Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

How to Appeal Property Taxes on Your Home

by

Many homeowners are surprised when they receive their annual property tax bill and notice an increase that feels higher than expected. The good news is that you have the right to appeal your property tax assessment if you believe it does not reflect the true value of your home. Understanding the process can help you protect your budget and ensure that you are being taxed fairly.

Know What Your Assessment Means
Your property tax bill is based on the value assigned to your home by your local tax authority. This value may not match the current market value. It is an estimate that is sometimes updated on a set schedule rather than in real time. Reviewing this number closely is the first step toward knowing if an appeal is worth pursuing.

Compare Your Home to Similar Properties
Before filing an appeal, compare your home to other similar homes that recently sold in your area. Look for homes with similar size, age, and features. If you notice that your assessed value is significantly higher than comparable properties, it may be a strong sign that your assessment is inaccurate. Real estate agents often provide market reports that can help with this step.

Look for Errors in Your Record
Tax authorities sometimes use outdated or incorrect information when assessing a property. Review the details used to calculate your value. Check the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, and improvements. If something is wrong, correcting the record can reduce your property tax bill without needing a full appeal.

Gather the Right Evidence
Successful appeals rely on strong documentation. This may include recent sales data, photos of your home, contractor estimates for needed repairs, or an independent appraisal. The clearer and complete your evidence is, the easier it becomes to prove that your assessment is too high.

File Your Appeal on Time
Each city and county has deadlines for submitting appeals. These dates are very important. Missing a deadline may require you to wait an entire year before trying again. Filing early helps you stay organized and gives you time to provide all required documents.

Prepare for the Review Process
Some appeals are resolved through written documentation, while others require a meeting with the review board. If a meeting is scheduled, stay calm and focused. Present your evidence clearly and explain why your assessment does not accurately reflect the value of your home. Real estate professionals can be helpful in guiding you through this step.

Fair Property Taxes Start with Accurate Information
Appealing your property taxes takes some effort, but it can lead to meaningful savings. By reviewing your assessment and gathering the right information, you can make sure you are paying a fair amount based on the true value of your home.

Avoiding the Most Common Home Remodeling Mistakes

by

Remodeling your home can be exciting, but it can also lead to frustration if you run into unexpected problems. Many homeowners make the same mistakes when they start renovation projects, which can lead to delays, extra costs, and disappointing results. With a little planning and the right guidance, you can avoid these common issues and enjoy a smooth and successful remodel.

Lack of a Clear Plan
One of the biggest mistakes is starting a project without a solid plan. A detailed plan helps you understand your budget, timeline, materials, and overall goals. Without this clarity, you may face last-minute changes or spend more than expected. Taking the time to plan your project saves you stress and keeps your remodel on track.

Ignoring the Budget
Another common issue is overlooking the true cost of a remodel. Even small projects can add up quickly. It is important to set a realistic budget and include a cushion for surprises. Prices for materials, labor, and permits can shift, so having room in your budget gives you flexibility when something unexpected comes up.

Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Hiring the right professional makes a major difference in the success of your project. Some homeowners choose a contractor based only on price, but the lowest price does not always provide the best results. Look for someone with strong reviews, proper licensing, and clear communication. A trustworthy contractor helps prevent costly mistakes and keeps your project running smoothly.

Skipping Necessary Permits
Permits may feel like an extra step, but they protect you and your home. Skipping required permits can result in fines, delays, or problems when you try to sell your home. Each city and county has specific rules about what needs approval, and a good contractor can guide you through the process.

Choosing Trends Over Timeless Design
Trendy styles can be fun, but they may not stay in style for long. If you plan to sell your home in the future, it is usually smarter to choose timeless colors and materials. You can still add personality with decor and accessories, while keeping your main design elements classic and appealing.

Not Preparing for Disruption
Every remodel brings some level of noise, dust, and inconvenience. Homeowners often underestimate how much their daily routines will be affected. Preparing in advance helps reduce frustration. This may include creating a temporary kitchen space, planning alternate living arrangements, or setting clear expectations with your contractor.

A Smooth Remodel Starts with Smart Planning
By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you give yourself a better chance at a successful project. With the right plan, team, and expectations, your remodel can transform your home and increase its long-term value.

Learning the Language of Real Estate for Beginners

by

Buying a home is exciting, but the language of real estate can feel overwhelming if you are new to the process. Many buyers hear unfamiliar terms at showings, in listings, or during conversations with lenders. Understanding this language gives you more confidence and helps you make informed decisions as you move through your home search.

What Real Estate Terms Really Mean
Real estate has its own vocabulary, and many of the words describe common parts of the process. Learning these terms makes it easier to understand contracts, compare homes, and communicate with your real estate agent. You do not need to become an expert, but understanding the basics gives you a strong advantage.

Listing Price
This is the price a seller chooses when they place the home for sale. It is a starting point, not a final number. Homes can sell for more or less depending on demand, condition, and market trends. Knowing this helps you understand how competitive an area may be.

Contingencies
A contingency is a condition that must be met for the sale to move forward. Common examples include the home inspection contingency and the financing contingency. These conditions protect you by giving you time to verify that the home and your loan both meet your expectations.

Earnest Money Deposit
This is a payment you make when your offer is accepted. It shows the seller you are serious about buying the home. The money is held safely and later applied to your closing costs or down payment. If you follow the terms of your contract, the deposit stays protected.

Appraisal
An appraisal is a professional report that estimates the value of the home. Lenders require this to confirm that the home is worth the amount you are borrowing. The appraisal helps ensure that you are making a smart financial decision and protects both you and the lender.

Closing Costs
These are the fees connected to finalizing your home purchase. They may include lender fees, title services, and pre-paid items. Understanding your closing costs early helps you plan your total budget with confidence.

Why Real Estate Terms Matter
Knowing these terms helps you feel prepared, ask the right questions, and avoid surprises. As your real estate agent, my goal is to make the process clear, calm, and manageable from beginning to end.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 1st, 2025

by

Many of the reports scheduled for release last week were delayed yet again, including the anticipated unemployment data. There is an expectation that they will be released next week. The only on-time release was the third-party Consumer Sentiment report from the University of Michigan, which aligned with expectations and generally indicated that consumers remain dissatisfied with the current state of things, citing high prices and consistently weakening incomes.

Univ. of Michigan Consumer Report
Consumer sentiment was little changed this month with a 2.6 index point decrease from October that is within the margin of error. After the federal shutdown ended, sentiment lifted slightly from its mid-month reading. However, consumers remain frustrated about the persistence of high prices and weakening incomes. This month, current personal finances and buying conditions for durables both plunged more than 10%, whereas expectations for the future improved modestly.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.03% for this week, with the current rate at 5.51%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.03% for this week, with the current rate at 6.23%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.08% for this week. Current rates at 5.86%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.07% for this week.Current rates at 5.88%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were delayed until the following week.

What’s Ahead
PPI and PCE Index inflation reports are the biggest data releases next week, along with the delayed unemployment data.

The Science Behind Why Certain Homes Feel More Welcoming

by

Some homes make people feel comfortable the moment they walk through the door. Even without saying a word, space communicates warmth, calmness, and connection. There is real science behind this reaction and understanding it can help sellers create a more appealing experience for potential buyers.

The Power of First Impressions
People form opinions within seconds. A clean entryway, clear pathways, and simple decor help the brain process information more easily. When the mind feels at ease, space feels more inviting. Clutter, on the other hand, increases mental load and can make a home feel smaller or less comfortable.

The Role of Lighting and Color
Light plays a major role in how the brain interprets space. Natural light sends signals that boost positive feelings and a sense of calm. Soft, warm lighting in the evening creates comfort and relaxation. Color also triggers emotional responses. Neutral tones help buyers feel grounded, while soft accent colors add interest without overwhelming the senses.

How Scent and Sound Influence Mood
Smell is directly connected to the emotional center of the brain. Light, clean scents such as soft vanilla or fresh citrus can make a space feel peaceful and pleasant. Sound also matters. Gentle background music creates rhythm and flow, helping visitors slow down and feel more comfortable as they explore the home.

The Importance of Balance and Layout
Homes that feel welcoming often have balanced layouts. Furniture that is spaced appropriately, open walkways, and rooms arranged with purpose help the brain feel oriented. When people can move through a home easily, they naturally feel more relaxed and open to imagining themselves living there.

A welcoming home connects with both the senses and the emotions. By focusing on light, color, scent, sound, and thoughtful layout, sellers can create an environment where buyers feel comfortable, calm, and ready to picture their future inside the home.

Thanksgiving Day Appreciation

by

Today is a moment to pause and reflect on the people who make this work truly meaningful. As a real estate agent, I am grateful for every individual and every family who has allowed me to be part of their home journey. Whether we have worked together in the past, are connected right now, or will meet in the future, your trust means more than you know.

Grateful for the Journey
Helping someone find a home is more than a transaction. It is a personal experience filled with emotion, excitement, and major life moments. I am thankful for the opportunity to walk beside you as you search for the place that feels right, the place that reflects your personality, your goals, and your dreams.

Thankful for Your Confidence
Every conversation, every showing, and every decision along the way is a reminder of the trust you place in me. Your confidence inspires me to bring clarity, support, and guidance to every step of the process. You make this work meaningful, and I am grateful for the relationships that grow along the way.

Appreciation for Future Connections
Even if we have not met yet, I am thankful for the chance to support you in the future. Helping someone find a home is a privilege, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve, encourage, and help you move closer to what feels right for you and the people you love.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and joyful holiday. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your home journey.

Tips for Selling a Home with Limited Storage Space

by

Selling a home that has limited storage space can feel challenging, but with the right strategy, you can highlight the home’s strengths and help buyers focus on possibility rather than limitations. With thoughtful preparation and clear presentation, even a small-space property can make a strong impression.

Start with Decluttering
A clean and simplified space always feels larger. Begin by removing items that you do not need for daily living. Clear floors, open shelves, and uncluttered surfaces create the look of more room and help buyers imagine their own belongings in the space. Packing and storing personal items in advance also prepares you for your move.

Maximize Every Available Area
Look at each room with a fresh perspective. Add simple, functional storage where it will help the most. This can include baskets, drawer organizers, shelf risers, or under-bed bins. These solutions show buyers that the home can support everyday living without feeling crowded.

Use Furniture that Supports Function
Choose furniture that doubles as storage. Benches with interior compartments, ottomans that open, or side tables with drawers can make the home feel more practical. Removing oversized or unnecessary pieces also helps rooms feel more open and inviting.

Highlight Creative Storage Solutions
Showcasing smart storage helps buyers see opportunities. Hooks, wall-mounted shelving, closet systems, and well-organized cabinets demonstrate how to use vertical space effectively. Visual order makes the home feel more spacious and more move-in ready.

Create an Open and Airy Feeling
Light and color have a powerful effect on how spacious a home feels. Soft, neutral colors and open window coverings allow natural light to brighten each room. Clear pathways and intentional furniture placement make the layout feel comfortable and easy to navigate.

Selling a home with limited storage is all about presentation, organization, and helping buyers see the true potential of the space. With careful preparation, you can create a welcoming environment that feels open, functional, and ready for new owners.

Understanding the Process of Selling a Home Through a Rent-to-Own Agreement

by

Selling a home through a rent-to-own agreement can create a flexible path for both sellers and future buyers. This arrangement allows a tenant to live in the home while preparing to purchase it later, giving the seller steady income and a committed future buyer.

What a Rent-to-Own Agreement Is
A rent-to-own agreement allows a tenant to rent the home while also securing the right, or sometimes the obligation, to purchase it at a later date. The agreement usually includes a set purchase price and a timeline for when the buyer can complete the purchase. This gives the tenant time to save, build credit, or prepare for financing.

How the Agreement Is Structured
Most rent-to-own contracts include a lease portion and a purchase portion. The lease outlines the rental amount, the length of the term, and expectations for the use of the home. The purchase portion may include an option fee, which is a one-time payment that gives the tenant the right to buy the home in the future. Some agreements also credit a portion of the monthly rent toward the future down payment.

Benefits for Home Sellers
Sellers benefit from consistent rental income during the lease period. This can be especially helpful if the seller has already moved or is carrying another housing payment. Because the tenant plans to buy the home, that person is often more invested in taking good care of the property. If the tenant decides not to purchase, the seller usually keeps the option fee and any agreed-upon rent credits, depending on the contract.

Responsibilities During the Lease Period
Each agreement outlines who is responsible for repairs, upkeep, property taxes, and insurance during the rental period. Some arrangements keep these responsibilities similar to a standard lease, while others shift more duties to the tenant. Clear written terms protect both parties and help avoid misunderstandings.

How a Real Estate Agent Supports This Process
A real estate agent guides you through determining whether a rent-to-own structure fits your goals. The agent helps you price the home, reviews whether a lease-option or lease-purchase agreement is more suitable, assists in setting the option fee and rent credits, and ensures the contract reflects your expectations clearly. The goal is to protect your interests while creating a fair and workable agreement.

Selling a home through a rent-to-own agreement can provide steady income, attract committed buyers, and create a smooth path to a future sale. With clear terms and good guidance, this option can be a strong fit for a variety of selling situations.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 24th, 2025

by

This week finally got a strong release of regularly scheduled data, with unemployment figures coming out first, along with employment-rate data.

The prior week included the Consumer Price Index, which came in favorable. Some of the unemployment-related numbers, however, weren’t as telling as they could be: the forecast was roughly 50,000, but the actual figure landed closer to 110,000. That’s an order-of-magnitude miss, suggesting we may need to allow some time for the data to self-correct.

The coming week is slated to include both the PPI—which has drifted out of sync with the CPI—and the PCE Index. These are the two major releases to watch. The Federal Reserve has repeatedly mentioned that the PCE Index is their preferred inflation indicator, and that is likely to remain the case going forward.

Unemployment Report
The long-delayed September employment report showed the U.S. created 119,000 new jobs, a surprisingly robust increase that could give the Federal Reserve more reason to shelve a third interest-rate cut in a row next month. The increase in new jobs was the largest since April, but hiring has slowed down sharply this year. Indeed, the economy lost jobs in June and August.

Jobless Reports
The first jobless-claims report since the government shutdown shows no spike in layoffs. Initial jobless claims fell by 8,000 to 220,000 in the week ended Nov. 15, the Labor Department said Thursday. The last jobless-claims report prior to the shutdown showed claims at 219,000.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw an increase of 0.05% for this week, with the current rate at 5.54%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw an increase of 0.02% for this week, with the current rate at 6.26%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.08% for this week. Current rates at 5.94%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.09% for this week.Current rates at 5.95%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 220,000 compared to the expected claims of 227,000. The prior week landed at 232,000.

What’s Ahead
PPI and PCE Index inflation reports are the biggest data releases next week. They should be very impactful.

Understanding the Risks of Buying a Home With a History of Flooding

by

A home can look beautiful on the surface, but a past flooding event can create long term challenges that buyers need to understand. If you are considering a property with any history of water intrusion, taking time to learn the risks can protect your safety, your finances and your peace of mind.

Why Past Flooding Matters
Even if the home has been repaired, a flooding event can leave behind hidden problems. Water exposure may weaken structural elements, damage electrical systems or create long term moisture concerns. A property with a flooding history may also be more vulnerable to future events, especially during heavy rain seasons.

Understanding Insurance Requirements
Homes with a documented flood history often require specialized insurance. Flood insurance can add a meaningful cost to your monthly budget, and coverage requirements may vary depending on the severity of past events. Knowing these costs in advance helps you understand the true financial commitment of the home.

The Impact on Resale Value
A property with a flooding record may be harder to sell later. Even if repairs are done well, potential buyers may hesitate, and this can affect the price and the time it takes to secure a new buyer. Understanding resale impact helps set realistic expectations.

What Inspections You Should Request
When considering a home with previous flooding, hiring qualified inspectors is essential. A full home inspection, moisture inspection and foundation evaluation can uncover hidden damage. Look for signs of mold, warped flooring, uneven walls, damaged wiring and lingering moisture. Specialized inspectors can confirm whether repairs were completed correctly.

Reviewing Seller Disclosure and Documentation
Sellers must disclose known flooding events. You should request all repair records, insurance claims and remediation documentation. Clear records help confirm that professional work was done and that the home is safe. Lack of documentation could be a red flag.

How to Decide if the Home Is Still a Good Fit
A home with a flooding history is not always a deal breaker. Many owners invest in high quality repairs, drainage upgrades and flood prevention systems. If the price reflects the risk, the repairs are verified and insurance costs are manageable, the home may still be a good choice. The key is understanding everything upfront so you feel confident in your purchase.

Buying a home with past flooding requires awareness, research and trusted professionals. By taking the right steps early, you can make a well informed decision and protect your investment for years to come.