Trying to buy a home in today’s market is tough. COVID has motivated a lot of people to look for a home, but also deterred a lot of people from listing their home so the options are limited. Even though I look at housing trend data every day as part of my job at realtor.com […]
Author Archives: Christopher Shea
Here’s the #1 Way to Reduce Energy Expenses In Your Building (Hint, It’s Not Solar Panels)
For the 99% of folks who don’t know anything about green building, the assumption is that solar panel installation is the first priority in heading toward net-zero energy. When you install solar panels, solar reduces the need for natural gas power by converting the sun’s rays to energy instead. This is very much not the case, according to […]
Should You Pay Off Mortgage Points for Your Rental Property?
One way to lower the rate on your next mortgage is to buy mortgage points. But while buying points might make sense for some investors, for others it may not be the right way to go. The question of whether to buy points for your rental property or not is an important question that every […]
Yes, You Should Absolutely Tip Your Movers—Here’s How Much
Packed up and ready to move? If you’re among one of the millions of people who will move this year, it’s inevitable that you’ll face a common predicament: Do you tip movers? Moreover, how much do you tip movers? After an exhausting and busy moving day, trying to figure out how much to tip isn’t […]
How to Find the Best Solution for Financing Home Repairs
In the current economic climate, many homeowners are looking to cut costs and streamline their budgets. But addressing home repairs like replacing a hot water heater, installing a new roof, or overhauling electrical systems may still be necessary. If this sounds like you, you’re certainly not alone. Luckily, finding the right solution doesn’t have to […]
Essentials to Keep in Your Emergency Kit
Let’s face it: You can’t predict the future. That’s why having a fully stocked emergency kit is so important. No matter the time of year, it’s always better to play it safe. Would you and your family be prepared, just in case? Putting essential supplies together doesn’t have to be a chore and can even […]
To-Dos: Your November Home Checklist
With Thanksgiving approaching and the winter holidays around the corner, there are things to look forward to (and prepare for) this time of year — even with the adjustments we are having to make because of the pandemic. Batten down the hatches for winter weather and get a jump on holiday prep, so you can […]
15 Upcoming Trends That Will Impact The Real Estate Market
With the economy fluctuating, more investors turn to the real estate market because of its resilience. Yet, to get the most out of the real estate market, an investor needs to spot trends before they become apparent to everyone. Over the next one to three years, the real estate market is likely to see a […]
These Pandemic-Related Housing and Design Trends Aren’t Going Away
Home trends come and go, but social distancing and staying at home have ushered in a new way of life—and some of those changes have spurred home trends that are likely to stick around well past the COVID-19 era. “The idea of what is necessary is changing,” says Camille Thomas, a real estate matchmaker and lifestyle expert in […]
Buy Your First Home in One Year: A Step-by-Step Guide
A real yard. Closets bigger than your average microwave. The freedom to decorate however you darn well please! Making the switch from renting to owning is exhilarating, but many rookie homebuyers find the process trickier to navigate than they expected. This is why we created our First-Time HomeBuyer Checklist. The 12-month timeline will help you sidestep common […]