The 2023 year is over.  Rates started to dip down a little bit from recent highs. Will rates come further down or will home prices come down first to help with affordability?  Changes will happen in 2024 and whether one wants to buy or sell during 2024 time frame, getting up to date knowledge is key.  In this month’s roundup there are a number of great reads from December 2023 that will help the consumer better understand the real estate market in 2024.

Q&A About Earnest Money

When buying or selling real estate there is usually earnest money involved.  In this article by Bill Gassett he provides an in-depth guide to earnest money and how it is handled.  From how the earnest money is dealt when closing to what happens with earnest money when the deal falls apart.  Both the buyer and the seller need to understand earnest money in order to best protect their interests.

Common Real Estate Myths

A myth is usually something that is not true.  When it comes to buy and/or selling a home there are plenty of real estate myths that can end up costing money.  By knowing what the truth of the matter is both the buyer and seller can protect themselves and set themselves up for success.  In this article Paul Sian covers some common myths and what is the truth of the situation.  Whether one plans on buying/selling a home or investing in real estate knowing what information is a myth can help one to avoid costly pitfalls.

Hidden Costs Homeowners May Not Know About

Owning a home is more than just a monthly mortgage payment.  In order to keep a home in livable condition and in tip top shape a homeowner needs to be saving up money for major issues and keeping up with repairs on minor issues.  In this article by Luke Skar he explores common hidden expenses homeowners may not know about.  Some hidden costs involving a home are routine maintenance that will prevent more costly problems down the line.  Other hidden costs are things like insurance, taxes, and more.

Home Seller Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to selling real estate getting things done correct from the start can be the difference between a stress-free sale or one that involves a lot of headaches.  Kevin Vitali provides twenty-three areas where home sellers can trip up on and end up costing themselves money as a result.  By avoiding these real estate selling mistakes the home seller can help ensure a successful sale during the first time on the market.  A home re-listed for whatever reason can be a red flag for some buyers. 

Decorating and Home Staging Trends for 2024

2024 is here and making sure ones’ home is up to date can help the home retain value.  Especially if one wants to sell their home then having the home shine and having recent updates will mean buyers are ready to make an offer.  Karen Highland provides twelve home staging and decorating tips that are sure to make a home shine.  Even for one not selling their home, having an updated home can lead to more appreciation by the homeowner and guests who stop by. 

Signs You Need a New Roof

A roof is one of the most important components of a home.  Any issue with the roof could result in damage to the interior of the home to the point of making the home unlivable.  A bad or very old roof can also make a home uninsurable.  In this article by Michelle Gibson she provides eight signs it is time to get a new roof. Even minor roof issues when dealt with early can save money as the longer the issue is allowed to remain the more expensive it can get be to repair.

7 Mistakes Real Estate Agents Should Avoid

Written from the perspective of a real estate appraiser, this article from Tom Horn provides seven mistakes agents make than can cause issues with their client’s transaction.  Having a real estate listing with repair/maintenance issues, using the wrong comps, failing to communicate with the appraiser and more are on the list of mistakes that agents should avoid to help their seller close on time.  Agents owe it to their client to make sure the transaction is as smooth as possible.

What other articles have you found helpful?  Please feel free to share in the comments below.

Real Estate Roundup for December 2023 was provided by Greater Cincinnati Area Luxury Realtor Paul Sian of United Real Estate Home Connections. Paul is a licensed real estate agent in the states of Ohio and Kentucky and has over 17 years of experience. Do you have a home you are ready to sell now in Greater Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky? Be sure to contact me now!