Grandma's Secret Tips for Household Savings - PART TWO

Dave and Robert continue last week's show with more of Grandma's Secret Tips for Household Savings. Read the short list below and listen to the show for more details! See the tips from last week's show HERE.

1. Research the problem before you hire someone to fix it. You might find out that it's super easy to fix on your own (and much more affordable!).
2. Stock up the refrigerator. A full refrigerator is more efficient and will save you on energy costs.
3. Get free stuff from your utility company! Give them a call and see if they have any energy rebates available or if they are giving away free LED bulbs, etc.
4. Watch your Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Once your loan hits that 20% paid to owe ratio, you don't have to pay PMI anymore. Call your lender and make sure the insurance is taken off!
5. Resist the urge to file petty insurance claims. Think about how much you are willing to pay out of pocket before you file a claim. Filing a claim could make your insurance rate rise.
6. Shop around when hiring someone to do repairs. Make sure to get multiple quotes and choose the best price!
7. Make sure to set-up yearly meetings with your insurance agent. Over time your insurance coverage needs will change. You don't want to be paying for coverage you don't need.

Grandma's Secret Tips for Household Savings - PART ONE

Dave and Robert start today's show with a Grand Valley Real Estate Market recap for April 2018. Then they discuss a few of Grandma's secret tips for household savings, and James Pulsipher visits the show with ways to save on your mortgage. Check out the short list of tips below and listen to the show for all the details!

1. Rent out your extra rooms to earn a little extra cash! This is even easier than back in Grandma's day with VRBO and Airbnb.
2. Make an extra mortgage payment each year if you can. You'll pay off your mortgage about 6 1/2 years sooner plus save on interest.
3. Revisit your insurance. Make sure you're not paying for double coverage or coverage you don't need anymore.

Things to Know When Researching Your Home Value Online

Chances are you've researched your home value online, but there are some things you should beforehand to make sure you're coming up with an accurate number. It is essential to use a combination of a listing agent's expertise and guidance, plus online websites to help you find your home's value. Local market information is available online, but only a listing agent can help you value the small nuances of your home. 

Listen to today's show to learn everything you need to know about researching your home value online!

10 Things to Avoid if You Want to Make the Most Money for Your Home

When you go to sell your home, you want to make sure you get as much money back as possible on your big ticket investment! Today Dave and Robert talk about some key things to avoid if you want to maximize your home sale price. Who doesn't want to get the most money for their home?! See the short list below and listen to the show for more details!

1. Follow your agent's advice! A good listing agent will assist you with pricing, marketing, negotiating and guiding you through the contract and closing process. If you don't trust an agent, don't hire them!
2. Don't neglect important home repairs before you go to list your home. Stay up-to-date with your home maintenance and you won't have a long to-do list when you sell your home.
3. Don't settle for less than professional photography and a virtual tour. Photos are your home's first impression online and you want to make sure that impression is a good one!
4. When in doubt, start with a lower asking price. Multiple offers could push your final price up! Starting your price out too high could mean your home sits on the market.
5. Don't be restrictive on showing times. Be open to the greatest number of potential buyers that you can!
6. Keep your home tidy for showings.
7. Fresh carpet and paint make a huge difference! Don't underestimate their power!
8. Don't be present for showings. Leave your home when a showing is scheduled.
9. Don't let pets spoil your showings either! Take them out for a walk during showings.
10. Don't ever look at an offer with a closed mind. As a seller in this market you are negotiating from a place of power, use that to your advantage.