Spring Cleaning: 5 Cleaning Tips for Selling Your Home

As the weather begins to warm up, homeowners have the urge to refresh their surroundings for the spring and summer months ahead. For most this usually involves packing away the winter clothes and accumulated clutter, and completing some much needed chores around the home. For those selling, this cleaning process is even more important.

The spring season is a popular time to buy a home for many. And, with buying a home also comes selling a home. With so many potential buyers coming through your doors, you’ll want your home to be a clean and orderly space that invites them to imagine their life living there. Want to make your home stand out to potential buyers? Here are 5 cleaning tips for selling your home that are sure to result in selling success.

1.) Do a Deep Clean

While the idea of deep cleaning may seem unappealing, it plays a huge factor into your home’s potential to sell. As a homeowner, you likely have areas in your home that you tidy up on a regular basis. However,in order to really make your home stand out to buyers, you will want to take this cleaning to the next level. It may take a bit more time, but it will be worth it in the long run.Deep cleaning can be pretty involved, so set aside a day where you can focus on the tasks at hand.

Before getting started, think about those areas you often overlook during your usual cleaning. This could include cleaning behind couches, dusting the ceiling fan blades, clearing out under the sink, or wiping down floor boards with hard floor cleaner. Make sure all windows and mirrors are wiped clean, and that floors are polished or vacuumed. While these small areas may not be one or your daily cleaning concerns, buyers with pique interest will be looking at even the smallest of details.

2.) Declutter the Home

Sifting through clutter is an integral part of any spring cleaning routine. This cleaning task is even more important for home sellers. For potential buyers to imagine themselves in your home, the space needs to be free of excess clutter. Properly stow away items that could potentially distract buyers from focusing on the parts of the home you want them to focus on. Consider removing items like toys, family photos, sticky notes, pet supplies, or anything else that takes away from the home.

Decluttering also helps the home look more spacious. Go room by room and remove items that take up unnecessary space. Focus on spaces that are known for disorganization like cabinets, closets, laundry rooms, or pantries. Buyers will look in these spaces. You want them to see the potential for these areas. Having these spaces cluttered and chaotic does not give the best impression. Decluttering also benefits the seller in more ways than one. Less clutter means less to pack up and move!

3.) Don’t Forget About Aesthetics

Once the cleaning part of the spring cleaning is done, it’s time to bring your home to life with some aesthetics. A vase of bright flowers in the entryway, a charming wreath on the door or a welcome doormat are all great ways to add a “feel-good” effect to the home. It enhances the cleanliness of the home and helps to create an inviting space that buyers can easily envision themselves living in.

Of course, aesthetics aren’t all visual. The smell of your home also draws in (or turns away) potential buyers. The smell of a home is often associated with the cleanliness of it. Before buyers walk through the door, light a clean smelling seasonal candle or one that smells like fresh baked cookies. Not only will the candle create a nice ambiance, but the pleasant smells will evoke feelings of home that help buyers to feel comfortable in the space.

4.) Tackle Routine and Seasonal Maintenance

No buyer wants to move into a new home that is going to soon need maintenance and potential repairs. Before your home hits the market, incorporate routine maintenance into your spring cleaning routine. Change the batteries in the smoke detector, inspect the washing machine hoses, and change out interior HVAC filters.

You will also want to focus on some seasonal home maintenance as well. Spring is a great time to take care of pest issues and remove any friends that may have found their way into the home during the cold winter months. After winter, it is always a good idea to check your roof for loose shingles or cracks. While up there, be sure clean the gutters and downspouts of any debris that may have collected. Make sure to take an outdoor walk around the house too. Pay attention to any damages to exterior paint, fences, decks, windows, doors, and the home’s foundation.

5.) Consider Hiring a Pro for Big Jobs

If you’re cleaning up after a big remodel project, a move-out or in preparation to rent or sell your home, consider using a professional residential home cleaning company. Just search for cleaning services near me to find top pros. Don’t forget to check out reviews and ensure the provider offers a reasonable rate.

Cleaning your home isn’t the only way to set yourself up for selling success. A knowledgable agent is also key to selling your home fast and even saving money in the process. At SimpleShowing, our sellers save thousands in commission with our low 1% listing fee, in addition to having a full-service agent on their side.

Clean for spring and jump into this exciting home selling season! Fill out a free home valuation and contact us today to learn more about how our selling and listing process could work for you and your home.

When Should You Inspect Your Roof and Gutter?

Roofs and gutters play a significant part in the routine maintenance of any residence. They are in charge of safeguarding the house from the elements and keeping it dry throughout the season. It is essential to guarantee that both the roof and the gutters are in good shape and are maintained regularly.

A roof is a structure that protects the top of a building from the outdoors. It is crucial in maintaining the roof’s condition to avoid water from leaking into the house. Rain gutters are built on the roof to collect and deflect rainwater away from home. It is helpful to keep gutters clean and free of debris for them to perform their functions effectively.

If either roofs or gutters are not properly maintained, it can lead to severe problems.

Water damage is one of the most prevalent issues that homeowners have to deal with when it comes to their roofs and gutters. It is possible for mold and mildew to grow in your home if water is allowed to leak into the structure. This can be hazardous to your health.

Aside from that, water damage can cause structural damage to a home, resulting in the need for costly repairs. You should always keep your roof and gutters in good shape in order to prevent your home from water damage and other problems. The question is, how frequently should you have them inspected?

Roofs and gutters should be inspected at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall.

However, for those who reside in areas with extreme weather conditions, it may be necessary to have them inspected more frequently. Roof and gutter problems, such as leaks, cracks, or missing shingles, should be addressed as soon as they are discovered. It is possible that ignoring these issues will result in catastrophic harm to your home.

Consult a professional roofing contractor such as Mighty Dog Roofing Northwest Atlanta if you have any questions about how to examine your roof or gutters or if you require assistance with repairs. They can evaluate and make recommendations on the best course of action to take to safeguard your property from damage.

The maintenance should be performed on a regular basis to ensure that your property remains safe and dry. Ensure that both are inspected regularly and that any discovered faults are corrected. Maintaining the optimum condition of your property is well worth the effort and expense.

What are the advantages of living in a home with a well-maintained roof?

There are numerous advantages to having a well-maintained roof. First and foremost, it safeguards your home against water damage. Second, it might save you money by preventing the need for costly repairs. Third, it has the potential to increase the lifespan of your home. Fourth, it has a positively affect the aesthetic of your property. Fifth, it has the capacity to boost the insulation of your home.

Finally, it has the power to raise the value of your home. Having a well-maintained roof might be a significant selling point if you’re thinking about selling. This case demonstrates that the house has been well maintained and is in good condition. A prospective buyer will be relieved to learn that they will not be required to spend money on repairs right immediately.

There are different types of roofs and gutters. What kind do you have?

A shingle roof is the most popular style of roof. This roof is constructed of asphalt shingles that are placed on top of one another. Shingle roofs are solid and durable. Additionally, they are simple to install and repair. Meanwhile, the most suggested roofing material is metal. Metal roofs are long-lasting, fireproof, and energy-efficient. Additionally, they are recyclable, which benefits the environment.

A seamless gutter is the most frequent type of gutter. Seamless gutters are constructed from a single piece of metal. They are less prone to leakage and easier to install than standard gutters.

When inspecting your roof and gutters, what should you look for?

When evaluating your roof for missing shingles, leaks, cracks, or any other damage, look for missing shingles, leaks, cracks, or any further damage. If you find any of these issues, contact a licensed roofing contractor to get them corrected. When examining your gutters, look for any obstructions. Debris can obstruct water flow via gutters, causing them to overflow. Additionally, inspect the gutters for leaks or cracks. If you discover any issues, contact a gutter cleaning and repair professional to have them repaired.

Taking care of your roof and gutter is a critical aspect of homeownership. By inspecting them often and resolving any issues that arise, you can safeguard your property against water damage. Not only will this save you money in the long term, but it will also help maintain the structural integrity of your home.

Contact a professional roofing contractor or cleaning and repair agency for additional information on various sorts of house upkeep. They will be able to assist you in maintaining the best possible condition for your home.

4 Things To Consider When Viewing Homes In Reno

Buying a home is always an exciting time for anyone. Whether you plan on living alone or moving in with your family, the process should be positive, as it marks a milestone in your life. To make that happen, you should take the time to consider all factors before you make a decision. Seeing the house in photos or even videos won’t be enough – viewing it personally is more helpful to ensure everything is right before you sign anything.

If you’ve chosen Reno as the perfect location for your new home, congratulations! The biggest little city in the world is home to families and people who want to experience how it’s like to live in a vibrant region where taxes are relatively low, more jobs are available, and recreation is available at any time of the year.

Viewing a house in Reno

It’s tempting to get carried away when viewing homes, especially when you’re too excited and can’t wait to settle in. It’s easy to find a house and picture yourself living there. You look at the neighborhood and think it’s precisely what you want for your new property.

But before you say yes and decide without thinking about it too much, you might want to take a step back and reevaluate the situation. If you’re viewing a second-hand property, there could be dark secrets hiding somewhere. It would help if you were extremely vigilant so you don’t fall into an expensive trap that could make you regret your decision.

That said, you might want to consider the following things first when viewing homes in Reno:

1.) Room size

One crucial factor to consider is if the house will be big enough for you and your family. Sometimes, rooms will seem bigger and more spacious than they are. It could be in the choice of furniture and how things were arranged inside the rooms if it’s not a totally empty house.

Although the dimensions may have been included in the property listing, making sure the measurements are accurate won’t hurt. While viewing, try to think of how you’ll be arranging your stuff if you choose to buy the house. Will everything fit? Is there room or opportunity for expansion, and if yes, will it cost a lot of money?

The house may be ideal for your current family size, but if you plan to have more children soon, can the residence still accommodate everyone? It makes sense to think ahead and plan for your family’s future while viewing homes in Reno.

2.) Structural conditions

Another item to include in your home viewing checklist is the property’s structural condition. For one, roof shingles should be well maintained. Missing or curling shingles could indicate that the roof has been neglected or poorly maintained by the previous owner.

Other things to consider when checking the condition of the home are:

  • Potential leaks
  • Moisture
  • Musty odors that could indicate mold
  • Cracking paint around the window sill
  • Dampness on window frames and interior walls
  • Water in the basement
  • Faulty windows and doors

You might also want to check any plumbing or electrical issues that could cause expensive repairs later. Check if electrical wirings are correctly installed. You can also bring an expert to get a more professional opinion regarding these household aspects.

3.) How long has the property been on sale?

When viewing homes, it’s crucial to find out how long they’ve been listed on the market. If it’s been up for sale for more than six months, that could be a red flag that you can’t ignore. There might be an underlying reason or problem holding up potential buyers.

Along with the question, you could also ask why the seller or owner is letting go of the property. The answer may be a giveaway to help you get a lower asking price. For example, if the owners are leaving the country or moving to another state, they’re most likely in a hurry to sell the house. If so, they might be open to accepting a lower price to close the deal.

4.) Parking space

Some properties may not come with suitable parking spaces. If you have a vehicle, you should consider how much space you have to ensure your car’s safety and security. Sellers may list two-car parking options, but that still depends on the size and make of the vehicles you have.

Your cars should fit the space or garage comfortably. Check if you can park and get the vehicles out easily. You don’t want parking spaces where you can barely open the doors once you’ve parked the car.

Final words Viewing homes in Reno is indeed an exciting phase in anyone’s life. However, you can’t let the excitement get in the way of making a better judgment. Your home is a significant investment that can put a dent in your bank account. So, it’s only fitting to make sure you’re wiser and more practical when viewing potential properties that could be your next home.

What Is the Average Down Payment on a House?

If you read articles about buying a home, then you’ll undoubtedly see many of them recommending 20% of the home’s value as a down payment.

Unfortunately, this amount scares many prospective buyers because it represents a significant investment that either don’t have or aren’t willing to commit right now.

Do you actually need to put 20% down to get a mortgage? If not, what is the average down payment on a house in the United States?

It turns out, the answer to this question about the average down payment amount has a straightforward answer. Read on to learn more about down payments and why homeownership might be more attainable than you think!

What Is the Average Down Payment for First-Time Homebuyers?

While the recommended down payment for a home may be 20%, there are several loans for first time home buyers that require way less than this.

As a result, the average down payment for first-time homebuyers is just 6% of the home’s value. On a $300,000 home, that means the average buyer would put down $18,000 – well short of $60,000 that would be required for a 20% down payment that many financial gurus recommend.

Keep in mind that in addition to your downpayment, you’ll also have to pay some closing costs as a homebuyer.

Well, while you don’t need a 20% down payment to get these loans, many people try to put down the 20% to avoid paying PMI or private mortgage insurance on top of the standard mortgage payment.

In fact, almost all mortgages require some mortgage insurance when there’s less than 20% down. Buyers typically have to pay this insurance until they have 20% equity in the home, at which point the bank either stops billing it altogether or the buyer has to refinance to remove it. Mortgage insurance is not cheap, as it usually costs between 0.5% and 1% of the loan’s value.

As a quick example, if your home’s value was $250,000 and your mortgage balance is $225,000, that would mean you’d pay anywhere between $1,125 and $2,225 per year until your mortgage balance was $200,000. When you hit that amount, your bank may automatically take off the PMI payments with a conventional loan. However, if you have an FHA loan, you’d need to refinance it into a non-FHA loan to remove the mortgage insurance premiums.

Given that the average down payment for a first-time homebuyer is 6%, that means that most people have 14% equity to build before they could get rid of this extra monthly cost.

So, while you can get a house with less than 20% down, you may want to consider whether it is worth paying the extra cost in insurance. While the average is 6% and most people do pay PMI, you’ll need to decide if that is the right route for you.

The Average Down Payment for Repeat Buyers Is Less Than 20%

Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, the average down payment for repeat homebuyers (that is, those who have purchased their first home and are getting a new one or buying a second one) was not significantly higher. According to the National Association of Realtors, repeat buyers typically financed 84% of their home’s value. That means they had a down payment of about 16% of the purchase price.

Not even repeat buyers, who have benefited from capital appreciation, come up with 20% down as the average!

These statistics mean that, on average, people buy into a home with about 6% down and pay it off just enough to buy another property with 16% down. In both instances, though, the average homeowner continues to pay PMI even on their second loan!

Mortgage Options That Don’t Require A 20% Down Payment

If you’re one of the millions of Americans who want to buy a home but don’t have 20% down, you’re in good company. You should know that your situation isn’t unique. Instead, it’s quite common and ordinary!

Buyers without 20% down typically have three loan options that work best: FHA, VA and Conventional loans.

FHA (Federal Housing Administration) Mortgages

Arguably the most common mortgage that requires very little down is the FHA mortgage. These mortgages receive backing from the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA guarantees them for banks, so there’s a minimal downside to the financial institution to make the loan.

FHA loans require a minimum down payment of just 3.5% of the loan’s value. On a $200,000 home, that would mean a down payment of $7,000, which is much more attainable than 20% down!

The downside to FHA loans is that the mortgage insurance premiums are high, and you have to pay them for the loan’s entire duration. If you want to stop paying mortgage insurance, you have to refinance the loan.

VA (Veterans Administration) Mortgages

If you are a veteran, you’re in luck when it comes to buying a home! VA loans are arguably the best for mortgages with a low average down payment. The reason is simple – the minimum down payment is 0%.

That’s right, 0%. You don’t need to put anything down with a VA loan. What’s even better is that a VA loan doesn’t require any form of mortgage insurance. So, not only do you not have to put anything down, but you don’t have to pay extra every month. That’s a pretty sweet deal!

Conventional Loans

Some conventional mortgages can work with as little as 3% down. However, most conventional loans require at least 5% for approval. Some lenders may even institute higher minimum down payments like 10% or even 20%. If you’re looking for a jumbo loan, expect the down payment requirements to be even higher.

All conventional loans will require PMI until the equity in the home reaches 20%. As such, expect to pay somewhere between 0.5% and 1% of the loan’s value until you get that amount.

States Often Offer Additional Down Payment Assistance

Many states offer additional assistance for first-time homebuyers. Georgia, Florida and Texas are just a few of the states that offer several programs to help you get into your first home. If you’re buying your first home it can be a good idea to do your research and look into the different programs that are available to you.

Buy A Home With SimpleShowing + Get $5,000 Towards Your Closing Costs

If you’re looking to buy a home, you should know that you have options and that homeownership probably isn’t as far away as you think. Whether you have 0% down, 5% down, or 20% down, there are likely ways to stop renting and start owning! Between the different loan types and state incentives, there’s almost always a way to own a home and begin building equity.

Plus, SimpleShowing makes this even easier by giving all buyers $5,000 on average towards closing costs. Besides down payment, closing costs are one of the biggest upfront expenses when purchasing a home, so this refund is huge!

If you’re thinking about buying, contact us to get connected with a local agent or book a showing of any home you want to see.

Best Real Estate Agents in Cumming, Georgia

Cumming is a fast growing Atlanta suburb located along State Highway 400 in Forsyth County, Georgia. The city has over 10,000 residents and has been steadily growing in popularity as it offers a small town suburban feel with the convenience of big city amenities.

This Forsyth County city more than lives up to its title as the “Gateway to Leisure”. Nestled at the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, Cumming is surrounded by lush green spaces with an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation at Sawnee Mountain Preserve, Big Creek Greenway and Lake Lanier. Of course, those that prefer the vibrant city lifestyle will be happy to find that in Cumming as well. Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are available at Halcyon, The Collection at Forsyth and Cumming City Center.

People who live in Cumming love the city for its quality of communities, the highly-rated schools and the proximity to Alpharetta & the Avalon shopping center. Whether you’re interested in buying a 6 bedroom home with basement, a new construction townhouse or a property Lake Lanier, it’s important to understand the local market and different styles of properties available.

The Real Estate Market in Cumming

As of late 2022, homebuyer negotiating power has shifted into their favor after nearly two years of low inventory and regular bidding wars. Due to the city’s constant growth, the city’s market remains incredibly active. According to Zillow, the current median home value in Cumming, GA is $395,762. Properties in Cumming typically sell for 96% of the asking price and are on the market for an average of 23 days.

Best Real Estate Agents in Cumming, GA

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Cumming, we’ve put together a list of top rated agents to help you accomplish your goals. Below, you can see the number of recent sales and reviews to make it easier to choose which agent is best for you.

Fred McGill, SimpleShowing Real Estate

Here’s what clients have to say about Fred McGill:

“I had a fantastic experience working with Fred and his team! And, I saved a TON of money compared to using one of the typical 6% agent fee real estate companies. I received the same services, if not better, including signage, professional photos, a lock-box with text notifications, a real agent to work with, help with negotiating and closing the deal, etc. This is the best experience available and at a fraction of the cost!” -Michael B., Google

Sherry Ajluni, Compass

  • 187 reviews
  • 127 recent home sales
  • Highlights: Buyer’s Agent,Listing Agent,Relocation,Foreclosure

Here’s what clients have to say about Sherry Ajluni:

“After 14 moves in my adult life,  numerous Real Estate agents and transactions I can confidently say Sherry is without a doubt the best agent I have ever worked with. Sherry has put together an all star team that work amazingly well together with the perfect amount of communication. Not too much,  not too little but you feel Sherry and team are always right there with you.  I first worked with Sherry when she represented the seller of a house my wife and I were buying. We were so impressed with her work we hired her and her team to represent us in our sale.  It was the smoothest and easiest real estate transaction I have ever had. I can’t recommend Sherry’s team enough for all your real estate needs.”- Eric L., Zillow

Stephanie Patterson, The Cole Team

  • 166 reviews
  • 84 recent home sales
  • Highlights: Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Consulting, Relocation

Here’s what clients have to say about Stephanie Patterson:

“The only thing better that buying a new home is the relationship with a Realtor that makes your day better. Any agent can scan MLS and setup showings. A special one gets into your head and helps you find the house that you didn’t even know you wanted. Such is the case with the Stephanie and Meriellen (daughter/mother) team. We spent months looking with both. The Cole Team has a depth of houses that they list and that gave us the opportunity to find the perfect house before it hit the market. Clearly a win for all.” -Richard C., Zillow

Sekhar Thadiparthi, Sekhars Realty

  • 157 reviews
  • 151 recent sales
  • Highlights:Buyer’s Agent,Foreclosure,Short-Sale,Resale

Here’s what clients have to say about Sekhar Thadiparthi:

“Perfect realty company for buying a home. Sekhar helped us through out the process, negotiated the price, got us a good deal. We were able to find the right home only after a day we reached out to him. He also pointed us to correct people for inspection and any other needs. Overall a great  person to work with. I’ll totally recommend him for finding homes.” -Anvesh K., Zillow

Kim Schmal, Century 21 Results

  • 55 reviews
  • 28 recent home sales
  • Highlights: Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Relocation, Short-Sale, Property Management

Here’s what clients have to say about Kim Schmal:

“Being a first-time homebuyer, we had a lot of doubts and worries. Kim was always there to assure us that everything is fine and she answered all of our questions. So professional. I always felt that we were the most important clients to her and she always had time for us. Always! She was there every step of the way. We were so lucky to meet someone who is trustworthy, client-focused, and experienced. Kim is also tremendously knowledgeable about Cumming’s (Georgia) neighborhoods and school districts. Kim helped to find the perfect first home for my husband, our two boys and me.”  -Anonymous, Zillow

If you’ve decided to search for homes in Cumming, you’ll need a real estate agent that will go above and beyond to make sure you get the best deal possible.

However, if you are looking to get the best value, SimpleShowing is the way to go! When buying with a SimpleShowing, agents provide assistance with negotiation, inspection, and contract support. As an added bonus, you’ll also receive a buyer refund to help with closing costs. Depending on where you purchased, that refund could easily cover two or three mortgage payments!

Buyers aren’t the only ones who benefit. For sellers, SimpleShowing offers a low 1% listing fee. You’ll get a dedicated real estate agent, contract and negotiation support, MLS listings, an open house, and more. Everything that you’ve come to expect from a professional real estate agent, you’ll get with SimpleShowing – it’ll just cost you less money!

Are you ready to make the move? Contact us today and we’ll put you in touch with one of our top real estates agents in the area. Soon you’ll be on your way to finding your personal “Gateway to Leisure” in Cumming!

Should You Buy a Home with Student Loan Debt?

Whether you have been out of college for a few years or quite a while at this point, you may dream of owning a home in the not-so-distant future. However, it can be expensive to get a home, especially with all the upfront costs. If you have student loans, it can even seem prohibitive. There are several pros and cons of getting a home before your loans are paid off.

Lowering Your Monthly Expenses

Saving for a down payment is possible if you are able to lower your monthly expenses enough. Part of each paycheck can go into a savings account for your home. Try to cut costs by shopping sales and using a budget to track all spending. You can even cut expenses when it comes to your student loans.

One way to save money is to refinance student loans to get a better rate or a longer term. While it might take longer to pay the money back, you won’t have to pay as much each month, so homeownership might be more attainable.

Understanding Debt vs. Income

To qualify for a mortgage, you will need to have a low enough debt-to-income ratio. A lender looks at other debt you already have, including student loans. If your ratio is too high, it means you already have a lot of debt in comparison to the amount of income you are bringing in.

It could be best to wait until more loans are paid off or your income increases. You can follow simple money management tips and increase it yourself through side hustles or a better job. Even getting a raise at work might be enough to push your annual income up enough to get a favorable mortgage. On the other hand, getting a student loan refinance can also help decrease the debt-to-income ratio.

Deciding if You Have a Large Enough Down Payment

It’s a good idea to try for at least 20 percent of the home’s total price so you don’t need to get private mortgage insurance. However, with rising home prices, it’s not always possible to save this amount, and there are plenty of lenders that require a much smaller percentage.

You’ll also want to ensure you have enough saved for hidden costs related to homeownership so you aren’t taking on more than you can handle. When you have student loans, it’s especially important to ensure you aren’t getting in over your head.

Signs You Might Be Able to Afford a Home

Even if you are still paying off student loans, you may be able to afford a home if you already have a fairly large down payment saved up. And if you make enough income to cover additional costs, such as maintenance, you might be able to afford one.

In some cases, it can be better to own than rent, especially if you plan to stay in a quickly growing area for a number of years. You might be able to get a house that has more space for a similar monthly payment to a rental property. Plus, your home can grow in value over the years.

Are Open Houses Effective?

It wasn’t too long ago that, if you planned on selling your home, you also had to hold one or more “open houses”.

This was just a given.

Then internet has changed that, though. And not long after, COVID changed the rules even more. Thanks to online listings with detailed photos and even videos, more and more homeowners are wondering if open houses are even worth it anymore.

Who Attends Open Houses?

It might seem like the obvious answer is, “People who want to buy your house.”

However, you need to know that many people may attend your open house even though they’re not actually in the market for a new home. They might just be doing some initial research before they begin their efforts in earnest at some point in the future.

There are also the infamous tire-kickers and “looky-loo’s” who will show up just to see an inside of a house, even though they may be unlikely to purchase a property within the next 6 months.

How Do Open Houses Work?

A public open house is generally held on a Saturday or Sunday and advertised through real estate brokers, listing agents and buyers agents for an easy way for people to get more interested in lieu of private showings.

Does this mean that an open house won’t be worth it?

Not necessarily.

Instead, it just means that you need to temper your expectations accordingly. There’s not a lot you can do about foot traffic that doesn’t represent potential buyers. You just have to understand it will happen and then prepare and promote your open house for those who are actually interested in buying a home like yours. While open houses are certainly not a required tactic to sell homes, they could prove fruitful if executed correctly.

Is an Open House Beneficial?

Finally, everyone is different. While the above advice should help you decide if an open house is worth it, the answer will ultimately depend on you and your home.

Still, here are six questions that will further help you decide if holding an open house would be a good idea for you:

  • Do Open Houses Work for Your Schedule? You don’t necessarily need to be around for your open house, but you do need the time to either stage your house or hire someone else to do it for you.
  • Will You Be Able to Keep Your House Safe and Clean? Staging your house is important, but you also have to keep it clean between tours and open houses. Will you have time for this? Do you have somewhere safe to keep your valuables, so they’re not out-in-the-open while people are inspecting your home? Are you able to protect yourself or your family from spreading germs while still holding an open house?
  • How Does Your Asking Price Affect an Open House? Before you list your house, you should have a comparative market analysis (CMA) done, so you know what you can realistically list it at. If you’re listing it for first-time buyers, they’ll probably be working during the week, so you’ll need to hold your open houses on the weekend.
  • How Often Will You Need to Hold Open Houses? Your agent should be able to help you with this by comparing your home to others they’ve sold in the area. However, the conventional wisdom is that 1-2 open houses are usually enough to gain sufficient interest. After that, you’ll probably see the interest drop off.
  • What Will an Open House Entail? Talk to your real estate agent about what they think a successful open house will require for your home. It could entail a number of bells and whistles (e.g. check-in apps, hors d’oeuvres, drinks, etc.) that will require planning on your part.

How to Effectively Promote an Open House and Attract Potential Buyers

If you decide that it’s worth holding an open house, then it’s vital that you know how to effectively promote it. Otherwise, it will definitely not be worth the time and money involved.

Of course, your real estate agent should help with this. You should expect that they’ll have your house listed on the MLS and other popular real estate websites. These listings should include any information about upcoming open houses. Your real estate agent should also spread the word throughout their network of fellow agents.

For your part, don’t be shy about letting your social networks know when your open house will be. Include lots of photos to generate interest in your home and ask friends to share your post, so it reaches those outside of your social circle. You can even create a Facebook event for it to track RSVPs and message the group about additional details.

Don’t forget about your other social networks, too. For example, you could promote your open house on Nextdoor, so everyone in the neighborhood knows about it. Of course, traditional signage is great for this, too. And you only need one or two events. You don’t need to host open houses for an entire month. That might suggest your home is overpriced!

A slower real estate market heightens need for open houses

As of early 2023, the housing market is slowing due to a sharp increase in mortgage rates. Existing-home sales declined for eight consecutive months beginning in June 2022. Although median house sales prices have soared 13.4% year over year, most agents expect prices to moderate until through early 2024.

In any real estate market, an open house can be useful tool for prospective buyers to collect data points in the early phase of the home buying process. Serious home buyers who have already seen dozens of homes may opt for a private showing if they’re deeper into the search process.

Who Really Benefits from Open Houses?

It’s a myth that open houses sell homes. But, open houses or a “broker’s open house” may still be worth it.

On average, homes that have open houses sell for about $9,000 more and a week sooner than those that don’t.

That said, it’s tough to know how big a role open houses play in these results. Maybe it’s that people who hold open houses also just take better care of their homes, hence why they sell sooner and for more.

So, are open houses always worth it? No.

But don’t reject them outright. They’ve still shown a lot of promise and may be extremely helpful in selling your house.

Why Real Estate Agents Love Open Houses

Also, it’s worth considering what real estate agents gain from open houses.

Sure, they can help sell their clients’ houses, but they’re always a great way to meet new people who may soon need their services.

Where better to connect with so many qualified prospects than in a house that’s actually on the market?

That’s not to say this is their only motive, but it’s wise to keep this mind. You could be paying for your real estate agent’s favorite networking event without even knowing it. Many real estate agents despise the thought holding an open house event because it’s perceived to be a waste of their time. On the other hand, many new Realtors that are young in their career see it as an opportunity to attract potential buyers either for their listing or as future clients.

Speak with a Qualified Real Estate Agent About an Open House

For most sellers, open houses are still worth it and could result in attracting qualified buyers. They aren’t terribly expensive to hold, require little more than an open house sign and only represent a minor inconvenience for a weekend or two.

Nonetheless, it’s best to speak with a local real estate agent about open houses before making a final decision. Sell your home with a SimpleShowing Agent and you’ll only pay a 1% listing commission. On average, our clients save $7,500 in Realtor fees.

To find out more about how we can help you connect with a fantastic real estate agent and save money on the sale of your house, contact us today.

7 Tips To Consider When Buying New Construction

Are you looking at buying a new home from a builder? Do you love that new home smell and the idea of a builder’s warranty? Picking out the paint color, flooring, and kitchen countertops can ensure the home is just the way you like it and save you from buying an existing home and then doing renovations. To help you navigate the new construction process, we narrowed down 7 tips to consider before you buy.

1. List price and final sales price may not be the same thing

Buying a new home from a builder is a lot like buying a new car. They may lure you in with a low base price, but then the price you actually pay for the car you want with all the add-ons and upgrades costs thousands more. It’s the same with new construction homes. It’s important to note what’s included, what are “upgrades” and what those upgrades cost.

In addition, you may be on the hook for a “lot premium” that allows the builder to monetize lots that are located in a more attractive location, have a better elevation/grade or are located in a certain part of the community.

2. The builder’s “Design Center” = profit center

After you sign the contract, many builders invite you into their “design center” to “pick out your finishes”. That’s when you find out that the countertops you wanted are a “level 5” upgrade that will add another $4,000 to the price. Or that window blinds aren’t included. Or that carpet comes standard on the home – the wood or tile floor you wanted are optional upgrades.  

There are often hundreds of possible upgrades – and all represent a nice profit margin for the builder. Having an agent on your side can help you navigate this process – and can also help you negotiate a credit towards upgrades and options. Before you sign the contract, ask the builder to share their spec sheet and design costs so you can get a better idea of what having the home of your dreams will actually cost.

3. Research the builder’s “preferred” lender

Builders often offer incentives such as closing cost credits to use their “preferred lender”. The benefit to the builder is that by using their preferred lender, they have a better assurance that you’re a good credit risk and are more likely to close on time – not have last minute financing issues.

However, just because they offer incentives doesn’t mean the builder’s preferred lender is your best choice. Make sure to ask the builder if they will apply the credits or incentives if their preferred lender can’t meet the rate and terms of another lender (make sure to get this in writing as part of your contract). Then, shop around. In the end and depending on the incentives offered, their preferred lender may or may not be the best choice for you. If the preferred lender is offering a substantial monetary closing cost contribution, it may make sense to work with the builder’s lender. However, if there are no incentives, it’s likely best to go with a local mortgage provider.

4. Can’t we negotiate the sales price?

Well, that depends. Since builders typically build many of the same or similar homes in a community, they don’t want to discount the price as that can impact the price of other homes they’re selling. That said, once the home is completed, every day it sits vacant is a day the builder loses money in interest and carrying cost – and another day the builder can’t use the financial resources that are tied up in that home to start building another one. If you want more negotiating power, look for homes that are already completed. The longer it’s been vacant, the more likely the builder will be to negotiate a deal.

You can also keep time of year in mind. Builders may be more willing to deal at the end of the year than they would be during the spring or peak summer season. Also, builders may offer better deals for the first homes they build in a new community or for the last homes as they “close out” the community.  And remember, as mentioned earlier, builders are more likely to offer credits towards your closing costs or for upgrades than they are a steep discount on the price. A good Buyer’s Agent can provide more insight and help you negotiate the best deal.

5. Walkthrough and builder warranty  

Prior to closing, you’ll want to schedule a walkthrough to make sure all the work is done and satisfactory. This is also when you will want to submit a “punch list” of items that need to be fixed or touched up. Even though your new home should come with a warranty from the builder (warranties vary by state and builder), you may still want to pay for a 3rd party inspection. The inspector is likely to see things that you’d miss and can help add to your punch list. Also note that different builders have different takes towards the punch list and what’s “acceptable”, so having an agent and inspection report on your side can certainly help. It’s often advisable to address major issues before you close and move in.

6. Why you should use a buyer’s agent

First, it’s important to know that the friendly sales associate in the model home works for the builder – not for you. They are paid by the builder to sell houses and upgrades – not to help you find your dream home or negotiate the best deal. That’s why it’s best to bring in your own real estate agent – someone who represents you and your interests. Not the builder. Builders already factor Realtor commission into the cost of their homes, so it won’t cost you anything to bring in your own agent.

If you don’t have an agent, builders won’t reduce their price to “pass the savings on to you” – that would set a precedence for decreasing the price of the other homes they’re trying to sell. Instead, the builder or the builder’s agent will pocket the extra money. Meanwhile, you’ll be at a disadvantage trying to negotiate the best deal and a complicated sales process on your own. Save yourself time, money and headache: Get a Buyer’s Agent.

7. Get up to $15,000 towards closing costs

When you use SimpleShowing as your “Buyer’s Agent” and we’ll give you a refund of up half of the commission – or up to $15,000 back at closing. As mentioned already, builder’s factor Realtor fees into their price structure, so if you don’t use an agent, they’ll just keep this extra money or split it with their sales associate. If you use a typical buyer’s agent, they’ll keep it all.

With SimpleShowing, you’ll get back up to 1/2 the commission at closing, and that’s on top of whatever concessions and incentives the builder gives.  Click here to learn more about our refund program.

Redfin vs Traditional Realtor: How Do They Compare?

Most Americans would agree that technology has forever changed the way we do business. With the advent of Zillow, mobile search and online valuations, technology is also changing the way consumers buy and sell homes for the better. Buyers are transforming the way they sell and purchase homes—and they now have choices. Gone are the days when you were forced to employ a traditional, full service real estate broker that you didn’t feel was necessary. Now, you can choose the level of support you need to suit your specific buying or selling needs.

In this blog, we’ll show you the comparisons and differences between Redfin and a traditional real estate broker.

Redfin vs Realtor

Redfin fees are lower than traditional realtors when selling

Selling a house through Redfin can save 10–20% of the listing Realtors commission costs. Discount brokerage firms such as Redfin and SimpleShowing can help reduce the listing fee side of the equation — namely Redfin charges sellers 1.5% compared with an average listing fee of 3%.

TIP: Keep an eye on Redfin minimum fees. While Redfin advertises 1-1.5% listing commissions in several markets, it also requires a minimum commissions for most markets or it may require that you buy with them also.

The Selling Process

As a seller, it’s also smart to look into all the different ways you can save money on realtor commissions. One popular approach to avoid agent commissions is “For Sale By Owner”. However, this approach can be tough as you are representing yourself. If you are looking for representation, it’s essential to do your research and find out which agency will help your specific situation and save you the most money possible while still getting the job done right.

What is Redfin’s Commission Fee?

Redfin’s listing commission is 1-1.5 %, but for several markets the commission is reduced to 1% if you buy your next home with them also. It is a quarter lower than the average brokerage fee.

Is Selling with Redfin a Good Idea?

Selling with Redfin depends upon the seller’s experience, price point and personal preferences. Some sellers claim that Redfin agents do provide the same personalized service as a traditional agent service. It is possible that Redfin is a bit more impersonal but it truly all depends on the agent you get.

Redfin: Salaried Agents

Redfin agents are paid via a salary plus bonus, which may not provide the same economic incentive for selling the house as a commission.

Redfin

Redfin also offers an alternative option to pay less in listing fees when you sell your home. With Redfin, the seller pays a 1.5% listing fee and then agrees to pay a commission to a buyer’s agent (typically 2.5%-3%). Redfin does offer a 1% listing fee in some markets, but it is subject to you also buying a home with their team within 360 days of closing.

Traditional Real Estate Brokerage

By and large, a traditional real estate agents livelihood depends on the commission he or she makes from the sale of your home. So, very few special deals or incentives are offered by these types of firms unless you’re able to successfully negotiate the Realtor commission up front. The typical cost to list with a traditional brokerage is 3% of the home’s sale price plus the buyer’s agent commission of 2.75%-3%.

SimpleShowing

At SimpleShowing, we offer a 1% listing fee which includes all the services of a traditional brokerage but at a fraction of the cost. So, this means you get to save thousands of dollars in commissions ($7,500 on average) while keeping more of your home’s equity. The SimpleShowing Listing Fee does not include buyer’s agent commission which can be 2.5%-3% of the purchase price.

The Buying Process

As mentioned above, current homebuyers have more options than ever for the route they can take when buying a home. Gone are the days where your only option is to find an agent before you can start the home buying process. Now, you can start your search and book tours online. Plus, you can save thousands in fees and earn money back through special programs found with companies like SimpleShowing or Redfin.

Comparison chart for savings when you buy a home with SimpleShowing, Redfin or a traditional real estate brokerage. Refund’s represented above are average savings and vary by transaction.

Redfin

Redfin offers similar incentives for buyers in that they also offer a “Redfin Refund’. The Redfin Refund program allows buyers to receive part of the commission that their Redfin Agent receives. The refund amount is based on the asking price of the house, and typically is around $1,500 that gets applied to closing costs. If the savings happen to be higher than the closing costs, then they will provide a check for the difference.The Redfin Refund tends to be 4x smaller than the average SimpleShowing Refund of $5,037.

Traditional Real Estate Brokerage

Typically,  commission rates are 6% of the home’s sale price, with roughly 3% going to the seller’s agent and 3% going to the buyers’ agent. For the traditional broker like ReMax or Keller Williams, a home with a $300k price tag would equate to $15,000 in commission—or $7,500 to each agent. This is a substantial amount of money. By and large, the traditional real estate brokerage model does not offer any refunds in the buying process. But given that the agents don’t get paid until you buy a home, they are vested in helping you quickly and creatively find your ideal home.

SimpleShowing

One of the great benefits of SimpleShowing is our Buyer Refund Program. This program allows the buyer to get a check for up to half of their Agent’s commission at closing. On average, the refund amounts to $5,037. The amount of the refund is based on the purchase price and how many homes you tour. Because many homebuyers are finding homes on their own online and negating a lot of the work in the home search process, SimpleShowing feels its’ buyers deserve to keep up to half of the commission for their hard work.

Agent Support

Redfin

Redfin employs a well-diversified staff which includes real estate brokers and agents. These agents provide exactly the same services as a traditional brokerage but are paid by salary as opposed to commission. They also earn bonuses based on customer satisfaction. Redfin initially avoided assigning specific agents to specific buyers, but over time, has moved towards assigning staff that will stick with their client throughout the process. In some areas, Redfin uses Redfin Partner Agents that help in rural towns and these agents are typically licensed through a completely different brokerage.

Traditional Real Estate Brokerage

Whether buying or selling, a traditional real estate brokerage like—Keller Williams—will provide you with a dedicated Agent to guide you through the entire process.  If selling, they will typically help you list your home and market it through closing. When buying, they will show you prospective homes and help you put in an offer when you’re ready. These agents tend to be everything you’d expect from a typical agent, but they will charge full commission

Consumers are lucky these days to have options when buying or selling a home because one size doesn’t necessarily fit all. Whether you are a go-getter that loves to research online, or someone that prefers to have it taken care of for them, everyone now has the option to find a company that fits them perfectly.

SimpleShowing

At SimpleShowing, we offer all the services that you’d expect from a traditional agent with a goal to provide high quality service throughout the buying or selling process. If you’re buying, your Agent will work to ensure your absolute satisfaction starting with your first tour, while negotiating the best price, until the keys to your new home are in your hands. If you’re selling, your agent will offer expert pricing assistance and market your listing to get your home sold fast and for the highest price, without sacrificing service quality.

Overall, we do everything that a traditional agent does except charge full commission. In addition to your SimpleShowing Agent, you’ll have 24/7 access to a dedicated support team that can be reached by phone or online chat via our website. In other words, we are much more sophisticated than a typical discount real estate company.

To learn more about discounted commission and how SimpleShowing is innovating on the buying and selling side of real estate, check out these articles:

What Is A Home Buyer Refund or Rebate?

Should I use a Redfin agent?

Redfin can help you find a buyer in your area. But there may be other local agents that are more suitable alternatives. Most sellers can look for another lower commission agent that offers the same rates but provides a higher level of services. Suffice it to say, traditional agents are feeling the heat from more innovative, price-effective agents.

Keep in mind that hiring the top local agents does not always produce the expected outcome. Selling a house has much more to do with the market conditions, interest rates and accuracy of asking price than it does agent competence. Licensed real estate agents are worth their weight in gold, but if you price your home too high, even the best agent won’t be able to sell it.

One Percent Commission Real Estate

Planning to sell your home is a big decision.

However, once you decide to do so, the next biggest decision is deciding how to sell and how much help you’d like: for sale by owner or picking a realtor.

While the services of a Realtor are definitely valuable, many home sellers hesitate choosing this route as they aren’t convinced that they’re worth 5-6% of their home’s sales price.

Some homeowners have begun to sell with a one-percent commission realtor instead. Keep reading to learn more about how one percent real estate works.

What is One Percent Real Estate?

Put simply, real estate agents get paid on commission. Again, that tends to be five to six percent of the home’s price.

Therefore, if you agree to 6% and sell your home for $400,000, the realtors involved will walk away with $24,000.

That doesn’t always seem like a lot, but keep in mind that the sales price isn’t pure profit. You have to factor in how much you originally paid for the home and any amount you spent on repairs or renovations, amongst other things.

When you factor in all of that other overhead, hiring a low commission Realtor makes a lot more sense.

What Is a 1% Commission Realtor?

As the name suggests, a one-percent listing commission Realtor is an agent who only takes 1% of the home’s sale price when they list and sell your property. So, in the above example, you’d only pay your realtor $4,000 (or 1%) once your home sells. Please note this does not include the buyer’s agent commission.

Understandably, more and more home sellers are opting for this approach. Among other things, they don’t have to worry about holding out for the highest possible offer just to make sure they’ll enjoy a decent profit – which they may be depending on to help with the purchase of their new home.

So, how do you secure the services of a real estate agent who only takes one percent? There are three options:

  • Shop around and negotiate with a traditional agent to see if they’ll lower or negotiate their commission.
  • Settle for the services of a “limited listing” brokerage that will only charge one percent for a specific set of services such as only an MLS listing.
  • Use a full-service agent that will accept one percent off the bat.

As you can imagine, the first option is incredibly difficult.

Still, even the other two options can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for in a one-percent commission real estate agent.

Important Services Your One Percent Commission Agent Should Offer

As demand for this type of arrangement has grown, many real estate agents have been happy to offer it.

Unfortunately, many of them reduce the services they offer, as well. Generally, they’ll simply list their clients’ homes on the MLS…and that’s about it. The homeowner is left taking care of almost everything else.

Consequently, they quickly realize that it would’ve been much faster to just hire a traditional realtor. It may have even turned out to be cheaper.

So, before you hire a one-percent commission realtor, be sure they offer these three essential services.

  1. 1. Pricing Assistance

    Finding the best possible price for your home is a balancing act that takes experience to get right.

    Asking for too much – something 37% of sellers do – can actually end up costing you more in the long run. You may need to drop your price again and again until you hit the right amount. Of course, each time you do, you risk signaling to the market that no one is interested in your home.

    Ask for too little and you’ll probably enjoy a quick sale, albeit for very little profit – hardly ideal, either.

    An experienced real estate agent knows how to:

    • Objectively assess the value of your home
    • Evaluate similar properties in the area
    • Gauge whether the market is buyer- or seller-friendly

    Choose a one-percent commission real estate agent who is able to do all three and, even though their price is minimal, your home’s price will reach its maximum.

  2. 2. Help with Marketing

    Without a doubt, one of the most important services a real estate agent provides is marketing your home. The more people who see your house – and see it in the best possible light – the more offers you’ll get and the higher your price.

    Hiring a realtor with knowledge of the local market certainly helps in this regard.

    However, these days, this marketing must also include professional photos of the house that set it apart from the rest. If your photos fail to grab interest, you’ll fail to sell your home for a decent profit.

    Furthermore, agents need to provide the kind of digital marketing that works best for real estate to garner as much interest as possible for your home. Otherwise, even the best photos of your beautiful house won’t drive the kind of interest you need for the highest possible selling price.

  3. 3. Negotiation and Contract Support

    Finally, selling a home almost always involves negotiations, which can swing the eventual price considerably. It can also alter other terms related to that price (e.g. who covers the closing costs).

    This is when it pays – literally – to secure the help of an experienced real estate agent. A big part of their job is regularly negotiating the sale and purchase of homes. They know what kinds of requests are reasonable and how to communicate that to the other party.

    Some amount of negotiating is almost always a good idea, but even in the most straightforward of sales, it makes a big difference to get help with the contracts. The last thing you want as a seller is to have the sale fall through because you missed issues that an experienced agent would have caught.

    This is one of the many reasons for-sale-by-owner listings are falling out of favor. Most homeowners simply don’t have the time to understand everything that goes into managing offers and then executing the contracts required for a sale.

Hire a One-Percent Commission Realtor

Hiring a one-percent commission realtor means sellers don’t have to worry about watching their profit margins drop because of unnecessary agent-related overhead. It also ensures they don’t have to hold tightly to an inflated price just so they can make a decent amount from the sale.

Fortunately, as you just saw, you don’t have to sacrifice service in order to enjoy these benefits. With a one-percent commission realtor from SimpleShowing, you get all the services you’d expect from a traditional agent for one-third of the price, 1%.

Contact us today and we’ll show you exactly how our 1% listing service works.

Homebuyer Tips After You’re Under Contract

Congrats! Your offer has been accepted or maybe you’re just curious on what you should do once you’re under contract on a home. Either way, we’ve put together some things to know and steps to follow to get you through closing smoothly!

1. Complete your mortgage application and send the sales contract to your lender.

If you’re financing your home and haven’t already completed the mortgage application, then this should be one of your first steps. Many contracts provide a specified amount of time to complete your application (Ex: 5 days after the contract is effective), so keep this in mind. Plus, you’ll want to get this started as the mortgage process can take weeks to complete.

2. Coordinate and schedule your home inspection.

Talk with your agent to schedule with a home inspector. If you don’t know a licensed home inspector, your agent can often recommend one. You’ll want to make this a top priority, as you only have a limited amount of time for your inspection period, as specified in your contract.

3. Request a homeowner’s insurance quote.

It is recommended to do this within one week of your contract date. If you do not have a current insurance agent, you can ask your agent for their referrals. Once you review the quote and accept, you’ll want to forward this information over to your lender. You will typically pay a full year’s premium at closing (and often the lender will require a few months worth of premiums be added to your escrow account).

4. Sign your loan documents.

Your mortgage lender will typically send you pre-closing documents to look over and sign. You will sign the final copies at closing, so it’s important to make any notes and changes beforehand.

5. Your lender will order the appraisal.

Once your inspection is complete, your lender will order a home appraisal. This appraisal will determine the amount approved for your mortgage loan. Appraisals take about 1-2 weeks to get back while VA Appraisals often take longer. Appraisals are paid for up front and the fee is non-refundable. Your lender should send you a copy of the appraisal once it is received.

  • What if my appraisal comes in too low? This varies upon every situation. Speak with your Real Estate Agent regarding this matter. In most cases, they will contact the seller’s agent on your behalf to renegotiate the contract terms as best as possible.
  • What if repairs are required from the appraiser? Your Real Estate Agent may contact the Seller’s Agent and try to renegotiate the contract terms. If repairs are needed, you may be subject to an additional charge for the final inspection.

6. Perform a final walkthrough of the home.

This is your chance to make sure any requested repairs were made and all of the personal belongings of the previous owner were removed from the property. The main purpose of your final walkthrough is to make sure the home is in the condition in which you agreed to buy it.

7. Prepare for all documents and funds for closing.

You will need to gather the appropriate documents to bring to closing and get together the funds needed. Your closing agent should tell you what documents to bring and how much money you will need to wire your closing attorney. The required amount will be included in the Final Closing Disclosure. It is recommended that all funds be wired 24-48 hours prior to your scheduled closing time to ensure things go smoothly. Be aware that wire fraud is on the rise. It’s best to confirm wire instructions by phone and be wary of last minute changes to the instructions or anything that seems suspicious.

8. Closing Day!

On closing day, you will sign your closing documents. This can take about an hour and usually takes place at the closing attorney’s office. If you work with a SimpleShowing Agent, you will also receive your refund check at the closing table for up to $15,000. Once all documents are signed, you will receive the keys to your new home!!

8 Hottest Atlanta Intown Neighborhoods (2023)

Intown Atlanta is booming with things to do and places to see!

If you’re planning to move ITP (inside the perimeter), there are tons of neighborhoods to choose from. We’ve narrowed down our list to provide you with our top picks for the 8 hottest neighborhoods in 2023. Which is your favorite?

Hot Atlanta Neighborhoods

These areas are not only favorites of locals, but the home values are increasing and so are the amenities. Check them out!

8. Glenwood Park

Located on the eastside of Atlanta, Glenwood park had its first residents move in in 2004. The neighborhood is very walkable, has a town square, and is located about two miles from Downtown Atlanta. The community was built around the concepts of new urbanism and green building principles that support sustainability. With events going on every weekend, this neighborhood is hot for new residents looking to get that small town feel in a near-city location.

View Homes For Sale In Glenwood Park

7. Inman Park

Inman Park was Atlanta’s first planned residential suburb back in 1890. This neighborhood supports all lifestyles whether you’re a family or someone single looking to mingle. Today, almost all of the homes have been restored to provide a modern feel to a old, historic area. To keep up the community, Inman Park has an annual, three-day festival during the last weekend of April filled with music, a parade, and food from all over Atlanta. Ranked as StreetAdvisor’s 3rd Best Neighborhood to live in Atlanta, Inman Park has long earned it’s spot as one of Atlanta’s hottest neighborhoods.

View Homes For Sale In Inman Park

6. Summerhill

Summerhill is the redevelopment of Atlanta’s former Olympic stadium and surroundings. Encompassing 80 acres, the site is adjacent to downtown Atlanta with unrivaled access and visibility. Summerhill is walkable and bikeable; minutes from downtown, midtown, and the airport. A long-term, organic development beginning with preservation and rehabilitation. A vision of vibrant streetscapes combining culture, food, entertainment, academics, housing, and world-class offices.

Current listing prices for this area are ranging from $400,000-500,000 with lots of new construction available.

View Homes For Sale In Summerhill

5. West Midtown

Once known as an industrial center, West Midtown has reinvented itself as a hip spot in Atlanta. Full of artisanal flare, this neighborhood focuses around pristine craftsmanship when it comes to it’s renovated warehouse buildings, premium goods offered in its shops and four art center located within its boundaries. If you’re looking for a hot, urban neighborhood, then West Midtown is for you.

View Homes For Sale In West Midtown

4. Chamblee

Located in Dekalb County, Chamblee was first incorporated as a city in 1908. Among the other neighborhoods mentioned in our top 8, Chamblee is the farthest from the downtown at about 14 miles away. However, what it lacks in distance is made up by the housing options and booming development in this area. Since 2000, the downtown district of Chamblee has seen tons of lofts and townhomes being been built in this community. For families or young adults looking for their desired housing option at a reasonable price, Chamblee hits the nail on the head.

View Homes For Sale In Chamblee

3. West End

Next on the come up in Atlanta is West End. This neighborhood has recently been placed on the map with the addition to the Beltline back in September that scored this area about five blocks on the trail. Mentioned as one of Atlanta Magazine’s top places to live in 2018, this neighborhood is hot due to it’s location and cost of living. Homes ranging in the $200,000s can put you steps away from the Beltline and minutes from Downtown. With popularity increasing daily with more individuals moving to Atlanta and frequenting the Beltline, this neighborhood is not far from being overcome with new movers.

View Homes For Sale In West End and Westview

2. Reynoldstown

Straddling the beltline, Reynoldstown is one of intowns most desired neighborhoods. Homes in this area start at $400K and go up from there, so home buyers must come ready with their wallets ready when considering this top spot. If you’re looking for an eclectic feel that’s walkable to Downtown, then this community is the place to be.

1. Edgewood

With homes ranging from the $350,000s and up, the urban neighborhood of Edgewood is on the rise. This year, Edgewood will be home to MARTA’s first transit-oriented development that has already started pre-leasing. Edgewood comes complete with a bar and retail district to keep your days busy and nights full of entertainment. This area is full of sophisticated professionals, hipsters, and young families that want a mix of city life, locally-owned shops, and that neighborhood feel (InTown Expert). With the introduction of the Atlanta Streetcar, Edgewood is one of our top hottest neighborhoods especially for individuals invested in the future vision of Atlanta.

View Homes For Sale In Edgewood

Best Areas of Atlanta

Atlanta is full of some hot places to live! If you’re looking to move a bit further outside the city, check out the best suburbs in Atlanta.

If you’re looking to purchase a home in one of these areas, sign up with SimpleShowing today or get pre-approved with preferred mortgage rates from our partner lenders.