Blog Post • April 29, 2024

Tips for Selling Your Home This Season

by Tristin Prince

Spring Into Action: Tips for Selling Your Home This Season

As temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, now is the perfect time for a spring home sale. In fact, real estate data provider ATTOM found that properties sold in April, May and June garnered the highest returns over the last 12 years. If you want to take advantage of the season’s vibrant energy and high demand, here’s what you can do to ensure a successful sale.

Maximize Your Curb Appeal

Spring is the ideal season to show off the beauty of your home and capture buyer interest before they even step through the front door. Nothing is more inviting than a freshly mowed lawn, blooming flowers and well-manicured trees and shrubbery. Buyers will notice the details, so it also pays to have your home and driveway power washed and gutters cleaned. Even small improvements like a new mailbox, welcome mat or porchlight can make a big impact.

Do a Deep Clean

Your home should sparkle from the floorboards to the ceiling fans. Buyers pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, so you’ll want to address tiling, grout lines and appliances. Replace shelf liners and shower curtains and have the carpets and curtains cleaned as well. And don’t forget about hidden spots, like the cabinet under the sink and the area behind the refrigerator. A pristine home shows buyers that the property has been taken care of, giving them more confidence to put in a competitive offer.

Address Repairs and Upgrades

You don’t have to renovate your home to get a quick sale. Some minor upgrades can significantly enhance the property’s overall appeal. A fresh coat of paint, for example, can change the entire feel of your home. Choose neutral colors and keep the palette consistent throughout the interior. You can also replace outdated drawer pulls, knobs and faucets. If your budget allows, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances and/or countertops, as these are important features that buyers will appreciate.

Declutter and Depersonalize

A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal items and unnecessary objects to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad audience. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos and knickknacks. Keep kitchen and bathroom counters clear and consider removing a piece or two of furniture from each room to enhance its spaciousness. Bare walls can make the home seem sterile, so hang tasteful artwork that doesn’t overpower the room.

Lighten up the Interior

Spring offers abundant natural light, making your home appear expansive and inviting. Clean your windows thoroughly to allow for maximum sunlight and keep your curtains and blinds open during showings. Now is also a good time to replace lightbulbs to create a warm ambiance throughout the residence.

As you prepare for a spring home sale, your agent will guide you through other key considerations, like pricing the home competitively, arranging professional photography and engaging buyers across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Together you can make your property stand out in this season’s blooming real estate market.

Blog Credit: MICHELLE ABENDSCHAN DEC 19, 2023

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Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today at inglesafari.com

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024

Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA

www.inglesafari.com

Lake Charles O. (337) 478-1601

DeRidder O. (337) 463-2004

Blog Post • April 24, 2024

Make Your Move Before School Starts

by Tristin Prince

Make Your Move Before School Starts With Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty

Are you thinking of getting a fresh start in a new home before the back-to-school rush? You’re not alone – and it’s totally doable! With help from a Coldwell Banker Ingle Safari Realty savvy real estate agent, you can navigate the selling and buying process, secure favorable terms and snag the front door keys just in time for the start […]

Real Estate Market Considerations

Spring and summer tend to steal the spotlight for buying and selling, and with good reason. Starting your search now offers a broader selection of properties, a big pool of potential buyers and it perfectly aligns with finalizing your move during the summer break. Your real estate agent will be able to break down all the crucial local info for you – available listings, price comparisons, median home costs and how long most properties are on the market.

Evaluate Your Finances

A clear understanding of your financial situation is vital when doing anything in the real estate market. It influences the type and location of your next home and whether you should sell your current home before purchasing another. Another first step is working with a trusted lender to explore your loan options and solidify your budget. Plus, a realistic and accurate assessment of your finances can lower some of that moving stress and help guide your decision-making process.

Start to Organize

Moving can seem daunting, but it can be a relatively smooth process with the right approach. Start by decluttering your current space – sell, donate or dispose of items you no longer need. This will reduce the things you need to pack up while also prepping your home to be listed. As the move gets closer, invest in quality moving supplies like sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and permanent markers for labeling. And if you like making checklists and crossing off to-do’s, this is your time to shine!

List Your Home For Sale

When you’re ready to put your current home up for sale, give it a walk-through and identify any necessary repairs or enhancements needed. With some assistance from your agent, you can access a network of reliable service providers and professionals who can assist with any fixes or improvements outside the scope of a DIY weekend. You should also prepare your home to appeal to a broad range of buyers through updated staging and professional photography to maximize its visibility and attractiveness.

Find Your New Home

Begin your home search by creating a wish list and ranking the key features that you consider must-haves. Check out the listings on coldwellbanker.com and other online sources, and then visit potential homes in person. As you explore different spaces, ask yourself if you can picture your family living there. Does the kitchen have all the counter space you’re looking for? Is there a big backyard for a garden and a play area? Maybe you want a low-maintenance yard and space for hobbies and storing sports equipment. But remember, things can move quickly in the spring and summer, so when you find the one, be prepared to make an offer.

Yes, you can make your move before school starts! It takes some planning and determination, but it’s well worth the effort. Establish your timeline, partner with a local real estate agent, put together a plan and unpack in your new home before the kids start next fall.

Find your dream home and reach out to one of our expert agents today at inglesafari.com

We’ve been voted Best Real Estate Company Of SWLA for the 10th consecutive year in 2024

Offices in Lake Charles, LA & DeRidder, LA

www.inglesafari.com

Lake Charles O. (337) 478-1601

DeRidder O. (337) 463-2004

Blog Credit:

Make Your Move Before School Starts

MICHELLE ABENDSCHAN | APR 2, 2024

Blog Post • April 10, 2024

First Time Home Buyer

by Tristin Prince

Eight Steps for Buying Your First Home

Welcome to one of life’s great adventures: buying your first home! This journey is not just about brick and mortar – it’s about creating a sanctuary for new memories, a haven of comfort and the key to your future. These eight steps will help set you on a path for success. Your dream home is just a click or call away! Call us at (337) 478-1601 or visit our website at https://inglesafari.com/ to explore our listings and learn more about our services!

1. Do Your Research

Diving deep into housing market research is a step you simply can’t skip. This preparatory phase involves taking a close look at current market trends, assessing home values in your desired neighborhoods and gauging local supply and demand. Understanding interest rate trends and the economic health of your target area is also important. Remember that knowledge is power – it’s essential to making informed decisions with confidence and clarity.

2. Set Your Budget

When buying your first home, getting a handle on your finances is crucial. It helps you manage your expectations, ease any stress you may be feeling and narrow down your home search. A great starting point is to get a mortgage preapproval – it’s like having a golden ticket to the home buying theater. It tells sellers you mean business and, more importantly, tells you how much you can actually afford.

3. Craft Your Wish List

You’ve probably been dreaming of your first home for a while, and now is the time to map out your “must-haves” versus your “nice-to-haves.” You can start by asking the right questions: How many bedrooms do I really need? Is a home office necessary? Do I want a big yard or is a cozy balcony enough outdoor space? Knowing your non-negotiables will help you steer clear of beautiful distractions that might not fit your lifestyle or budget.

4. Choose Your Location

As the saying goes, it’s all about location. But what does that even mean? It’s more than just a spot on the map. It’s about the community, local schools, commute times and even the home’s future value. To get into a new home that you’ll love, focus down to three neighborhoods while considering their projected market trends in case you ever want to sell.

5. Work With a Real Estate Agent

From local market expertise and financing to legal requirements and negotiation, a good real estate agent can guide you through every step of the home buying process. A specialist in your chosen areas can alert you to available properties as soon as they hit the market, giving you a jump-start on the competition. Many federal and state assistance programs are also available to first-time buyers, essential information your agent can provide for you.

6. Start Viewing Homes

With your wish list in one hand and your preapproval letter in the other, it’s time to check out your options in person. You should attend plenty of open houses and ask your agent to pull back the curtain on any home that sparks your interest. Once you find that perfect property, your real estate agent is your #1 ally, helping you craft an offer that’s enticing to the seller yet protects your interests – especially in competitive markets.

7. Schedule the Home Inspection

This is another important step that your agent can help facilitate. After your offer has been accepted, a thorough property inspection will give you a clear understanding of the home’s condition. If any hidden issues are revealed, your agent can negotiate repairs or adjust the offer before you make your final decision.

8. Close the Deal

As you come down the final stretch, your real estate agent will help you navigate all the paperwork and legal considerations. Make sure you understand your obligations and ask questions if you need clarification. Once you’ve signed on the dotted line, swapped out that preapproval for a mortgage and handed over the down payment, congratulations – you’re a home owner!

Your first home is more than just a piece of real estate; it’s the cozy embrace at the end of a long day, the gathering spot for friends and family and the foundation upon which you’ll build your dreams. Unwrap the joy, embrace the journey and open the door to an exciting future.

Blog Post Credit: CARMA STAHNKE | APR 1, 2024

Eight Steps for Buying Your First Home

Blog Post • April 3, 2024

Commemorating Fair Housing Month

by Tristin Prince

Commemorating Fair Housing Month

At the Coldwell Banker® brand, we are dedicated to promoting equal housing access for everyone. Together, we fully support the development of vibrant and inclusive communities. We reaffirm this commitment by observing Fair Housing Month in April. The History of Equitable Housing Laws The Fair Housing Act is a pivotal piece of legislation in the […]

CARMA STAHNKEMAR 7, 2024

The History of Equitable Housing Laws

The Fair Housing Act is a pivotal piece of legislation in the United States. Enacted on April 11, 1968, it was part of the broader Civil Rights Act of 1968. Originating in the aftermath of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Act aimed to combat housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Over the years, the Act underwent amendments to broaden its scope. It expanded to protect additional classes, including individuals with disabilities and families with children. Enforcement has evolved, resulting in the creation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the establishment of fair housing organizations.

The Importance of Unbiased Practices

Despite progress, challenges persist, and the fight against housing discrimination remains ongoing. As we continue to strive for a more equitable society, it’s important to note how the Fair Housing Act benefits individuals, families, communities and society as a whole.

Access to housing in diverse neighborhoods provides individuals with more economic opportunities, leading to increased financial security while encouraging upward mobility. Inclusive communities are more likely to attract a wider range of businesses and investments. This results in job opportunities, improved infrastructure and overall prosperity. Housing laws also help create neighborhoods where access to quality education is available to every child. This ensures that all members of the community have the chance to receive a good education. It also helps break the cycle of inequality and promoting social mobility.

These laws are essential in building a society that values diversity, equality and inclusivity. Removing barriers to housing opportunities benefits of us all.

Visit us at coldwellbankerdiversity.com to learn how we are making a difference and how you can get involved.

Learn More About Fair Housing

For up-to-date resources and information on how to avoid discriminatory practices, see the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Discrimination Under the Fair Housing Act.
For the latest information on current housing trends and upcoming challenges, check out the Fair Housing Institute’s Reflecting on 2023, Anticipating 2024: Fair Housing Insights.
The National Association of REALTORS® offers training in support of fair housing that members can take advantage of. Titled ACT!, this “fair housing action plan” promotes accountability, culture change and training that is grounded in experiential learning.
To learn how real estate agents can actively support fair housing efforts, see 10 Ways for Real Estate Agents to Stay Compliant With Fair Housing Laws, Be a Fair Housing Champion and 30 Ways You Can Advance Fair Housing.
For an in-depth exploration of how discriminatory laws have shaped our society, consider reading Amy McCoy’s Sheltered Injustice: From Jim Crow to Marshall Law: The Struggle for Fair Housing and Edward G. Goetz’s The One-Way Street of Integration: Fair Housing and the Pursuit of Racial Justice in American Cities.

Blog Post • March 25, 2024

Why Spring Is the Best Time to Buy a Home

by Tristin Prince

Spring is widely recognized as the best time to buy a home, and it’s not hard to see why. The season is all about fresh starts and new beginnings, which feels just right when you’re about to make a big decision like purchasing a new home. Learn why now could be the right time to find the perfect place to call your own.

Market Reset and Increased Inventory in Spring
Spring marks the beginning of what is traditionally the busiest period in the real estate market. And after a few years of unpredictable market conditions, Money Magazine anticipates that 2024 could bring a much-needed real estate reset. With economies stabilizing and people adjusting well to post-pandemic lifestyles, the housing market is expected to reflect a more typical bustling season. This influx of listings increases your choices, giving you a better chance of finding a home that fits your exact needs and wants.

The Advantage of Clear Property Evaluations
Winter weather can hide many imperfections, from roofing issues to landscaping woes. As that weather recedes, getting a clear, unobstructed view of each property is easier. The return of milder temps also allows for a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, including the condition of the paint, gutters, roofing and siding. As we move into the warmer months, you’ll also get a good peek at the property’s yard and landscaping – a big deal for many buyers. Seeing the full outdoor potential can really paint a picture of what’s to come, helping you dream up all the fantastic possibilities for your future garden or outdoor oasis.

Optimal Timing for Families
Buying a home in the spring is strategically sound for families with children. It aligns with the academic calendar, allowing families to relocate and settle in before the start of the new school year. This timing eases transitions for children and adults alike, providing the summer months to adjust to a new neighborhood, get all those new home tasks complete, make new friends and prepare for any school or work changes that come with moving.

Negotiation Opportunities
With the spring market’s rush of activity, there’s a unique push and pull that benefits savvy negotiators. Sellers looking to bounce back from the slower winter months are generally more open to discussions, and buyers are eager to purchase and settle in by summer. This mutual motivation can smooth the path to negotiations, potentially tipping the scales in favor of buyers looking for a good deal.

Spring Shows a Neighborhood’s Character
Milder weather not only revives trees and gardens but also community life. This uptick in activity can give potential buyers a true feel for the neighborhood’s character and lifestyle. Are the streets filled with playing children or is it a quiet, more reserved community? Is the neighborhood buzzing with local events and gatherings? Viewing a neighborhood in the spring can provide a clearer picture of daily life there. So when you visit an open house, be sure get a feel for the whole area.

While the best time to buy a home is when you’re financially and emotionally ready, March, April and May offer some unique advantages that can enhance the home-buying experience. Increased inventory, the ability to conduct thorough property evaluations, timing that suits family needs, favorable mortgage rates and negotiation potential all make spring an ideal time to take the plunge, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced buyer looking to find the perfect setting for your next chapter.