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This entry was posted in Selling and buying homes in the Triangle and tagged Apex, Buyers, Cary, Durham, Flat Fee, Flat Fee Realty, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Home buying, Home selling, Houses for sale in the Triangle, Morrisville, Multiple listing service, Posted in Selling and buying homes in the Triangle | Tagged Apex home sales, Raleigh, Raleigh Home Market, Realty, The Future of Real Estate!, Three Reasons Why Fall and Winter are Great for Selling Triangle Homes, Triangle Home Market, Triangle home sales, Triangle real estate, Triangle schools.

5 Crucial Factors in Triangle NC Home Selling

April 23, 2017November 26, 2016 by imusocialmedia

vichaya-kiatying-angsulee Triangle home buyers and home sellers may find the home appraisal process somewhat confusing. Many individuals considering a change believe a real estate appraisal determines the “real value” of the home for sale. However, appraisals actually help determine the amount a Triangle mortgage moneylender will lend on a local home purchase. An appraisal too low can limit the credit extended; an appraisal too high can leave the appraiser vulnerable to issues that could hamper a purchase.

Our professional team at Flat Fee Realty understands that the appraisal process is crucial and important information. In fact, most everything involved in the process of home buying and selling depends on the all – important appraisal.

Flat Fee Realty offers five crucial factors that could make or break a home appraisal:

Assessments: There are different values for a home. The value of a house is done by a local government for tax purposes. It serves as “additional evidence” for the appraiser.
Triangle location: An appraisal may include a comparative market analysis (CMA); which looks at similar type homes, considering variables such schools, traffic patterns and other surrounding factors such as privacy and view.
Triangle real estate markets: Important factors to consider include supply and demand, and the economy of the local and national home markets. Sometimes a low appraisal is more about the challenges of a local market than the house in question.
Physical demographics: This information includes age of the structure, the square footage, the amount of bedrooms and bathrooms, the age of the roof, siding and driveway. The appraisal will also reflect the age of the HVAC system, the quality of the initial construction and the value of fixtures, such as floor coverings, and plumbing. In storm-prone areas, drainage may also be important.
Purpose of the appraisal is important. Flat Fee Realty and the seller determine the price of the home based in part from the appraisal. A Triangle buyer may need to compare home value in different neighborhoods and price ranges. Lending institutions often want an independent appraisal as well.

An experienced Flat Fee Realty agent is knowledgeable when it comes to assessing low appraisals; there are also other complex issues involved in the buying and selling of local Triangle area real estate. We provide assistance in navigating the often confusing buying or selling process. Flat Fee Realty is here to help. Give us a call with your questions today!

Have a great and joyous Holiday Season!

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

Photo: stuart miles, freedigitalphotos

3 Considerations That Help Chose the Right Triangle Real Estate Agent

November 14, 2016 by imusocialmedia

Buying or selling a Triangle home can be hectic, but finding an experienced and successful real estate agent can alleviate any additional stress! The team at Flat Fee Realty possesses local, regional, and state housing market knowledge that can help empower both home buyers and sellers to make the right choices at the right time for the best deal.

With so many options in the Raleigh area marketplace, it can be overwhelming to decide the right partnering and opportunity.

Flat Fee Realty offers three considerations to look out for when choosing a Triangle real estate agent:

Ask friends and neighbors for referrals: If a family or friend has recently sold or purchased a Triangle home, ask about their experience. Many of our Flat Fee Realty clients will likely be happy to share their experience and give some advice. Part of finding a great real estate agent is doing a bit of research, so utilizing referrals from trustworthy sources is a good way to start.
Check for licensing: Our agents at Flat Fee Realty are licensed and often hold certifications in specialized training. Realtors licensed by the state are simple to research. Also, specific certifications may hint toward expertise and fit.
Be ready to ask the important questions: After researching agents it’s best to have plenty of questions prepared for each of them to answer. Ask about current listings, market trends, and what recent homes have been listed and their selling price. This will allow buyers and sellers the opportunity so assess both commitment and experience. Flat Fee Realty agents who are chosen will be important to the transaction and will provide all the information necessary to make this important decision with all the facts.

The Triangle and Raleigh housing market is a great one and we want our clients to know what is best for them at all times. We are eager to help guide everyone through the process. Buying and selling in this hot market is what we do best!

Contact us at Flat Fee Realty today to see your home buying and selling options in the Triangle area!

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

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Three Reasons Why Fall and Winter are Great for Selling Triangle Homes

October 27, 2016 by imusocialmedia

Some people in the Triangle believe it is almost impossible to sell a home once the temperatures drop and the year approaches the New Year. At Flat Fee Realty, the Triangle’s local real estate specialists, we know that home buyers in and around Raleigh will purchase the perfect home any time of year. Homes indeed sell, and right through the winter with the right agent who helps promote and guide the real estate transaction.

From Flat Fee Realty, we present three reasons why fall and winter are two of the best seasons to list a home in the Triangle:

Higher sale prices in the Triangle: Residential properties from Apex, Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville, Holly Springs and beyond are continuing increasing in value. Sellers can find the buyers willing to pay market value, especially as we head to the holiday season and the beginning of 2017. There is great chance that people will continue to look and submit offers regardless of the season. There always is year around opportunity because of the mild winters and lack of snow. At Flat Fee Realty our team of professionals can find the perfect buyer willing to move into a new home any month in any year.
Fewer homes for sale in the Raleigh and Triangle area: Homes hold their value regardless of the month. In fact, there might be a fewer choices as well. As a very general rule, home selling and buying popularity reaches its peak in spring and into early summer. Although the quantity of homes might be less in winter than spring; there is still Triangle home selling and buying every single month of the year. It is a sellers’ market in both warmer and cooler months and homes sell in this market.
Very motivated buyers: If the market is a little smaller as the end of the year approaches, it can mean more buyers too. Many people are very motivated to get in before New Year’s Day. People are always willing to look for homes this time of year, and finding the one that meets their needs is just as important in November as it is in June. And buyers are often more qualified and interested, and willing to accept pricing. This is good news for sellers.

Of course, it is best to show a house with great curb appeal by making sure the property is cleared of leaves and the outside is neat and trim. The more natural light in the rooms, the better, and it is important to use timers and modern technology to keep the lighting pleasing after dark. Always make sure that the house is cozy and warm, with fireplace burning, to make it even more inviting. With good staging and timing, anyone can sell a home this time of year! Give us a call and we will put everything together. W are the future of real estate in the Triangle.

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

Photo: Stuart Miles, freedigitalphotos

Is Autumn the Time to Leave a Rental and Buy a Triangle Home?

October 14, 2016 by imusocialmedia

It is interesting to note that approximately one third of all single family residences are rental homes. In certain areas of the Triangle, we actually have even higher rental rates. Renting or buying is a big decision. When considering whether to purchase a Triangle home or rent one, there are many factors to consider before this important decision is made.

Our real estate experts at Flat Fee Realty work with many Triangle renters as they assess what to do. In fact, many people need just the basics from our team to understanding the advantages of owning a home.

Flat Fee Realty offers three basic yet important factors to consider when deciding to rent or to buy in the Triangle:

Financial plans: Unless something drastic is changing in the near future, such as plans to leave the Triangle area or other large purchases that need to be made; there is more to gain financially by buying a home than by renting one. Home ownership allows for mortgage reduced taxes and home appreciation.
Desire to customize: If making changes in the rental is the desire, it is probably wise to purchase a home. In rental homes, many landlords will not want any changes made. Owning a Triangle home will give the ability to make changes and the upgrades as needed.
Stability: Many first time home buyers share that they are looking for stability in their living situation. Owning a home presents a lot more stability than renting one. A new home offers sound financial decisions and a new sense of ownership and security.

There are a number of advantages to owning a new home. A few fun rewards are new furniture, energy efficiency, new neighbors, and that fresh coat of paint!

If information is needed about buying a home in the Triangle, please contact Terry McDonald and the real estate experts at Flat Fee Realty today.

The time is now to buy your new home; give us a call.

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

Photo: Clker, pixabay

4 Big Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Triangle Home

September 23, 2016 by imusocialmedia

Listing a home in the Triangle, especially after living in it for years, can be an emotional time filled with questions and memories. Many people across Raleigh now find themselves in an empty nest. What to do? At Flat Fee Realty, we understand home sellers are investing quite a bit of themselves into selling their Triangle home.

The good news is that the Triangle real estate market is very active. Many people are ready to sell, especially in this seller’s market. This is great news, but managing those memories and emotions are very important. Clear thinking, coupled with the advice of one of our experienced Flat Fee Realty agents will minimize expensive mistakes. Across the country, many sellers will make an average of up to three costly mistakes each and every transaction.

Flat Fee Realty advises against making these four big mistakes when selling a Triangle home:

Having a cluttered or completely empty house: Clutter removes space and offers a poor first impression. Clear all counter space, throw out the magazines, and declutter the closets. On the other hand, a totally empty house makes it hard to envision imagine living there; consider home staging in that case.
Using inferior, blurry, or impromptu cell phone photos: Because most Triangle home buyers start their home search online, a home should make that “oh wow!” first impression online. Flat Fee Realty will help sellers to frame the interior and exterior in the most appealing manner.
Not disclosing important information: Triangle home buyers will usually discover any issues with the house, and use anything negative for bargaining position. Disclosing everything up front about every problem is the best approach.
Not planning the closing date: The difference of one day can make a difference in taxes paid. Check with us and our team for the best closing date.

Selling a house in the Triangle is simple but it is never easy. And, at times, it can be stressful. After all, home buying and home selling are usually the largest transactions Triangle residents will ever undertake. Flat Fee Realty can help minimize mistakes when selling a local home. If you live in Raleigh, Cary, Morrisville, and Apex and beyond, call the professionals; contact the Flat Fee Realty team today! We make the difference!

We are the future of real estate in Raleigh and the Triangle.

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

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3 Huge Reasons to Buy that Triangle Dream House Now!

September 8, 2016 by imusocialmedia

The Triangle housing market has seen great growth and continued success in 2016. For instance, the average median-priced Raleigh home, which is about $150,000 value, will sell in less than 30 days. This truly indicates that Raleigh and the Triangle are seller’s market; this is also good for Raleigh home buyers who are looking to purchase their first home, or looking to sell their current home and purchase another.

For the Triangle home buyers, September and October are definitely the time to take the next step and purchase a new home.

The real estate experts at Flat Fee Realty suggest three very important reasons why the time is right to buy, and buy quickly before the end of 2016:

Demand is high: Since the Triangle area has been nationally recognized as both a great place to live and a booming economy with excellent work opportunities, new home buyers are flocking to Morrisville, Cary, Apex, and other surrounding cities to start anew. This increase in demand will lessen the supply of homes available for purchase, so buyers should act fast if they want to secure a great deal on a home. It just takes a little homework and Flat Fee Realty.
Supply is low: Home sellers are taking advantage of this higher demand, and because of this fact, there are less homes on the market and shorter selling times. Sometimes, even same day listings will see buyers prepared to make offers with pre-approvals in hand. Along with this, since the demand is higher than the supply, homes are selling at listed prices or a little higher, making negotiations a little more challenging as we work on the client’s behalf.
Mortgage rates are very good: Right now, mortgage and interest rates are extremely low, which enables Triangle home buyers to research the best rates and terms for their needs with better odds of approval. However, making a quick decision is important. Remember, after the election, rate increases can and often do happen.

These are just a few reasons why new home buyers should act now. The Triangle area is a nationally recognized location for opportunity and advancement. And we can find the dream home that will make the difference. We work for every client with both service and value combined. Contact our real estate agents at Flat Fee Realty to act now and get the best deals available!

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

Photo: Pixabay, Cliker freevectorimages

Contact Us

Terry@FlatFeeNC.com

3 Questions New Home Buyers Need to Ask Before Purchasing Anything

August 25, 2016 by imusocialmedia

Listing a home “as-is” in the Triangle real estate market is a move that definitely benefits the home seller. For buyers, this type of home means a lot of research is required in order to ensure that purchasing this particular property is a good investment. Enlisting the help of a Flat Fee Realty professional will make the opportunity easier to navigate, and we will assist with just the right questions to support a wise real estate decision.

The real estate experts at Flat Fee Realty advise Triangle home buyers to ask these three important questions when considering purchasing a home listed in “as-is” condition:

Who is the seller? This may seem redundant, but knowing who the seller is in the case of an “as-is” property is important. If the property was foreclosed on and a financial institution took over the resell, the bank might be unaware of the overall condition of the home, which may need repairs. If the current owner is selling, they may be unwilling or unable to make necessary repairs, so the negotiation process will be more challenging for both the buyer and the Flat Fee Realty agent.
What repairs are needed? Buyers are urged to use the due diligence period to their advantage. The listed “as-is” price may be intriguing, yet it’s crucial for buyers to be aware of any damage or problems that the property possesses so they can factor in the cost for repairs. Home inspections may cost some money upfront, but in the end the buyer benefits from knowing the property’s condition.
Will the seller negotiate? If inspections show that substantial work is required to make the home move-in ready, buyers should know their options for potential negotiation. The seller may indeed be incapable of making the repairs, so buyers will have to determine whether the investment is a good decision. However, if there’s room for negotiation, Flat Fee Realty in Morrisville will be able to provide guidance during the process.

Homes listed in “as-is” condition may seem like a risky investment, but armed with the right knowledge and resources, such as an agent from Flat Fee Realty, buyers will have the tools necessary to make sound decisions. Contact us today to obtain excellent counsel in the Triangle real estate market!

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only. Seek the guidance of an agent before purchasing a home.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty Morrisvillle, NC

919 342 5230

Photo: Stuart Miles, FreedigitalPhotos

3 Myths Home Buyers in the Triangle Need to Know

August 13, 2016 by imusocialmedia

The Triangle real estate market is in its summer season of growth. The market in the Raleigh, Cary, and Apex area is seeing lower interest rates and an increase in home values. Overall this means more competition among buyers and sellers alike; and with more competition, buyers should be educated and not make decisions based on common real estate myths.

Our real estate professionals at Flat Fee Realty shed some light on three common real estate myths that are associated with buying a home in the Triangle:

Down payments are the only upfront cost: Unfortunately, this is just one of several costs that come with buying a home. Between home inspections, repairs, closing costs, and realtor commissions, buyers will do well to be prepared for financial surprises. This isn’t meant to scare potential buyers away. Proper planning and enlisting the help of a buyer’s agent will benefit those who are unfamiliar with the overall process.
Excellent credit gets the deal: Although a great credit score wouldn’t hurt, the reality is that most people are building credit for the first time or rebuilding after some mishaps. The housing market will not exclude those who have average or below average credit scores. Talking with a lender about your situation will show many options such as an ARM, an FHA or VA loan, or even a fixed-rate mortgage.
Lenders with the lowest interest rates are the best choice: When the Triangle market gets competitive, buyers tends to seek out lenders who offer the best interest rates. A few percentage points could mean the difference of several thousand dollars in mortgage interest over 30 years. However, the lender with the lowest rate might have poor reviews and client service. It is important to take the time to do research and find reputable lenders with a good history and background.

As 2016 heads more deeply into the 3^rd Quarter, the Triangle housing market is sure to see some changes. Buyers and sellers must be prepared with the facts to ensure a smooth process and enjoyable buying experience. Contact our professional and friendly real estate agents at Flat Fee Realty to ensure you have the facts on your side!

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Photo: dreamstime, 18817936

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230

4 Money Tips for Home Buyers in the Triangle

July 22, 2016 by imusocialmedia

FFR Website Photo As rental prices for homes and apartments in North Carolina continue to increase, many people in the Triangle are opting to buy their first home. For new buyers, the costs associated with purchasing a home may seem financially surprising; after all it is a big commitment. Our team at Flat Fee Realty will provide the expert assistance needed, and share all the costs and considerations to make new home ownership a wonderful and exciting experience.

Our real estate professionals at Flat Fee Realty know that first-time homebuyers in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and the Triangle will need help with creating a successful game plan.

From the experts at Flat Fee Realty, follow these important money tips when preparing to purchase a home in the Triangle market.

Consider every expense: The initial costs when purchasing a home are sure to surprise the new buyer. Down payments, inspections, appraisal fees, and closing costs are expected as part of every purchase. The bigger picture includes loan interest, property taxes, maintenance, renovations, as well as homeowner’s and mortgage insurance. It can add up. Be prepared to budget accordingly to ensure financial success.
Shop for a local mortgage professional: Be diligent during this process. Mortgage lenders will often have competitive rates, so take time when researching all the options. This decision can greatly impact homeowners and budgets. For example, a $200,000 30-year mortgage at 5% will cost $386,511.57 overall, while the same value for a 15-year mortgage will cost $284,685.71.
Bundle home and auto insurance: Many insurance agencies offer discounts for home and auto packages. Shopping around and getting multiple quotes is worth the time and it will save money.
Study the Triangle market: Researching housing market trends in the Triangle area will equip home buyers with average rates for listings and selling prices. This knowledge will also empower buyers to successfully negotiate with sellers and agents if a listing price appears steep in the current market.

Flat Fee Realty understands all of the financial implications associated with buying and selling a home in the Triangle market. Let our friendly and knowledgeable real estate agents make the process less stressful and more rewarding – give us a call today to get started!

This post on selling and buying a home in the Triangle is brought to you by the team at Flat Fee Realty and is intended for informational purposes only.

The Future of Real Estate!

Flat Fee Realty

919 342 5230