The Savvy Realtor with Angie Cole

How are recent mortgage rate cuts influencing the housing market in the Triangle? In today's episode, Angie shares what she's seen and experienced when it comes to the change in interest rates. With the landscape of real estate constantly shifting, understanding these trends is important for both buyers and sellers alike.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: The recent mortgage interest rate change. The potential savings of a refinance. Waiting too long for the perfect rate.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we find ourselves in mid-October, with an election looming and interest rates fluctuating, many buyers and sellers are feeling unsure about their next move. Angie offers her expert insights into the current market conditions and shares her personal experience with refinancing to help listeners navigate these uncertainties.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: When to refinance… and quick! The Triangle market's continued appreciation. What to consider with the nature of the seasons with real estate.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Effective August 6, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement introduces new regulations that will impact how real estate transactions are conducted. Angie Cole explains that the settlement stems from a lawsuit where a seller claimed they were forced to pay the buying agent's commission. The outcome has led to two major changes: commissions can no longer be listed in the MLS database, and real estate agents must have a signed buyer agency agreement before showing a property. Find out more about how these changes impact you, whether you are looking to buy or sell a house in the near future!   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: What regulations will be implemented due to the NAR settlement. Media misconceptions regarding the settlement changes. Mailbag: Saving for land purchases? Mailbag: What first-time homebuyers should know about urban areas?     Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

What's the latest in the real estate market? From summertime home sales in the Triangle to national news headlines, Angie shares her insight on what's happening and what to expect. Whether you are renting and want to know more about recent rental rate proposals or are looking to sell at the right time, there's something in this episode for you.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Triangle market update: what to look for this summer and year. Potential rental rate regulations. Timing your home sale alongside school schedules. Mailbag: How reliable are home estimates from mortgage lenders? Mailbag: What to focus on when investing in real estate?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When buying a home, there are a lot of red flags to watch out for, especially if you are unfamiliar with an area. One concern some home buyers have is falling victim to scams. Angie finds that scams are more prevalent in land purchases, where scammers pose as landowners to quickly pocket due diligence money. To prevent this, Angie advises always working with a reputable real estate company and ensuring thorough verification processes are in place. Listen in as she and Walter discuss this and some other real estate scams to be aware of.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: How often do people fall for real estate scams? What common real estate scams are there? Mailbag: Where can I live lakefront in NC?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

On today's podcast, Angie answers listener questions about the real estate market in the Triangle area. Find out how long homes in the Kitts Creek neighborhood in Morrisville typically stay on the market, tips for first-time homebuyers in the competitive under $400,000 range, and what to look out for when buying a home with a $1 million budget. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a luxury property, Angie provides valuable insights to help you navigate the process.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How long do homes in Kitts Creek typically stay on the market? Mailbag: How do first-time homebuyers win homes? Mailbag: What to look out for when you have a $1 million budget for buying a home.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences in life. In a competitive real estate market, it's crucial to adopt the right habits to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In today's podcast, Angie shares invaluable tips for homebuyers so you know what to do when the time comes.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Get your finances straight. Do your homework. Get pre-approved. Know what you want. Check expectations. Bid smart. Use experts. Take your time. Keep learning. Stay calm!   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we near the 4th of July and people hit the beach over the summer, you may be wondering what kind of impact that has on selling a house. Angie answers one listener question about this to share what listing a home the first week of July could look like. Regardless of when you list your home, make sure it's prepped and ready to show potential buyers!   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: Should I avoid listing near the 4th of July because of the holiday? Mailbag: Should I wait for interest rates to drop to buy a home?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we enter the summer season, we check in with Angie to hear what the real estate market in North Carolina's Triangle area is looking like. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding the current trends and unique factors at play can give you a significant advantage.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: What are the significant changes in buyer or seller behavior this year? Should buyers and sellers keep their eye on any economic indicators this summer? What has it looked like since the NAR settlement? What impact did the MLS merger have? What has happened with 3D tours? What does Angie recommend for those considering a relocation?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As you go to sell a house, you want to make sure your house is going to catch the attention of buyers! Dale in Raleigh wants to know how to make his house stand out from others that are similar and also for sale in his neighborhood. Angie suggests how to price, stage, market, and prepare your home for the best-case scenario when you sell.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How do I make my house unique? Mailbag: What's it like to invest in real estate? Mailbag: How do I know how much home I can afford? Mailbag: How will our renovations impact the resale value of our home?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make, and it comes with its fair share of excitement and anxiety. The thrill of finding your dream home can sometimes overshadow the practical considerations that ensure you're making the right choice. But what happens when the dust settles and buyer's remorse creeps in?   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Three out of four homebuyers have at least one regret about home they purchased. Some homes require too much maintenance. Home size wasn't right. Wrong location causes regret. Home environment considerations shouldn't be overlooked.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

If you are getting ready to buy or sell a home, there are a lot of things to think about! Angie answers a few questions from the mailbag as people start to prepare for the process. Bart asks how to make his home more marketable for buyers. How it looks online makes a big difference as that's the first impression homebuyers get!   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How can I increase the marketability of my home? Is the marketability process the same for online vs. in-person showings? Mailbag: What are the important questions I should ask potential realtors?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

With the headlines abuzz about the settlement of real estate commissions, we talk about what the impact will be in the future. Angie outlines what the lawsuit was about and what this means for realtors, buyers, and sellers moving forward. This is a change in how things are practiced, which causes a shift, but not a reason to panic.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: What happens with the NAR settlement? Why does the reporting differ from some of the reality? What changes for buyers?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/      

As we near spring, Angie and the rest of the team at A Cole Realty are seeing a busy year. More buyers and sellers are ready to make a move and the potential for interest rates lowering down the line has people excited. They've even seen some multiple-offer situations! If you're in the buying market, be prepared for a low inventory with more buyers in the market, which makes it competitive. After the market update, Angie answers two questions from the mailbag. Ben recently relocated and is looking for where to buy a home and yard big enough for his family, including five kids! Then, Terry asks what the price range is for a luxury buyer and how that process might look.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Angie and her team are at 100 pending contracts for the year 2024 already!  Mailbag: Where can I get a large home and yard in my price range? Mailbag: What price range is a luxury home buyer in?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/    

Some of Angie's clients are looking for an investment property. Daniel sends in a question to the mailbag to learn what areas are best for long-term value appreciation. Angie talks through this and three other questions from the mailbag in today's show. For instance, did you know there's an exciting new development coming in Chatham county called Asteria? A Storyliving by Disney community is in the works! Whether you are looking for a good spot to land in Pittsboro, gearing up for closing costs or looking to get creative to find a home with an office, Angie and her team can help!   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: Where are the best areas to invest in a rental property? Mailbag: What kind of closing costs should I expect? Mailbag: Can you help me find a house with a home office? Mailbag: Are there any upcoming developments in Chatham county that could affect home values?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Are the same trends happening in the real estate market happening in our local area? Angie shares what she's experienced alongside homebuyers and home sellers in the Triangle market. This will give you a good idea of what to expect when you go to buy or sell a home.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: One-third of national real estate sales feature a seller concession. Several new offers are coming through. Existing home sales are lower than ever. Mortgage rates are the biggest worry for agents.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

If you are looking for a home in hopes of finding a bargain, what do you need to know? We look at a slightly older article to see what's still true in today's market if you want to find a deal. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference as you bargain shop for your next home. Angie shares her advice so that you don't accidentally buy something that seems too good to be true and turns out to actually be more money than you planned.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Look for homes that have been on the market longer. Stay away from turnkey homes or fixer uppers. Should you shop for alternatives? Consider less trendy homes in a good location. Are foreclosures still an option?    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When selling your home, it can feel like there's a lot to do to get ready! Angie lays out what to do first when wanting to get a good price for your home. How do you know when it's right to fix it up vs. selling the home as is? How much effort should you put into it to get a return on that investment of time, money, and effort?   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How to get the best price for my home. Mailbag: Selling my home as is or fixing it up? Mailbag: What makes Angie Cole's team stand out? Mailbag: How much home can we afford and where? Mailbag: Are we messing up our home's value with too many DIY projects?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Sometimes people decide to try to do a for sale by owner. Is it worth it or are you likely to face more problems than it's worth? Angie shares how to be savvy and aware when dealing with a for sale by owner, whether that be on the buyer or the seller side.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How do I navigate the market when buying and selling? Mailbag: Is buying from a "For Sale by Owner" risky? The hidden costs of inexperience with selling for sale by owner. Safety and security concerns are worth considering. The negotiation process can benefit from a professional. The paperwork can be a nightmare. Sorting through the real buyers from the curious onlookers.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

How does Angie and her team help someone moving from out-of-state find the right spot for them? Even if you're searching from afar, there's a lot you can do to research the right fit. Listen in as Angie talks through what criteria to think through, what kind of home layout you need, and then outlines how her team works with long-distance clients.   Here are the questions Angie answers on today's show:   Mailbag: How can you help me find my home from afar? Mailbag: Does my neighborhood hurt my resell value even with a renovation? Mailbag: How can I be sure my realtor is a good negotiator? Mailbag: How does Angie's team alleviate some of the stress and pressure of the process?    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

It's spooky season! When you walk in a house, do you ever get a sense that it's haunted? We chat about some untold mysteries before we talk about the top fears homebuyers and home sellers face. From uncovering hidden home damage after closing to losing money in the sale, are any of these things keeping you up at night? Angie reassures us through these fears and strategizes how to overcome them with ease.   Here are the fears we discuss on today's show: Watch out for unseen issues or damage found after closing the home. Some are scared about overspending on their house. FOMO might cause overspending. Sellers fear overpricing. The fear that no one makes an offer can freak out sellers. What if a deal falls through due to unqualified buyers?    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When you are buying a home, there are a lot of expenses, so it can be tempting to skip out on one more line item. One listener asked, “Should we buy a home warranty? Or is that a waste of funds?” Angie weighs out the pros and cons on this decision that she calls a “no-brainer.” She also answers three more questions from listeners.    Here are the questions we answer today: Mailbag: We tried to sell our house on our own but found it too stressful. How can we be successful next time? Mailbag: Is buying a home warranty a waste of funds? Mailbag: Is it worth doing a lot of work before selling? Mailbag: What do you think of 55+ living communities? Mailbag: How close are realtors and mortgage lenders during the process?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

We've all heard that spring is a good time to list your home. But what about right now so you can sell in the fall? Angie explains why now is a great time to sell your home. Trusting your realtor to guide you through the process can make all the difference in how your experience goes. You might be surprised to get an even better offer now since there is more competition for buyers! Angie also answers listener questions about mortgage rates, budgets, and the top mistakes she sees buyers make.   Here's what you'll learn on today's show: The benefits of selling your home right now. How much mortgage rates could impact the housing market. What budget to plan for in Flowers Plantation in Clayton. The top mistakes buyers make.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

If you are getting nothing but lowball offers as for sale by owners, what does that mean? And how can you set yourself up for success? This episode focuses on answering listener questions from people who are navigating the home-buying process.   Here are the questions Angie answers today: Can I get a 30-year mortgage even at an older age? If we get only lowball offers, are we priced too high? How do you advise an engaged couple when buying a home? How have our exterior upgrades to our home improved the value?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

What are some of the “dirty words” in the world of real estate? Words can carry a lot of meaning, so pay attention to what each of these words can mean for the buyer. From "fixer-upper" to "cozy" to "cash only," Angie breaks down what each of these can entail when buying or selling a home.   Here are the words and phrases we discuss on today's show: A fixer-upper could be an opportunity or a headache. Is being a motivated seller a good way to market your property? Cozy sounds sweet, but it might mean small. “As is” isn't always the same as a fixer-upper. Cash only might mean you can't get a loan due to certain conditions. Tenant occupied could be good or bad, depending on your goals.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Wondering why the number of homes on the market seems lower while you search?  We tackle a few questions from the mailbag before we dive into expert predictions focused on the 2023 forecast in the housing market. From inventory levels to home prices, Angie shares what to expect right now in the Triangle (which can be different from the national market).   Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Mailbag: Feeling frustrated with the lack of homes for sale. What's going on? Mailbag: What happens to hidden “treasures” left behind after selling your home? New predictions for 2023: Will home prices dip? 2023 prediction: Will interest rates drop? 2023 prediction: Is the inventory going to increase?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Feeling ready to get the search started but worried about where to start? Angie talks about one of the very first steps to take in the homebuying process. Then, she answers another real estate agent's question about putting down a strong offer to try to win the home! She shares what the risk is with this and what the thought process might look like on the other side. Finally, she shares about the speed of the market when selling a home and what that means as a realtor.   Here are the questions Angie answers from the mailbag: Mailbag: Should we get a pre-approval letter before looking for home? (0:43) Mailbag: What do you think about strong offers with a time limit? (4:14) Mailbag: What's the fastest you've ever sold a home? (7:58)   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Ever thought about building your own home and wondered about the hidden charges? In this episode, we're answering some listener questions about new home builds. Fisher and Renny, two of our listeners, are considering building their homes, so Angie dives into the costs and the hidden fees that could quickly add up, such as permits, running utilities, and preparing the lot costs. We'll also explore the concept of virtual staging in real estate!   Here are the questions Angie answers on today's show: Mailbag: I'm thinking about purchasing land for $100,000 and trying to build a 1,500-2,000 square foot home with a two-car garage for an additional $350,000. Is this realistic? (0:50) Mailbag: How much should I budget for labor costs, electrical, water, house permits, etc? (3:38) Mailbag: I'm a creative writer. Would it be okay for me to write my own home description for the listing? (5:48) Mailbag: Do you think professional staging is important now? Or does virtual staging do the trick? (8:15)   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

For many people, buying or selling a home happens with a primary residence. But what about a more unconventional route? Angie answers questions from listeners that include everything from a down payment with zero-dollars down to fractional ownership. You might be surprised by the creative solutions people have pursued as they work towards buying a home or investing in real estate.   Here are the questions Angie answers on today's show: Mailbag: Is fractional ownership essentially a timeshare? (0:38) Mailbag: Should we sell or rent our current house out when buying a new home? (2:34) Mailbag: Is it possible to buy land, live in a camper, and later build a home on that land? (3:54) Mailbag: What is the average down payment people put down on a home? (5:17) Mailbag: How many homes should a potential real estate agent be selling each month? (6:45) Mailbag: Can you help me find a home with an elevator? (8:19)   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When you listen to the news, you might be wondering what's happening with the real estate market. Angie shares how the Triangle market is a bit different than some of the other parts of the country. Will there be a real estate crisis? If so, how can you prepare now?   Here are the questions Angie answers today: What's the pulse of the local real estate market? (0:43) Mailbag: Could the US debt default scare cause a massive real estate crisis? (2:57) Mailbag: Are sellers willing to pay closing costs? (4:50) Mailbag: Is it worth it to pay points to buy down interest rates for the mortgage? (6:03) Mailbag: What kind of fixer uppers should I avoid as a first-time homebuyer? (9:27)   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When you buy or sell a home, you end up working with so many different people to make it happen. Today we talk with some of Angie's preferred vendors and professionals to hear more about the home-buying process.  From Tina Konidaris, we hear about the pre-qualification process for a mortgage and why it's important. Then we talk with Amber Cole about why staging can make a huge difference when you go to sell your home. Craig McCall shares about economic trends during the attorney minute, and Jarrett Joines gives some insight about what you can ask your home inspector. Finally, a question from the mailbag asks how to find a home that has the best resell value.     Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Mortgage moment: Understanding the pre-qualification process. (1:41) When does staging help promote interest in a home? (3:53)   Attorney minute: How do economic trends impact their approach? (4:50)          Ask the inspector: What can I ask my inspector after the inspection is completed? (6:15) Mailbag: What types of properties have the best resell value? (7:51)    

When you hear something from a realtor, do you know what's a red flag and what's a bit of brilliance and innovation? We talk through a number of hypothetical realtor statements to see what Angie thinks about these and which ones she has said to clients. Have you heard any of these when working with a realtor?    Find out which of these realtor statements Angie agrees with: “Let's increase the cute factor and make this listing go viral.” (1:00) “I'm only available during office hours.” (2:20) “Let's look at your home and price it together instead of using the Zillow estimate.” (4:41) “Open houses are a waste of time.” (5:53)   Check out our home-buying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/  Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/   

When buying or selling a home, you may face some questions about how to list it well or describe what it's like. From hidden features to extra character, Angie talks about what motivates buyers and what's nice to know when answering four questions from the mailbag. Join us as we chat about what home features you should market if you're considering selling.   Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Where is the market right now? (0:38) Mailbag: Should we include aerial views in our home listing? (4:09) Mailbag: What does it mean if a house has “character”? (6:43) Mailbag: How would a secret room help with selling a home? (10:01) Mailbag: Is it worth it to market my home's energy efficiency? (11:04)   Check out our home-buying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/  Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/   

Think you are ready to buy your first home? Between finding an agent to signing the papers at the closing table, it's a process that you'll want to be prepared for. You'll also want to be prepared financially for this major purchase. But how much do you really need before you begin the home search? Angie answers this and four other questions from the mailbag about what you need to know when buying a home.   Here's what you'll learn from today's show: Mailbag: How can first-time homebuyers make the process less stressful? (0:38) Mailbag: How much money should I have saved before I start looking to buy? (2:02) Mailbag: What qualities should I look for in a real estate agent? (5:11) Mailbag: What's the timeline for closing? (7:05) Mailbag: Should I wait for home prices to price correct before making an offer? (7:51)   Check out our home-buying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/  Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

The past week or so saw a lot of excitement in the Triangle real estate market. To kick off this episode, Angie talks about a lot of houses that received multiple offers and went through a competitive bidding process. If you are hoping to buy in the area, be prepared to have a pre-qualification letter and a good real estate agent by your side!    Here's what you'll learn from today's show:   The Triangle market is competitive once again. (0:37) Mailbag: How to spruce up the house exterior without breaking the bank? (3:57) Mailbag: How to avoid renovation mistakes for newbies? (6:52) Mailbag: What should I consider before investing in a rental property? (9:30) Check out our home-buying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/  Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

What are some of the pet peeves real estate agents face? We talk through a list and see what Angie thinks. She shares which of these mistakes she's seen with clients and how they can cause a negative outcome in the long run.  From unrealistic expectations to not trusting the agent, a lot of time and energy can be lost if you aren't in the right place as a buyer or seller. Lean into your realtor for their experience and expertise to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Here are some of the pet peeves we discuss on today's show: Clients who are not serious. (1:20) Lack of trust in the real estate agent. (4:18) Someone who has unrealistic expectations. (5:53) Bad communication. (8:05) A bad personality fit. (9:31)   Check out our home buying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/  Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

In our area, there is so much happening, including new construction! If you are looking for a new build home, Angie suggests looking at Triangle neighborhoods such as Friendship Station, Townes at Westford, West Village, Kings Grant, Retreat at Cedar Crossing, and Smith Farms. Before you get too far into your search, start by considering what you really want and need in a home. Working with Angie and her team will ensure you prioritize your wants and needs first and then find the home that fits your criteria. Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Mailbag: Where are new build neighborhoods coming? (0:38) Mailbag: How long will it take to sell my home this spring? (3:40) Mailbag: What are the basic steps to buying a home? (6:37) Check out our homebuying guide: https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/special-guide-the-home-buying-process/    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

As (early) spring sets in, you might be getting ready to buy or sell your home. Some of the basic landscaping can make a huge difference when it comes to giving your home that “wow” factor when you go to sell it. As a buyer, whether you have a certain neighborhood in mind or have been casually looking online for a while and are ready to get more specific, Angie and her team are here to help. On today's show, Angie answers four questions from the mailbag from buyers and sellers in the Triangle area.   Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Mailbag: What's the average price point in the Amberly area in Cary? (1:04) Mailbag: How can I improve the curb appeal of my home? (3:42) Mailbag: Why shouldn't I use Zillow when looking to buy? (5:04) Mailbag: Are Zestimates and similar market tools still useful in a changing market? (7:49)   See our listings and get in touch with our team: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As the real estate market ebbs and flows, you may be tempted to time the market. Sometimes an attempt to time the market can be one of the biggest mistakes that homebuyers make. Angie shares some experiences buyers have had when they didn't understand what the market conditions were and lost out.   Here's what you'll learn on today's show: Massive homebuyer mistake: trying to time the market. (0:43) Are new construction homes more expensive? (4:38) Is it harder to finance a new construction home? (6:52) Do they lose their value faster? (8:00) Always get an inspection! (8:48)   See our listings and get in touch with our team: https://www.acolerealty.com/

If you are ready to buy or sell your home, your first step is likely finding a real estate agent. Angie answers one listener question on how to find the right person to represent you during this process. You want someone you not only get along with, but who is also experienced in the market. On today's show, we also talk about what is currently happening with the market in the Triangle before Angie answers four questions from the mailbag.   Here are the questions Angie answers today: What's happening in the local Triangle real estate market. (0:38) Mailbag: How do I choose a reputable real estate agent? (2:38) Mailbag: How can you budget for taxes on a new construction home? (4:26) Mailbag: How does living outside the city limits impact your city services? (6:14) Mailbag: What is the typical age of buyers? (9:18)   Visit us online and see our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

On this episode of The Savvy Realtor Podcast, we'll discuss several habits of highly effective homebuyers, as outlined in an article from Realtor.com. Angie shares her thoughts on the first few habits, highlighting the importance of keeping emotions in check and staying realistic when looking for a home. Throughout the conversation, Angie provides practical tips and advice on how to develop these habits and apply them to your home buying journey. She emphasizes the importance of working with a Realtor who can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you become a more effective home buyer. Here are specific highlights we'll address with Angie on this episode of The Savvy Realtor Podcast: Homebuyers really need to keep their emotions in check. Buying a home is very personal, but that can often cloud your judgement. Sometimes homebuyers have trouble staying realistic. (2:22) The article mentions that it's important to keep an open mind and to not be afraid to move or expand your search to open up your options. Angie says she coaches people to be open-minded all the time. (5:40) Don't be afraid to ask questions. (7:24) Angie agrees with the article that you need to “see beyond” how a home looks. (8:44) Summary: Stay flexible and available. (11:30) You can find the article we discuss in today's episode here: https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/habits-of-successful-homebuyers-today/   See Our Listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ Contact The A Cole Realty Team: 919-578-3128  

You might have heard that home prices have dropped a bit in the past several weeks, but one listener points out that the trend hasn't translated as well to starter homes. We'll ask Angie about that on this week's edition of the Savvy Realtor Podcast. We also open the “mailbag” for some additional questions about fractional ownership, buying homes with friends and family, on advice on where to invest extra cash.   Here are the questions we'll ask Angie on this episode of The Savvy Realtor Podcast: I keep hearing about lower housing prices, but all the starter homes we're looking at are still just as expensive as they were months ago. What's going on there? Why haven't they dropped much? (0:40) I saw an article that says more friends and families will buy homes together in the years ahead. How does that work, buying a home with another person or even a group of people? (2:04) Can you talk about fractional ownership? I've seen some listings where you “buy” a property, but you only get to stay there for a few weeks out of the year. And you still have to pay high yearly fees. Is this just a timeshare by a different name? (4:23) We're going to be able to buy a new house soon and move out of our current one. We're stuck on what to do, however. Should we sell it and pocket the cash and invest that elsewhere? Or rent it out for income that way and hold onto it for future growth and property value increase? What do you see as the most successful strategy for our area? (6:20)   See Our Listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ Contact The A Cole Realty Team: 919-578-3128  

What common home-selling mistakes should you do what you can to avoid? We talk through this list and Angie shares about her experiences as she helps guide sellers through the process. Make sure to be aware of the risks with these mistakes and know what to do instead in order to set yourself up for success.    Here are the mistakes you'll want to avoid when selling a home:   Basing expectations on past information. (1:04) Blame someone else for missing the top of the market. (2:14) Underestimating the costs of selling. (3:15) Choosing the wrong agent. (6:15) Limited showing availability. (7:25) Not clearing out clutter. (8:38) Taking bad pictures. (10:06) Trying to sell a home on your own. (10:53)   See our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/ Contact the ACole Realty team: 919-578-3128  

When you invest in a home, you want to make sure you get the right fit for your needs. For some people that means a lot of acreage and for others it's all about having a good layout and flow for the home. How do you know if a home has “good bones”? Angie answers this question and three others from the mailbag. Here are the questions Angie answers from the mailbag: • Mailbag: What are my options to move if I'm upside down on my mortgage? (0:38) • Mailbag: Where should I look for 10+ acres of land in the area? (3:10)  • Mailbag: Do I need to keep utilities on while selling after I have left? (8:47)  • Mailbag: How can I tell if a home has good bones? (9:56)  See our listings and contact our team at https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

When you start your home search, there's a lot to learn before making your decision. Angie answers one listener question about how many homes buyers see before putting in an offer. Viewing different homes in person, checking the MLS, and keeping an eye on the market will help you get a feel for what is typical and what is a good deal. It's not as common to make an offer sight unseen like it was a mere year or two ago. Are you on the home search right now?   Here are the questions Angie answers from the mailbag: Mailbag: How many homes should I view before buying one? (0:38) Mailbag: Is it okay to push back on closing date? (4:14) Mailbag: How do we determine a good list price? (8:43) Mailbag: Can we offer under list price? (11:39)   See our listings and contact our team at https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

As the real estate market continues to evolve, you may be wondering what is normal right now and what's a thing of the past. Angie sets the record straight as we play a game of real estate true or false. Do your guesses align with her answers?   Here are the statements we discuss today to find out whether they are true or false:   True or false: Home prices are very high. (0:52) True or false: The work-from-home impact on the housing market will normalize. (1:48) True or false: It's still a seller's market. (2:53) True or false: You'll need to do light renovations before selling. (3:35) True or false: It's in bad taste to ask an agent how many homes they sell a year. (4:05) True or false: The home inspection is the most daunting part of the process. (6:45) True or false: You don't need much due diligence these days. (9:10) True or false: Prepare for problems with the appraisal. (10:09) True or false: My house is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. (12:27) True or false: Low ball offers are back in style. (13:59) See our listings and contact Angie at https://www.acolerealty.com/ 

When you go to buy or sell a home, you want everything to go as well as possible. For some people, they choose to include 3D photos with the listing, and others may choose to do an open house. Angie talks through the pros and cons of some of these different decisions as she answers this question and three other questions from the mailbag. Here are the mailbag questions we cover today: Mailbag: Why do some people choose to do a 3D tour on a home listing? (0:38) Mailbag: Should we knock down walls to make our bedrooms bigger? (3:36) Mailbag: Will our aging systems hurt our home sale? (6:00) Mailbag: Should we build a home? What will that process include? (8:33)   See our listings: http://acolerealty.com 

What are four surprising reasons that a real estate deal might fall through? Based on a recent article from realtor.com, we discuss these possibilities and find out if Angie has seen similar situations. Make sure none of these situations happen to you! Here are some reasons real estate deals don't happen:    Rising interest rates impact financing. (1:14) Houses don't appraise for what the buyer offered. (2:40) Buyers rack up too much debt. (3:44) Buyers found a different house after prices dropped. (5:12)   See our listings: http://acolerealty.com 

When you buy a home, the costs are more than just the monthly mortgage. So, how can you determine how much home you can afford? Whether you hit big with the lottery, got a sizeable inheritance, or a big bonus at work, you'll still want to factor in what is sustainable for you and your budget. Angie answers this question and three others on today's episode of the podcast.   Here's what we discuss on today's show: How much should I have for competitive due diligence? (0:38) How do you determine how much someone can afford on a home? (4:45) What is a seller consultation? (8:41) Will we have a hard time selling if we don't live in city limits? (11:28)   See our listings: http://acolerealty.com 

As the end of the year approaches, we address some of the last few trends and questions in 2022. Angie shares what you'll want to know as you look toward buying or selling a house in the near future.   Here's what we discuss on today's show: Signs show mortgage rates might dip. Will homebuying pick up? (1:38) Will people list their home during the holidays? (2:48) The best deal Angie has ever seen on a home purchase. (4:45) Does Angie's team take a break over the holidays? (6:37) What Angie predicts will happen with the market in 2023. (8:50)   See our listings: http://acolerealty.com 

While it's beginning to look a lot like the holidays right now, do you really want it to look festive in your home when trying to sell? Angie shares what she thinks (and Walter shares some of his holiday decor) on today's show. Find out the answer to this question and three others from the mailbag.   Here's what we discuss on today's show: What to consider when investing in a home or neighborhood. (0:38) What to keep in mind if you feel nervous about the market right now. (3:12) If the prices will go down even more. (5:47) To decorate or not to decorate for the holidays when trying to list a home. (7:17)   See our listings: http://acolerealty.com