Prescott's Best Homes Real Estate Blog

March 7, 2024

Looking to Downsize?

Downsizing Your Home

Is it Time to Downsize?

Seasons change, families evolve, and our once-beloved home can start to echo with the silent footsteps of memories past. There comes a point in many homeowners' lives where the question of downsizing is not just a matter of square footage but a profound consideration of quality of life, finances, and future plans. Venturing onto the path of shrinking your residence can be as daunting as it is liberating.

If you're among the thousands of homeowners contemplating a change, let us help you with some things to consider when downsizing. We'll unravel the financial web of home equity, guide you through the practical maze of transitioning to a smaller living space, and sprinkle in some invaluable advice on making this monumental shift a smooth sail.

An article by The Balance states that: 

"There are many reasons to buy a smaller home—or to downsize from your present home—but sometimes, the idea that "less is more" is what propels homeowners to buy a smaller home."

Finding the Right Home to Fit Your Needs

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) determined multiple factors why people of retirement age choose to move. The top three reasons include:

  • Need for a smaller home.
  • Desire to be closer to loved ones.
  • And simply, retirement itself. 

When your lifestyle changes, you may also need your home to change. The Balance also determined that home maintenance is less time-consuming with downsized homes, leaving more time to spend with the people you love or exploring newfound hobbies. 

The Art of Finding Your New, Perfectly-Sized Abode

While selling your home is a process of letting go, the search for a new, downsized dwelling is one of fresh beginnings. Here, we explore strategies for finding a smaller home that meets your needs and aligns with your lifestyle.

Define Your Ideal Downsized Space

Begin by defining the parameters of your new living space. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you require? What are your must-haves and deal-breakers? Envisioning your perfect smaller home can help you focus your search on properties that suit your vision.

Factor in Location and Lifestyle

Location is critical to any real estate decision, and downsizing is no exception. Consider your proximity to family, friends, and services. Are you looking to relocate to a quieter neighborhood, a more walkable city center, or a sunny retirement community?

The Home Inspection Conundrum

When you find a prospective property, take your time with the home inspection. While downsized living often means trading in a newer, more manageable home, there can still be unforeseen issues. An inspection can reveal potential pitfalls and give you peace of mind in your purchase.

The Logistics of Downsizing

With your downsized domicile decided, it's time to tackle the logistical challenges of moving.

Sorting and Packing with Precision

Develop a systematic approach to sorting and packing your belongings, ensuring that you clearly understand what's going to your new home and what's not. Labeling boxes can be beneficial, especially if you store items until your new place is ready.

Selling and Donating

Organize a garage sale, list items for sale online, or donate to charity. These strategies can lighten your load and add padding to your financial reserves. Selling items can also be a way to fund new, downsized-appropriate replacements.

The Art of the Move

Whether you hire professional movers or undertake the move yourself, planning is critical. Ensure you have all the supplies you need, such as boxes, packing materials, and a reliable method of transport. If you hire a moving company, obtain several quotes and check their references.

Downsizing your house might seem intimidating, but it can be a great way to simplify your life and save money. By decluttering, organizing, and transitioning to a smaller space, you can enjoy all the benefits of a more minimalist existence. Whether you're an empty nester, looking to simplify your lifestyle, or retiring, downsizing can be a great option. 

If you've decided to downsize, let's connect so we can work together to find a home that matches your situation.

 

John Gorden

(928) 308-0101

Posted in Selling Your Home
Feb. 6, 2024

Prescott is Full of Fantastic Coffee Shops

Coffee Shop Prescott

Prescott Coffee Shops

 

If you love a good cup of coffee, Prescott in Arizona is bound to become one of your favorite places! With its traditional charm, Prescott offers a wide variety of independent and small business cafes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you want to cozy up with an Americano or bring some friends for espresso shots, the local coffee shops make this city unique. Read on to discover the top coffee shops around town!

 

Third Shot Coffee

3106 Gateway Blvd Suite 400 · In the Prescott Gateway Mall

https://www.thirdshotcoffee.com/

928.227.3465

Hours:

Sun - Thurs: 8 am - 4 pm

Fri & Sat: 8 am - 6 pm

 

About Third Shot

"Local Coffee + Acai near you serving 100% Organic coffee, made to order breakfast, in house baked goods and NEW Acai Bowls. Our Acai Bowls are made with an Organic Acai Fruit Soft Serve, topped with granola and fresh fruit. Great place to meet with a friend or even a larger group accessing our private meeting rooms available with schedule ahead of time. Dine in at our comfortable indoor and outdoor seating or take it to go with call ahead carryout options. An absolute Star above the Starbucks or anyone claiming to serve Acai. Make the only decision and stop by Third Shot. You will be very pleased you chose to visit our locally owned coffee shop and let our friendly Baristas treat you to the best!"

 

"Love this place! The vibe is so awesome, seriously the perfect place to really be able to enjoy a nice environment, work, read, have a meeting, anything! They have a good variety of coffee beans. Their Acai bowls are next level! Picture of their honey lavender latte that I grabbed on my way to a meeting." -- Dayana Moca

 

Wild Iris Coffee House

124 S Granite St E

https://wildiriscoffee.com/

928-778-5155

Hours:

7 am to 6 pm DAILY

 

About Wild Iris Coffee

Wild Iris Coffeehouse is Prescott's landmark coffeehouse. It is locally owned and serves fantastic coffee, loose-leaf tea, lunch fare, desserts, and homemade pastries from scratch. We are passionate about coffee and everything that goes into a complete and charming coffeehouse experience. Every day, we bake a large variety of delicious pastries and desserts using our family recipes and recipes from our bakers' and customers' families. Sandwiches, quiche, bagels, and other light fare are served for your morning, noon, and evening cravings.

 

"While searching for a cafe with gluten-free products, I found this treasure! The staff was super helpful and accommodating to recommend a yummy breakfast that addressed my food allergies. The atmosphere and vibes were so relaxing, and I loved the plants all around and organic chocolate selection. The wheat free granola was absolutely delightful. I'm returning soon for more!" -- Monica

 

The Porch

226 N Montezuma St (Downtown Prescott, at the intersection of Montezuma and Sheldon)

https://porch.coffee/

(928) 707-3163 

Hours:

Monday–Saturday 7 am–3 pm

Sunday 8 am-12 pm

+ Tues/Thurs - 6 pm -10 pm

 

About The Porch

With the intention of coffee, conversation, and community, The Porch strives to be an extension of your home and respite from daily life.

"Top notch espresso. Food quality is incredible."

– Matt F.

 

"Very friendly, warm, and the scones are to die for."

– Linda A.

 

 

Method Coffee

3180 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott

(928) 777-1067

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100051150920127

 

 

About Method Coffee

We are 100% committed to absolutely perfect coffee. Every step or decision is motivated by the quest for the best cup of coffee you've ever had. From the products and ingredients we use in our drinks to the policies and procedures we adhere to in the shop to the preparation, storage, roasting, and selection of every coffee we serve our customers, we are driven to excellence. We make coffee as good as it can be made, and we push every day to make it even better.

Opening in 2008, Method Coffee brought a brand new approach to making coffee to Prescott. Owners Rachelle and Joseph Burton have 34 years combined experience in food and beverage, specializing in coffee since 1994. After graduating from ASU and quickly tiring of the corporate world, they returned to Prescott to set up shop. With a deep background and knowledge in every step of a coffee's life, from seed to cup, Method Coffee is the result of a pure desire to bring exceptional coffee to Prescott. (all the hard work earned us Pop Rocket's Best Coffee House in Prescott 2009)

 

 

"I love coming in here. The people are always wonderful. I love a milk alternative in my coffee and have found that Macademia Nut milk is creamy, like milk and does not have a strong flavor, like soy and almond. Method is one of the only coffee houses locally that regularly stocks Macademia Nut milk. Also, if you like a creative coffee, Method has fun new drinks every month for coffee and tea." -- K. Peterson

 

Merchant Coffee

218 N Granite St, Prescott, AZ 86301 (In Founding Fathers Collective)

https://www.foundingfatherscollective.com/merchant-coffee

(928) 541-1556

HOURS

Mon - Fri 6 am - 7 pm

Sat-Sun 7 am - 7 pm

 

About Merchant Coffee

We've partnered up with Provision Coffee & Roaster out of Phoenix, AZ, to bring you some of the best specialty-grade coffee beans around today. Provision knows all the hands who help bring this responsibly-sourced coffee to you.

 

 

Absolutely love this place everything you need and more. Me being a coffee addict, they have amazing coffee. And the place is so Cali vibes. I love how they have a barber shop and coffee gym and everything all on one. Really nice place to sit and relax and study or getting things done. Nice setting area, and the people here are very nice. -- Lule

 


Curious about Prescott Real Estate, give John Gorden a call at (928) 308-0101

Posted in Prescott, AZ
Jan. 9, 2024

Reasons to Consider Multi-Generational Housing

Multi generational housing

As families grow and dynamics shift, multigenerational living is becoming more common. Multigenerational housing is where two or more generations, such as parents, children, and grandparents, live together. The reasons why families choose multigenerational living are varied, but the most common include the need for child care, elder care, and financial support. 

According to Generations United, multigenerational households rose from 42.4 million in 2000 to 64 million in 2016. More families have been making this change in recent years. 

Benefits of Multigenerational Living

Shared Expenses:  One of the most significant advantages of multigenerational living is financial stability. Living with other family members allows you to share the load for expenses like groceries, housing, utilities, and more. Especially if you're on a tight budget, multigenerational homes are a great way to save money. It also helps to reduce childcare costs if grandparents or other family members are responsible for looking after the kids. 

Shared Responsibilities: With multiple generations living in the same house, everyone can pitch in and help with household chores and responsibilities. From cooking, cleaning, childcare, or eldercare, responsibilities can be shared when you live in a multigenerational household. Sharing duties can ease the burden on one family member and make life easier for everyone. 

Strengthened Family Bond:  Spending more time with family can help to enhance relationships and create lasting memories. "While most families come together on special occasions, multigenerational families have the luxury of seeing each other daily. By living under one roof, these families develop a high level of attachment and closeness."

Ensured Family Safety:  Living with multiple generations under one roof, someone will be present if a family member has an accident. Additionally, your home will rarely be unoccupied, lowering the chance of burglaries. 

Positive Impact on Mental Health:  Research has shown that living in a close-knit community can positively impact mental health, and a multigenerational household is one way to create that sense of community. When family members live under one roof, there are way more opportunities to bond and connect. Children spend more time with their grandparents or aunts and uncles, which can help them develop close relationships. For the older generation, having family members around can reduce loneliness and isolation, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.

With the housing market in Prescott continuing to thrive, many families are looking to make their dreams of owning a home a reality. Prescott's diversity offers various real estate options, from cozy single-family homes to luxurious estates. It's the perfect time to start exploring the possibilities and finding your forever home. Contact me today, and let's make that dream a reality for your family.

Multigenerational living may only be for some, but it is an option worth considering. It provides financial stability, emotional support, and shared responsibilities, but it also comes with potential privacy and cultural issues. It is essential to approach the decision to live multi-generationally with care, openly communicate with the family members involved, and set clear boundaries right from the start. Multigenerational living can be a blessing that strengthens the family bond for years.

Whether for financial or health-related circumstances or simply because you've reached a new phase of life, you might wonder if living with multiple generations under the same roof is a good move for you.  

I would love to help you with your real estate needs, give me a call. 

John Gorden

(928) 308-0101

 

Posted in Buying a Home
Dec. 6, 2023

Steps To Avoid Media Overload

Searching Media for Real Estate

When people think about buying or selling a home, they want to be well-informed. They scour the internet for information about the housing market and want to make the right decision for themselves and their family.

 

However, it's easy to become overwhelmed with so much information available.  Below are five steps you can take to avoid becoming overwhelmed by media overload:

 

  1. Unplug from the news. It's easy to get caught up in following the latest real estate news and market trends. However, this can lead to anxiety and stress. Take a break if you get bogged down by the constant news stream. Turn off your phone and step away from the computer. Allow yourself some time to relax and rejuvenate.
  2. Create a media diet. Like you watch what you eat, you must be mindful of what you consume online. Be selective about the sources you rely on for information. Stick to reputable sources that offer accurate and up-to-date information.
  3. Set limits. Once you've created a media diet, limit the time you spend consuming real estate content. Be strict about sticking to your limit, whether it is 30 minutes or two hours a day. Limiting will help ensure you don't become overwhelmed by the constant inundation of information.
  4. Slow down to assess. Slowing down when feeling overwhelmed will allow you time to evaluate the situation and determine the best way to proceed. As Jeff Davidson suggests, "the wisest response to too much competition for your time and attention is to simply slow down to assess the best way to proceed."
  5. Talk to an expert. If you're still feeling overwhelmed, talk to a real estate professional. They can provide guidance and support throughout the process. A real estate advisor can also offer insights into the market and help you navigate the sea of information.

 

 

Don't let the plethora of seemingly conflicting information on the housing market stop you from moving forward with your life. Stay informed without sacrificing your mental health in the process. Let's get together to ensure you get the valuable counsel you need to make the right decision for you and your family.  Give me a call  John Gorden 928-308-0101

Posted in Buying a Home
Nov. 14, 2023

Mortgage Tips for the Self-Employed

self -employed mortgage tips

 

More people have become self-employed in recent years, but when looking to become a homeowner, what does that mean for securing a mortgage? Self-employed entrepreneurs are seen as a greater risk, and often, successful self-employed workers never apply because they believe they will not qualify. But don't give up on home ownership! You can take steps to boost your credibility with lenders. Here are a few tips to help you on your path to pre-approval:

 

  1. Lower your income-to-debt ratio. While a high income is excellent, your debt-to-income ratio is more important to lenders. This is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes towards debts like credit cards, car loans, and your potential mortgage payment. The lower this number, the better your chance of being approved for a loan. To lower your debt-to-income ratio, make extra monthly payments on your existing debts or consider paying off some debts altogether.
  2. Keep your personal and business accounts separate. This will make it easier for lenders to see a clear picture of your finances. Plus, it'll help you stay organized come tax time.
  3. Document everything. When you're self-employed, lenders will want to see a two-year history of your business income. Be sure to keep detailed records of your revenue and expenses. This could include tax returns, profit and loss statements, and bank statements.
  4. Deduct less on your taxes. When you're self-employed, you can deduct several business expenses from your taxes. But when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage, it's best to minimize your deductions. This will result in a higher taxable income, making you look more appealing to lenders.
  5. Register and pay yourself on a W-2 form. If you're incorporated, lenders may require that you document your income with a W-2 form. This is the same form used to report wages for traditional employees. To get a W-2 form, you must register your business with the IRS and pay yourself a salary.
  6. Work with a lender who specializes in loans for self-employed borrowers. You may have to shop around to find a lender who understands the unique challenges of financing a home when you're self-employed. But it's worth it to find someone who can help you navigate the process and get the best loan terms possible.

 

Don't get discouraged if you're self-employed and looking to buy a home. With careful planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Use these tips to make the process smoother and put you on the path to home ownership. I'd be happy to put you in touch with lenders and help you with your real estate needs!

 

John Gorden

(928) 308-0101

Posted in Buying a Home
Oct. 9, 2023

Legend Hills: Growing Prescott Valley Community

Prestigious Prescott Valley Community

The Legend Hills community, located at the base of Mingus Mountain northeast of Prescott Valley, has breathtaking views overlooking Prescott and Prescott Valley, Arizona. The growing community is located off of 89A, as if you are heading to Jerome, Arizona, just past mile marker 331.

 

As of November 2021, there are 625.95 acres of land in Legend Hills, 378 improved parcel owners, 246 unimproved parcel owners, and 151 custom homes have been built in the association.(Source LegendHills.net)

 

Legend Hills of Prescott Valley, Arizona, is a prestigious community with 2-acre minimums and immaculate homes. Legend Hills offer high-quality contemporary and ranch custom homes. Many of the homes in Legend Hills feature foam insulation in the ceiling and blown insulation in the walls making the homes very energy efficient. Other custom features include a central vacuum, custom kitchens, granite countertops throughout, tile and hardwood flooring, wood-beamed ceilings, and tile showers. You can find paver brick driveways and patios, beautiful stonework, crushed granite, and individual gates to your home on the exterior of the houses. Legend Hills also provides plenty of space for an oversized RV garage, allowing you to safely store your RV and toys. This popular community is a horse-friendly subdivision, with plenty of land for a barn and horse corrals. 

 

Enjoy stunning views of Mingus Mountain, Granite Mountain, and Bradshaw Mountain from inside your home or from the comfort of a covered patio.

 

Information regarding the Legend Hills community association can be found at LegendHills.net

 

See Homes for sale in Legend Hills

 

About Prescott Valley

 

Prescott Valley, Arizona, is a family-oriented community that sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet and is located 85 miles north of Phoenix.

 

Strong in economic development, the community attracts retailers and restaurants such as Kohl's, Dick's Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx, Sprouts, Culvers, Chick-fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings, and various independent food and shopping choices.

 

There is no shortage of places to spend your leisure time. Attractions such as Fain Park, Mountain Valley Splash Pool, and special events such as Prescott Valley Days, Balloon Glow, or the Christmas Valley of Lights will keep you entertained all year.

 

Families and retirees have chosen to buy homes and relocate to Prescott Valley because of its strong work ethic, quality educational system, family values, and great year-round weather. Can you tell that we love Prescott Valley?

Posted in Prescott, AZ
Sept. 6, 2023

What Buyer Need to Know About HOAs

If you're buying a house in an area under the protection of a Homeowners Association (HOA), there are a few things you need to know before signing the dotted line. Whether you're brand new to homeownership or want some handy tips for navigating these associations, we will explore everything related to HOAs and how they can affect your bottom line - and overall peace of mind.

 

What is an HOA?

A homeowners association is an organization that manages a community of homes. HOAs are common in condominiums and planned developments.

 

Realtor.com states, "In a nutshell, an HOA helps ensure that your community looks its best and functions smoothly…The number of Americans living in homes with HOAs is on the rise, growing from a mere 1% in 1970 to 25% today, according to the Foundation for Community Association Research."

 

What Does an HOA Do?

An HOA's primary responsibility is to maintain the community's common areas and enforce the rules outlined in the association's governing documents. This can include everything from mowing the lawn to painting the exterior of buildings.

 

HOAs may also offer amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds. Some associations even host social events for residents.

 

What are the Rules?

Each HOA is governed by a set of documents that detail the rules residents must follow. These documents can include minimum credit scores for buyers, pet restrictions, and noise ordinances.

 

It's essential to review the association's governing documents before buying a home in an HOA community to be comfortable with the rules.

 

How Much Does It Cost?

 

Homeowners need to understand that each HOA is a little different, and they usually have monthly or quarterly fees required for homeowners. These fees can vary based on the property size, the number of residents, amenities, etc. Additional fees may be charged to homeowners if the reserve fund for the HOA cannot cover a high or unexpected cost, like severe storm damage.

 

Investigating HOA fees when budgeting for your new home is essential.

 

What Are the Pros and Cons of Living in an HOA Community?

 

Like anything, there are both pros and cons to living in an HOA community. Here are some things to consider:

Pros:

  • HOAs can help maintain property values by ensuring the community looks its best.
  • Access to amenities, such as possibly swimming pools and gyms.
  • Living in an HOA community can provide a sense of camaraderie among neighbors.

Cons:

  • HOAs can be strict about enforcing the rules, which some people may find constricting.
  • HOA fees can add up, and there may be additional assessments charged if the HOA needs to cover an unexpected cost.
  • Some people may not like having their neighbors tell them what they can and cannot do.

 

Bottom Line

 

There are some great benefits to having an HOA oversee your neighborhood, and it's essential to understand what fees, structures, and regulations will come into play if there is an HOA where you'd like to live.

 

When looking at a potential property to buy, let's get together so you have a professional who can help you understand the neighborhood's HOA structure and fees. This way, you'll feel confident and fully informed when buying a home.  John Gorden (928) 308-0101

Posted in Buying a Home
Aug. 10, 2023

Williamson Valley Offers Something For Everyone


Diversity of Williamson Valley 

 

I love the diversity of the Williamson Valley area north of Prescott, Arizona. The Williamson Valley area is located northwest of downtown Prescott and offers a variety of home styles, subdivisions, and properties.

If you have any questions about homes available in Prescott, call me. I love to talk Prescott, and I love to talk real estate!

 

Below is some information and homes available at a few subdivisions in the Williamson Valley Corridor in Prescott. Get in touch with me, and I can answer your questions.

 

Crossroads Ranch

 

Crossroads Ranch, located along Williamson Valley Road approximately 20 miles north of Prescott, Arizona, is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Prescott landscape. Antelope, javelina, deer, elk, and bobcats enjoy the natural landscape and rolling hills covered with pinon and juniper vegetation. Crossroads Ranch is a 5,000-acre Equestrian Community with home sites ranging from 4 acres to 100 acres. This elite community offers country living with all the conveniences of modern living, including underground utilities and paved streets. Homes in Crossroads Ranch range from modern ranch homes with fertile pastures to incredible gated Custom Estates. There are many parcels still available to build your dream home.

 

Homes for Sale in Crossroads Ranch


Williamson Valley Ranch

 

Williamson Valley Ranch in Prescott, Arizona, is a prestigious, private neighborhood conveniently located ten miles north of Prescott. The unique equestrian subdivision features beautiful, custom homes. Many homes are exclusively solar; some are contemporary, while others are classic ranch style. Homes range from 1100 sq ft to over 6000 square feet, with lots ranging from 3 to 8 acres. There is plenty of room for the kids, toys, and horses! In Williamson Valley Ranch, you’ll enjoy country living at its finest complete with paved roads, underground utilities, and riding and hiking trails nearby.

 

Homes for Sale in Williamson Valley Ranch


Granite Oaks

 

Granite Oaks in Prescott, Arizona, is located at the base of the Granite Mountain in the Williamson Valley corridor, near Williamson Valley Road and Bard Ranch Road. The subdivision of upscale custom homes borders the state land and has access to acres and acres of endless riding and hiking trails. The home sites range from 1 to 3 acres offering lots of privacy and horse privileges. Residents love enjoying country living while living only a few miles from downtown Prescott.

 

Homes for Sale in Granite Oaks


Talking Rock

 

Talking Rock is an upscale master-planned golf community in the Williamson Valley corridor north of Prescott, Arizona. This prestigious community offers private and tranquil living only twenty minutes from shopping, dining, and medical services. At the heart of Talking Rock is the inviting Ranch Compound, a one-of-a-kind clubhouse that provides a place to meet for recreation and connect with your neighbors. Architect Jay Morrish designed the highly acclaimed golf course, which lies perfectly in the land's natural contours, the rolling terrain, and the beautiful vistas.

 

Homes for Sale in Talking Rock


 

Call me and we can talk about what you are looking for! 

 

John Gorden

928-308-0101

Posted in Buying a Home
July 11, 2023

Save Money on your Heating or Cooling Bills

 

 

As a homeowner, you are always looking for ways to save money. Your heating and cooling bills can be a large part of your monthly expenses, so finding ways to reduce those costs can significantly impact your budget.

 

5 Energy Saving Tips

 

1. Programmable Thermostat:  Installing a programmable thermostat can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by allowing you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can select the temperature to lower when you are asleep or out of the house and rise when you are home and awake.

 

2. Seal Those Leaks: On average, heating and cooling account for almost half of a home’s energy consumption. One way to reduce energy loss and save money on heating or cooling bills is to weatherstrip your doors and windows. Weatherstrip will help to keep the cool or warm air inside your home and prevent it from escaping. (Tip: Take simple steps like caulking windows, sealing leaks around chimneys and recessed lighting, and sliding draft guards under your doors to save up to 20% on heating costs.) The minor leaks can be equivalent to leaving open a 3-foot-by-3-foot window.

 

3. Change Your Air Filters Regularly: Another way to save money on your heating and cooling bills is to maintain your HVAC system. This means having it regularly serviced and changing the air filters as needed. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and make your system work harder, which uses more energy and drives up costs.

 

4. Utilize Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate the air in your home, making it feel cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Fans can help you reduce your reliance on your heating and cooling system and save you money.

 

5. Be Mindful of Your Lighting: In the winter, take advantage of natural daylight by opening blinds and curtains during the day. In the summer, do the opposite and close them to keep the heat out. And no matter what time of year it is, use energy-efficient lighting whenever possible. LEDs are a great example of how innovation and technology can make your life easier. They last 25 times longer and consume up to 90 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs. (Tip: By switching five of your home’s most frequently used bulbs with ENERGY STAR® certified LEDs, it’s possible to save $75 on energy costs annually.)

 

APS (Arizona Public Service) also provides helpful power-saving tips on their website: APS.com

 

By making a few upgrades to your home, you’ll save on your utility bills and improve your home’s energy efficiency. When you’re ready to sell your house, these key features will make it even more attractive to potential buyers. Call me at 928-308-0101 when you are ready to discuss what buyers want regarding energy efficiency options in our area.

Posted in Home Maintenance
June 7, 2023

How to Fulfil the Dream of Owning a Home

Buying a home

 

 

Homeownership is the American Dream. Owning a home gives us confidence, but mainly, and is a place that provides security and safety or an area to grow a family. 

 

As a trusted real estate advisor, I want to make the dream of home ownership come true. The first hurdle many face is knowing where to start the process.

 

Where Do I Start?

 

There is a list of questions to get you started when you decide to buy a home.

 

  • How much space do you need?
  • Will this be a short-term starter home or a "forever" home?
  • What is your ideal commute?
  • How much can you spend?
  • Which neighborhood?
  • Do you need to evaluate nearby schools?

 

Apply for a Mortgage

 

Next, you need to apply for a mortgage. Lenders will examine multiple factors, including your credit history, to determine how much you can borrow. They will look at your history of paying and managing your car loans, student loans, credit cards, and other debts.

Freddie Mac states to determine what you can afford, "you should spend no more than 28% of your monthly gross (pre-tax) income on your mortgage payment, including principal, interest, taxes and insurance."

 

Saving for a Down Payment

 

Saving for a down payment doesn't have to be daunting. There are multiple tips to help you:

 

  • Automatic Savings: Business Insider suggests making an automatic percentage of your paycheck direct deposit it into a savings account set aside for your down payment. They state that "the automatic-savings strategy makes it so you don't have to constantly remember to save money."
  • Learn where your money goes:  Monitor your current spending to determine where you can trim the fat from your budget.
  • Create a Goal: Talk to an agent or lender to determine how much you need to save and work towards that goal.

 

How Do I Budget and Determine Where My Money Goes

 

MoneyFit.org is an online budgeting worksheet that can help you stick to a planned budget and increase your savings.

 

They recommend these five rules: 

  • Identify Goals
  • Record Expenses
  • Record Earnings
  • Compare and Calculate
  • Fix Weak Spots

 

There are several benefits to buying a home, including an increase in equity and confidence, but more importantly, a home is a place that provides safety and security.

 

If you plan to buy a home, I encourage you to seek help. When it comes to buying a home, knowledge is power! I am very familiar with the market and trends in selling and purchasing properties in the Quad Cities area. 

 

John Gorden
928-308-0101

Posted in Buying a Home