Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

Smart Home Features That Add Value to Your Property

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Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat is one of the most popular smart home upgrades. These devices allow homeowners to control heating and cooling remotely using a smartphone. Smart thermostats can learn your preferences over time, helping you save energy and reduce monthly utility costs. Buyers appreciate the combination of convenience and efficiency that smart thermostats offer, making them a worthwhile investment when preparing your home for sale.

Security Systems with Cameras
Modern security systems do more than sound alarms. Systems with cameras, motion detectors, and remote access features help homeowners monitor their property from anywhere. Potential buyers find these systems reassuring, especially those with families or frequent travelers. Installing a smart security system can enhance your home s value by adding a sense of safety and control.

Smart Lighting
Smart lighting systems allow you to adjust brightness and even color temperature through a smartphone app or voice command. You can create mood lighting or set schedules for lights to turn on and off automatically. Buyers are drawn to smart lighting because it adds both luxury and practicality. Motion-activated outdoor lighting can also improve security, which increases your home’s appeal.

Smart Locks and Doorbells
Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys. Homeowners can unlock their doors using their smartphones or unique access codes, which makes managing access easier and more secure. Paired with video doorbells, these devices let homeowners see and speak with visitors, even when they are away. Buyers view these upgrades as modern essentials, adding both convenience and peace of mind to any home.

Whole-Home Smart Integration
Integrating various smart devices through a centralized system can significantly enhance your home s value. Voice-activated assistants and smart hubs allow homeowners to control lighting, climate, security, and entertainment from a single device. This level of control and customization appeals to tech-savvy buyers and can help your property stand out in a competitive market.

Adding smart home features is not just about modernizing your living space. It is about offering potential buyers a lifestyle of convenience, efficiency, and security. If you are considering upgrades before selling your property, focusing on these five smart home features can make a noticeable difference in both buyer interest and property value. Be sure to consult your real estate agent for advice on which upgrades would be most beneficial in your local market.

Top 6 Factors Every Buyer and Seller Should Know That Determine Your Home’s Value

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As a homeowner or potential buyer, understanding what truly influences a property’s value can help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re selling your home or planning to purchase, knowing the factors that impact property value can put you in a stronger negotiating position and help you maximize your investment.

Here are the top six factors that play a key role in determining a home’s value:

1. Location, Location, Location

The adage still holds true—location is king. The desirability and convenience of your home’s surroundings significantly affect its value. Proximity to good schools, shopping centers, parks, public transportation, and low-crime areas typically increase a home’s worth. For buyers, this means a prime location can lead to increased appreciation over time; for sellers, it can justify a higher asking price.

2. Square Footage and Usable Space

Size matters, but usable space matters more. Buyers consider the square footage of a home, but they’re even more concerned with the layout and utility of that space. For example, a 2,500-square-foot home with more open, functional spaces is often valued higher than a similar-sized home with poor room layouts. Ensuring every square foot serves a purpose makes your home more marketable.

3. Age and Condition of the Home

A home’s age and condition play a huge role in determining its market value. Modern systems, like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, improve home efficiency and can reduce maintenance costs for buyers. Meanwhile, well-maintained older homes that retain character can be highly desirable too. Sellers, keep your property updated and repaired; it can boost your home’s worth while reducing buyer concerns.

4. Comparable Properties (Comps) in the Neighborhood

Real estate professionals and appraisers rely heavily on comps—recent sales of similar properties in your area—to determine your home’s market value. Comps reflect local market trends and establish a benchmark for pricing your home. Buyers, understanding comps will help you gauge the true worth of a home before making an offer. Sellers, take note of these metrics to competitively price your property.

5. Upgrades and Improvements

Not all home improvements guarantee a high return on investment, but many can positively impact your home’s value. Key renovations such as modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and energy-efficient windows or solar panels often appeal to buyers. High-quality finishes can also influence a buyer’s perception of your home’s worth. Sellers should be strategic about upgrades, while buyers can identify which features might add future value.

6. Market Conditions

The broader real estate market can greatly affect your home’s value. Interest rates, supply and demand dynamics, and economic conditions all play a part. A seller’s market with low inventory typically drives up prices, while a buyer’s market with high inventory may lead to more competitive pricing. Paying attention to market trends allows both buyers and sellers to better strategize.

Real estate transactions involve many moving parts, but being knowledgeable about what drives a home’s value can empower you to make sound decisions. Location, size, condition, comps, upgrades, and market conditions all contribute to how a home is perceived in the market.

The Impact of Nearby Developments on Property Value

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When buying a home, it’s easy to focus solely on the property itself—square footage, curb appeal, layout, and finishes all tend to grab our attention. But what happens outside the property can be just as impactful, especially when new developments are underway nearby. Whether it’s the construction of a new shopping center, school, or transit line, nearby developments can significantly influence property values, sometimes raising them and, in certain situations, leading to complexities. Here’s how developments around your property might shape its value and tips on researching these projects before making a decision.

How Nearby Developments Can Boost Property Values

  1. Improved Access and Convenience: New commercial developments, such as shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants, add convenience and can be big value boosters. Properties near these amenities tend to be more appealing to buyers, increasing demand and, subsequently, property values. The convenience of being near services saves time, and for many, that’s a luxury worth paying for.
  2. Enhanced Public Infrastructure: Public infrastructure improvements, like new transit lines, highways, or better roadways, can make your property more accessible and connected. Homes near public transit, for example, have become increasingly desirable as people aim to cut down commute times and fuel costs. Access to efficient transportation options can boost property values, particularly in urban areas.
  3. Increased Job Opportunities and Economic Growth: New businesses mean potential job opportunities close to home, which can lead to population growth in the area. With more people moving to the vicinity for employment, the demand for housing often goes up, which can drive property prices higher.
  4. Educational Facilities and Community Resources: Proximity to good schools and community resources (parks, libraries, recreation centers) is a huge factor for families and can make your home more attractive to potential buyers in the future.

Potential Downsides of Nearby Developments

While many developments lead to positive growth, certain factors may negatively impact property values:

  1. Increased Traffic and Noise: Large commercial and retail projects can bring increased traffic, noise, and congestion, which may make a neighborhood less desirable for those seeking peace and quiet.
  2. Environmental and Aesthetic Concerns: Not all developments are welcomed by the community. Large shopping malls, parking structures, or industrial zones could alter the visual landscape of a neighborhood.
  3. Potential for Overbuilding: If there’s an excessive number of new homes or rental properties in an area, the supply could outpace demand. Over time, this might lead to a softening of property values as competition increases among sellers or landlords.

Tips for Researching Nearby Developments Before Buying a Home

  1. Check Local Government and Planning Department Resources: Most cities have planning and zoning departments where you can access development maps, upcoming projects, and zoning changes. Many of these resources are online, so you can see what’s planned for the area before you buy.
  2. Speak with Local Real Estate Agents and Neighbors: Local agents often have insights on development projects and can give you a sense of what changes are on the horizon. Neighbors can also be valuable sources of information, as they might be aware of ongoing discussions about new developments that haven’t yet been made public.
  3. Explore News Outlets and Community Bulletins: Local news sources regularly report on significant developments, particularly if they are expected to impact neighborhoods. Reading local news can provide updates and insights into both the positive and negative aspects of upcoming projects.
  4. Use Online Tools and Community Apps: Apps like Nextdoor or social media community groups can offer insider info on changes in the neighborhood. You may find threads where community members discuss pending developments, share opinions, and provide updates about construction or zoning changes.
  5. Evaluate the Type of Development: Not all developments will affect property values the same way. For instance, a new public park or high-end shopping center might increase value more than a warehouse or gas station. Consider how each type of development aligns with your preferences and long-term investment goals.

Being informed about nearby developments can put you in a stronger position as a homebuyer. The key is to research thoroughly, consider the type of development, and assess how it fits your lifestyle and future plans. With a bit of homework, you can feel confident in your investment and be ready for the neighborhood changes that lie ahead.

The Top 5 Upgrades to Invest In to Maximize Your Home’s Value

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Home upgrades not only enhance your living experience but can also significantly boost your property’s value. Whether you’re looking to enjoy your home for years to come or planning to put it on the market, certain improvements can offer substantial returns on investment. Here are the top five home upgrades that are proven to increase your home’s value and appeal.

1. Add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

What It Is: An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a self-contained living space on your property. Commonly referred to as a granny flat, in-law suite, or guest house, an ADU includes its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance.

Why It Adds Value: ADUs are in high demand due to their versatility. They can serve as a rental unit, provide additional living space for family, or even be a home office. Homes with ADUs have been shown to sell for up to 35% more on average than those without. Plus, some cities offer financial incentives for building ADUs, which can help offset construction costs.

Pro Tip: Look into local programs or incentives that may support ADU construction. A home renovation loan could also help you finance the addition.

2. Upgrade or Replace Windows

What It Is: Windows play a crucial role in your home’s energy efficiency. Upgrading to high-performance windows or improving insulation with weather stripping can reduce energy loss.

Why It Adds Value: Energy-efficient windows can lower utility bills and enhance comfort. Window replacement often has one of the highest returns on investment, making it a smart upgrade if you’re planning to sell. Modern windows also improve your home’s curb appeal and overall aesthetics.

Pro Tip: If your current windows are old, foggy, or leaking, consider replacing them with new, energy-efficient models for maximum impact.

3. Invest in Solar Panels

What It Is: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, reducing your reliance on traditional power sources and lowering utility costs.

Why It Adds Value: Solar energy systems can decrease your energy bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. Approximately 66% of U.S. homebuyers are more inclined to purchase a home with solar panels installed. Additionally, federal solar tax credits can help offset the installation costs.

Pro Tip: Bundle the cost of solar panels into an energy-efficient mortgage to potentially save on financing and take advantage of tax incentives.

4. Build a Pool

What It Is: A swimming pool can be a major attraction, offering a space for relaxation and recreation.

Why It Adds Value: In certain regions, a pool can increase your home’s value by an average of $27,199. It’s a desirable feature for many buyers, particularly in warmer climates where outdoor living is popular.

Pro Tip: Before investing in a pool, consider the maintenance costs and whether a pool will enhance your home’s value based on local market trends.

5. Construct a Deck

What It Is: A new deck expands your outdoor living space and provides a versatile area for entertaining, dining, or relaxing.

Why It Adds Value: Decks are a cost-effective way to increase usable space and can offer a return on investment of around 65%. They create a welcoming outdoor area that can attract potential buyers.

Pro Tip: Choose durable materials and consider adding features like built-in seating or lighting to maximize the appeal and functionality of your deck.

Top DIY Projects for Added Value

While major upgrades can yield significant returns, smaller DIY projects can also improve your home’s value and efficiency. Here are a few manageable DIY tasks to consider:

  1. Replace Your Dishwasher: Modern, energy-efficient dishwashers conserve water and electricity, which can reduce utility bills.
  2. Install a Water Filter: An under-sink water filter improves water quality and eliminates the need for bottled water.
  3. Add Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans enhance air circulation, making your home more comfortable year-round.
  4. Paint Your Interior Walls: Fresh paint can revitalize your home’s interior and make it more appealing to potential buyers.
  5. Pressure-Wash Your Exterior: A thorough pressure wash can refresh your home’s appearance and boost curb appeal.

Ready to Upgrade?

Choosing the right upgrades can make a significant difference in your home’s value and livability. Whether you’re investing in major renovations or tackling simple DIY projects, these improvements can enhance your home’s appeal and functionality. For personalized advice on financing your home upgrades, give us a call today.

What To Know About Property Values and Refinancing

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What To Know About Property Values and RefinancingThere are many people who are thinking about refinancing their homes. For example, some people may be interested in reducing their monthly payments, while other people may be interested in tapping into the value of the home to fund a home improvement project. What is the relationship between property values and refinancing? There are several important points to keep in mind. 

Property Values Tend To Rise

First, it is important for homeowners to understand that property values tend to rise during the life of a mortgage. For example, someone may purchase a home valued at $250,000. Then, fifteen years later, the home might be valued at $350,000. This might mean that homeowners have access to an extra $100,000 in equity. They might use some of this money to put towards a new home when they sell their current home. Or, they might refinance their home and access that equity to complete a home improvement project. 

Monthly Payments Might Go Up

If homeowners decide to refinance their houses and take all of the equity out of the home, they might be starting their 30-year mortgage over again. Then, because the property is worth more money, they may end up with a higher monthly payment. That is why homeowners need to work with a professional who can help them figure out how the refinancing process may impact their finances in the future.

Why Property Values May Rise

There are several reasons why property values may go up. First, there might not be enough homes in the local area. Therefore, the ones that are available might be worth more money. The popularity of a specific location might increase as well. There might be a new company moving to the area with attractive job opportunities. Finally, home improvements might also increase the value of the property. 

Why Refinancing Might Make Sense

There are several reasons why it might be a good idea to refinance a home. First, homeowners might use some of the equity to pay off existing debt, such as medical bills. Some homeowners like to refinance their homes to reduce their monthly payments with a lower interest rate. Finally, there are homeowners who refinance to complete home renovation projects. 

 

The Process Of Estimating Property Values

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The Process Of Estimating Property ValuesProperty values are a moving target. They are important to buyers and sellers because everyone wants to get the best deal possible. Sellers want to get as much money for their investment while buyers do not want to overpay for a home. There are a lot of factors that play a role in property values including the economy, the number of people looking for homes, new home construction, schools, the job market, and more. How do real estate agents estimate the value of a home?

How Much Will Someone Pay For A Home?

The market value of a home is the amount of money someone is willing to pay for that home. This is how real estate agents estimate the value of the home. He or she will usually take a look at similarly priced homes in the area (sometimes in the same neighborhood) to see what those homes are selling for. Then, the price per square foot will be applied to that specific home to calculate its value.

Often, real estate agents use the past six months as a guideline; however, if there has not been much action, agents might go back further. Agents will usually draw a radius of one mile to ensure homes are similar; however, some homes, such as luxury homes, are harder to compare.

A Professional Appraiser Is Usually Involved

Sometimes, home values are calculated by a professional appraiser who is typically hired by a lender. Lenders want to make sure they will get their money back if the home sells in the future. If the buyer is paying more than the appraiser says it is worth, then the lender might ask the buyer to put more money down before financing it.

Real Estate Agents Could Ask For More Information

Real estate agents might also ask homeowners for more information. If one house stands out on the comps sheet, the agent might ask the homeowner what happened. What makes this house different? Is the location different? Did the home sell as furnished? All of this is important for helping realtors ensure they are doing the best possible job in guiding their clients in the right direction. Some sales may still require the help of a licensed appraiser.

Should You Relocate A House To Improve Its Value?

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Should You Relocate A House To Improve Its ValueWhat can be done with a house that is just perfect but it is in a bad neighborhood or a dangerous spot? Think about homes that are in decent condition; yet, too close to the water. America is experiencing flooding now that is not supposed to happen in 500 years.

That cute little beach bungalow could easily get wiped out in the next hurricane. It might be time to think about moving those homes to a safer area or higher ground.

The International Association of Structural Movers says that around 8,000 homes are moved each year in America. Relocation may be due to hazards, such as the erosion of an oceanfront or cliffside lot. Others relocate for their historical value.

What It Takes To Move A Home

There are five main considerations for moving a home, which are:

  1. Legal Issues: Moving the home and transporting it must be allowed by law.
  2. Strength: A home must be strong enough to stay together when disconnected from its foundation.
  3. Lift and Transport: It must be possible to lift the home and transport it to the new location.
  4. Access: Access to the home’s new location must be unimpaired on the route to get there and on the site when the home arrives.
  5. Cost: The cost to move a home may be shockingly prohibitive.

Legal Issues

The legal issues can be very challenging. Do not give up easily, if the idea of moving a home is blocked at first because it may be possible to get a one-time waiver from the regulations.

Strength

Some homes are not strong enough to move. However, it is surprising what is possible if the home and/or lot is very valuable.

There are home-moving projects that lifted Victorian-style homes built over one hundred years ago in the most valuable parts of San Francisco. These homes only moved upwards. They stayed on their lots. The moving project raised them 15-feet higher to allow a garage to be built underneath. These well-built wooden homes survived the 1906 earthquake. They were carefully raised without damaging them.

Lift And Transport

Experts use many techniques to lift a home and prepare it for transport. Homes may be transported by strong flat-bed trucks, by industrial, heavy-lifting helicopters, and on barges in the river or ocean. Homes can be disassembled partially to make moving them easier.

Access

When moving a home, even if separated in pieces, the pieces may be very large. The entire transport route needs to be carefully checked by an engineer for proper clearance heights, enough turning radius when needed, and sufficient width for passage.

Cost

While many homes are movable, the cost may be too high to make it worthwhile. However, the cost to move a multi-million dollar mansion falling off a cliff may be far less than the home’s value, which might otherwise be lost.

Summary

If there is a beautiful heritage home sitting on a cliff’s edge overlooking the ocean and teetering on the edge of collapse, there is a new way to think about it. It may make perfect sense to move it to a lot that is down the street and further away from the edge.

Your trusted real estate agent is ready to help youfind the perfect home. Give them a call today!

4 Important Reasons To Install A Home Generator

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4 Important Reasons To Install A Home GeneratorHome improvements are key investments when it comes to quality of life and property value. While decks, solar panels and smart technologies are trendy options, installing a home generator may be even more valuable. That’s because backup generators not only improve market value, they also protect you and your home during severe weather incidents.

Consider these four reasons why a home generator makes good sense.

Protect Against Severe Weather

The impact of severe weather can reach catastrophic proportions. Thousands of people are left without electricity for days — even weeks — after storms. Heat waves also put an inordinate strain on the power grid when all of those air conditioners and HVAC go into 24-hour overdrive.

The consequences of extended power losses are generally fouled foods in the refrigerator and freezer, unbearable temperatures and an inability to take corrective measures to the physical property itself. When the grid goes down, you may be left powerless as the losses mount.   

Keeps Critical Systems Operational

When the power goes down for an extended period of time, important electronics become inoperable. If you work from home or rely on electronic devices to earn a living, either you’re putting in for vacation time or losing money. But beyond the financial implications, many people need power for vital medical equipment to function. It’s simply too risky to not have a backup plan if you or a loved one suffers from a health condition.

Backup Generators Improve Home Security

We have all seen the national news coverage about post-storm or brownout crime waves. Looting and burglary ran rampant when residents are evacuated. That’s because criminals know full well that your alarm system went down with the power.

Consider the accumulated wealth you have at home and irreplaceable personal items. Those could be lost if your home gets robbed during a power outage. Fortunately, installing a home generator will allow you to keep the lights on and thugs away. Just having your lights on at night demonstrates that you have electricity and that acts as a powerful deterrent. A backup generator provides peace of mind against theft.

Backup Generators Improve Property Values

It only makes sense that a home generator will increase your property value. After all, home generator installations are direct financial investments.

According to Consumer Reports, installing a home generator can improve your home’s value by as much as 3-5 percent. Similarly, Remodeling Magazine indicated that the return on investment for a home generator installing can range as high as 150 percent. Of course, those figures may be weighed against the money you saved by being powered up when the grid was down as well.

The point of this discussion is that while new kitchens and smart homes are exciting ways to amp up your home’s values, improvements such as backup generators have a quiet value worth considering.

Your trusted real estate agent is available to suggest other home improvement tips that can help to improve the value of your property when you are getting ready to put it on the market.