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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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 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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A female Scottsdale real estate seller hitting her head after making a mistake

The process of selling a house can be difficult no matter what is happening in the housing market. Saying goodbye to a cherished family home can be heartbreaking for certain homeowners who have created so many happy memories in their current place.

Some would rather jump straight to the exciting part—decorating and relocating to a new location. The majority of sellers aim to maximize their earnings. Whatever your situation, there may be many challenges on the way to the closing table, ranging from misunderstandings during negotiations and showings to unpleasant surprises during the inspection.

But if you work with an experienced and competent real estate agent, a lot of these issues can be avoided. Here are seven typical errors, for instance,…

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People shaking hands at a Scottsdale real estate closing

Selling or buying a house can be an exhilarating yet daunting experience. The real estate market is filled with potential pitfalls that can turn your dream deal into a nightmare. However, you can navigate these challenges smoothly with the right knowledge and guidance. In this article, we'll teach you about avoiding common pitfalls when buying or selling a house, ensuring a more successful and stress-free transaction for all parties involved.

Skipping the Pre-Approval Process

One of the buyers' biggest mistakes is not getting pre-approved for a mortgage before starting their house hunt. Without pre-approval, you may waste time looking at properties that are out of your budget or missing out on your dream home because you couldn't move quickly…

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moving to Scottsdale for retirement sign, house, and coins

Moving for retirement marks a significant milestone, opening doors to new beginnings and opportunities, such as the popular choice to move to Scottsdale after retirement. This life change requires careful planning and informed decision-making to ensure a future filled with comfort and joy. Our guide offers valuable insights and practical advice as you consider relocating for your golden years. We'll help you navigate the complexities of choosing the perfect senior living space in Scottsdale or elsewhere, turning this transition into an exciting and rewarding adventure.

Starting Moving for Retirement: What You Need to Know

Embarking on a retirement move is a journey that begins with setting clear goals and expectations. Evaluating your current…

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