Monday, June 29, 2020

Figure Out What Is Truly Important to You Before You Start Looking for a New Home

When looking at real estate listings, it can be easy to fall in love with the idea of living in a house with a specific design or features, but you most likely won’t be able to get everything on your wishlist. Focus on things that you couldn’t change and differentiate between needs and wants so you can make a list of top priorities to guide your search. 

Things to Prioritize 
Location is important in real estate, but people have different priorities. Figure out if having a short commute, living in a good school district or being near restaurants and entertainment is important to you and your family. 

Focus on the condition of the house. If you buy a home with a cracked foundation and you wind up with expensive repair bills, you may come to regret your decision. Make sure that major systems, such as plumbing and electrical, are in good shape so you don’t have to make costly repairs after you move in. 

You may have a long list of things that you would like, but that are not necessarily requirements. For example, you may prefer a two-story home, but you may be willing to buy a one-story house if it has everything else you want. Size is important, but a smaller house that is well designed may have more usable living space than a home with more square footage.

You might find a house with fewer bedrooms or bathrooms than you would like, but you could build an addition later. Other things, such as a pool or a patio, could be added in the future.

When making your list of priorities, consider potential downsides. For example, a house with a huge yard may seem ideal, until you think about the amount of time you would need to spend on lawncare or the amount of money you would have to pay someone else to handle it.

Hash It Out
Make a list of features that are most important to you and others that would be nice to have. If someone else is buying the house with you, that individual should make a list independently. Work together to narrow them down to the top 3 – 5 priorities, then another list of things that would be nice to have.

Be Realistic About Price 
If you got preapproved for a mortgage, you should not necessarily spend the amount you were approved for. The lender’s calculations may not have included significant expenses, such as property taxes, private mortgage insurance, homeowners insurance, maintenance, repairs, childcare and healthcare. 

Talk to Your Agent
Once you have identified your top priorities, share them with your real estate agent. After you begin looking at houses, you may realize that some things on the list aren’t as important as you thought they were, and that some things you thought would be nice to have are actually top priorities. If that happens, revise your list and discuss it with your agent. 


Today's New Listings!

343 Lakewick Ln, Willowick

9906 Gabriels Way, Mentor

8282 Brodie Blvd, Mentor

474 Bowhall Rd, Painesville

7790 Hermitage Rd, Concord

8275 Ashford St, Concord

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Open Houses and Price Reduction!

Open Houses for June 28, 2020

13122 Ravenna Rd, Chardon 
Open 12-4pm
$260,000 
4bd 2ba
Call 440-339-3626

7940 Forest Valley Ln, Concord 
Open 12-3pm
$409,900 NEW PRICE!
4bd 4ba
Call 440-289-8213

23851 Glenbrook Blvd, Euclid 
Open 12-3pm
$125,000 
3bd 1ba
Call 440-344-9567

6272 Lakewood Ct, Mentor 
Open 11am-5pm
$269,900 
4bd 3ba
Call 440-413-0588

7000 Traymore Ct, Mentor 
Open 11am-2pm
$225,000 
Call 440-525-3331

3830 Harvard Dr, Willoughby  
Open 3:30-5:30pm
$179,900
Call 440-289-8213

11130 River Rd, Chardon  
BY APPT
$999,999
4bd 4ba
Call 440-296-5006

6752 Bayside Dr, Madison 
BY APPT
$182,500 
4bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

563 Colonial Dr, Painesville  
BY APPT
$220,000 
3bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

4600 Anderson Rd, South Euclid  
BY APPT
$300,000 
3bd 2ba
Call 440-296-5006

38902 Johnnycake Ridge Rd, Willoughby 
BY APPT
$299,900 
4bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

V/L Margaret Walsh Ct, Willoughby  
BY APPT
$379,900 
3bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

Price Reduction

V/L Chapel Rd, Madison 
$475,000 NEW PRICE!

Today's New Listings!

38191 Dolores Dr, Eastlake

36428 Chardon Rd, Willoughby Hills

7391 Beechwood Dr, Mentor

6749 Waterford Ln, Mentor

4679 Katie Ct, Perry

1187 Elm Ave, Madison

Monday, June 22, 2020

Why You Should Get an Inspection Even if You Plan to Buy a Brand New House

An inspection is important before purchasing a home, but some people assume that it isn’t necessary if they plan to buy a brand new house. The truth is, even newly built houses are often far from perfect. Getting your new home inspected can allow you to have any problems addressed before you move in so you can avoid having to pay for repairs later.

Why Inspections are Important for New Homes
Builders are supposed to meet local codes, but that doesn’t mean they always do. Workers can make mistakes or cut corners to save time, and a code inspector may not notice flaws in a house. It’s easy to miss problems, especially things like inadequate insulation or electrical wiring issues when the walls have already been put up.

Even if the builders do meet local codes, those requirements are minimums. If you designed the house with specifications above those minimums, such as extra insulation, you want to make sure you get what you requested.

When to Have a New House Inspected
You should have your new home inspected before you finalize the purchase. If you are planning to buy a house that has not been constructed yet, it may be a good idea to have it inspected a few times during the building process. If the inspector notes issues at any stage, the builder can fix them before continuing with the project.

Once the foundation has been poured, there isn’t much that can be done to fix problems. An inspector can check before the foundation is poured to make sure the site has been prepared correctly. If there is a problem with the grading of the yard or another issue that might cause foundation problems or basement leaks, it can be addressed ahead of time. 

A second inspection can take place after the frame has been built and the roof and windows have been installed, but before the walls have been put up. That will allow the inspector to check the electrical wiring, plumbing, insulation, and other components that will later be hidden.

The final inspection can include a check of the entire house, including its exterior. The inspector can examine the doors, windows, appliances, HVAC system, plumbing, electrical system, roof, gutters, driveway, walkways, garage, shed, patio, and deck to make sure everything is as it should be before you sign the papers and move in.

Inspections can be a Money-Saving Investment
Even though a series of inspections would add to the cost before you moved in, they could save you money in the long run. If you didn’t have a brand new house inspected, problems could crop up later, after the builder’s warranty had expired, leaving you to pay for repairs yourself. If problems are caught during the construction process, you can require the builder to fix them and save yourself money, time, and headaches down the road. 

Today's New Listings!

2099 Farroni Ln, Willoughby

2811 Loreto Dr, Willoughby Hills

7970 Garfield Rd, Mentor

5506 Primavera Dr, Mentor

7420 Rockwell Ct, Mentor

Monday, June 15, 2020

Consider These Features When Buying A Multi-Generational Home

Multi-generational living spaces are seeing an increase in demand. These days, many luxury homebuyers are not just looking for a place to reside with their children, but also extended family, such as parents or in-laws. A suitable home, however, often requires specific characteristics that you might not find in your typical residence. Here are a few such features that lend themselves to multi-generational living. 

Separate Living Areas
While a guest suite is usually adequate when the in-laws come to town for a weekend, you’ll probably want more substantial accommodations for a long-term arrangement. Whether it’s a fully-equipped guesthouse or an in-law suite with a kitchenette, multi-generational living tends to be much easier when there are separate living areas. This helps to ensure that everyone has their own space and privacy, while avoiding the sense that you’re on top of each other.

Flex-Spaces
When you have more than just the immediate family living under one roof, space will naturally be at a premium. That’s why a versatile layout that can be adapted to meet a variety of needs is always appreciated. This can be an extra bedroom that doubles as a study or a library that can also be used as a nursery. A multi-purpose area, or flex-space, allows you to get the most out of your home. 

Two Master Suites
The trend of having two master suites in a single home has grown over the last few years. If you don’t need an entire separate dwelling, this feature can make a huge difference when your parents or in-laws are living at your house. After all, everyone enjoys a luxurious master suite that’s equipped with its own bathroom and walk-in closet.

Adjoining Units
For city dwellers, it might be difficult to find a home that can accommodate a multi-generational living arrangement. One popular solution, though, is to purchase adjoining units in a building and knock down the shared wall. If the perfect space isn’t available, sometimes you just have to create it.


Today's New Listings!

2398 Trailard Dr, Willoughby Hills

37720 Milann Dr, Willoughby Hills

7197 Cody Ct, Mentor

1102 Vista Lago Cir, Painesville Township

11195 Caddie Ln #46, Concord

12105 Girdled Rd, Concord

8310 Eagle Ridge Dr, Concord

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Open Houses!

Open Houses for June 14, 2020 

11130 River Rd, Chardon
Open 12-4:30pm
$999,999
4bd 4ba
Call 440-487-0368

7940 Forest Valley Ln, Concord
Open 12-4pm
$419,900
4bd 4ba
Call 440-488-1061

6085 Meadow Wood Dr, Madison
Open 12-2pm
$184,000 
4bd 3ba
Call 440-637-3791

38902 Johnnycake Ridge Rd, Willoughby 
Open 12-4pm
$299,900
4bd 3ba
Call 440-283-7557

23851 Glenbrook Blvd, Euclid 
BY APPT
$125,000
3bd 1ba
Call 440-296-5006

4600 Anderson Rd, South Euclid
BY APPT
$300,000 
3bd 2ba
Call 440-296-5006

6752 Bayside Dr, Madison
BY APPT
$182,500
4bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

V/L Chapel Rd, Madison (LOT)
BY APPT
$495,000 
Call 440-296-5006

8683 Mentor Ave, Mentor
BY APPT
$175,000
Call 440-296-5006

8375 Deacon Ave NW, North Canton 
BY APPT
$360,000 
2bd 2ba
Call 440-296-5006

19 S Saint Clair St, Painesville
BY APPT
$599,999
Call 440-296-5006

V/L Margaret Walsh Ct, Willoughby
BY APPT
$379,900 
3bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

Today's New Listings!

7185 Cody Court, Mentor

50 Ava June Drive, Painesville

Monday, June 8, 2020

4 Tips for Buying Waterfront Property

It’s easy to understand why waterfront property is so appealing to luxury homeowners. From breathtaking views to endless activities in the backyard, there are a multitude of benefits that attract a wide variety of buyers. For those who are interested in living on the water, here are a few things that you should keep in mind when looking at property.

Do Your Research
Quite simply, waterfront property is more complicated than your typical piece of land. Elevation, of course, is an especially important consideration to take into account to ensure that the house isn’t prone to flooding or, specifically for oceanfront property, rising sea levels. Property lines can also be a more complex issue, as some locations consider the shoreline to be public land. This is why it’s crucial to do your due diligence in order to avoid any unwelcome surprises.

Consider How You’ll Use It
Waterfront property can vary dramatically and so too can the lifestyle that it delivers. Some homeowners prioritize a sandy beach where they can soak up the sun, while others want a deep water dock to keep their yacht in the backyard or calm, protected waters for kayaking. If you find a home where you’ll want to add a dock, make sure it’s possible to get a permit beforehand.

Extra Costs 
Living on the water is expensive. From flood insurance to pricey hurricane-proof windows, there are plenty of extra costs that come with the territory. Although a salty sea breeze is one of the perks of living on the ocean, it also takes a toll on the home and corrodes materials, which usually means extra upkeep and maintenance costs.

Work With a Waterfront Specialist
Navigating the complexities of waterfront homes can be daunting. It’s certainly important to do your own research, but as they say, you don’t know what you don’t know. For this reason, the best resource you can have is a real estate agent who specializes in local waterfront property. Someone who is familiar with both the land and regulations will be the best advocate to have in your corner when searching for the perfect new home on the water. 


Today's New Listings!

38566 Maria Dr, Willoughby

35251 Glen Kyle Ln, Willoughby Hills

7795 CHAMPAIGN Dr, Mentor

9110 Terrace Park Dr, Mentor

1619 N Shore Dr, Painesville Township

12100 Summerwood Dr, Concord

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Open Houses and Price Reduction!

Open Houses for June 7, 2020 

11130 River Rd, Chardon
Open 10:30am-5pm
$999,999
4bd 4ba
Call 440-283-7557

7940 Forest Valley Ln, Concord
Open 11am-3pm
$419,900
4bd 4ba
Call 440-413-0588

23851 Glenbrook Blvd, Euclid 
Open 12-3pm
$125,000
3bd 1ba
Call 440-344-9567

6085 Meadow Wood Dr, Madison
Open 1-3pm
$184,000 
4bd 3ba
Call 440-637-3791

4726 Brooksdale Rd, Mentor
Open 12-2pm
$131,000 
Call 330-232-2689

38902 Johnnycake Ridge Rd, Willoughby 
Open 3-5pm
$299,900 NEW PRICE!
4bd 3ba
Call 440-283-7557

4600 Anderson Rd, South Euclid
BY APPT
$300,000 
3bd 2ba
Call 440-296-5006

6752 Bayside Dr, Madison
BY APPT
$182,500
4bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

8375 Deacon Ave NW, North Canton 
BY APPT
$360,000 
2bd 2ba
Call 440-296-5006

6720 Winston Lane, Solon
BY APPT
$675,000 NEW PRICE!
6bd 6ba
Call 440-296-5006

38780 Edward Walsh Dr, Willoughby
BY APPT
$439,900 
3bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

V/L Margaret Walsh Ct, Willoughby
BY APPT
$379,900 
3bd 3ba
Call 440-296-5006

Price Reduction

279 University Ave, Painesville
$62,500 NEW PRICE!

Today's New Listings!

29034 Sherbrook Dr, Wickliffe

38084 Burrard Ln, Willoughby

5991 Halle Farm Dr #B, Willoughby

8035 Monterey Dr, Kirtland

7600 Canterwood Trl, Concord

7595 Lambton Ct, Mentor

Monday, June 1, 2020

Creative Exterior Color Schemes for Your Home

If you’re looking to boost your home’s curb appeal, consider getting creative with your exterior color scheme. From shutters to doors to railings and more, whatever style home you have can be easily updated with a touch of paint. Whether you want a pop of color or something a little more muted, get inspired by these unique, fun and creative color combinations. 

Stick to the Classics
Shades of beige, light and warm, can do wonders for a classic home. If done right, even the most basic colors can stand out. Start with a light beige on the siding and compliment with a bright white on any railings, shutters, window frames and steps. Go for a warmer brown-tone for the door, paired with a dark colored lantern as a light fixture to draw the eye to the entrance. Playing with shapes, tones and textures can heighten this color scheme. Using muted tones doesn’t have to be boring if done correctly. 

Play With Primary 
Blue, red and yellow represent each of the primary colors. Not only are they vastly different, but they also compliment each other. Though this may seem like an odd combination to put on the exterior of a home, if done right, it can provide a unique and interesting depth. Start with a deep blue coat on the majority of the house. For your pop of color, and depending on your personal style and the style of your home, add a bright red or yellow to the door. This will draw attention to the entrance. Whichever color you did not choose for the door, use sparingly for accents, like furniture, welcome mats and even potted plants.   

Warm Up With Wood
If your personal color palette leans more towards cooler tones, like different shades of gray, you can easily warm that up with wooden accents. For a more modern style home constructed out of concrete, adding stark and natural wood features creates a unique look. Brighten up your entryway with an orange-toned wooden door, complemented by wooden window frames and a matching fence. This color scheme works well with lots of greenery, heightening the natural elements in contrast to the bare-boned grays. Even adding a grass wall or vine with some hanging greenery can bring out the earthy tones in the wood and draw attention to the modern and contemporary concrete.

Today's New Listings!

7903 Gildersleeve Dr, Willoughby

6788 Waterford Ln, Mentor

8704 Prairie Grass Ln, Mentor

8237 Lake Shore Blvd, Mentor

7940 Forest Valley Ln, Concord

3576 Dayton Rd, Madison

Today's New Listings!

34645 Willow Creek Pl, Willoughby  - $399,000 1331 Bennett Rd, Madison - $329,900 7165 Hawthorne Dr, Mentor - $274,900 4423 Ashwood Ave...