Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

Tips for Selling a Home with Minimal Repairs

by

Selling a home can be a significant undertaking, especially when considering the time, effort, and money often required to prepare a property for the market. However, not every home requires major renovations to attract buyers. In many cases, sellers can list and successfully sell a property by focusing on strategic improvements and presenting the home in the best possible condition. If you are hoping to sell your home with minimal repairs, the following tips can help you do so effectively.

Focus on Cleanliness and Presentation
One of the most impactful steps you can take is to thoroughly clean the home. A clean property gives the impression of being well-maintained, even if no major updates have been made. Pay special attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and windows. Decluttering is equally important. Remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes the space feel crowded. A tidy, neutral space allows buyers to better envision themselves living in the home.

Address Minor Cosmetic Issues
While you may not be taking on major renovations, addressing small cosmetic issues can make a noticeable difference. Consider touching up scuffed walls, replacing burnt-out lightbulbs, fixing loose cabinet hardware, and patching minor holes. These improvements are generally low-cost and help reduce distractions for potential buyers.

Maximize Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and the exterior of the home is the first thing buyers will see. Simple enhancements such as mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs, cleaning the walkway, and adding fresh mulch or potted plants can significantly increase curb appeal. If the front door or exterior trim is worn, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way in making the home appear more inviting.

Be Honest and Transparent
If there are known issues with the property, it is important to be upfront with buyers. Providing a recent inspection report or disclosing needed repairs in the seller’s disclosure form can help build trust. Many buyers are open to purchasing a home that requires some work, especially if they feel the price reflects those conditions.

Price the Home Appropriately
Pricing is one of the most critical factors in selling a home that has not undergone significant repairs. Work with a real estate professional to analyze comparable properties and determine a fair and competitive listing price. A well-priced home that offers value can attract buyers who are willing to accept a few imperfections in exchange for location or size.

Consider Pre-Listing Inspection or Seller Credits
If you are not planning to make repairs, offering a pre-listing inspection can help reassure buyers about the overall condition of the property. Alternatively, consider offering a credit toward repairs or closing costs. This approach can appeal to buyers by giving them the freedom to make improvements according to their preferences after the sale.

Selling a home without major repairs is entirely possible with the right strategy. By focusing on cleanliness, addressing minor issues, enhancing curb appeal, and pricing the property appropriately, you can attract serious buyers and move forward with confidence. With professional guidance and realistic expectations, your home can sell quickly and successfully, even without full renovation.

Exploring the Benefits of Buying a Home with a Pool

by

Buying a home is a major investment, and for many buyers, the idea of having a pool is an exciting feature that adds value and enjoyment. Whether you are considering a pool for recreation, relaxation, or future resale, there are many reasons why a pool can be a smart addition to your home search.

A Private Retreat Right Outside Your Door
One of the biggest benefits of owning a home with a pool is the convenience of having your own personal retreat. There is no need to pack up the car and drive to a public pool or pay for a club membership. With a pool just steps away, you can enjoy a swim whenever it suits your schedule, whether it is a quick morning dip or an evening swim to unwind.

Ideal for Entertaining
A pool creates a natural gathering place for friends and family. Whether it is hosting a weekend barbecue, a birthday party, or a casual evening with neighbors, a pool adds an inviting element to any event. Poolside entertaining spaces can include patios, outdoor kitchens, and lounge areas that make the backyard a central part of your home’s living space.

Health and Wellness Benefits
Swimming is one of the best low-impact exercises for people of all ages. Having a pool at home encourages regular physical activity, making it easier to stay active and healthy. It can be especially beneficial for families with children or individuals who want a private and convenient way to exercise without needing to leave the house.

Increases Property Value
In many markets, homes with pools are highly desirable. While a pool is not guaranteed to increase a home’s value in every region, it often adds appeal that helps a property stand out. This can be especially true in warmer climates, where pools are considered a valuable and even expected feature. When well-maintained, a pool can enhance the overall aesthetics and perceived luxury of a home.

A Vacation Feel Year-Round
A pool brings a resort-like atmosphere to your everyday life. It offers a place to relax with a book, float on a sunny afternoon, or enjoy family time without leaving home. Many homeowners find that having a pool gives them the feeling of being on vacation without ever having to pack a bag.

Considerations to Keep in Mind
While there are many benefits, it is important to consider maintenance and safety. Pools require regular care and come with added responsibilities, such as keeping the water clean and ensuring safety measures are in place. However, with proper planning and support from professionals, pool ownership can be a rewarding experience.

Buying a home with a pool offers more than just a beautiful backyard. It provides lifestyle benefits, health advantages, and opportunities for memorable moments with family and friends. If a pool is on your wish list, let us help you find the perfect property that combines comfort, value, and the joy of poolside living.

Tips to Discover Off Market Properties Before Everyone Else

by

As a real estate agent, I can tell you that off-market properties can be a hidden gem for savvy buyers. But how do you find them? Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Off-Market Properties?
Off-market homes, sometimes called “pocket listings” or “quiet listings,” are properties for sale that aren’t publicly advertised on popular real estate sites. Sellers may choose to keep their sale private for personal reasons or to test the waters without fully committing to the process.

  1. Work with a Connected Real Estate Agent
    Your best resource for finding off-market homes is a well-connected agent. We often hear about properties through our networks, other agents, past clients, investors, and even word of mouth. If you are looking for something specific, let your agent know. We can tap into our contacts and keep an ear out for upcoming listings that have not hit the market yet.
  2. Explore “Coming Soon” Listings
    Some sellers are preparing to go live on the market but have not listed yet. These “coming soon” homes might be visible through agent networks or office-exclusive listings. A proactive agent can help you find and pursue these opportunities before the general public sees them.
  3. Talk to Local Investors or Builders
    Real estate investors and builders sometimes have properties in progress that they are willing to sell before officially listing. If you are open to fixer-uppers or new construction, this route might open doors to properties others have not seen yet.
  4. Drive the Neighborhood
    This old-school tactic still works. If you have a neighborhood in mind, drive or walk through it and look for signs of a potential sale, like moving activity, FSBO signs (For Sale By Owner), or even vacant homes. If you spot one, your agent can contact the owner directly to explore if a sale is possible.
  5. Use Direct Mail or Social Media
    If you’re targeting a very specific area, some buyers have success with “Dear Homeowner” letters expressing interest in buying. Your agent can help you craft a message and handle responses professionally. Similarly, social media can be a powerful tool for spreading the word about what you’re looking for.
  6. Check Public Records
    Some off-market opportunities come from probate sales, pre-foreclosures, or inherited homes. These properties might be found through public records or courthouse filings. While this route is more involved, your agent may be able to guide you or connect you with someone who specializes in this niche.

Off-market properties take a little more digging, but the reward can be worth it. With the right agent, a little strategy, and persistence, you can uncover homes that are not available to the average buyer, and potentially avoid bidding wars altogether.

If you are interested in exploring off-market opportunities, let’s connect. I’ll put my network to work for you.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 30th, 2025

by

With the passing of the previous busy weeks of rate decisions, this week features the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation report in the PCE Index, which has shown that inflation has come in hotter than expected for the month of May. This likely cements the Federal Reserve’s decision to take no action until later and further confirming most economists’ predictions. The consumer confidence has also taken a hit as it has further declined again for the month of May, indicating there is still significant apprehension within the markets and consumers alike. This is accompanied by Consumer Spending data, which met expectations, as many consumers had already begun pulling back on spending in response to tariff policies before many of those measures were paused.

PCE Index
In an updated forecast, Federal Reserve officials now expect inflation, as measured by the core personal-consumption expenditures (PCE) index, to jump to 3.1% by the end of the year, up from a rate of 2.5% in April.

Consumer Spending
Americans cut spending in May after buying lots of new cars and other goods earlier in the year to beat U.S. tariffs, underscoring how ongoing trade wars are disrupting the economy. Personal spending fell 0.1% last month, the government said Friday. It was the first decline since January.

Consumer Sentiment
The ongoing trade wars haven’t faded from public view. Consumer confidence fell in June, as Americans grew more pessimistic about the future of the economy and their ability to find a job. The index of consumer confidence declined to 93 last month from 98.4 in May, when the Trump administration dialed back the highest U.S. tariffs.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.07% for this week, with the current rates at 5.89%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of of -0.04% for this week, with the current rates at 6.77%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.19% for this week, with the current rates at 6.22%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.19% for this week, with the current rates at 6.23%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 236,000 compared to the expected claims of 246,000. The prior week landed at 246,000.

What’s Ahead
Non-farm Payrolls, Job Data, Manufacturing PMI Data will be the largest reports out for next week. The most important data reflecting the impact of tariffs has already been released.

NeighborWorks America and Building Stronger Communities Continues During National Homeownership Month

by

June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and to highlight the programs and organizations that help make homeownership accessible and sustainable for all. One key player in this mission is NeighborWorks America, a national nonprofit network dedicated to promoting affordable housing through education, community development, and lending.

What Is NeighborWorks America?
NeighborWorks America supports a nationwide network of local organizations that provide a wide range of services designed to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Their work includes:

  • Homebuyer education and counseling: Helping potential buyers understand the home buying process, budgeting, and financial management.
  • Community development: Supporting efforts to revitalize neighborhoods through affordable housing projects, neighborhood improvement initiatives, and economic development.
  • Affordable lending: Facilitating access to responsible financing options for low-to-moderate income families.

By partnering with over 240 local NeighborWorks organizations, NeighborWorks America ensures resources and support reach communities in need across the country.

Why NeighborWorks America Matters for Homebuyers
For many aspiring homeowners, the journey to buying a home can be complex and challenging. NeighborWorks America addresses these challenges by providing education and counseling that empower buyers to make informed decisions and build long-term financial stability. Their programs help prevent foreclosure and improve credit scores, which increases the chances of successful homeownership.

Additionally, their focus on community development means that they do not just help individuals buy homes, they help create thriving neighborhoods where families want to live, work, and grow.

Connection to National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than just buying a house, it is about building stable, vibrant communities and ensuring that homeownership is attainable for everyone. NeighborWorks America’s mission aligns perfectly with these goals. Their comprehensive approach combines education, financial assistance, and community revitalization to address the many barriers that can stand in the way of homeownership.

During this month, it’s important to recognize organizations like NeighborWorks America that work tirelessly to promote housing affordability and sustainability. Their efforts contribute to stronger neighborhoods and better futures for families across the country.

How You Can Get Involved or Benefit
If you’re considering buying a home, NeighborWorks America’s network of local organizations can be an invaluable resource. They offer free or low-cost homebuyer education classes, credit counseling, and financial coaching. These services prepare buyers to confidently navigate the mortgage process and maintain their homes long-term.

Real estate professionals and community advocates can also support NeighborWorks America by referring clients to their programs or partnering on community initiatives that promote affordable housing.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s acknowledge the critical role NeighborWorks America plays in making homeownership a reality for so many families, and the ongoing work needed to create equitable, sustainable housing solutions nationwide.

How Habitat for Humanity Supports Homeownership By Building Hope and Homes

by

June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the value of owning a home and recognize the individuals and organizations working to make homeownership more accessible to everyone. One of the most well-known and impactful organizations in this space is Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that’s been helping families build and own safe, affordable homes for nearly 50 years.

Habitat for Humanity goes beyond construction. It provides stability, empowerment, and dignity to families who may never have thought homeownership was within reach. During National Homeownership Month, it is especially important to highlight how this organization makes a lasting difference.

A Hand Up, Not a Handout
Habitat for Humanity believes that everyone deserves a decent place to live. But unlike traditional charity models, Habitat does not give away homes. Instead, it offers a partnership model, homebuyers contribute “sweat equity” by helping build their own homes or the homes of others. They then purchase the home through an affordable mortgage, often with monthly payments tailored to their income.

This approach fosters pride, investment, and a stronger connection to the community. It also ensures the program is sustainable, allowing Habitat to serve more families year after year.

Empowering Families Through Education
In addition to home construction, Habitat prepares future homeowners through financial literacy and homeownership education. Participants learn about budgeting, mortgage responsibilities, home maintenance, and more—tools that help them succeed as long-term homeowners.

These educational components are vital. Many Habitat families are first-time buyers navigating complex financial systems. The knowledge they gain through Habitat’s programs helps set them up for lasting success and stability.

Community Impact
Habitat’s impact stretches far beyond individual homes. In many neighborhoods, Habitat-led projects have helped revitalize communities, reduce blight, and boost local economies. Volunteer opportunities bring people together from all walks of life, building not just homes, but also connections and compassion.

During National Homeownership Month, Habitat often partners with local governments, businesses, and community groups to raise awareness and increase involvement in its mission. These partnerships demonstrate the power of collective action and the difference it can make in someone’s life.

Responding to the Housing Crisis
With rising home prices and limited affordable housing in many areas, Habitat’s work is more essential than ever. The organization advocates for policies that promote affordable housing, supports zoning reform, and helps remove barriers to homeownership, especially for underserved populations.

Habitat for Humanity’s mission aligns perfectly with the goals of National Homeownership Month: to promote the dream of homeownership and to make it a reality for more people, regardless of their background or income level.

How You Can Get Involved
You do not have to be a contractor to make a difference. Habitat offers numerous ways to support its work, from volunteering on sites and donating materials to supporting advocacy campaigns and shopping at Habitat ReStores.

By supporting Habitat for Humanity, you are not just helping build homes, you are building futures.