Newsletter January 5, 2025

January 2025 Real Estate Newsletter | Buy and Sell with Benji | Market Updates & Tips

5 Steps to Selling Your Home for Best Price

Selling your home is more than just putting it on the market—it’s about presenting it in the best possible light to attract buyers and secure a competitive offer. Here’s a quick guide to preparing your home for sale:

  • Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter! Keep the lawn tidy, add fresh mulch, and consider simple updates like painting the front door or adding potted plants. A polished exterior sets a positive tone for buyers.
  • Declutter and Depersonalize: Create a blank canvas for buyers by removing personal items and organizing spaces. Clean, uncluttered rooms feel larger and

    more inviting.

  • Make Repairs and Updates: Address small issues like leaky faucets or chipped paint, and consider high-ROI updates like refreshing the kitchen or bathroom. A

    move-in-ready home attracts higher offers.

  • Stage for Success: A clean and welcoming space is key. Professional deep cleaning can eliminate distractions, leaving your home feeling fresh and

    well-maintained.

  • Set the Right Price: Work with a professional to price your home competitively, balancing market trends and your property’s unique features.

With thoughtful preparation, you can increase your home’s appeal, attract serious buyers, and maximize its value.

Is Winter the Perfect Time to Sell Your Home?

Have you heard the myth that winter is a terrible time to sell your home? Many homeowners delay listing, waiting for spring. But waiting could cost you time and money. Let’s bust some common myths about selling in winter and discover why it might actually be the best season to sell:

Myth 1: Nobody shops for homes during the holidays.

Truth: Winter buyers are serious buyers. Many are relocating for jobs or trying to finalize a financial move before the tax year ends. These aren’t casual lookers—they’re ready to make offers and close deals quickly.

Myth 2: Winter means lower prices.

Truth: With fewer homes on the market, competition is reduced, and your home has a better chance to stand out. Limited supply often leads to faster sales and, in some cases, even higher offers.

Myth 3: Your home won’t show well.

Truth: Winter provides a unique opportunity to make your home feel cozy and inviting. Warm lighting, a crackling fireplace, and tasteful holiday decor can create a lasting impression on buyers

Myth 4: Selling in winter is too much hassle.

Truth: Selling during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right real estate agent by your side, marketing, showings, and negotiations are handled for you, ensuring a smooth process.

Winter is far from the “dead zone” many believe it to be. Serious buyers, less competition, and the opportunity to make your home stand out all work in your favor.

Thinking about selling your home this winter? Let’s connect! I’d love to guide you through the process and help you get the best results.

Lender News – USDA Loans

Today, we are reviewing some of the features of a USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) mortgage. USDA loans are mortgages aimed at borrowers buying in eligible rural areas.

  • Minimum credit score is 620 for USDA financing.
  • Has income limits depending on the size of the household. Household income limits apply to everyone living in the household, not only who is on the loan application.
  • Property must be located in a USDA eligible area to use a USDA loan.
  • USDA loans have a 1% upfront funding fee that is financed into the loan amount as well as monthly mortgage insurance (PMI).
  • Only eligible for owner-occupied properties (no second homes or investment properties).
  • Gift funds are acceptable to assist with closing costs and prepaids.
  • Allows seller to contribute up to 6% of sales price towards closing costs and prepaid items.

Thank You!

Thank you for taking the time to read our latest newsletter. We hope you found the information valuable and insightful. Our goal is to keep you informed and empowered as you navigate the ever-changing real estate market. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply want to stay in the know, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Your real estate journey is unique, and we’re committed to providing you with personalized service tailored to your needs. If you have any questions, need advice, or are ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always just a call or email away and would love the opportunity to assist you.