarily the same as the price that the property would sell for on the open market, as it is based on the value of the property as an investment rather than on its asking price.

Once the market value of a property has been determined, the tax rate is applied to this value to calculate the amount of real estate tax owed. For example, let’s say the Denton tax rate is 2.5%, and the market value of a particular property is $300,000. The real estate tax owed on this property would be $7,500 (2.5% x $300,000). It’s worth noting that the tax rate may vary depending on the property’s location, as different areas may have different needs for funding various services (Denton County Commissioners Court, n.d.) It’s also important to note that real estate taxes in Denton are due on an annual basis and are typically paid in two installments (half in October and the other half in April) (Denton County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office, n.d.). The property owner may be subject to penalties and interest if the taxes are not paid on time.

successful, the value of your property may be adjusted, which could result in a reduction in the amount of real estate tax owed. Also, if a property owner cannot pay their real estate taxes on time, they may be able to work out a payment plan with the Denton County Tax AssessorCollector’s Office. This can be helpful for those facing temporary financial hardship or who simply need a little extra time to pay their taxes.

It is important to note that real estate taxes are not the only type of property tax that property owners in Denton may be subject to, e.g., personal property taxes may also be levied on items such as boats, trailers, and certain types of business equipment. One must be aware of all the various types of property taxes that may apply to your investments in Denton.

Real estate taxes in Denton can be appealed if a property owner believes that the DCAD has improperly valued their property. If you believe your property has been incorrectly valued, you can file a protest with the DCAD and present evidence to support your case (Denton County Appraisal District, n.d.). If the protest is

There are a few exemptions and deductions that property owners in Denton may be eligible for when it comes to real estate taxes. For example, homestead exemptions are available for homeowners who use their property as their primary residence and can reduce the amount of tax owed. Additionally, certain properties, such as those owned by certain nonprofit organizations or those used for agricultural purposes, may be eligible for partial or complete exemptions from real estate taxes (Denton County Tax AssessorCollector’s Office, n.d.).

In conclusion, real estate taxes in Denton are a form of the property tax levied by local governments to fund essential services. These taxes are calculated based on the property’s value and the tax rate set by the Denton County Commissioners Court and are due annually. There are various exemptions and deductions available for property owners in Denton. Property owners also have the option to appeal their property value if they believe it has been improperly assessed.

By John Costigan

If you’re considering selling your home in El Cajon, California, you might wonder how much it will cost you. While the cost of selling a home can vary depending on various factors, some expenses are fairly standard no matter where you are. In this article, we’ll go over the various costs you can incur when selling your home in El Cajon, California, and provide some context to help you understand why these costs are necessary.

First, let’s start with the most obvious cost: the real estate agent’s commission. In El Cajon, as in most areas of California, real estate agents charge a commission based on the home’s sale price. This commission is typically split between the agent representing the seller (that’s you) and the agent representing the buyer. The standard commission for a real estate agent in California is around 6% of the sale price, but this can vary depending on the

specific terms of your agreement with your agent.

So, if you sell your home for $500,000, you can expect to pay around $30,000 in commission fees. This might seem like a lot of money, but keep in mind that real estate agents provide a range of services that can make selling your home much easier and more streamlined. They can help you set a competitive price for your home, advertise and market your property, show your home to prospective buyers, and handle all of the negotiations and paperwork involved in the sale.

In addition to the real estate agent’s commission, there are a few other costs you should be prepared for when selling your home in El Cajon. These include:

This is how much it will cost to sell your home in El Cajon, CA.

PHOTOS

Closing costs: These are the fees associated with the final transfer of ownership of your home. Closing costs include title insurance, escrow fees, and transfer taxes. In California, closing costs are typically split between the buyer and the seller, with the seller paying around 1-2% of the sale price.

• Repairs and updates: Before you list your home for sale, you may need to make some repairs or updates to make it more attractive to buyers. This could include painting, replacing damaged flooring or appliances, or updating outdated fixtures. Depending on the extent of the work needed, these costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

• Staging: If you want to make your home stand out to potential buyers, you might consider hiring a professional stager. Stagers can help you rearrange and decorate your home in a way that shows off its best features and makes it more inviting to buyers. Staging costs vary, but you can expect to pay around $1,000-$2,000 for a full staging package.

• Moving costs: Once your home is sold, you’ll need to move out. Moving costs include hiring a moving company, renting a truck or storage unit, and paying for packing materials. These costs can vary widely depending on the distance you’re moving and the amount of stuff you have to move, but you can expect to pay several thousand dollars for a typical move.

So, how much can you expect to pay to sell your home in El Cajon, California? Giving a precise number is tough, as every situation is different. However, as a rough estimate, you can expect to pay around 10-12% of the sale price of your home in various selling costs. So, if you sell your home for $500,000, you can expect to pay around $50,000-$60,000 in total selling costs.

Of course, this is just a rough estimate, and your actual costs may vary depending on your specific situation. It’s a good idea to work with a real

estate agent to get a more accurate estimate of your costs when selling your home in El Cajon. They can help you understand the local market and provide guidance on pricing your home, repairs, updates, and other costs you should be prepared for. It’s also a good idea to do your homework and educate yourself on the current market conditions in El Cajon. If you understand what similar homes in your area are selling for, you’ll be better equipped to negotiate the best price for your home. You can also work with your real estate agent to develop a pricing strategy that considers the current market conditions.

Overall, selling your home in El Cajon, California, can be a complex process with several costs. However, with the help of a skilled real estate agent and a bit of planning, you can navigate the process smoothly and successfully sell your home for a price you’re happy with.

This is How Much Will You Pay in Closing Costs in 2023

By Norman Green

Closing costs are fees associated with the purchase or sale of a real estate property paid at the transaction’s closing. These costs include various expenses, such as loan origination fees, title search and insurance, closing or escrow fees, and property taxes. Closing costs can vary greatly depending on the property’s location, the type of property being purchased or sold, and the terms of the sale. It is important for buyers and sellers to understand what closing costs they can expect to pay and to budget for these expenses as part of the real estate process. There are two main categories of closing costs: those that the buyer pays, and those that the seller pays. In general, the buyer can expect to pay a larger share of the closing costs, although the exact distribution will depend on the terms of the sale.

purchase price to as much as 20% or more, depending on the mortgage terms and the lender’s requirements.

In addition to the down payment, buyers can expect to pay several other closing costs. These may include:

• Loan origination fees: These are fees charged by the lender for processing the mortgage application and underwriting the loan.

• Appraisal fees: An appraisal assesses the value of the property being purchased. Lenders may require an appraisal as part of the mortgage process, and the buyer is typically responsible for paying the fee.

One of the most significant closing costs for buyers is the down payment. This is a payment made at the time of the sale that is applied toward the property’s purchase price. The down payment can range from a few percent of the

• Title search and insurance: A title search reviews the property’s ownership history to ensure no outstanding claims or liens on the property. Title insurance protects the lender and the buyer against any errors or issues that may arise during the title search. Both of

these costs are typically paid by the buyer.

• Closing or escrow fees: These are fees charged by the escrow company for handling the closing process and preparing the necessary documents.

• Property taxes: Depending on the property’s location and the terms of the sale, the buyer may be responsible for paying property taxes at the time of closing.

In addition to these costs, buyers may be required to pay pre-paid expenses, such as homeowners and mortgage insurance.

On the seller’s side, closing costs may include the following:

• Real estate commission is a fee paid to the real estate agent or broker for their services in facilitating the sale. The commission is typically a percentage of the sale price and is usually paid by the seller.

• Transfer taxes: Some states and localities charge a tax on property transfer from one owner to another. The seller typically pays this cost.

• Home warranty: Some sellers may purchase a home warranty for the buyer, which covers certain repair and maintenance costs after the sale.

To better understand the specific closing costs you might expect to pay in 2023, consulting with a real estate agent or attorney familiar with the local

market can be helpful. They can provide you with an estimate of the closing costs you can expect to pay based on the specific property you are interested in and the terms of the sale.

It is also good to shop around for mortgage rates and compare offers from different lenders. The mortgage terms, including the interest rate and the down payment requirements, can significantly impact the home’s overall cost, including the closing costs. By comparing offers and negotiating with lenders, you may be able to secure a better deal and lower your closing costs.

Finally, it is worth considering the various financing options available to you. Some buyers may take out a mortgage with a higher down payment to lower their closing costs, while others may prefer to finance their closing costs separately. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it is essential to consider your financial situation and goals before making a decision.

In conclusion, closing costs can be significant when purchasing or selling a home. Understanding these costs, how they are calculated, and who is responsible for paying them is an important part of the real estate process. By being aware of these costs and planning accordingly, you can better manage your finances and make informed decisions about your real estate transactions.

New Haven Real Estate market projections: Here’s what to expect in 2023

By Steven Rivkin

The real estate market in New Haven, CT, has been steadily growing in recent years, and several factors suggest it will continue to do so in 2023. From an influx of new residents to an increase in demand for housing, several factors make the New Haven real estate market a great investment opportunity. However, as with any real estate market, there are also potential challenges to be aware of, including the high cost of living in the city and the availability of financing. In this article, we will take a closer look at the factors driving the growth of the New Haven real estate market and what investors and potential homebuyers can expect in the coming year.

The city’s growing population is one of the

primary drivers of the New Haven real estate market. According to data from the population of New Haven increased by nearly 5% between 2010 and 2019). This population growth is expected to continue in the coming years as more people are attracted to the city’s diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and world-renowned universities.

The growing population is driving an increase in demand for housing in New Haven. As more people move to the city, there is a need for more homes and apartments to accommodate them. This increased demand is likely to push up prices for both rental and owner-occupied properties. Another factor contributing to the strength of the New Haven real estate market is the city’s strong

PHOTO FROM 123RF

economy. New Haven has a diverse economy that includes a mix of industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing This diversity helps to insulate the city from economic downturns and makes it more resilient during times of economic uncertainty.

Looking at home values and rental price trends is one way to get a sense of where the New Haven real estate market is headed. According to data from Zillow, the median home value in New Haven is currently $219,200 This represents an increase of nearly 8% over the past year, and experts expect this trend to continue in the coming years.

Similarly, rental prices in New Haven have also been on the rise. According to data from Apartment List, the median rent for a onebedroom apartment in New Haven is currently $1,225 per month. This represents an increase of nearly 5% over the past year, and prices will continue to rise as demand for rental properties increases.

So, what can investors and potential homebuyers expect in the New Haven real estate market in 2023? Based on current trends, it seems likely that home values and rental prices will continue to rise, although there is always some level of uncertainty in any real estate market. It’s worth noting that while the overall trend in the New Haven real estate market is positive, there may be some variations from neighborhood to neighborhood. Some areas of the city may see more rapid appreciation than others.

Despite the overall strength of the New Haven real estate market, there are some potential

challenges. One challenge investors and potential homebuyers should be aware of is the high cost of living in New Haven. The city has a relatively high cost of living compared to other parts of the country, with housing costs significantly contributing to this. The high cost of living could make it difficult for some people to afford housing in the city, which could impact the demand for properties.

Another potential challenge to be aware of is the availability of financing. While the overall real estate market in New Haven is strong, it is still possible for there to be fluctuations in mortgage rates or changes in lending practices that could impact the availability of financing. This could make it more difficult for some people to obtain the financing they need to purchase a home or invest in real estate.

Finally, it’s worth noting that the real estate market in New Haven, like any other market, is subject to risks and uncertainties. There is always the possibility of economic downturns or other unforeseen events that could impact the market. Investors and potential homebuyers should be prepared for these risks and know there is no guarantee of success in any real estate investment.

Despite these potential challenges, the New Haven real estate market outlook in 2023 is positive. With a growing population and a strong economy, demand for housing is expected to remain high, which should drive prices up. However, it is important for investors and potential homebuyers to do their due diligence and carefully consider the risks and uncertainties before making any decisions.

C o s t a M e s a

DECIRA PIMENTAL

Even Inflation Couldn’t Stop Buyers in Costa Mesa from Buying

By Decira Pimental

House prices and rents in real estate have been skyrocketing over the past few years, and this is a huge problem for house sellers as they are the ones who are affected because the demand for houses ends up becoming low. Inflation in the economy has caused both mortgage rates and prices to increase drastically like a ‘double whammy,’ as Francis Creighton suggested.

Inflation increases the price of housing in that the materials required to construct and manage the maintenance of the houses tend to be quite expensive. This discourages the construction of more houses since the cost will be quite high. Building a house will discourage any land owner hence they end up opting for houses that have been listed, and most of the time, they are quite expensive too.

EXPANDING THEIR HOME SEARCH

Buyers in Costa Mesa adjusted their budgets and returned to the drawing board to reassess their strategy in house hunting. This may include drawing their attention to smaller properties that are comfortable for them, looking for houses in rural areas, or areas that are in less demand with lower housing prices. Planning to renovate a house may be quite costly because the materials needed for renovation are expensive hence it is good to plan accordingly when planning to do a minor renovation in your new home.

What Costa Mesa buyers did to manage to buy houses despite inflation

THINKING BEYOND A 30-YEAR FIXED-RATE

MORTGAGE

Some financial institutions in Costa Mesa offer an adjustable rate mortgage which is a great deal for buyers in that the rates will be lower for the first few years of the loan term, and later the rate gets re-adjusted. This is a smart move for the buyers who know they will not be living in the house for a long time and need the necessary resources to have the house for themselves as soon as possible. Locking in a lower mortgage rate for a period of time before adjusting to the normal rate helps the prospective buyer save up some coins, especially if they don’t plan to stay in that house for a long time.

IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT SCORE AND FINANCIAL PICTURE AS A BUYER

Raising your score entails paying your debts on time and fixing any errors on your credit report as a loan customer. Requesting a higher credit limit or reducing the balances on your credit card may also give you a higher chance of getting a loan top-up. The lender can also narrow down the top-up interest rates if you prove that you are reliable and pay their debts on time. A low credit score can reduce your chances of getting a mortgage with a favorable interest rate.

MAKING ADJUSTMENTS IN THE HOUSING BUDGET AS WELL AS OTHER MINOR COSTS

Some Costa Mesa buyers drafted an overall budget on their expenses against their earnings, and this was able to help them know what budget they could work with when purchasing a new home. Spending more on housing will require you

as a buyer to factor in a higher down payment for the property and higher costs associated with relocating and doing maintenance and repairs in the new home. It’s good to consider the costs involved in hiring movers, renovation costs, property taxes, utility bills, and insurance, which are quite high. It’s good to work within your budget to avoid straining yourself and giving yourself unnecessary pressure.

BUYING A HOUSE ASAP

An increase in inflation suggests that the cash at the moment has more value as compared to its value in the future in the case where inflation rises for a long period of time. Real estate investors suggest that it would be best if the prospective buyer bought the house at that same period and did not procrastinate to buy it in the future since the prices will be quite high at that point.

You should buy the property as soon as possible and lock in a price and mortgage payment in today’s rates in dollars, as the value of a dollar is not likely to depreciate in any way possible. Buying the house early enough will reduce the instances of rent increasing abnormally, and as a buyer, you’ll enjoy the benefit brought about by the inflation of house prices.

Potential house buyers in Costa Mesa quickly noticed the gap and were willing to narrow it down by weighing various options before purchasing a house during the inflation period. Buying a house when the economy is underinflation is advantageous in a way. Hence, when you have the opportunity to save on the cost of housing as a buyer, you better utilize it to the maximum to avoid regrets in the future.

PHOTO FROM 123RF

it advisable to sell or stay in your home after retirement in Menifee?

By Monica Hill

As you approach retirement, you may consider your living arrangements and whether it makes sense to stay in your current home or sell and potentially downsize. Both options have pros and cons, and ultimately, the decision will depend on your circumstances and financial situation. This article will explore the factors you should consider when deciding whether to sell or stay in your home in Menifee after retirement.

One crucial factor to consider is Tax implications. If you decide to sell your home, under current tax laws, you may be able to exclude up to $250,000

of the gain from the sale of your home from your income if you are single or $500,000 if you are married and filing jointly. However, this exclusion is only available if you have owned and used the home as your primary residence for at least two of the five years before the sale. If you do not meet these requirements, you may have to pay capital gains tax on the sale of your home. It is essential to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications of selling your home. Also, put into consideration your mortgage balance. If you own your home outright or have a low mortgage balance, you may be able to afford to stay in your current home without too

Is

PHOTO FROM 123RF

much financial strain. However, if you have a high mortgage balance or are carrying other debts, you may consider selling your home and using the proceeds to pay off your debts and potentially invest in other assets.

You should also consider your lifestyle preferences and needs. If you are an active individual and enjoy being able to take care of your own home, you may prefer to stay in your current home and continue to take care of it; on the other hand, if you are looking for a more maintenance-free lifestyle, you may want to consider selling your home and moving into a condominium or retirement community where you can enjoy amenities and have someone else take care of the maintenance. You may also want to look at the cost of living in Menifee, as it will impact your budget and ability to afford to stay in your current home or purchase a new one. According to Best Places, the cost of living in Menifee is slightly higher than the national average, with housing being the biggest contributor to the higher cost of living. However, Menifee also has a lower property tax rate than the national average, which could help offset the higher housing costs.

Another factor to consider is the cost of maintaining your home. It may become more difficult to keep up with repairs and maintenance as you age, and the costs can add up quickly. If you decide to stay in your home, you will need to factor the cost of maintaining it into your retirement budget. On the other hand, if you sell your home, you can use the proceeds to purchase a smaller, more manageable property that may be easier to maintain.

Another important factor to consider is the location of your home. If you love the area where you currently live and have strong connections to the community, you may want to stay in your home. However, if you are looking for a change of scenery or want to be closer to family, you may want to consider selling your home and moving to a new location if the home has access to healthcare. As you get older, access to healthcare may become more important to you. If you decide to stay in your current home, you will need to consider the proximity of your home to healthcare facilities and whether you have adequate access to the medical care you need. If you are considering moving to a new location, you may want to research the availability of healthcare facilities in the area.

Finally, you should consider the social connections you have in your current community and whether you are willing to leave them. If you have strong social connections in Menifee and are involved in activities or organizations you enjoy, you may want to stay in your current home.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a change of scenery and the opportunity to make new connections, you may want to consider moving to a new location.

In conclusion, whether to sell or stay in your home in Menifee after retirement will depend on your circumstances and financial situation. It is important to consider all of the above factors carefully and consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.

Stuck in your Sell?

Here are some CREATIVE promotion strategies to attract today’s buyers

By Marina Ramirez

As a real estate professional, you know that selling a property can sometimes be a challenge. Even in a hot market, finding the right buyer for your listing can take time. it’s essential to have a variety of promotion strategies in your toolkit to attract today’s buyers. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of creative promotion strategies to help you sell your listings faster and for a higher price. From leveraging social media to utilizing content marketing, these tactics can help you stand out in a crowded market and attract serious buyers. There are plenty of options for real estate professionals looking to attract today’s buyers. So, if you’re feeling stuck

in your sales, consider giving some of these strategies a try and watch your business soar. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. UTILIZE SOCIAL MEDIA TO YOUR ADVANTAGE.

52% of high-quality real estate brokers leads come from social media. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn are excellent tools for promoting your listings and connecting with potential buyers. You can effectively reach a wider audience and generate leads by regularly posting high-quality photos and videos of your listings, engaging with your followers, and utilizing paid advertising options.

2. PARTNER WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES.

If you’re having trouble generating interest in your listing, consider partnering with other local businesses or organizations to promote it. For example, you could offer a discount to buyers who purchase a property through your agency and also use the services of a local home improvement company. This not only helps to promote your listing but it also helps to build relationships with other businesses in your community. This strategy has the added benefit of providing value to buyers, who may be more likely to purchase a property if they receive discounts or other perks from partnering businesses.

3. UTILIZE VIRTUAL STAGING.

Virtual tours and video walkthroughs have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many buyers finding them a convenient and efficient way to view a property. A study by the National Association of Realtors found that 48% of buyers used virtual tours to view properties during the pandemic with virtual staging, you can use computer-generated images to show potential buyers how the property could look furnished, giving buyers a better sense of the property without having to schedule an in-person showing. This can be especially helpful if the property is empty or you’re having trouble getting buyers to visualize the layout. it is also useful for outof-town buyers or those unable to visit the property physically.

4. UTILIZE PAID ADVERTISING.

While organic reach on social media and other platforms can be limited, paid advertising can effectively reach a targeted audience and generate leads. You can effectively target potential buyers and promote your listings by utilizing platforms like Google AdWords, Facebook Ads, and LinkedIn Ads. Also, look into targeted advertising to reach potential buyers in your specific market. For example, consider advertising on websites or social media

5.

accounts targeting seniors if you’re selling a property in a retirement community.

UTILIZE EMAIL MARKETING.

Email marketing can effectively reach potential buyers and keep them informed about new listings and other relevant information. You can effectively nurture leads and convert them into clients by building a targeted email list and sending out regular newsletters or promotional emails.

6. HOST EVENTS AT YOUR LISTINGS.

Hosting events at your listings, such as open houses or cocktail parties, can be a great way to showcase the property and attract potential buyers. These events can also be an opportunity to network with other industry professionals and potentially generate referrals. Just be sure to follow any local COVID-19 guidelines and protocols.

7.

UTILIZE CONTENT MARKETING.

Content marketing, which involves creating and sharing valuable, relevant content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience, can be a powerful tool for real estate agents and brokers. By regularly creating and sharing blog posts, infographics, and other forms of content that educate and inform potential buyers, you can establish yourself as a trusted authority in your market and generate leads.

In conclusion, you can utilize various creative promotion strategies to attract today’s buyers and sell your property faster. Utilizing social media, hosting an open house, partnering with local businesses, utilizing virtual staging, offering incentives, utilizing targeted advertising, and hiring a professional photographer are all effective ways to promote your listing. Always consider your target market and what will appeal to them when deciding on promotion strategies. Also, you’ll be well-equipped to sell even the most challenging properties by staying flexible and open to new ideas.

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling is the largest and longest-serving network of nonprofit financial counselors. Our mission is to help everyone gain control over their finances through free access to financial education. Credit.org, one of our premier member agencies, understands the need for financial safety, so there is no shame in asking for help. Get back on track today.

Homebuying is much more than the features you see on the surface

By Brandy Nelson

Buying a home is a complex process that involves much more than simply finding a property with appealing features on the surface. There are numerous other factors to consider when buying a home. It is important for homebuyers to take the time to research and consider these factors carefully to make an informed decision and find a home that meets their needs and fits their budget. By understanding the full scope of the home buying process, buyers can make a more confident and satisfying purchase. Here are a few factors to consider while buying a home.

One important factor to consider when homebuying is the location of the property. The neighborhood in which a home is located can significantly impact its value and desirability. Factors such as the quality of schools, the proximity to amenities and public transportation, and the overall safety of the area should all be taken into account. In addition, it may be helpful to research the future development plans for the area, as new construction or neighborhood changes can affect the home’s value.

Another factor to consider is the condition of the home. While a home may look appealing,

inspecting the property for any hidden issues or defects thoroughly is important. A home inspection can help identify any potential problems, such as structural issues, plumbing or electrical problems, or pests. It is also a good idea to research the age and condition of key components of the home, such as the roof, furnace, and water heater, as these can be costly to replace.

In addition to the home’s physical features, it is also important to consider the financial aspects of the purchase. This includes the cost of the home, as well as any additional expenses that may arise. These can include closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. It may also be beneficial to research the local real estate market to determine if the home is being offered at a fair price.

Another factor to consider is the resale value of the home. While it may not be top of mind when purchasing a home, it is important to consider the potential resale value in case you decide to sell the property in the future. Factors that can impact resale value include the location and condition of the home and any unique features or updates that have been made.

Another factor to consider when homebuying is the type of home that best suits your needs. There are various types of homes to choose from, including single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums, and apartments. Each type of home has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to consider which type of home best fits your lifestyle and budget. For example, a single-family home may offer more privacy and space, but it may also come with a higher price tag and more maintenance responsibilities. A townhouse or condominium may be a more affordable option. Still, it may also come with shared

walls or common areas and have stricter rules regarding renovations and changes to the property. An apartment may be a more budget-friendly option, but it may also have less privacy and may not offer as much space.

It is also important to consider the long-term prospects of the home. This includes the potential for appreciation, as well as the potential for changes in the local real estate market. While it is difficult to predict the future, it can be helpful to research the historical performance of the local real estate market and to consider any factors that may impact the home’s value in the future, such as local economic conditions or changes to zoning laws.

Finally, it is important to consider the emotional aspect of homebuying. While it may be tempting to focus solely on the practical aspects of the purchase, it is important to consider how the home makes you feel. After all, a home is much more than just a financial investment – it is where you will spend a significant portion of your time and create memories with your loved ones. Choosing a home that feels the right fit for your personality and lifestyle is important.

In summary, homebuying is a complex process that involves a wide range of considerations. It is important to take the time to thoroughly research and evaluate all of the factors that may impact your satisfaction with the home, including location, condition, financial considerations, resale value, personal growth, and the type of home that best suits your needs. Considering these factors, you can make an informed and satisfying decision when purchasing a home.

B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G A H O M E ?

L i c e n s e d R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r w i t h o v e r 3 5 y e a r s e x p e r i e n c e w o r k i n g w i t h b u y e r s a n d s e l l e r s o f s i n g l e - f a m i l y h o m e s , l a n d , d u p l e x e s , t r i p l e x e s a n d f o u r p l e x e s . W a s f i r s t B r o k e r i n W a s h i n g t o n S t a t e t o o f f e r h o m e w a r r a n t i e s f o r b u y e r s o f e x i s t i n g h o m e s a n d f i r s t b r o k e r i n W a s h i n g t o n S t a t e t o o f f e r g u a r a n t e e d h o m e s a l e s b a c k e d b y a N a t i o n a l F r a n c h i s e .

T ' S W O R K T O G E T H E R !

The Top 5 Things Buyers Hate About Your House!

By Jim Clifford

As a seller, you always want your house to be the hot cake so that you can attract many prospective clients. For your house to be a preference to most buyers, there are certain things you should put into consideration so that you get the best buyers. You should remember what makes buyers not get fixated on buying your house and the reasons the prospective buyers lay down. These may include:

BAD SMELLS

Bad odor is a turn-off for many people. In case you’d want to auction your house, it’s good to bring a realtor who will give you an unbiased opinion about how your house smells, which would help you solve the problem of bad smell in

your house. If you have pets, ensure you keep their sleeping areas clean if at they are inside the house. Having wall-to-wall carpets harbor a lot of dirt, and eventually, the bad smell will kick in. It would be best to get professional cleaners to do the cleaning because a simple vacuum won’t help. Ensure that your basement is not damp. If that is the case, purchase a dehumidifier to clear the odor and clean the moist air.

POORLY LIT ROOMS

Many buyers prefer well-lit houses, and there is a reason for this. Many associate well-lit houses with vibrance. If your house is poorly lit, ensure that you install bright bulbs with high light efficiency. If your house has big windows, ensure

that the curtain sheers are translucent to allow light to pass through. A well-lit house is usually eye captivating to buyers because, in their minds, they’re always picturing how the curtains will bring the blend when the room can allow natural light in.

UNKEMPT BACKYARDS AND UNTRIMMED BUSHES

Ensure that your backyard is well-mowed. Trim all hedges and bushes around the house. You can mount up some pot plants and plant some flowers around the yard. An attractive yard is usually a plus for buyers who want to purchase their house since they think about how attractive the outside would be to their guests. An attractive backyard clearly shows that the house is appealing inside.

WALL-TO-WALL HOUSE CARPETS

Wall-to-wall house carpets are a thing of the past. Many house buyers nowadays are attracted to houses that have hardwood floors or tiles. Auctioneers are advised to rip out those carpets and refurbish the floors with the latest tiles or hardwood floors. They are both easy to clean and rarely bring some bad odor into the house.

YOUR PETS

Some prospective buyers are allergic to some pets or have traumas related to pets. It’s advisable to keep your house away from pets so your buyers can feel comfortable exploring your house.

DIRTY BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

Ensure that your bathroom is clean by scrubbing all areas. Ensure your kitchen surfaces are clean, as well as your floors. No dirty

dishes should be in the sink, especially if the prospective buyers come to visit on that day. To make the kitchen attractive, you can ensure that you have some clean kitchen towels on display so that the buyers may have an impression of a house owner who knows how to maintain the house.

LOUD WALLS AND BUSY WALLPAPER

The prospective buyer might not have the sense of style and design as you hence it’s best if you remove your history and everything from the overall appearance of the house. This will make the buyer envision himself or herself and his family in the house. You can also paint the house with neutral colors so that it’s up to the buyer to decide what he or she thinks would work best for him or if the house is painted according to their tastes and preferences.

AND FINALLY…YOU!

As a house seller, it’s good to bring a realtor to show the prospective buyers their way around the house. If you are the one around, the buyers may feel uncomfortable exploring the house, and they won’t take time to get comfortable around it. Being around will make them feel like they are intruding on your private space, which is not true since you’re selling this house and you’re no longer attached to it. It’s best to hire someone who will be in charge of showing the buyers around.

As a seller, you must know how quickly to sell your house despite the pricing. Many buyers don’t care about the pricing as much but the comfort the house will bring into their lives. It’s good to have a good realtor who will work hand in hand with you and give you top-notch advice to ensure you make great sales.

HOUSING DISCRIMINATION UNMASKED.

Don’t let housing discrimination get covered up.

“ When I went looking for an apartment, I wore a mask. But they could still see I’m Black. I was told that they wouldn’t rent to me because they heard Black people were disproportionately getting COVID-19.”

COVID-19 inequity is real, and it shouldn’t be made worse because of housing discrimination. If you suspect housing discrimination because of your race, color or national origin, file a complaint with HUD or your local fair housing center so we can investigate it.

For more information, go to: hud.gov/fairhousing or call 1-800-669-9777 Federal Relay Service 1-800-877-8339

FAIR HOUSING: THE LAW IS ON YOUR SIDE.

A public service message from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in cooperation with the National Fair Housing Alliance. The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status or disability.

How Cryptocurrency Will Impact Real Estate Financing

By Jamar James

Many people worldwide are asking themselves if Cryptocurrency is the future of the real estate. Many financiers have invested in Cryptocurrency in the world, making them multi-billionaires. Cryptocurrency has been skyrocketing its way into real estate transactions through:

LISTING HOMES FOR SALE FOR BITCOIN

Most home sellers and real estate agents have been using in-house Bitcoin listings to create attention and attract more buyers to their properties. Bitcoin has worked well in house listings that are high-end, where most buyers want to use their bitcoins to invest in properties in real estate. This has brought about big wins in cryptocurrency as people are designing ways to preserve their gains in Cryptocurrency to real estate properties that are tangible.

RENTING HOMES FOR BITCOIN

Some travel booking sites accept bitcoins, increasing their demand to lease and rent out their Airbnb properties. This is drawing close attention to people to focus on investing in Cryptocurrency as a mode of payment for various services.

REAL ESTATE FUNDRAISING WITH ICOS

Entrepreneurs are incorporating digital currencies in the real estate market that will be used to buy, rent, trade, and invest in various properties in the real estate housing market. Digital currencies act as a form of buying shares in a real estate environment. The prospective buyers will not have to use cash or credit cards to carry out real estate transactions.

PHOTO FROM 123RF.COM

CRYPTO AS A REAL ESTATE BUSINESS

Many cryptocurrency exchange offices have been constructed to increase the demand for Cryptocurrency in the market and build a rapport among the people who would slowly want to adapt to Cryptocurrency as a form of financial exchange.

The Cryptocurrency world has been quite crazy due to the fluctuations in its value over a period of time. Many people still believe that Cryptocurrency is up to date, while others give up on it. A die-hard of Cryptocurrency believes that Cryptocurrency will still be the real thing in the future. Cryptocurrency being a digital currency is beneficial to prospective buyers, investors, and sellers in the real estate housing market.

Most investors separate buying a home using bitcoin and participating in bitcoin. They invest in buying a house using cash and some little bitcoin, thus making them feel as if they are risking their home and investment on virtual money since it’s quite risky. It’s good to try out different currency options when buying a house on real estate to avoid investing more virtual money than you can afford to lose.

real estate market, housing prices are still quite high, and the competition to acquire scarce houses is tougher than you think. Some potential buyers find it difficult to compete with cash buyers or acquire a loan because they can’t afford the down payment on the property. Some buyers may also have a low credit score. Therefore, the seller should focus on looking at the buyer’s collateral instead of judging them by not having a high credit score when leasing their property to them.

Transactions completed on Cryptocurrency are usually fast, unlike credit and background checks used to ascertain if someone is fit to purchase a property. A person should not be measured by their low credit scores in relation to

buying real estate houses, yet Cryptocurrency is the ultimate game changer above all other transactions.

Real estate investors suggest that Cryptocurrency will skyrocket in the real estate world, and many people will continue to invest in it. Cryptocurrency will change the world just as the internet transformed the world into a better place.

investors can purchase certain real estate property tokens and have a co-ownership. This is done after the property has been tokenized hence the seller may divide the property into numerous tokens so that each investor has ownership of their own part of the asset in the property at hand.

Tokenization of the property is advantageous in that it crafts the real estate property into a liquid commodity to make it easier for any investor to sell their shares cheaper and faster, attracting more buyers.

Investors can buy parcels that may resemble acres of land in the Crypto world. The number of parcels is limited in terms of availability at a given point. As an investor, you can purchase a parcel early when its price is quite cheap; then, after the value of the parcel increases after some time, you can decide to sell it to maximize your profits as an investor.

Despite the slowing down the

Cryptocurrency is advantageous because multiple

The adoption of Cryptocurrency in the world of real estate is still at a nascent stage, but it will eventually evolve to be the real thing in the future. Many buyers, investors, and sellers in the real estate market will end up operating using Cryptocurrency only because of its efficiency.

Los angeles Real Estate Market Update - December 2022

By Dolores Golden

Los Angeles housing prices are relatively higher compared to last year. Its market is at the forefront of both a national and global recovery. The City of Angels, known as Los Angeles, has attracted many international investors who have purchased multi-billion properties. The city has been listed as one of the best cities to invest in, thus leading to the growth of its housing market.

The Association For International Real Estate Investors (AFIRE) did their statistics and concluded that real estate in LA has increased the amount of capital since last year. The survey made by AFIRE has made investors open their minds to increasing their investment exposure since they are confident that the future is bright for them if they invest in Los Angeles.

As per last month’s data from ARIFE, the real estate market in LA is balanced, meaning that

both demand and supply for homes are quite the same. The ratio between the total sales to the total listing is between 0.12 and 0.2. Housing markets with a ratio above 0.2 mostly favor home sellers, while housing markets below 0.12 tend to favor prospective buyers.

An Overview of the Los Angeles Real Estate Market 2022

• New Listings: 1,006 (-22.4% year over year)

• Active Listings: 8,555 (-39.3% year over year)

• Homes Sold: 1,178 (-6.6% year over year)

• Median Days On Market: 37.7 (-3.8 year over year)

• Population: 3,979,576 (latest estimate by the U.S. Census Bureau)

• Median Household Income: $62,142 (latest

estimate by the U.S. Census Bureau)

• Median Home Value (1-Year Forecast): +14.3%

• Weeks Of Supply: 7.4 (-3.8 year over year)

• Median Rent: $2,644 (+11.0% year over year)

• Median Home Value: $928,320

• Median List Price: $941,667 (-5.9% year over year)

• 1-Year Appreciation Rate: +15.9%

• Price-To-Rent Ratio: 29.25

• Unemployment Rate: 6.2% (latest estimate by the Bureau Of Labor Statistics)

Despite the setback faced by real estate when COVID-19 set foot in the country, Los Angeles created an opportunity for prospective investors to invest, buy or sell their properties. Many people suggest that COVID-19 positively impacted real estate in Los Angeles because the city was still able to maintain its housing market.

Lower borrowing costs increased housing demand, and a lack of inventory has made the housing market appreciate in value. When the housing agencies in LA predicted that the interest rates would be lower for the next few years, the number of potential home buyers increased because the deal became favorable to them. Housing agencies have predicted that prices will increase by about 14.3% due to supply and demand issues.

his home depends on how the person visualizes it. Some buyers have a strong instinct that it’s not the right time to buy a house in LA due to increases in mortgage rates and house prices. However, for home sellers, it’s the best time to list their houses for sale since an increase will bring out more inventory in the seller’s optimism.

There is a possibility that there will be an increase in the number of houses being listed by home sellers to prospective buyers. This would gradually lower appreciation to some extent. Since many houses in LA are quite pricy, not everyone can afford to buy them unless you’re a high-end investor, thus making very few residents able to afford a medium-priced house in Los Angeles.

If you’re considering investing your savings in real estate housing in Los Angeles, some neighborhoods are highly recommended for investment, and its appreciation rates have been high since 2020. They include:

• N Ave 57 / Monte Vista St

• Happy Valley

• Highland Park North

• Apple St / S Dunsmuir Ave

• N Ave 52 / Granada St

• Highland Park

• W 21st St / S Orange Dr

• Irvington Pl / N Ave 51

The LA housing market has pointed out that many people look forward to relocating from the city. This has been brought about by the flexibility of people being able to work from home hence they see no need to live near their offices anymore. Homeowners are therefore trading their deluxe apartments in the city to relocate to suburban homes that are less congested and environmentally friendly.

Whether it’s right for a buyer to purchase a house in Los Angeles or the right time for a seller to list

• Montecito Heights Northeast

• Harvard Heights Southwest

When deciding what real estate property to invest in, it’s good to research and consult various realtors who have been in the field for many years. The consultation will save you the cost and pressure of regretting in the near future in case things don’t go as planned. Ensure that you are well conversant about the property you’d like to invest in and do some site visits before spending all your coins to buy the house.

NYC Real Estate market projections:

Here’s what to expect in 2023.

By Harriet Robertson

New York City is the largest real estate market value compared to other metropolitan areas but by a narrow margin. The housing market in New York City has a value of about $3.51 trillion. Statistics have suggested that New York City has withheld the medal of being one of the most preferred real estate investments by most people in the United States.

couple of years back. Due to supply and demand favoring home sellers, the prices will tend to rise, which may be unfavorable for prospective buyers who are not high-end income earners.

NeighborhoodScout has done its analysis and found out that the appreciation rate in real estate over the past ten years has been around 77.08% and about 40% nationwide, which is a total annual average of appreciation of 5.88%.

The real estate market in New York City has been booming for quite some time, but so has all other metros in the country.

Housing prices have doubled compared to a

Despite the setback of the pandemic, New York City created an opportunity for prospective investors to invest, buy and or sell their properties. Many people suggest that COVID-19

positively impacted real estate in New York City because the city could still maintain its record demand housing market. This holds true for many other metros in the country, and the fall of 2022 was considered the best season for the real estate market countrywide.

The appreciation rate during the COVID-19 pandemic was about 10.54% which was quite high given the uncertainty of the market around that time.

real estate market of New York City has made many prospective migrants flee from New York City, thus reducing the growth of the economy of the United States. Fleeing of migrants may lead to an imbalance in the labor market’s growth, and thus there will be no competitiveness for people who want to make ends meet.

According to the forecast done by Zillow, the supply and demand favoring the home seller are likely to push housing prices south in New York City for the next couple of years because:

• The New York Metro housing market forecast ending September 2033 is slightly negative.

• Zillow predicts that New York Metro home values may decline by 1% by Sept 2023.

• If this forecast is correct, New York Metro home prices will be lower in the 3rd Quarter of 2023 than in the 3rd Quarter of 2022.

Fluctuations in the mortgage rate have highly affected low and middle-income buyers because housing prices have drastically risen over the years in New York City, making it hard for them to afford. The buyers who have been most affected are those who it’s their first time purchasing real estate houses hence giving them a challenge on how they can cope with the situation.

Despite New York City favoring the seller’s market, prospective buyers are beginning to gain the bargaining power for purchasing properties from real estate. Real estate that has been on the listing for a longer time lowers their prices to attract more prospective buyers to purchase their houses.

Landlords will be unable to manage and maintain their expensive apartments on the market for longer because their demand will drop drastically. The population of people living in New York City is made up of a larger percentage of people with low and mid-level income and thus cannot afford houses that are quite expensive beyond their means. People are usually advised to live according to their budget and not be quite extra because you will strain yourself for no apparent reason.

Whether it’s right for a buyer to purchase a house in New York City or the right time for a seller to list his home depends on how the person visualizes it. Some buyers have a strong instinct that it’s not the right time to buy a house in New York due to increased mortgage rates and house prices. However, it’s the best time for home sellers to list their houses for sale since an increase will bring out more inventory in the seller’s optimism.

Suppose your end goal as a person is to become an investor in New York City. In that case, it is good to be financially prepared, and adopting a culture of saving more often for your end goal would be very important to avoid getting disappointed when the property you wanted to buy sometime back is quite expensive compared to the last time you inquired from a seller.

Housing prices and policies trigger the possibility of people choosing where to stay, study, and work. An increase in the pricing of houses in the

As a potential investor or home buyer, it is good to research the property before investing your coins in it. Make a thorough background check about the property and any legal requirements needed to purchase the house to avoid getting conned and regretting it for the rest of your life.

Home Ownership

by Eric Lawrence Frazier MBA

Home ownership brings stability to individuals and families who have never had a dwelling place that they could call their own. There is something special about owning real estate that is unlike anything else on earth you can own.

Real Estate you own is not like cars that decay over time and you have to replace them.

Real Estate you own is not like clothes that go out of style and you have to buy new ones.

Real Estate you own is not like expensive vacations or experiences that only last a moment in time.

Real Estate you own is not like an apartment where the landlord may increase the rent until it’s no longer affordable.

Real Estate you own is not like staying at your parents house where you know can’t stay forever.

Home ownership is the beginning of wealth that increases over time and becomes your estate & legacy

Home ownership is the pride of a mother nurturer and the kitchen her domain

Home ownership is the pride of a father provider and protector of his territory and family.

Home ownership is the foundation of permanence and the place where life happens, birthdays celebrated, deaths mourned.

Home ownership is the place you build memories that can never be taken from you.

Memories etched in walls and concrete, experienced in rooms and floors, Memories living in trees and shrubs planted by your hand.

Howe ownership is the manifestation of you - your style, your colors, your smell, your stuff, your junk, your memories, your yard and your spaces, your life.

It’s the height markers on your first child’s bedroom wall. It’s the hearts drawn in the concrete slabs when you pour your patio floor

It’s the birthday parties, and anniversaries in the living room and kitchen.

It’s the back yard barbecue with friends, neighbors and family contentions

it’s the high school and college graduation, and wedding receptions

Its’ the family nights and block parties and the fellowship of family connections

Home ownership

It’s more than real estate. Land, brick and mortar, wood frame construction and chicken wire.

It’s more than money saved, gifts recieved and grants obtained

It’s more than the debt you incur to buy it.

It’s more than the payments you make to own it. It’s more than the appreciation that comes with keeping it over time.

It’s memories, it’s family, and it’s life that can happen in one place

Until you say it’s time to move.