Open house spelled out in corkboard

Unveiling the complexities and truths behind one of real estate's time-honored practices, our focus turns to open houses. Are these events essential to house selling? They frequently find themselves entangled in questions regarding their efficacy. Our exploration offers enlightening perspectives for both buyers and sellers as we dissect what really occurs during these property viewings—thought of as a long-time pillar within the realm of real estate.

Do Open Houses Actually Sell Homes?

Many home sellers believe that having open houses on their property is a great way to get their homes sold. When I first started in real estate in 1983, it was stated that only 1% of homes ever get sold via an open house. Some years later I read an article…

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15 Tips for Furnishing Your Home on a Budget

15 tips for furnishing your Scottsdale home on a budget

As we look ahead to 2024, many of us are seeking ways to create stylish and comfortable living spaces without breaking the bank. Furnishing a home can be a daunting and expensive task, but with a little creativity and smart shopping, you can achieve the look you desire at a fraction of the cost. Here are some budget-friendly tips to help you furnish your home in 2024.

Stepping into your new place feels exciting, right? But let's be honest – thinking about decorating without spending a fortune might seem overwhelming. No need to worry though! You don't have to splash out loads of cash for that snug and unique vibe you're after. We've got some clever tricks up our sleeve for picking pieces that look…

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A row of mailboxes - welcome to your new Scottsdale home

Moving to a new area can feel like being the new kid in class. It's super important to find your place in this new environment if you want that cozy "I'm home" feeling. That's where the magic of building community kicks in—it turns those strangers down the street into good pals and weaves local ties that make you feel secure and part of the neighborhood. By hitting up some neighborhood get-togethers or just hanging out with folks nearby, you'll learn nifty ways to become part of your new local scene’s tapestry. Get ready for an exciting ride as you transform where you live into a buzzing spot filled with friendship and backing from all corners!

My husband Jimmy is a social butterfly. He usually gets to know our neighbors as soon as we move in. One…

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small black dachshund dog in a moving box to symbolize relocation with pets

Relocating can be a complex process, especially when pets are involved. After Arizona's best real estate agents help you find a new home, it's time to pack and plan for a smooth transition for your furry friends. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential steps to ensure a stress-free relocation with pets, helping you and your pets easily adjust to the new environment.

Pre-Relocation Planning

Proper planning ensures a smooth transition for you and your pets when moving to Arizona. If you are relocating from a place like Florida, the long-distance move can be quite an undertaking, but with careful preparation, you can minimize stress for both you and your pets. Start by researching Arizona’s climate, as it differs…

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What is the Actual Value of Your Home? Find Out What Buyers are Willing to Pay in Today’s Market

Scottsdale townhomes with a beautiful sky background

It’s simple to check the amount of money in your savings account or the current value of your stock investments. Determining the value of a home is more complex than checking a bank balance or stock price. For sellers, accurate pricing is crucial to avoid prolonged market listings or undervaluing their property.

Understanding the value of your home helps you set the right price when you list it for sale. If you price it too high, it might linger on the market. Even though the Phoenix market is still bustling, some areas are facing more competition with other sellers and if they price their place too high in comparison, their home could remain on the…

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Mid-year market update for Scottsdale real estate

It was thought that mortgage interest rates would settle around 6% around this time. But midway through 2024, the Federal Reserve's plan for rate cuts has been delayed due to persistent inflation, maintaining the average 30-year mortgage rate at around 7%. Despite the impact of elevated mortgage rates on home sales and affordability, there are positive developments for frustrated homebuyers, including a gradual easing of the inventory shortage and an increase in starter homes on the market, slowing the median home price growth rate.

Sellers are also adapting to the higher rate environment, with a growing number listing their properties for sale. Economists predict a stable market due to a persistent housing deficit, tighter lending standards, and…

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Man and woman carrying belongings into their new Scottsdale home

Moving into a new house is an exciting chapter in life. However, amidst the boxes and chaos of unpacking, it's easy to feel disoriented and unsettled. Yet, there's a silver lining: the opportunity to transform your new space into a cozy sanctuary. You can swiftly make your new house feel like home by unpacking strategically and employing clever hacks. In this guide, we'll explore a range of tips and tricks designed to streamline the unpacking process, ensuring you can settle in and enjoy your new abode in no time.

Start with the Essentials

When you step into your new home and start your new life in Scottsdale, the first order of business is ensuring you have the essentials on hand. Before the moving trucks arrive, pack a special box labeled…

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A young couple in their Scottsdale home looking at a laptop

Protecting your home sweet home might seem overwhelming. Don't sweat it – we put together an all-encompassing guide on homeowner's insurance just for you. It lights the way through the maze of policy must-knows. We'll start with Insurance 101 and then get into the nitty-gritty of what exactly your coverage is taking care of. Ready to become a whiz at safeguarding your digs? Stick with us as we delve into all things related to homeowner’s insurance, giving you that confidence boost when it comes to wrapping up your humble abode in a safety net.

Understanding Your Homeowner Insurance Policy Essentials

So, you've finally moved into the home of your dreams. The fresh paint scent still lingers, and you're all set for that idyllic lifestyle. But have…

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A one-level Scottsdale home with words downsize your home

I remember many years ago when my parents told me their friends were building their dream home. This was after they retired. It was much larger than the home they raised their daughter in. I couldn't wrap my head around wanting a larger home after being empty nesters.

One of our prior neighbors told us that when she and her husband moved to Arizona they purchased a large 5-bedroom home. The idea was that they would have space for their kids and friends to visit. They said they really didn't use all of that space and the visits weren't what they had expected. They eventually downsized into a 1-bedroom Scottsdale condo.

My husband and I have a large home and we do have visitors. I'm still wanting a Murphy bed so I don't have to use the blow-up. So…

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A Scottsdale home inspector in a safety vest checking a house window

Selling a property is a significant event that involves various steps to ensure a smooth transaction. One crucial step that can make a substantial difference is conducting a pre-inspection. A pre-inspection is an examination of the property's condition by a professional inspector before it is listed for sale. This proactive approach can benefit sellers and buyers, leading to a more efficient and transparent selling process. In this article, we will explore the importance of pre-inspections and how they can streamline the selling process. We will cover various aspects, including the benefits, the process, and tips for sellers.

Enhancing Transparency and Trust

Transparency is key in any real estate transaction. By conducting a pre-inspection,…

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