Remodeling magazine produces an annual "Cost vs. Value Report'' that answers just that question. The most important point to remember is that remodeling a home not only improves its livability for you but its curb appeal with a potential buyer down the road.
Most recently, the highest remodeling paybacks have come from updating kitchens and baths, home-office additions and extra amenities in older homes.
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Buying a Kalamzoo, MI home - The Offer is Accepted...What NOT to do Now
1) : You've made the offer on a home for sale in Kalamazoo MI.It was accepted. Maybe the seller didn't even counter-offer. They simply accepted your offer. You've almost bought the home you've chosen. Then, later that night, or the next day, or the next, you start worrying. Did I make a good decision? Can I afford it? What if this happens? What if that happens?
This is a normal reaction. It is called buyer's remorse. Almost every Kalamazoo home buyer experiences it, especially first time home buyers. It's a big decision and it's natural to second-guess yourself.
The best way to handle buyer's remorse is to take out a sheet of paper and draw a line down the center. On one side, list all the positive things about buying this home. On the other side, list all of the negatives. You will very likely come to realize that buying this home is a good decision. Remember how you felt when you first walked in the door of the house? It probably felt right. That was a positive emotional reaction. What you may be experiencing now is a temporarty negative emotional reaction that will pass. Unless there is a new issue or new information that has come to light, you should attribute your feelings to simple anxiety or stress over making a big decision.
2) Shopping Spree: Buyers are sometimes so excited about their new home that they go out and order new furniture, appliances, window treatments, and sometimes even a new car! People get excited about buying their new home in Kalamazoo. I had one client who went out and purchased a $10,000 lawn tractor on credit. He figured he was going to need it and he could afford it, but this type of thing can create havoc with your credit and debt ratios that lenders look at to approve your loan. Sometimes excessive purchases can cause the lender to reduce the amount of your loan, placing your home purchase at risk. Postpone additional shopping until after closing. Once you have moved in and are settled, you can start thinking about all the amenities and extras to make the new house your home.
So to summarize #2, When buying homes for sale Kalamazoo MI, you should avoid until after closing the following; opening new credit accounts, buying anyhing on credit of any significant amount, changing your savings or checking account, changing where you bank, and depositing or withdrawing large sums of money into your accounts.
But you should: continue to pay your bills on time and of course you really should keep your job!
The top choice for information regarding homes for sale in Kalamazoo MI, home buying tips for Kalamazoo area homebuyers, selling a home in Kalamazoo MI or investing in Kalamazoo real estate, visit http://www.HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in Kalamazoo.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Making an offer on a Kalamazoo MI home for sale - Kalamazoo Home Buyer Tips
The smoothest transactions are transactions with a win-win outcome
Both the buyer and the seller feel good about the transaction and everybody feels they have been treated fairly. As a buyer of a home in Kalamazoo MI, wouldn't it be nice to be able to call the previous owners with questins you may have about the operation of a mechanical component of the house? You might have a question about an appliance warranty expiration. It's always nice to be able to call and ask questions of the previous owner and be received warmly.
One of the best reasons to work with a buyers agent when purchasing a home for sale in Kalamazoo is that the buyers agent represents you and negotiates on your behalf. Agents act as buffers between each party, minimizing the emotions of the buyer and seller. If you've ever been involved in a real estate transaction, you know that emotions can rise to the surface quite readily.
When you make an offer, the seller can accept, decline, or counter it. The best tips to ensure that your offer is accepted include:
* Be pre-approved by a lender. This strengthens your position.
* Provide a substantial deposit. This shows you are serious about the property. This deposit is known as "Earnest Money" or "Good Faith Deposits" . They are not a charge or a fee. The deposit is credited to your downpayment or closing costs. Naturally, if your offer isn't accepted the deposit is returned to you.
* Limit your contingencies to those important to you, such as financing, inspections, and the sale of your current home if necessary. The cleaner the offer, the more likely it is to be seriously considered. This is especially true if you are offering less than list price.
* I'll help you create the offer including the amount. If your offer is too low, the seller may not even consider countering your offer. If your offer is too high, well then you may end up paying more for the house than you need to pay. In this buyers market we are in here in the Kalamazoo MI area, homes will often sell for considerably less than the list price. You want to balance your desire for the home vs. your desire to pay as little as possible for it. Be ready to pay a bit more for a home you REALLY want, especially if you expect to live there more than a couple of years!
My goal as your Kalamazoo area real estate agent is to get you the best home for you with the best terms possible. I will negotiate on your behalf, working hard to help you get what you want and what you need.
The top choice for information regarding homes for sale in Kalamazoo MI, home buying tips for Kalamazoo area homebuyers, selling a home in Kalamazoo MI or investing in Kalamazoo area real estate, visit http://www.HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in Kalamazoo.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Use Your Crystal Ball of Housing - Kalamazoo Home Buyers Plan Ahead
It may sound crazy to suggest that as you start looking for a new home,
you probably should also be considering your NEXT home.
But it is always wise to shop for a new home with an eye on potential resale value.
No one has the crystal ball of housing, but here are some basics to keep in mind:
* Views: Homes with a view often sell for a premium. If a view is important to you, buy it for your own pleasure. You may place a certain dollar value on the view; but when it comes time for you to sell, you may find that not all buyers are like-minded.
* Lot Size and Shape: Level or rectangular lots are the most desirable. Expect a discounted price when you buy if you chose a house on a steep lot. With all the snow we get in Kalamazoo MI, you'll find a steep driveway to be a real challenge during our Michigan winters. That discounted price works both ways remember. When you sell your home, on the hill with the steep driveway there will be many buyers who will rule it out for that very reason. Significant investments in landscaping may not pay themselves back upon resale. As a buyer, you shouldn't pay a big premium for someone else's landscaping efforts on their Kalamazoo home.
* Neighborhoods: Houses will vary in size from neighborhood to neighborhood. The best advice always is to purchase a smaller home in a nicer neighborhood. Buying what you need in a more prestigious neighborhood may prove later to be a better investment, compared with buying something bigger and fancier in a less desirable neighborhood. Let the neighbors house bring your value up, not the other way around. Kalamazoo real estate is no different than any other real estate...remember the 3 rules: Location, location, location.
* Closets: Walk-in closets are very desirable, especially in the master bedroom. Closet and storage space is always an issue and often a critical criteria for Kalamazoo area home buyers..
* Kitchens and Baths: A spacious, updated kitchen is among the most important features in a home. Updated baths are also important and usually one of the best remodeling investments a Kalamazoo home seller can make..
* Garages: These add resale value. If most of the houses for sale in the price range you're considering have 2 car garages, you should have a VERY good reason before you buy a home for sale in Kalamazoo MI with a 1 car garage, or no garage at all.
* Backyard Features: Decks and patios generally yield almost a dollar-for-dollar return. But swimming pools do not provide much added value in many parts of the country. Generally, inground pools and fireplaces are considered to be some of the lowest payback investments in remodeling a home. If you're going to install a pool or a fireplace in your Kalamazoo home, be aware that you are SPENDING the money, not investing it.
To get started on your search for a new home in the Kalamazoo area, you should complete the form below to receive a comprehensive list of homes for sale that match your criteria. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have and show you properties that meet your needs.
The top choice for information regarding homes for sale in Kalamazoo MI, home buying tips for Kalamazoo area homebuyers, selling a home in Kalamazoo MI or investing in Kalamazoo area real estate, visit http://www.HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in Kalamazoo.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Kalamazoo Area Home Buying - Don't Overlook the Obvious
There is so much more to fining the ideal home than deciding how many bedrooms and baths you'll need. Below are some more criteria you should seriously consider when shopping for your Kalamazoo MI area home.
* The commute to work: How quickly can you get to and from work? How much traffic will you encounter during the prime commuting hours on the weekdays or around shopping areas and sporting events on the weekends? Do you need access to public transportation?
* School districts: If you have school-age children or are planning to have children, then consider the proximity of local public and private schools.
* Access to shopping: How accessible is the nearest grocery store? How close are prime shopping areas?
* Utilities: Is there an adequate supply of water and electric power? Are there natural gas lines available? And don't forget access to cable or high-speed Internet!
* Public safety: How close are police and fire departments? How are the emergency medical services? Is distance to the nearest hospital important to you?
* Parking: What is the parking situation? What size garage do you want? Do you have space to accommodate guest parking? Is street parking available? What about the lawn tractor? Is the yard so big you'll need or want big lawn mower or tractor? Is there somewhere to put it?
* Recreation Areas: Do you have recreational interests to factor into your home search? How close is the nearest park, lake, beach, or ski slope? If you are moving to a new community, you may want to check out playgrounds, parks and fitness centers.
All of these factors contribute to a quality of life that will affect your enjoyment of your new home. Consider the lifestyle you want and the area amenities that are important to you. The perfect house in a neighborhood that doesn't suit you will never feel like home.
When you are ready to purchase a home, I welcome the opportunity to help you. I will be happy to answer any questions about the amenities in your desired neighborhoods. Please feel free to call or email me at any time.
The top choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Kalamazoo Area Home Buying - Where To Start The Process? Where Do I Get Information?
You're ready take advantage of the buyers market we have here in the Kalamazoo MI area. You're going to grab the lowest mortgage interest rates we've seen in years, and you're ready to begin the hunt! Good for you! Those that aren't taking advantage of this market will very likely look back and say "I could've bought that house for only......."
You may already have a good sense of what you are looking for in your next home. But a big obstacle to purchasing the new one can be coming up with the down payment. Most lenders require buyers to include a portion of their own funds—the down payment—toward the purchase of the home.
Saving for a down payment can be one of the most challenging steps in buying a home, particularly if it is your first home. Your down payment plus your pre-approved loan amount will determine how much home you can afford. A down payment can come from many places: savings, investments such as stocks and bonds, gifts from relatives, company bonuses, equity in other assets, tax returns, and life insurance policies, to name a few. But there may be home mortgage alternatives that do not require a down payment.
If you currently own a home, then you may want the equity you have built in that house to serve as the down payment on your next home. But how much is your current home worth? I would be happy to provide you with a market analysis of your home so that you will know its current value.
If you provide me some basic information on your home, I will use it to establish a list of comparable properties in your area. This will give you a range of prices at which your home would be expected to sell. Then I can prepare a more precise and thorough valuation by taking a brief look at your home.
Please call or email me if you are interested in a market valuation of your current home or if you would like more information on financing options.
If you don't have a home to sell before you buy, then it's time to begin the researh and it's time to begin asking yourselves questions.
For example, WHERE do you want to live? Is the school district important? How MUCH do you want to spend? Questions like that are often the first step in the decision process.
This whole process begins with information. Feel free to contact me and I will be happy to provide you with the information you need to get started on your way to owning a home in Kalamazoo, Portage, or anywhere in SW Michigan.
The top choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
When Your Move is Over - Save Your Kalamazoo Real Estate Transaction Records
When the move is over and you have unpacked all those boxes,
and things have calmed down abit, you'll finally be able to relax and enjoy your new home.
While you're unpacking, it's a good idea to make sure you have your transaction records in a safe place where you will be able to find them.
You'll want to keep these records for tax purposes.
You'll need to securely store: * Closing statements * Property deed * Receipts for home improvements * Warranty information * Loan papers * Insurance policies
If you can't seem to FIND some of the documents that were directly involved with the purchase or the sale of your property, call your real estate agent.
They should be able to arrange for copies to be sent to you.
The top choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in Kalamazoo area real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Home for sale in Kalamazoo MI - Milwood Neighborhood - Immediate Occupancy
Conveniently located between Portage MI and downtown Kalamazoo MI is the Milwood neighborhood.
At 1614 Cambridge is a wonderful 2 bedroom Cape Cod style home available. In move-in condition, this home boasts hardwood floors in top shape, plaster walls, a full basement with a recreation room and a one car garage.
The backyard is fenced to allow your children and pets to play safely under your watchful eye.
Loaded with charm and priced to sell at only $75,900, this home is available for immediate occupancy and is in move-in condition.
Representing YOU when you are ready to buy a home in the Kalamazoo Area - Home Buyer Tips
When you find the right home,I can represent you and negotiate on your behalf.
My goal is to help you buy the right home for you at a very fair price.
When you make an offer, the seller can: * Accept it * Reject it outright or even ignore it if the offer does not meet the specifications in the listing * Counter it with different price and/or terms
Here are some tips to help you get your offer accepted in any market:
* Pre-approval: Make sure you have been pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. * Strong deposit: Provide a substantial earnest money deposit. This is "good faith" money or "earnest money" and shows the seller you are serious about purchasing the home. More is better than less. * Contingencies: Limit the number of contingencies; include only the ones you really need, like financing and an inspection, which are typical contingencies.
It's my job to answer any questions you might have about making an offer, negotiating, or the buying process. If I'm working for you as your Realtor, it's my job to represent your best interests, and that includes taking as long as it takes to make sure you understand the process and are comfortable with your decision.
I will work diligently to help you find and purchase your new home. Call or email me when you are ready to take the next step.
Your best choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Kalamazoo Real Estate - Home inspections and lender appraisals
Many people ask me about the difference between a property appraisal and a home inspection,
and how each is used during the home buying process.
An appraisal is a formal assessment of the value of a home or property. When you are financing your home purchase, the lender usually requires an appraisal to determine the value of the property in order to make sure the loan amount does not exceed the value of the property being sold. An appraisal isn't neccesariy a determination of the market value. It is usually more of a justification for the lender to verify that the property is worth at least the amount of the loan. That's why the first thing an appraisor asks for is a copy of the purchase agreement. Even though you as a homebuyer are paying for the appraisal, it is the lender that is requiring it and the lender that orders the appraisal. Therefore, the appraisor is working for the lender, not you the homebuyer.
An inspection is an assessment of the systems and structural integrity of the property. It's normally ordered and paid for by the buyer at the time of inspection to find any hidden problems with the property. An inspection is often written into the Purchase Agreement as a condition of the sale. In other words, if a defect is discovered during the inspection, especially one that relates to health or safety, you as the home buyer may want to walk away from the purchase or have the seller address the defect. Unlike the appraisor, the home inspector IS working for you. If you've chosen a good one, the information they provide can be very valuable. It's always a good idea to attend an inspection of your home. Plan on at least a couple of hours for a thorough home inspection. It can save you time if your home inspector is also a certified pest inspector.
Unlike the appraisor, the home inspector does not care about any upgrades to the property, the quality of the neighborhood, the popularity of the school district, etc. The home inspector only cares about the structure and the systems of the house.
For most single family homes you should expect to pay around $300 for your appraisal. Your home inspection will cost about the same amount.
Please email or call me if you would like additional information or names and contact information of reputable local home and/or pest inspectors. I'm happy to help and will be happy to share the names of home inspectors that I believe do a good job.
Your best choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Homebuying Choices in Kalamazoo - New Home or Resale?
One of the first decisions many homebuyers have to make when buying a home in Kalamazoo, MI is whether to buy a brand new house or a previously owned home.
Here's a comparison of some advantages to each choice:
New house: Modern floor plans that could include a "great room," bigger closets, more baths, etc. The opportunity to choose upgrades and customize floor coverings, colors and more More energy-efficient insulation, windows and heating/cooling systems The added protection of a warranty from the home builder
Resale home: Existing features, including window treatments and mature landscaping Location -- existing homes are often closer to metropolitan areas Established neighborhoods that provide a sense of community The opportunity to use an existing home as a base to remodel and create a unique property
If you would like additional information on new homes in the Kalamazoo area OR existing homes in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR are ready to look at homes, please call or email me. I would be happy to help you!
Your best choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Condos are a popular option because they are often more affordable, require less maintenance, landscaping is done for you and the household chores list is generally smaller. Condos can suit busy lifestyles, and serve well as a first home or downsizing from a larger house. Here are some differences to consider:
Condos *There are usually fewer maintenance requirements. * They can be less expensive than a single-family home. * You own the space between the walls. * There may be more security with neighbors close by. * The exterior of the building, landscaping, surrounding roads, driveways and common areas are owned by the condo association, a group made up of all unit owners. * Special assessments by the association for painting or repairs can add significant expense.
Single-Family Homes * They usually offer more storage space. * You own the interior as well as the exterior. * You have to do the maintenance, landscaping and repairs. * Unless you live in a gated community, you don't have condo association dues. * You don't have to worry about special assessments. * You have room to grow plants, flowers, trees, a vegetable gardern, etc.
Consider how your household may change over the next few years. Will you have enough space in a condo? Or will you be happier in a house with room for a garden?
There are a number of wonderful condominium choices in the Kalamazoo area. Parkview Hills, Quail Run, The Cloisters, Highpointe, Kenbrook Ct, Briarwood, Cherry Knoll, Forest Glen, The Marlborough, The Harbors, Bronson Woods, Liesure Pointe, Danford Creek, Pheasant Run, Hunters Place, Pines of Portage, Sterling Oaks, to name just a few of the condo choices in Kalamazoo and Portage, MI.
As your real estate specialist, I would be happy to discuss your options and show you what's available that best suits your lifestyle. Please don't hesitate to call or email me if you would like to get together to discuss your choices.
Your best choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
Buying a Kalamzoo, MI area home - First time buyer home buying tips
When you're thinking about making a move, the first steps in the home buying process are:
* Deciding when you want to make your move * Considering how much money you would like to spend * Thinking about what type of home you would like * Deciding where you would like to live
The next step is usually finding out how much you can qualify for and deciding the type of financing that will work best for you.
If you're in the "thinking about it" stage, you will want to speak with a lender about receiving pre-qualification. If you choose to become pre-qualified, the lender will determine how much you can borrow based on financial information you provide to the lender. Pre-qualification is useful for making preliminary decisions about how much home you can afford, but does not assess your creditworthiness. You will need to fill out a loan application and go through the lender's loan approval process at a later date.
When you decide to buy a home, you will want to become pre-approved for a loan prior to beginning your home search. When you are pre-approved, the lender conducts a thorough credit check and verifies your employment and deposit. The lender's pre-approval is a commitment to loan up to a certain pre-determined amount. The only thing missing is the lender's appraisal of the home to confirm its value.
Pre-approval is much better to have than a simple pre-qualification.
Pre-approval strengthens your offer and negotiating position. A home seller will often choose an offer that is pre-approved for a mortgage over someone whose financial picture is still in question.
Please don't hesitate to call or email me for additional information about the buying process.. My goal is to provide you with practical information as you consider your next move. And, when you're ready to make your move, I'll help you find your dream home and handle all the details of the transaction, so all you need to do is pack!
Your best choice for information about buying a home in the Kalamazoo, MI area OR selling a home in SW Michigan or investing in real estate, visit http://HomesofSWMichigan.com. We've worked hard to make our website user-friendly AND comprehensive. You'll even find a very easy system to search the Kalamazoo area MLS for homes for sale in SW Michigan.
If you or someone you know are in need of a competent and caring real estate professional in or near Kalamazoo MI, I hope you will contact me.
An impound account is a trust account established by the lender to hold money to pay for real estate taxes, and mortgage and homeowners insurance premiums as they are received each month.
Where can I learn more about appealing my Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan property taxes?
Contact your local Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan tax assessor's office to see what procedures to follow to appeal your property tax assessment. You may be able to appeal your assessment informally. Mostly likely, however, you will have to go through a formal tax-appeal processes, which begin with an appeal filed with the appropriate assessment appeals board.
Are Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan property taxes deductible?
Property taxes on all Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan real estate, including those levied by state and local governments and school districts, are fully deductible against current income taxes.
What tax benefits are there toKalamazoo & Portage Michigan area homeowners?
Homeowners benefit from several generous tax advantages. The most important benefit is the mortgage interest deduction. People may deduct interest paid on mortgage loans totaling up to $1 million used to buy, build or improve a principal residence plus a second home. The IRS calls such loans acquisition debt.
Points paid by the buyer or seller on a new mortgage loan for the purchase or improvement of a principal residence are deductible for the year in which the home was purchased.
Any points paid on a refinance mortgage, a loan to purchase a second home or a mortgage on income property must be spread over the life of the loan, according to Edith Lank and Miriam S. Geisman, authors of "Your Home as a Tax Shelter," Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1993.
If you are a Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan buyer, and you or the seller pays points, they are deductible for the year in which they are paid only. You also can deduct any points you pay when you refinance your Kalamazoo & Portage Michigan area home, but you must do so ratably over the life of the loan. Consult your tax or financial advisor.
Buyers 
One of the first decisions many homebuyers have to make when buying a home in Kalamazoo, MI is whether to buy a brand new house or a previously owned home. 
