Common Mistakes Buyers Make

Here are two mistakes buyers often make when shopping for a home, according to Realtor.com^®.

Not sticking to a budget
Once you’ve set a housing budget, try to avoid getting emotionally attached to a home that’s way out of your price range. Borrowing more than you can comfortably afford can lead to long-term financial problems. One rule of thumb says that your total monthly mortgage plus other debts (car payments, student loans, credit cards, etc.) should not exceed 43% of your pretax earnings.

Not comparing lenders
You can save money both in the short-term (closing costs) and long-term (interest rates) by shopping around before committing to a mortgage. You may want to begin with your own bank, but check with other banks, mortgage brokers or online lenders as well.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2020 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.  

Rachel Sheller, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker,

MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First- Principal Broker, Washington First-Managing Broker

Direct 503.380.9634, Email- rachel@rachelsheller.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website 

Licensed in the State of Oregon and Washington

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

5 Home Design Trends to Be Thankful for This Year

After years of normalizing neutral color palettes, for example, designers are embracing more colorful trends to showcase personality in homes. REALTOR® Magazine’s Styled, staged and sold blog asked designers and stagers what home interior trends they’re most grateful for this year. Here are their top picks.

1. More colorful spaces

Goodbye, white kitchens and gray walls. More color is moving in. Homeowners favor bolder hues inside the home, not just for pops of color but also as a base color for an entire room. Paint companies have chosen variations of blues, pinks, and greens as their picks for 2020 color of the year. These colors also are being splashed on kitchen cabinets, exterior doors, and home accessories.

The paint firm PPG selected Chinese porcelain, a blend of cobalt and muted navy tones, as its 2020 color of the year. Sherwin Williams followed suit with Naval, a deep navy blue.

Behr’s top 2020 pick is a meadow-inspired yellowish green called Back to Nature.

Pinks also are catching on. HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, the company’s offshoot brand, chose a blush hue called Romance, while Benjamin Moore chose a soft, rosy hue called First Light.

2. Luxury vinyl flooring

A design trend that’s stylish but low maintenance, luxury vinyl is enjoying popularity as an alternative to hardwood and ceramic tile flooring. Vinyl is touted as being cheaper, warmer, and softer on your feet; it also requires less upkeep than traditional hardwood or tile.

Today’s luxury vinyl shouldn’t be mistaken for linoleum and other varieties of sheet flooring. Luxury vinyl can be laid out in planks, tiles, and sheets, and it comes in trendy finishes. Luxury vinyl planks can resemble the look of hardwood and are offered in handscraped and wide plank varieties. The planks can be installed diagonally or in a trendy herringbone pattern, and they also can resemble tile and marble.

The lower maintenance of luxury vinyl is appealing to families with young children and pets. It’s a water-resistant material that works easily in kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Voice-controlled smart appliances

Alexa, Google Home, and Siri are ushering in a new and advanced era of smart-home technology. The choices are growing, too: Smart plugs, for example, cost as little as $10 and enable you to say: “Alexa, turn on the lights.” Add smart lightbulbs that can be controlled via voice assistants, as well as other appliances such as the thermostat, door locks, and security cameras. Suddenly, smart homes have become more attainable and cost-effective.

4. Statement ceilings 

Finally, a reason to look up! The homes fifth wall is commanding the spotlight In the roaring ’20s, stamped ceilings, such as those plated in copper or tin decorative sheets, were popular. But the trend faded in favor of smooth ceiling finishes. Now, the statement ceiling is back.

This time, however, paint, wallpaper, or wood moldings are the ceiling accents of choice. A statement ceiling can brighten up a space and make it memorable, says Katie Skoloff, principal designer and founder of In Site Designs, an interior design firm in Greenville, S.C. “We find the interest on a ceiling draws the eye up, and you cannot help but feel the space is there to ‘wow’ you,” she says. Wallpapered ceilings, as well as wood beams and coffered ceilings, are today’s standout options.

5. Contrasting kitchen design

Along with more colorful interiors, the white kitchen is fading in favor of a bigger statement, including tuxedo cabinetry, shiny hardware, and brass-trimmed range hoods.

Polished brass on cabinet hardware, range hoods, and appliance handles shines in otherwise white kitchens, appearing to be like jewelry for the space. Café, a hardware line for the GE Appliance brand, offers customizable options in various metals for refrigerator or oven handles. For example, soft-brushed copper handles can be added to a matted white refrigerator for a more contemporary vibe.

Contrasting kitchen cabinets, such as the tuxedo kitchen, also are gaining popularity. The trend calls for upper and lower cabinets to be painted different colors—perhaps white on top and a gray or dark walnut on the bottom. It’s essentially a way to add more visual interest to an otherwise all-white display.

An alternative—and slightly less bold—version of this trend is also taking root, such as all-white cabinets and a contrasting kitchen island in a deep blue, gray, or walnut color.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2019 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon.

Rachel Sheller

Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES

Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker,

MASTERS CIRCLE

CSA-Certified Staging Agent

Oregon First, Washington First 

Direct 503.380.9634

Email- rachel@rachelsheller.com

View ALL available Houses on the market on my website.

Licensed in the State of Oregon and Washington

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

5 Tips On When You Should Buy A Retirement Home!

Have you talked about moving away when you retire? Have you decided on a location? Do you know when you are going to find “the place?”

If you know the “where” part of the equation, have you started taking regular vacations to that place?

If you are planning to retire in the next five to seven years, it’s not too early to start thinking about your retirement residence.

Here are five financial and non-financial reasons why you should consider buying your retirement house before you retire, especially if you are going to have a mortgage:

1. The mortgage

It is easier to qualify for a mortgage if you are still working. For most people your income is higher before you retire so your debt-to-income ratio is more favorable. If you wait until retirement, you may be limited to a smaller mortgage size.

Interest rates are still relatively low are showing signs of moving upward. Locking in a low-interest rate mortgage now could positively impact your retirement budget.

Caution: A mortgage on a second home is more difficult to obtain. In addition to an excellent credit rating, you’ll need a down payment of 20 percent or more. A mortgage for a second home or “vacation” home usually has a better rate than a mortgage that would be used to obtain a rental or “investment” property.

2. DIVERSIFICATION

Any additional real estate could expand and diversify your portfolio. If you can manage an extra mortgage payment, consider buying the house now and possibly renting it out for a few years, or even seasons.

If the house is in a location you can frequently access, consider using a service like vrbo.com(Vacation Rentals By Owner), or Airbnb.com.  If the property is across the country, you might consider a long-term lease, with a local property manager to tend to your renters.

Caution: Carefully read your homeowner’s insurance policy and your mortgage note. Each one of these may have clauses that prevent you from renting the property.

3. CASH FLOW FOR REPAIRS AND UPGRADES

Unless you purchase a brand-new home or one that has been newly remodeled, you’ll probably want to make some upgrades. Your current income combined with the time prior to retirement should give you the opportunity to complete the improvements and repairs. You may be able to rent the house out for a while to accumulated the funds for the upgrades you want.

4. BUDGET PLANNING

Buying the house now will give you very accurate dollar figures for your monthly expenses in retirement.  You will know your monthly housing, utilities, property taxes, and local costs.

5. LOWER STRESS

While you’re working, you might have a nagging item on your to-do list about where you’re going to live in retirement.

If you make your purchase before you quit the workforce, knock one thing off your list for some peace of mind regarding the decision. If after spending vacations at this house you find its’ not the ideal house for retirement, it might be easier for you to sell it and find a replacement while you are still employed.

If retirement means moving to a new location, give some consideration to finding that place before you retire. There is no magic answer, but you need to determine what is important to you.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!!

Rachel Sheller,Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,MASTERS CIRCLE, Earth Advantage Broker, Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First 

Direct 503.380.9634, Email- rachel@rachelsheller.com

View this ALL available Houses on the market on my website. 

Licensed in the State of Oregon and Washington 

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

Should you sell a home during the holidays?

Traditionally, most sellers shy away from listing their homes in November or December. Some buyers, however, need to make a quick purchase before the end of the year due to a job transfer, estate settlement or other tax reasons. With very little competition in the marketplace, properties listed during the holiday season tend to sell more quickly and for a higher price.

If you’re worried about moving during the holidays, keep in mind that buyers often need to close by December 31, but they don’t necessarily need to take possession until January. That way both you and your buyers can enjoy one last holiday season in the old house before making the move.

Of course, the most pressing question is whether you should decorate your home for the holidays. Real estate professionals agree that homes show better with tasteful, festive decorations. Buyers can typically feel the warmth of the season and comfortably picture themselves living there. Be sensitive to different religions and use generic decorations that reflect a fall or winter theme.

Keep in mind the importance of curb appeal, and be sure there’s an attractive wreath on the front door to welcome buyers into their new home. Call me to learn more about selling during the Holidays and it’s benefits.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

Pricing your home in a seller’s market

The current economy, market demand and human emotion all factor into setting the right asking price for your home. In a strong seller’s market, it’s tempting to overprice your property to see what kind of offers you receive. On the other hand, some sellers prefer to set a below-market asking price, hoping to spark an emotional bidding war among buyers.

Here are some points to consider:

• Not all seller’s markets are created equal. Discuss your asking price with a local Realtor® in order to gain more knowledge about resale properties in your neighborhood or subdivision.
• Curb appeal is still an important factor. Attracting prospective buyers who drive by the properties for sale in your area is key to enhancing the emotional appeal of your home. A spotless interior will never be seen if the exterior is not in tip-top condition.
• Interior decorating increases buyer desire. Even though buyers know that the furnishings don’t stay with the home, attractive interiors make the sale. On average, professionally staged homes sell 88 percent faster and for 20 percent more than non-staged homes, according to data from the National Association of Realtors®.

For more information on pricing your home correctly and getting reedy to list please call, email, or text me anytime.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

Yummy Fall recipe for you

Enjoy!

Whether you’re buying or selling, I’m always ready to get cooking. With my preparation and attention to detail, I’ll get you the results you need.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

 

9 Ways homeowners can save on utility costs

1. Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.
2. Air-dry dishes, sheets and lightweight clothing, whenever possible.
3. Use timers and motion sensors to turn lights off and on.
4. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater to 120^°
5. Use weatherstripping and caulking around doors and windows to prevent drafts.
6. Regularly replace HVAC filters, and have a licensed professional inspect your heating and cooling systems twice a year.
7. Use spray foam insulation to seal gaps around pipes, chimneys, lights, windows, and brickwork.
8. Invest in a programmable thermostat to conserve resources and money.
9. As they burn out, replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs or CFLs.

In addition, contact your utility company and ask if they offer a free home energy audit. According to AmericaSaves.org, energy lost from a basement, unfinished room, attic, or garage can be an expensive waste of money. Sealing leaky ductwork can provide additional savings.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

A low home appraisal can stall mortgage approval

What happens when a buyer and seller agree on a price, but then the lender’s appraisal comes back lower than the agreed-upon amount? Until the financing is approved, the deal can fall through. This is why you see the words “Contract Pending” on the agent’s yard sign.

Approximately 10 percent of real estate agents report on a monthly basis that a low home appraisal negatively impacted a sale, according to the National Association of Realtors^®.

Here are some ways that sellers and buyers can protect themselves from a low appraisal.

Sellers

• Before you list your property, pay to have an appraisal done. In a seller’s market where some buyers are making offers significantly above the listing price, sellers need to understand how critical the appraisal is to closing the deal.
• Do your homework and use a qualified appraiser who has a membership designation such as SRA or MAI from the Appraisal Institute.
• Be sure the appraiser is comparing your home to the latest data about homes just sold or under contract in your area. Also, highlight any improvements to your home or landscaping that may positively affect the selling price.

Buyers

• Ask your lender to choose one name among 2 or 3 qualified appraisers that you recommend.
• Meet with the appraiser when the inspection is being done, and ask questions about the process.
• If you receive a low appraisal, follow up and ask questions. The appraiser or supervisor may have overlooked the newest information.

I anticipate this happening more in the future. For information on pricing your home, or buy strategically to do all possible to prevent appraisal woes, please call, email, or text me to talk more about it.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

 

To the suburbs and beyond …

While some people prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of urban living, sometimes suburbs are not rural enough for their lifestyles. They want to live in the “exurbs,” which are farther outside the city than the suburbs.

Some home buyers are seeking several acres of usable land for extensive gardening with room for chickens, goats or horses. The exurbs are often preferred by people who work from home or want a second home or vacation property.

The larger lots in the exurbs allow for more privacy and less crime. However, few exurbs provide sidewalks or jogging trails. And there’s not a Starbucks on every corner. For more information on options for a Suburban move call, email, or test me to start the conversation.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!

5 Tips to add attractive value to your home

Here are five home improvements that can enhance your own enjoyment, as well as increase your property’s value at resale time, according to HouseLogic.com.

1. Crown molding. Upgrading to crown molding can make a room feel bigger, taller and more elegant. Wood moldings are available in a variety of styles that can be stained, painted or left natural. Some moldings feature indirect LED soft lighting.
2. Ceiling fans. Replacing old, unattractive ceiling fans can enhance the entire look of a room. Choose a quality fan with the Energy Star label to get the best cooling results and least amount of noise. A “hugger” ceiling fan that’s flush-mounted is ideal for rooms with a low ceiling height.
3. A mature tree can add between $1,000-$10,000 to the appraised value of a property. Trees growing along the street in front of a house can increase its resale value by an average of more than $8,500, according to numerous studies of appraisal reports.
4. Deck or patio. If your property doesn’t have an outdoor living space such as a deck or patio, it’s a sound investment to make. Rebuilding a deck or expanding a patio can also offer a good return.
5. Landscape lighting. A well-lit exterior can highlight the most attractive features of your property as well as help to deter would-be burglars. In addition, many homeowners insurance policies offer lower rates for motion-sensor lighting systems.

For more information on adding value to your home please call,e mail, or text me to talk more about it.

IT’S A GOOD LIFE!

Five Star award Winner 2011- 2018 honoring the top 7% of real estate professionals in Oregon. 

Rachel Sheller, Principal Broker, Realtor, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES,  Diversity Specialist-HOWNW, Earth Advantage Broker, MASTERS CIRCLE, CSA-Certified Staging Agent, Oregon First, Washington First

Direct 503.380.9634, Email-    homesforyou@frontier.com

View a current list of ALL available Houses on the market go to my website

Licensed in the State of Oregon

My business is referral based.
If you’ve enjoyed my service, please refer me!