Fall is here!

With the heat wave in Philadelphia last week, I was getting nervous I'd have to unpack my flip flops and shorts! But luckily- fall has arrived.

With the colder months, there are some things you should do inside and outside of your home to ensure you're maintaining it properly.

Outside:

• Take a look at your trees. Alison Pottage with SaveATree throughout the Main Line area of Philadelphia says 'Preventative pruning and tree evaluations before the winter or any storms gives your landscape and trees the best chance to make it through unscathed for all to enjoy in the spring.' Get more tree tips at their website http://www.savatree.com/tree-hazards.html
• Now is the perfect time to seed your lawn. With the temperatures in 50's, it's the ideal time for roots to grow
• Fertilize before the first frost to preserve your grass
• Mulch in Fall and Spring- grind some fallen leaves and add to your mulch for extra nutrients 

Inside:

• Save on energy costs by fixing those drafty windows and doors. Apply weather stripping or rope caulk  along window sashes. Add draft snakes to the bottom of your doors and windows- cheap and quick fix!
• Have your annual inspection of the fireplace before it's used. Remember to close the damper when chimney is not use to keep warm air inside!
• Schedule your furnace tune up. Think about getting a service contract so they keep track of your yearly maintenance and tune ups. 

Houselogic.com has put together a nice Northeast seasonal maintenance checklist:

http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/maintenance-repair/fall-winter-seasonal-maintenance-guide-northeast/

First Timers

What makes you want to own a home?
Tired of paying someone else mortgage?
Hate moving every year?
Want to build equity?
Low interest rates?

Whatever the reason, it's important to have a clear idea of the pros and cons of being a homeowner to ensure you're making the right decision.
Jumping into the real estate market because people on t.v. tell you it's a good time, isn't the best idea. It has to be the right time for YOU. The market conditions or interest rates shouldn't be the main reason to make such a big purchase. You have to be ready to be a homeowner and everything involved with that. Although, with the current rates and sale prices, buying a home should be something to seriously think about right now.

Some things to consider:
How long to you intend to be in the area
How much money do you have saved
- Downpayment
- Closing Costs
- Emergency fund
Are you prepared to fix things yourself, not rely on a landlord
You will save money at tax time through mortgage and property tax deductions
You can paint walls, change flooring, add a deck, essentially do what you want because it's YOURS
Where do you want to live? Can you afford that area right now?
When do you want to be in a new home

Take a minute to write down (with your significant if applicable) the reason(s) why you want to own a home and if you're financially and emotionally ready.
If you have questions about financing or the local market, consult with a mortgage and real estate professional. We are here to answer questions and help!
Good luck!

Monday Morning Market update

August real estate reports show continued rise in sales and prices. "Existing-home sales increased in August and reached the highest level in six-and-a-half years, while the median price shows nine consecutive months of double-digit year-over-year increases, according to the National Association of Realtors®."

The lack of inventory isn't only in the Philadelphia area either. Data from realtor.com, NAR’s listing site, shows large declines in inventory from a year ago in Naples, Fla., down 23.5% ; the Detroit area, down 23.3%; and the greater Boston area, down 20.7%. 

For more details click here

Thinking about moving UP? It may be a good time to make a move

"Housing demand by trade-up buyers is rising as the home equity available to these prospective buyers is improving as foreclosures sales decline nationwide and are in high demand in many fast-rising markets" According to a recent Real Estate Economy Watch article.
"...higher home prices are bringing out trade-up demand from existing homeowners who are experiencing rising home equity, which supports a down payment on their next bigger house."

www.realestateeconomywatch.com

If you are curious what you're home is worth in today's market and what you could afford to purchase, contact me (or any Realtor) for guidance. I can provide the necessary information to make the best decision for you and your family.