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Whether you’re running a vacation home or a residential rental, being a property manager is a lot of work. As you set up the home and market it to renters, there are many details to consider, including your financial goals and long-term investment plan. Every investor’s property management approach is slightly different. Beginner real estate investors and first-time landlords need to be well-versed in the intricacies of rental property management to develop their own approach. If you’re new to all this, check out these great resources from&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a>.<h2 style="text-align: start">How to Get Your Property Ready to Rent</h2>From insurance to renovations to kitchens, there’s a lot to consider when setting up your property for renters.<ul><li>Do I Need Homeowners or Landlord&nbsp;<a href="https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/homeowners-or-landlord-insurance.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Insurance for a Rental Property</a>?</li><li>18&nbsp;<a href="https://www.curbed.com/2017/5/12/15626862/home-improvement-apps-renovation-android-iphone" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Renovation Apps</a>&nbsp;to Know for Your Next Project</li><li>If the Kitchen Needs Remodeling,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prolinerangehoods.com/rangehoodstyles/wall-mount-range-hood" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Remember These Quality</a>&nbsp;Wall Mount Range Hoods</li><li><a href="https://www.rentecdirect.com/blog/safety-checklist-for-rental-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Safety Checklist</a>&nbsp;for Rental Properties</li></ul><h2 style="text-align: start">Handling the Finances</h2>The financial aspect of property management can be tough to understand. Let these resources be your guide.<ul><li>State-by-State&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hostfully.com/regulations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Short-Term Rental Regulations</a></li><li>Should You&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiapm.com/pros-and-cons-of-creating-an-llc-as-a-rental-property-owner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Create an LLC For Your Rental Property</a>?</li></ul><h2 style="text-align: start">Setting Rent and Marketing the Property</h2><h4 style="text-align: start">After your property has been spruced up and you’ve gone over your finances, it’s time to think about pricing and marketing strategies.</h4><ul><li>How Do I Set a Rental Price for a&nbsp;<a href="https://homeguides.sfgate.com/set-rental-price-house-7132.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">House</a>?</li><li>The 7 Best Ways to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.millionacres.com/real-estate-investing/articles/7-best-ways-market-your-vacation-rental-and-keep-it-booked/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Market Your Vacation Rental</a>&nbsp;and Keep It Booked</li></ul><h2 style="text-align: start">Property Management Tools and Services</h2>Being a property manager is no simple job. It doesn’t hurt to have a few good tools, software, and services on hand for the tasks you need help with the most.&nbsp;Understanding the Importance of&nbsp;<a href="https://landlord-resources.theblueground.com/property-management/outsourcing-tasks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Outsourcing</a>: Here Are the Tasks You Should Hire Out<ul><li>Use Software to Help with&nbsp;<a href="https://quickbooks.intuit.com/payroll/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Running Your Payroll</a>&nbsp;If You Have Employees</li><li>8&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lodgify.com/blog/cleaning-apps-vacation-rentals/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cleaning Apps</a>&nbsp;for Vacation Rental Businesses</li></ul>There’s a lot to do before you can start making money with your rental property. From preparing the home for rent to setting rates and marketing your rental, you’ll have your hands full for some time. Remember to hire out time-consuming tasks to experts who can help you succeed. With the right team and some useful automation apps and software on your side, you’ll have a much easier time launching your first rental property.Finding the right property for your first rental may require some professional assistance.&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a>&nbsp;can help you locate the right one for you. Call 210-789-4216 ?Photo via&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/real-estate-for-rent-rented-3297625/">Pixabay</a> ?

Your Survival Guide For Managing Your First Rental Property

The decision of whether to invest in a starter home in San Antonio or wait and buy a forever home depends on several factors, both financial and personal. It’s easier to decide when considering the pros and cons.<h2>Moving Into Greener Pastures</h2>You’re getting ready to take the next big step in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20American%20dream#:~:text=Definition%20of%20the%20American%20dream,were%20living%20the%20American%20dream." target="_blank" rel="noopener">living the American dream</a>&nbsp;by jumping in with both feet into the status of homeownership.&nbsp;<a href="https://policyadvice.net/insurance/insights/home-ownership-statistics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Only two-thirds</a>&nbsp;of the US population are current homeowners, and this figure drops to one-third for adults under the age of 34. The first step of deciding on a home is determining whether you’re&nbsp;going to move into a starter home or a forever home.<h2>Pros and Cons of Buying a Starter Home</h2>Starter houses are typically two bedrooms or fewer, and most people only live in them for two to five years. The average price difference between a two and a three-bedroom house is&nbsp;<a href="https://jaredclemence.com/real-estate/home-buyers/myth-busted-3-bedroom-houses-have-better-resale-value-than-2-bedroom-houses/#:~:text=2%2Dbedroom%20houses%20cost%20less,3%2Dbedroom%20house%20was%20%24241%2C907." target="_blank" rel="noopener">approximately $20,000</a>, making smaller homes more budget-friendly. Your starter home can be a future investment as a rental property or resold as you move on to your permanent dwelling. Smaller starter homes require less housekeeping and maintenance, adding to your cost savings.On the other hand, starter homes are smaller and, depending on your family size and mode of living, can feel cramped. A starter home is also typically a bit older than a forever home. Many are known as fixer-uppers because they require repairs. Lastly, starter homes are becoming harder to sell because millennials believe the cost of homes is too expensive and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/starter-home-price-expensive-own-rent-2019-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">are renting longer</a>&nbsp;to save up and buy a forever home.<h2>Pros and Cons of Buying a Forever Home</h2>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/starter-home-or-forever-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">average age of people</a>&nbsp;who purchase a four-bedroom forever home is 33 to 37, and the main appeal is that they are planning to settle in for the long term. Staying for the long haul allows them to set up roots in the community and offer stability to their children. Forever homes in San Antonio are more spacious and have more amenities than starter homes, allowing you to have all the designs and features you desire.The biggest obstacle to buying a forever home is the cost. It will take you longer to build up a down payment, and the monthly mortgage will put a bigger dent in your budget. A forever home is meant to be long-term and has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/starter-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a slower ROI</a>, meaning it takes longer for your home to increase in value. Another downfall is that a larger house and yard have higher upkeep and utility costs.<h2>Protecting Your Home Against Peril</h2>Homeowner’s insurance is crucial to protect you against perils that damage the structure of your home. The average cost for home insurance is $1,250 per year, but your exact rate depends on your home’s value. Most homeowners will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/things-to-know-when-buying-homeowners-insurance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">escrow their insurance</a>&nbsp;and pay their premiums through the mortgage company. So&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ahs.com/home-warranty/are-home-warranties-worth-it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">is it worth it to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.ahs.com/home-warranty/are-home-warranties-worth-it/">have home</a><a href="https://www.ahs.com/home-warranty/are-home-warranties-worth-it/">&nbsp;warranty</a>? Home warranties will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/services/home-warranty/how-to-buy-home-warranty#:~:text=To%20determine%20if%20you%20need,and%20tear%20or%20cosmetic%20issues." target="_blank" rel="noopener">cover appliances and home systems</a>&nbsp;when they need repairs.<h2>What Will Your New Home Be?</h2>Buying your first home is a major decision you’ll make in your adult life. A starter home can turn into a sound investment over the years while you save for your dream home, but a forever home offers the security of permanence.&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/resources/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Enlisting aid</a>&nbsp;from a professional at San Antonio Real Estate can help you figure out your options. 
 Image via <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/real-estate-agent-giving-the-keys-to-the-buyer-7642008/">Pexels</a>

Weighing In on a Starter or Forever Home

San Antonio is a bustling city.&nbsp; It’s the second-most populous city in Texas, and it’s also one of the more prosperous large cities in the US! San Antonio is a hub of economic development with a large number of businesses that draw professionals to the community. For entrepreneurs looking to start a new business, San Antonio is an excellent location for consideration.<h2>Cost of Living in the San Antonio Area</h2>The overall <a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/city/texas/san_antonio" target="_blank" alt="cost of living">cost of living</a> in the City of San Antonio is lower than the national average. Fortunately, that means there are many areas that are affordable. Bexar County, where San Antonio resides, while still higher than the state average, has a lower cost of living compared to the city, and may be a better place to live and start a business.Should you choose to live in the Greater San Antonio area, it’s important to choose a local realtor you can trust. <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" alt="Jerry Newman of Brown Realty">Jerry Newman of Brown Realty</a> is an experienced, licensed real estate professional capable of assisting you in your search for a new home in the area.<h2>Higher Education</h2>Having an educated workforce is a boon to any company. When starting up your business, it may be difficult to source candidates from across the country, therefore having access to quality candidates from good schools nearby can make a big difference. San Antonio is centrally located near numerous colleges, trade schools, and universities. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges/m/san-antonio-metro-area/" target="_blank" alt="Schools">Schools</a> in the area include:
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Trinity University
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
St. Mary’s University
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
University of the Incarnate Word
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
University of Texas - San Antonio
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Texas Lutheran University<h2>Importance of a Strong Business Community &nbsp;</h2>A strong business community helps entrepreneurs learn from one another and discover what makes existing businesses in the area successful. Joining a business association also provides networking opportunities, provides personal and social advantages, and provides access to educational opportunities and materials. Local business associations and organizations include:
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
San Antonio <a href="https://www.sachamber.org/" target="_blank" alt="Chamber of Commerce">Chamber of Commerce</a>
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
San Antonio <a href="https://www.sahcc.org/" target="_blank" alt="Hispanic Chamber of Commerce">Hispanic Chamber of Commerce</a>
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
San Antonio <a href="https://www.salgbtchamber.org/" target="_blank" alt="LGBT Chamber of Commerce">LGBT Chamber of Commerce</a>
•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
San Antonio <a href="https://sawomenschamber.org/" target="_blank" alt="Women’s Chamber of Commerce">Women’s Chamber of Commerce</a><h2>Getting Started</h2>Creating a checklist can make it easier to get started with a new business in San Antonio. Start by <a href="https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5680-simple-business-plan-templates.html" target="_blank" alt="creating a business plan">creating a business plan</a> that lays out a blueprint for your business over the next three to five years. Also, be sure to determine the legal structure and formation. A corporation offers important <a href="https://texashappens.com/incorporating-in-texas/">legal and tax advantages</a>, including protecting your personal assets, easier access to capital, and enhancing your business credibility. You’ll want to apply for your EIN number, register for taxes, apply for local business licenses and permits, and open a business account.Next, you should consider the marketing place for your new business. If you don’t have a logo, you can create a logo <a href="https://www.adobe.com/express/create/logo" target="_blank" alt="using a logo design maker online">using a logo design maker online</a> and save money. For additional help on developing your company presence, connect with a freelancer designer or work with a marketing agency for a la carte website design, graphic design, SEO, and website hosting.&nbsp;Establishing an identifiable brand is critical to success.The Greater San Antonio area can be the perfect place to set up shop for your new business. With so many resources available, you can start out on the right foot and settle into this bustling, vibrant community.Jerry Newman<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" alt="Jerry Newman"></a>, your San Antonio, TX Real Estate agent can help you find your perfect home. Learn about San Antonio, TX neighborhoods, San Antonio, TX suburbs, and the best places to live in San Antonio, TX.For more information, please visit his website or <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/contact-form/" target="_blank" alt="contact him">contact him</a> today!<span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Cambria&quot;,serif; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;mso-bidi-font-family:Cambria;color:black; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Image via <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-surprised-woman-sitting-with-laptop-3762940/">Pexels</a> <h1> </h1>

Choosing San Antonio to Start a Business

<div style="letter-spacing:normal!important;width:485px!important; padding:0 40px!important; font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;"> <ul style="letter-spacing:normal!important;list-style:none!important;margin:0 0 30px!important;padding-left:0;float:left;width:485px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;"> <li style="letter-spacing:normal!important;font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;display:block;vertical-align:baseline!important;padding:30px 0!important; border-bottom:1px solid #ebf0f2!important; color:#777!important; font-size:12px!important; line-height:20px!important;float:left;width:485px;"> <div style="letter-spacing:normal!important;font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;position:relative!important; float:left!important; width:179px!important;"> <a href="https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/best-time-to-buy-refrigerator/" style="letter-spacing:normal!important;font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;color:#16a8d3!important; text-decoration:none!important;"> <img style="border:0 none;" src="https://static.houselogic.com/content/images/sized/article_4-things-smart-homeowners-always-know-to-do-in-may_dd9603f52a3df888ea9169f0d921ad53_3x2_jpg_168x112_q85.jpg" alt="" title="4 Things Smart Homeowners Always Know to Do in May" /> </a> </div> <h3 style="letter-spacing:normal!important;font-family:Arial,sans-serif!important;float:left;width:306px;margin:0; font-size:16px!important; font-weight:bold!important; padding-bottom:16px;"><a style="color:#16a8d3!important; text-decoration:none!important;" href="https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/best-time-to-buy-refrigerator/" target="_blank">4 Things Smart Homeowners Always Know to Do in May</a></h3> Like buying a fridge or mattress when the savings are the biggest. <a target="_blank" style="color:#16a8d3!important; text-decoration:none!important;" href="https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/best-time-to-buy-refrigerator/">Read</a> <div style="clear:both;"></div> </li> </ul> <div style="float:left;width:485px;"> Visit <a style="color:#16a8d3!important; text-decoration:none!important;" href="https://www.houselogic.com">houselogic.com</a> for more articles like this. © Copyright 2022 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® </div> </div>

Tips for Homeowners

Moving is a big undertaking, especially if you&rsquo;re managing other responsibilities at the same time. For instance, if you want to launch a business from home, but your current home lacks the necessary space, you may be searching for a new property while getting your company off the ground. House hunting in San Antonio with <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman</a> can help you find the right property, and the following tips will enable you to open your business in your new home!
Secure Adequate Funding
Naturally, moving can be quite expensive&mdash;and so can starting a business. Some businesses aren&rsquo;t profitable right away, and even if you would have very little overhead, you will need to find a way to cover your startup costs. This can be especially tough if your business is already stretched by business expenses.
You&rsquo;ll definitely need to use an app to track your personal and business finances. One that incorporates a <a href="https://plaid.com/products/transactions/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">transaction details API</a> will enable you to look at up to 24 months of transactions. This should keep you clear of any surprises.
If financing is a concern for you, you may want to look into applying for business grants. Some entrepreneurs become frustrated while searching for grants because finding grants that you&rsquo;re eligible for can be tough. But there are a few things you can do to make it easier! For instance, you can create a solid business plan, research available local grants, seek out grants that are specifically geared towards your industry, and put your applications together well before the deadlines.
The Home Buying Process
To start looking for homes, you&rsquo;ll need to work with a great realtor who understands your needs as an aspiring business owner. Talk to them about what you&rsquo;re looking for in a property and what kind of neighborhood you hope to live in.
As you look for a home, you&rsquo;ll want to keep an eye out for key features that will make it easier for you to run your business. Global Banking and Finance <a href="https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/six-features-your-house-needs-if-you-work-from-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">states</a> that remote workers often benefit from having a sizable home office, a spacious kitchen, plenty of natural light, and visible greenery. You could also search for a home with a finished basement that you could use as an office or storage space!
Navigating Your Move
To save yourself time as you get ready to move, it&rsquo;s a good idea to hire movers. Even if you could pack up your house and relocate your belongings on your own, working with movers will free up time in your <a href="https://www.movers.com/moving-guides/how-to-manage-your-time-during-a-move.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">schedule</a> to focus on your business instead. In order to choose the right movers, Faze <a href="https://faze.ca/essential-questions-to-ask-before-hiring-movers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recommends</a> asking several moving companies for breakdowns of their price quotes so that you can see all of the services you&rsquo;ll be paying for.
Launching Your Business
You&rsquo;ve put together a business plan, you&rsquo;ve brought in some grant money, and now, you&rsquo;re in your new home&mdash;it&rsquo;s time to officially <a href="https://www.usa.gov/start-business" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launch your business</a>! You can start by <a href="https://blog.allstate.ca/7-easy-and-affordable-tips-to-make-an-appealing-home-office/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">setting up</a> a home office. You&rsquo;ll need a desk, a supportive chair, lighting, tools for storing paperwork and office supplies, and decor to liven up the space. Keep a wastebasket in your office to dispose of any clutter. Once you&rsquo;ve established your office, you can start marketing your products and services and finding your very first customers. When you have plenty of room, running a home-based business is much easier, and you&rsquo;ll be able to make progress quickly towards your goals.
Consider using a monthly planner template to <a href="https://miro.com/templates/monthly-planner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">organize your time</a> and define objectives and goals. Simply add events and tasks to your calendar and add visuals like images and your company logo.
If you&rsquo;ve realized that you&rsquo;ll need to move in order to achieve your dream of running a small business from your home, you might be stressed about your long to-do list. But with a plan, moving and becoming a business owner is manageable. Soon, you&rsquo;ll be running your business comfortably from your new home!
When you&rsquo;re ready to find your dream San Antonio-area home, <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman</a> offers local expertise and exceptional service. Call (210) 789-4216 today!
Photo via <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-smiling-while-holding-a-box-5025638/">Pexels</a>

How do you balance starting a business and moving at the same time?

How to Balance Starting a Business and Moving

<div class="site-inner">
<div class="content-sidebar-wrap"><main class="content">
<article class="post-1000803 post type-post status-draft format-standard category-blog entry" aria-label="Hedge Against Inflation With These 3 Real Estate Investment Types">
<div class="entry-content">
The annual inflation&nbsp;rate in the United States is currently around 7.5%&mdash;the highest it has been since 1982.1&nbsp;It doesn&rsquo;t matter if you&rsquo;re a cashier, lawyer, plumber, or retiree; if you spend U.S. dollars, inflation impacts you.
Economists expect the effects of inflation, like a higher cost of goods, to continue.2&nbsp;Luckily, an investment in real estate can ease some of the financial strain.
Here&rsquo;s what you need to know about inflation, how it impacts you, and how an investment in real estate can help.
WHAT IS INFLATION AND HOW DOES IT IMPACT ME?
Inflation is a decline in the value of money. When the rate of inflation rises, prices for goods and services go up. Therefore, a dollar buys you a little bit less with every passing day.
The consumer price index, or CPI, is a standard measure of inflation. Based on the latest CPI data, prices increased 7.5% from January 2021 to January 2022.1&nbsp;A little bit of inflation is considered healthy for the economy, but 7.5% in a single year is high.
How does inflation affect your life? Here are a few of the negative impacts:
<ul>
<li>Decreased Purchasing Power</li>
</ul>
We touched on this already, but as prices rise, your dollar won&rsquo;t stretch as far as it used to. That means you&rsquo;ll be able to purchase fewer goods and services with a limited budget.
<ul>
<li>Increased Borrowing Costs</li>
</ul>
In an effort to curb inflation, the Federal Reserve is expected to raise the federal funds rate. Therefore, consumers are likely to pay a higher interest rate on new mortgages, car loans, and variable-rate credit cards.3
&nbsp;Lower Standard of Living
Wage growth tends to lag behind price increases. According to Moody Analytics, when adjusted for inflation, average weekly earnings in January were down 3.1% from a year earlier.4&nbsp;As such, life is becoming less affordable for everyone. Inflation can force those on a fixed income, like retirees, to make lifestyle changes and prioritize essentials.
<ul>
<li>Eroded Savings</li>
</ul>
If you store all your savings in a bank account, inflation is even more damaging. As of February 2022, the national average interest rate for a savings account is 0<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/average-savings-interest-rates/">.</a>06%, not nearly enough to keep up with inflation. And economists don&rsquo;t expect that rate to go much higher.3
One of the best ways to mitigate these effects is to find a place to invest your money other than the bank. Even though interest rates are expected to rise, they&rsquo;re unlikely to get high enough to beat inflation. If you hoard cash, the value of your money will decrease every year and more rapidly in years with elevated inflation.
REAL ESTATE: A PROVEN HEDGE AGAINST INFLATION
So where is a good place to invest your money to protect (hedge) against the impacts of inflation? There are several investment vehicles that financial advisors traditionally recommend, including:
<ul>
<li>Stocks</li>
</ul>
Some people invest in stocks as their primary inflation hedge. However, the stock market can become volatile during inflationary times, as we&rsquo;ve seen in recent months.5
&nbsp;Commodities
Commodities are tangible assets, like oil, livestock, and minerals. The theory is that the price of commodities should climb alongside inflation. But the classic choice&ndash;gold&ndash;hasn&rsquo;t risen consistently during periods of inflation since the 1970s, according to data from Morningstar Direct.6
<ul>
<li>Inflation-Indexed Bonds</li>
</ul>
Treasury inflation-protected securities, or TIPS, are U.S. government-issued bonds that are indexed to the inflation rate. Bonds are considered low risk, but the returns they offer are generally low, as well.7 
Real Estate 
<ul>
<li>Real estate prices across the board tend to rise along with inflation and often rise faster than inflation.8&nbsp;That&rsquo;s one of the reasons demand for real estate is soaring right now.9</li>
</ul>
We believe real estate is the best hedge against inflation. Owning real estate does more than protect your wealth&mdash;it can actually make you money. For example, home prices rose nearly 17% from 2020 to 2021, 10% ahead of the 7% inflation that occurred in the same timeframe.10
Plus, certain types of real estate investments can help you generate a stream of passive income. In the past year, property owners didn&rsquo;t just avoid the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation; they got ahead.
TYPES OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS
Though there are myriad ways to invest in real estate, there are three basic investment types that we recommend for beginner and intermediate investors. Remember that we can help you determine which options are best for your financial goals and budget.
<ul>
<li>Primary Residence</li>
</ul>
If you own your home, you&rsquo;re already ahead. The advantages of homeownership become even more apparent in inflationary times. As inflation raises prices throughout the economy, the value of your home is likely to go up concurrently. At the same time, you&rsquo;ve locked in a set mortgage payment for the next 30 years, so you&rsquo;ll be immune to rising rental costs.
If you don&rsquo;t already own your primary residence, homeownership is a worthwhile goal to pursue.
Though the task of saving enough for a down payment may seem daunting, there are several strategies that can make homeownership easier to achieve. If you&rsquo;re not sure how to get started with the home buying process, contact us. Our team can help you find the strategy and property that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you already own a primary residence or are still renting, now is a good time to also start thinking about an investment property. The types of investment properties you&rsquo;ll buy as a solo investor generally fall into two categories: long-term rentals and short-term rentals.
<ul>
<li>Long-Term (Traditional) Rentals</li>
</ul>
A long-term or traditional rental is a dwelling that&rsquo;s leased out for an extended period. An example of this is a single-family home where a tenant signs a one-year lease and brings all their own furniture.
Long-term rentals are a form of housing. For most tenants, the rental serves as their primary residence, which means it&rsquo;s a necessary expense. This unique quality of long-term rentals can help to provide stable returns in uncertain times, especially when we have high inflation.
To invest in a long-term rental, you&rsquo;ll need to budget for maintenance, repairs, property taxes, and insurance. You&rsquo;ll also need to have a plan for managing the property. But a well-chosen investment property should pay for itself through rental income, and you&rsquo;ll benefit from appreciation as the property rises in value.
We can help you find an ideal long-term rental property to suit your budget and investment goals. Reach out to talk about your needs and our local market opportunities.
<ul>
<li>Short-Term (Vacation) Rentals</li>
</ul>
Short-term or vacation rentals function more like hotels in that they offer temporary accommodations. A short-term rental is defined as a residential dwelling that is rented for 30 days or less. The furniture and other amenities are provided by the property owner, and today many short-term rentals are listed on websites like Airbnb and Vrbo.
&nbsp;A short-term rental can potentially earn you a higher return than a long-term rental, but this comes at the cost of daily, hands-on management. With a short-term rental, you&rsquo;re not just entering the real estate business; you&rsquo;re entering the hospitality business, too.
Done right, short-term rentals can be both a hedge against inflation and a profitable source of income. As a bonus, when the home isn&rsquo;t being rented you have an affordable vacation spot for yourself and your family!
Contact us today if you&rsquo;re interested in exploring options in either the long-term or short-term rental market. Mortgage rates are expected to rise, so you&rsquo;ll want to act fast to maximize your investment return.
WE&rsquo;RE INVESTED IN HELPING YOU
Inflation is a fact of life in the U.S. economy. Luckily, you can prepare for inflation with a carefully managed investment portfolio that includes real estate. Owning a primary residence or investing in a short-term or long-term rental will help you both mitigate the effects of inflation and grow your net worth, which makes it a strategic move in our current financial environment.
If you&rsquo;re ready to invest in real estate to build wealth and protect yourself from rising inflation,&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/about-me/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">contact us</a>. Our team can help you find a primary residence or investment property that meets your financial goals.
&nbsp;
The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only.&nbsp; It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.
Sources:
<ol>
<li>Bloomberg &ndash; <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-10/u-s-inflation-charges-higher-with-larger-than-forecast-gain">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-02-10/u-s-inflation-charges-higher-with-larger-than-forecast-gain</a></li>
<li>CNN &ndash; <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/01/economy/inflation-prices-2022-preview/index.html">https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/01/economy/inflation-prices-2022-preview/index.html</a></li>
<li>CNBC &ndash; <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/01/26/the-fed-sets-the-stage-for-a-rate-hike-heres-what-that-means-for-you.html">https://www.cnbc.com/2022/01/26/the-fed-sets-the-stage-for-a-rate-hike-heres-what-that-means-for-you.html</a></li>
<li>Reuters &ndash; <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/us-consumer-prices-rise-strongly-january-weekly-jobless-claims-fall-2022-02-10/">https://www.reuters.com/business/us-consumer-prices-rise-strongly-january-weekly-jobless-claims-fall-2022-02-10/</a></li>
<li>NBC News &ndash; <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/business/markets/market-slide-dow-falls-700-points-sp-enters-correction-territory-rcna13304">https://www.nbcnews.com/business/markets/market-slide-dow-falls-700-points-sp-enters-correction-territory-rcna13304</a></li>
<li>CNBC &ndash; <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/20/gold-is-losing-its-status-as-an-inflation-hedge-two-traders-warn.html">https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/20/gold-is-losing-its-status-as-an-inflation-hedge-two-traders-warn.html</a></li>
<li>Morningstar &ndash; <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/articles/1079158/why-are-inflation-protected-bond-funds-losing-money">https://www.morningstar.com/articles/1079158/why-are-inflation-protected-bond-funds-losing-money</a></li>
<li>The Washington Post &ndash; <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/01/04/heres-how-inflation-could-affect-your-next-real-estate-move/">https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/01/04/heres-how-inflation-could-affect-your-next-real-estate-move/</a></li>
<li>Bloomberg &ndash; <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-24/is-real-estate-a-good-investment-hedge-against-inflation-what-the-experts-say">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-24/is-real-estate-a-good-investment-hedge-against-inflation-what-the-experts-say</a></li>
<li>CNN &ndash; <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/20/homes/us-nar-home-sales-december-and-2021/index.html">https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/20/homes/us-nar-home-sales-december-and-2021/index.html</a></li>
</ol>
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Real Estate as an investment resource during times of inflation.

Hedge Against Inflation With These 3 Real Estate Investment Types

As millions of Americans continue to work remotely, increasing location freedom, many have considered investing in a rental property for some extra income. Our experts at Bankrate created a guide on how to acquire and establish a rental property, whether it&rsquo;s a sound investment for your lifestyle, and all other financial implications involved in the process. Take a look at this <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/how-to-establish-a-rental-property/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guide on How to Invest in Rental Properties</a>.&nbsp;

Quick reference guide to investing in rental properties

Guide to Investing in Rental Properties for Extra Income

<div class="entry-content">
Realtors like&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">San Antonio Real Estate</a>&nbsp;know a lot about running a business from home and even more about what kind of home is best for managing a business, taking both size and location into consideration. Here are some ideas they have for creating the safest and most inviting spaces for greeting guests into your home office.
&nbsp;The world&rsquo;s richest man, Jeff Bezos, started Amazon from a garage in a house he was renting in the suburbs of Seattle. We hear a<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2021/02/03/jeff-bezos-built-a-1point6-trillion-company-from-nothing-heres-the-legacy-he-leaves-behind.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;story&nbsp;</a>like that and it&rsquo;s no wonder we want to own and manage our own company. And it&rsquo;s not just Amazon&mdash;Hershey, Mary Kay, and even the Ford Motor Company all began as home-based small businesses. This is not to say yours will become a trillion or even billion-dollar conglomerate, but the appeal of having control over every aspect of your business is a siren song for anyone who&rsquo;s dreamed of starting their own enterprise.
However, today&rsquo;s entrepreneurs may benefit from the current, home-business friendly landscape, other difficulties must be addressed, difficulties that previous home startups did not. Apple, Ben &amp; Jerry&rsquo;s, and Walt Disney did not have to consider&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/workplaces-businesses/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CDC rules</a>&nbsp;for how to accommodate clients in the middle of a pandemic.
If your home is where you greet clients, customers, or vendors, you&rsquo;ll have to consider their safety as well as your own.
Keeping a clean and uncluttered space is priority number one. If you find yourself too busy to keep things as neat and tidy as your clients expect, invest in a cleaning service. It&rsquo;s not a luxury, it&rsquo;s a legitimate business expense as much as your internet service is. To add another layer to that, keeping your environment free from the spread of Covid is something a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.servpro.com/resources/specialty-cleaning/coronavirus" target="_blank" rel="noopener">professional service&nbsp;</a>is better equipped to handle than you. In between those cleaning services, you&rsquo;ll be responsible for ensuring the areas your clients will use are sanitized after each visit. Wipe down things like doorknobs, stair handrails, and chairs with disinfectant wipes. If your client used the restroom while visiting, wipe down all the surfaces they may have come in contact with. Keeping windows open, having masks available, and installing UV filters for the HVAC are important measures to take to prevent the spread of viruses.
Use natural lighting as much as possible by having drapes open to allow sunlight in and give the space a more open feel. That isn&rsquo;t only for your office area, but for any part of your home that your guests will access. Proper lighting also helps to prevent accidents by giving everyone a full view of their surroundings.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rugknots.com/blogs/professional-cleaners/best-ways-secure-oriental-rugs-hardwood-floors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tacking down rugs</a>&nbsp;to avoid having them be tripping obstacles, as well as cords and wires being kept out of the way, are critical safety points that cannot be overlooked.
Your space should be as aesthetically pleasing as any office in a high-rise building, and in fact, it&rsquo;s easier to make it even more so when your office is in your home. You can add some comfort touches to make your client feel more at ease as long as you don&rsquo;t go overboard, after all, it is a business and not a coffee klatch. Having a<a href="https://thelittlebotanical.com/guide-to-the-best-office-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;plant</a>&nbsp;or two is restful and can add an elegant look. Just be sure there are no brown or drooping stems and leaves since that gives the impression of neglect. For that same reason, the furnishings themselves should be free of stains or tears.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.officedepot.com/a/browse/reception-seating/N=5+593139/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seating</a>&nbsp;should be comfortable but easy to clean and maintain. Having interesting pieces of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lumas.com/home-office/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">artwork on the wall</a>&nbsp;that reflect your personality and your passion can be both a conversation starter and tell your clients a little more about you. Adding some interesting and clever pieces that define your business is smart, too. This is especially true if your meetings are virtual. Having a well-designed image of your company situated behind you during a call is a great marketing tool and a top-of-mind reminder of you and your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2016/10/31/why-brand-image-matters-more-than-you-think/?sh=5195d29c10b8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">company brand</a>&nbsp;to all the other participants.
When possible, however, try to do as much offsite as possible. It isn&rsquo;t necessary to bring your vendors in to see you when you can take care of a lot of those needs with online resources. You can easily&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adobe.com/express/create/label" target="_blank" rel="noopener">design your own product labels</a>&nbsp;with free tools that allow you to customize to your heart&rsquo;s content. Take advantage of invoicing and payment software that reduces your need to have in-person contact. Yes, it does take away a bit of the personal touch, but what it lacks in that area, it more than makes up for in safety and productivity.
Having your own business can be a dream come true and running that business from your home can be equal parts ideal and challenging. Following common-sense practices in addition to workplace safety guidelines can help you navigate the sometimes smooth and often choppy seas of being the captain of your own ship.
<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/turned-on-black-flat-screen-monitor-on-white-wooden-table-and-chairs-3316924/">Image by Pexels</a>
&nbsp;
</div>

Information for starting your own home based business. 

Greetings From the Home-Based Office

Going through a breakup, starting a new relationship, or moving to a different city? Take advantage of a major life transition to get rid of some of your bad habits. Here are five things you should stop doing when you get a fresh start in life:
Stop Stressing Out About Your Job
If your boss is making you miserable or if you&rsquo;re just bored with your current career, stop complaining about it and dragging down everyone around you. Instead, think about launching your own business. Sure, you&rsquo;ll have to get into the habit of getting yourself motivated to work hard every day, but online formation services are here to help you get your business set up and file the proper paperwork with your state. Think about structuring your business as an <a href="https://www.zenbusiness.com/texas-llc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LLC in Texas</a> to get the best tax benefits and protect your personal assets in case of litigation.
Stop Talking to Toxic People
Sometimes, you&rsquo;re so used to hanging out with the same people that you don&rsquo;t realize how toxic they are. Instead of helping you be your best self, they drag you down for fear you might outgrow them, sabotaging your efforts at being a better person. They spread gossip and negativity around, and spending time with them tends to fill you with anxiety. If you feel that some of your relationships may be toxic, start <a href="https://www.artofmanliness.com/people/relationships/how-to-cut-toxic-people-out-of-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">distancing yourself</a> both physically and emotionally, and seek positive people to surround yourself with, people who will lift you up instead of dragging you down.
Stop Scrolling Through Social Media
Besides being a huge drain on your time, scrolling through other people&rsquo;s online posts can actually make you feel anxious and depressed. Even though you consciously know that those posts are &ldquo;highlight reels&rdquo; and do not really reflect the day-to-day reality of those people&rsquo;s lives, you unconsciously start <a href="https://mantracare.org/therapy/issues/feelings-of-inadequacy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">comparing your life</a> to what you see on their social media feeds, which leads to feelings of inadequacy and jealousy. So <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/prescriptions-life/201207/too-much-time-online-makes-you-moodier-lonelier-and-obsessed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">put your phone or tablet down</a> and find more productive ways to spend your time: crossword puzzles and adult coloring books will help you feel more relaxed than watching the latest viral video.
Stop Overspending
A little <a href="https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/therapy/what-is-retail-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retail therapy</a> now and then may be an enjoyable way to lift your spirit, but spending too much money on items you don't need just for the sake of shopping is definitely a habit you should lose. Avoid temptations by limiting the time you spend online, where we&rsquo;re constantly bombarded with affiliate links and shiny ads, and don&rsquo;t follow influencers whose job is to make you buy stuff. When you go shopping, get into the habit of <a href="https://joyfullythriving.com/simple-savings-shop-with-a-list/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">writing a list</a> down before you leave the house and stick to it so you don&rsquo;t spend money on superfluous things you don&rsquo;t need.
Stop Eating Unhealthy Snacks
Maybe, like many, you picked up this unhealthy habit once you started working from home full time. But eating <a href="https://reset.me/story/how-processed-food-hijacks-your-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">salty or sugary snacks</a> and other highly processed, high-calorie foods all day, while you&rsquo;re trying to stay motivated without a boss or colleagues around, can lead to weight gain, and such items haven&rsquo;t shown to provide enough sustained energy to make them worth their calories. If you want to stave off <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/snacking-good-or-bad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hunger between meals</a>, get into the habit of preparing healthy snacks for yourself and portion them out in advance so you don&rsquo;t overindulge. Opt for foods that have high fiber content, and include a protein like yogurt or string cheese to tide you over until your next meal.
We all have bad habits that can be a drain on our time, our energy, and our wallets. Meeting new people, moving to a new place, or starting a new career offers great opportunities to break up with those bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.
Find your perfect home with <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jeremiahnewman.com</a>, and learn all about the best places to live in San Antonio, TX.
Image via <a href="https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2014/08/26/13/52/light-427961__340.jpg">Pixabay</a>

The Bad Habits You Need to Change to Better Your Life

Are you looking for a fun retirement project that can also be quite lucrative? It can often be difficult for seniors to find work in retirement, but there are many different options <a href="https://www.medicare.org/articles/great-part-time-jobs-for-retired-seniors/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">they can explore</a>. Although it can be a bit more complicated than starting a dog-walking business or working in customer service, house flipping can be a great investment for seniors! In the greater Utica-Rome area, home prices have been steadily <a href="https://www.rate.com/research/utica-ny">increasing</a>, indicating that there is more interest than ever. Seniors who are interested in house flipping can begin purchasing fixer-uppers and working with a professional like <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman of Brown Realty</a> after renovations. Here are a few tips to help aspiring senior house flippers get started.
Exercise Appropriate Caution
Remember, while house flipping can be a profitable and sustainable income stream with the right approach, it can also turn into a costly mistake if you make hasty decisions. As a retiree, you don&rsquo;t want to hurt your portfolio with poor investments.
Yes, buying a fixer-upper is cheap, and it&rsquo;s much more affordable than buying a home that is practically move-in ready, but this also means that you need to be ready to invest in repairs and renovations. And if you don&rsquo;t have the capital to cover these costs, your finances will be adversely affected. Therefore, when you&rsquo;re figuring out your overall budget, don&rsquo;t forget to tack on an extra 20 percent for electrical work, HVAC system upgrades, issues with the foundation, and eliminating mold or asbestos.
So, what should you look for in a fixer-upper to ensure that it&rsquo;s a smart purchase? Ideally, you&rsquo;ll want to look for a home in an up-and-coming neighborhood that primarily requires minor repairs. LendingOne <a href="https://lendingone.com/how-to-spot-an-up-and-coming-neighborhood-for-real-estate-investing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">states</a> that you can spot neighborhoods that will be smart investment choices by checking out factors like crime reports and the number of new businesses and housing developments in the area. You can also assess whether home prices have been increasing.
Financing Your Purchase
You&rsquo;ve found a property that you would love to buy, flip, and sell - but now, you&rsquo;re wondering how to cover the upfront costs. You&rsquo;ve probably purchased a home before, but buying an investment property of any kind differs from buying a primary residence. In order to finance your new property, FinanceBuzz <a href="https://financebuzz.com/how-to-finance-a-fixer-upper" target="_blank" rel="noopener">states</a> that you could consider applying for an FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation loan, using a credit card with a 0% interest rate, or simply taking out a personal loan.
Register Your Business
Before officially getting into the house-flipping business, you&rsquo;ll need to register your new business with the state. This involves learning about the different business structures available to you. Many business owners register as an LLC, due in part to the tax-related advantages it provides. If you decide to register as an LLC, learn about the guidelines set forth by the state of Arkansas. Working with a formation service can help ensure that all the necessary documentation is filed according to regulations.
Planning for Repairs
Which repairs should you prioritize? Naturally, if there are any serious structural issues to address, like fixing the foundation or replacing the roof, you&rsquo;ll want to take care of it as soon as possible. In addition, you should aim to invest in features that will boost the value of your home. This could <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/loans/home-improvement/cheap-fixes-to-boost-the-value-of-your-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">include</a> updating the kitchen appliances, installing a new front door, giving your home a fresh coat of paint, and improving your home&rsquo;s energy efficiency.
Choosing (And Paying) Contractors
You might be able to take on certain renovation projects by yourself, but chances are, you&rsquo;ll need to <a href="https://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/how-to-find-home-remodeling-contractor.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hire</a> a few contractors, too. Ask your loved ones for referrals and check out the contractors&rsquo; portfolios before bringing anyone on board. It's always a good idea to check the Better Business Bureau for reputable contractors that warrant their work.
Make sure to decide on reasonable pay schedules with your contractors before the projects begin. If you plan to expand your house flipping project into a full rental business in the future, you will want to <a href="https://squareup.com/us/en/townsquare/how-to-do-payroll-yourself" target="_blank" rel="noopener">invest</a> in a payroll service for any contractors or employees you work with.
For lots of seniors, continuing to bring in income throughout retirement is the best way to feel truly financially secure. House flipping is one way to do that! By following these tips, seniors who are curious about house flipping will be able to get started with a strategy priming them for success.
If you&rsquo;re looking to buy or sell a house, let <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman of Brown Realty</a> help guide you through this process. You can get in touch by calling (210) 789-4216.
Photo via <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/faceless-house-painter-undercoating-wall-in-bright-room-5691471/">Pexels</a>

house flipping, tips for seniors, fixer uppers, foreclosed properties, rehab loans

4 Steps Seniors Can Take to Successful House Flipping

This article offers insight on a few things you should keep in mind before you move to a larger city to pursue a new position. 
Are you thinking about leaving life in the country behind to follow a job into the &ldquo;big city?&rdquo; Great. There are many reasons to head to San Antonio, Seattle, Denver, NYC, or any other metropolitan hub. But, before you go, take a minute to pause and decide if you&rsquo;re really ready to uproot your family. Here are some tips.
Find the right real estate partner.
Arguably, the most important step you can take before any move is to find the right real estate agent to represent your best interests. If you&rsquo;re moving to San Antonio, <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman</a> is a smart choice as this real estate professional diligently keeps up with trends and has inside information on San Antonio and the surrounding suburbs. Having the right person in your corner means that you can ask questions and get honest answers about the city, which is especially important if you&rsquo;ve never been there before.
Decide if renting is a better temporary option.
For most of us, the goal when moving is to buy a new home that we can settle into as soon as we arrive. But, this isn&rsquo;t always the best option. If you&rsquo;re leaving the San Antonio area and moving to Denver, for example, you might want to rent temporarily until you get a better feel for the Mile-High City, which is vastly different from living in the Southwest. Listings for <a href="https://www.apartmentlist.com/co/denver" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Denver apartment rentals</a> are easily found online, and you can even take advantage of technology (including 3D tours and virtual walk-throughs) to help you in your search. Even if you&rsquo;re not buying, make sure to move into an area close to entertainment, activities, and other amenities that are important to your family. Most importantly, rent something with enough room for your entire family so that you are not overwhelmed by <a href="https://www.insider.com/tiny-small-apartment-creates-stress-how-to-fix-it-therapists-2021-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">not having enough space</a> as you also navigate the stress of starting a new job.
Examine your current and expected cost of living.
Cost-of-living is a major factor that contributes to or takes away from our overall quality of life. Before you make a move to any new city, you should examine how much you need to make sure that you can maintain your family&rsquo;s current way of living.&nbsp; If you&rsquo;re moving to <a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/cost-of-living-index-by-state" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mississippi, Oklahoma, or Arkansas</a>, you&rsquo;ll likely be able to afford a better home in the city than you would be if you moved to New York, New Jersey, or California. <a href="https://www.mybanktracker.com/blog/find-my-answers/raise-new-job-worth-relocation-295248" target="_blank" rel="noopener">My Bank Tracker also suggests</a> factoring in your new environment, growth potential, and changes in other expenses, such as if you will need to buy a vehicle or will have a longer commute.
Weigh the pros of suburbia against the perks of city life.
There are many benefits to living in a larger city. You likely have access to public transportation, and you almost certainly have more choices when it comes to dining out and grocery shopping. Further, bigger cities have more people and often have much more to do. Seattle, for example, has lots of green spaces and is considered <a href="https://onthegomoving.com/moving-to-seattle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a progressive city</a> where health comes first. However, if you are used to rural or suburban life, your family may have trouble adjusting to the fast-paced ways of the city. Something else to think about: people are typically not as outgoing in the city, meaning you may miss out on small talk.
&nbsp;Save money throughout the process.
There&rsquo;s no way to get around the expenses of moving &ndash; your company should provide a relocation package, but it won&rsquo;t cover everything &ndash; so now&rsquo;s a great time to purge belongings you don&rsquo;t need and start packing stuff that you do. Save money throughout the process by planning your move <a href="https://moversville.com/blog/save-money-on-moving" target="_blank" rel="noopener">during the week</a>, comparing costs between several companies, and having a garage sale to raise funds to go toward furniture and other necessities for your new home.
Congratulations on your new job. This might be the first step toward the biggest decision you&rsquo;ll ever make. But, before you say yes to a new salary in the city, weigh the pros and cons, and <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/contact-form/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">call your REALTOR</a>&nbsp;for further guidance.
&nbsp;

Helpful tips for moving to a "Big City" for that New Job

Tips for Relocating to a 'Big City' for that New Job

Buying a new home should be an exciting process, but the current pandemic has made it a bit more stressful than usual. Although things have opened back up, you might still be wondering how you can buy a home during the pandemic and stay safe.
Luckily, there are many online tools that can give you a sense of a home before buying it. In fact, some virtual tools are so helpful that you can close on a house without ever setting foot inside. Below, learn how to rely on real estate listings and discover what tools may be at your disposal.
<h2>Navigating Online Listings</h2>
Learn how to peruse online listings, things to be aware of, and how to find a home that meets your needs.
The Best and Worst Places to <a href="https://www.thebalance.com/best-place-to-find-homes-for-sale-1798280" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Find Homes</a> for Sale Online
Reading Between the Lines: What Real Estate Listings <a href="https://realtydigitalmarketing.com/real-estate-listings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Really Mean</a>
10 <a href="https://www.moving.com/tips/10-real-estate-red-flags-to-look-for-when-house-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Real Estate Red Flags</a> to Look for When House Hunting
Work with Skilled San Antonio Realtor <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman</a>
<h2>Virtual Tours, Closing, and Moving</h2>
Technology has made it easier than ever to purchase a home.
Homebuying Through <a href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/homebuying-virtual-tours-36747780" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Virtual Tours</a> During Coronavirus
7 Reasons You Don't Need to See a House <a href="https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/buy-houses-sight-unseen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Before You Buy It</a>
<a href="https://www.livabl.com/2020/04/home-closing-adapts-covid-19-help-tech.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Home Closing Process</a> Adapts to COVID-19 With Help From New Tech
Be Aware of <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/buyer-common-repairs-needed-after-home-inspection/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Common Repairs</a> You May Need to Make Before Moving in
Ensure All Your Records Are in One Place with a <a href="https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/online/merge-pdf.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PDF File Merger</a> Tool
It&rsquo;s tough being a buyer when you&rsquo;re concerned about touring homes, but there&rsquo;s still hope. By learning how to use and interpret real estate listings, you quickly move past the homes that aren&rsquo;t worth your time. And by working with an agent who offers virtual tours, you can get a good sense of a home and its neighborhood without actually visiting it.
Image via Pexels
&nbsp;

Tips and Resources for Buying property during the pandemic

Resources for Home Buying During the Pandemic

It was <a href="https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/jane_austen_163803" target="_blank" rel="noopener">British author</a> Jane Austen who opined, &ldquo;there is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.&rdquo; You may not be as much of a &ldquo;homebody&rdquo; as this quote implies, but the important message is one of being comfortable in your living environment, being in a home that &ldquo;fits&rdquo; you. Searching for the ideal home is not unlike exploring relationships. Whether you&rsquo;re in the <a href="https://www.howtogeek.com/702931/what-do-swipe-left-and-swipe-right-mean/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">searching process</a> and &ldquo;swiping left,&rdquo; in the renting (dating) stage, or making that commitment to buying, you are assessing each option for suitability to your lifestyle. And if you&rsquo;re working with a real estate agent, it&rsquo;s important you work with one who gets the importance of the perfect fit, like <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty &amp; Property Management</a>.
Non-negotiable needs
You&rsquo;ve heard the saying, &ldquo;location is everything,&rdquo; or, &ldquo;location, location, location.&rdquo; It&rsquo;s true that for some people, location is equally as important, or in some cases more important, than the actual home or apartment. Obviously, some neighborhoods are more affordable than others, which you may need to consider, but other variables factor into the importance of location.
If you don&rsquo;t have reliable transportation, you will prioritize a location that is either close to the things you need to do, like work or has easy access to reliable public or other transportation options. If you have children, you may need to be close enough to <a href="https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/where-should-i-live" target="_blank" rel="noopener">their schools</a> so they can walk or take a bus home or to after-school care when you&rsquo;re not home, or you&rsquo;ll want to live along a route where you can easily transport them on your way to and from work. Family health conditions might place living close to medical facilities in this category, as well.
If you work from home, high-speed internet service may be on your &ldquo;needs&rdquo; list. In fact, if your living scenario finds you inside your home more than outside, the interior of your home may be more important to you than what is going on outside its walls. If you have a family, you&rsquo;ll obviously need more space than a single person, with options that can offer privacy as needed, especially for those who work or study at home.
Wanting it all
Your &ldquo;wants category,&rdquo; on the other hand, is filled with things that make your life fulfilling but that are <a href="https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">higher up</a> on a hierarchy of needs. If you spend most of your time outdoors or have dogs, you may have easy access to trailheads or parks and plentiful green spaces high on your list. Exercise hounds may want lots of bike and running paths, while others want plentiful options for fine dining, designer coffee shops, or proximity to friends. Some people crave a downtown vibe, while others yearn for a more peaceful suburban or rural ambiance.
The &ldquo;wants&rdquo; category can be tricky because while you may not be able to win an internal argument with yourself that these items are necessary, they can add significantly to your quality of life and keep you <a href="https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/health-related-quality-of-life-well-being" target="_blank" rel="noopener">engaged in your life</a>, which is an important factor in our mental health. One way to tackle it is to write down all of your &ldquo;wants&rdquo; and then <a href="https://www.moneyunder30.com/home-buying-checklist-wants-vs-needs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">prioritize them</a>. You may not be able to get them all alongside your &ldquo;needs,&rdquo; but successfully obtaining the most desirable ones can be important to your overall well-being.
As in relationships, it may be that you don&rsquo;t realize how important something is to you until you&rsquo;ve lived without it &ndash; or with it &ndash; for a while. This is what makes &ldquo;dating a home,&rdquo; or renting, such a valuable option before jumping into homebuying. You can get a clearer picture of what amenities really add value to your life, or whether a location &ldquo;feels like home&rdquo; before buying a home there. You can choose from some varied rental options in <a href="https://www.rent.com/texas/san-antonio-apartments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">San Antonio</a> and with a cost of living lower than other cities around the country, you&rsquo;ll still find plenty of amenities &ndash; from pet-friendly apartments to convenient access to reputable medical facilities &ndash; to suit most lifestyles and family configurations.
You&rsquo;ll find the one!
Finding that right home match may be a process, but when you find The One, you&rsquo;ll realize that it was worth the effort and maybe even a few trials and errors. <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty &amp; Property Management</a> can help remove some of the legwork for you, but when it comes to understanding whether any home or apartment is really &ldquo;where your heart is,&rdquo; you&rsquo;ll have to rely on your own experiences, feelings, and intuition! Call (210) 789-4216 today!
Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@oakvillenews?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oakville News</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/iPV9pQQrUDY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Unsplash</a>

Making the right choices for finding your own Dream Home. Set up some priorities and began your home search.

Be Your Own Matchmaker With Your Next Home

The way you prepare your home for an open house can make the difference between a quick sale and having the property sit on the market. Courtesy of Jerry Newman of&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a>, here are some time-efficient and budget-friendly tips for getting a house ready for sale.
Your Clutter Has to Go
First, you&rsquo;ll need to get rid of your clutter, and you&rsquo;ll need a clear plan. You&rsquo;ll need bins or bags that have been tagged with labels such as &ldquo;Toss,&rdquo; &ldquo;Donate,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Keep&rdquo; so you can categorize as you go along. Once you have your containers, go through each room and clear out the clutter.
This article from The Spruce can help you identify the items you can add to your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thespruce.com/items-you-can-immediately-throw-away-2647975" target="_blank" rel="noopener">toss pile</a>&nbsp;immediately. This includes plastic cutlery and condiment packets from your kitchen as well as takeout menus and old equipment manuals. Clothing, shoes, and accessories that are in good condition that you no longer wear can be donated to a charity or shelter. If the toss pile is more than your regular garbage collector can handle, you&rsquo;ll need to research the cost of renting a dumpster so you can factor it into your budget.
Buyers Like a Blank Canvas
Real estate agents advise that depersonalizing your home has a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hvmag.com/Blogs/Home-Property-Blog/August-2018/Depersonalize-Sell-Your-Home-Faster/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">positive impact</a>&nbsp;on getting your house sold. When you remove some of your personal items, buyers get the opportunity to see themselves living in the home. There&rsquo;s a delicate balance between making the home feel cozy and it being overly personal, though. You can keep a couple of family photos and one or two refrigerator magnets. If your home has wallpaper or bright paint colors that wouldn&rsquo;t appeal to the average buyer, these will need to go.
According to USA Today, a fresh coat of paint can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/07/09/homes-sale-popular-paint-colors-help-you-sell-house/1649250001/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">increase</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;your home&rsquo;s value by as much as three percent. If you&rsquo;re on a budget, it pays to prioritize the rooms you&rsquo;d like to paint, so focus on the kitchen, living room, bathrooms, and foyer if needed. While white is still a popular neutral color, beige and light grays are also good. Make your front door pop by painting it navy blue.
Show Your Home&rsquo;s Best Features
Depending on your budget, you may be able to hire professional stagers. If that&rsquo;s too expensive, then these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/home-staging-tips" target="_blank" rel="noopener">home staging tips</a>&nbsp;from Real Simple could be just what you&rsquo;re looking for. Alternatively, spend a little time researching real estate websites to get an idea of how other homeowners are staging their houses for the market.
Before staging, make sure the house is thoroughly cleaned including rugs and carpets. You should replace old drapes with window treatments that will brighten the home. Adding mirrors to a room can be a nice touch that makes it feel lighter and bigger than it actually is. The furniture should be arranged to show a clear flow and shouldn&rsquo;t overpower the space. If you have a lot of furniture that can&rsquo;t be used during staging, use a self-storage unit to keep your personal items secure while you wait for the house to be sold.
And don&rsquo;t forget your home&rsquo;s exterior. Clean up your yard as much as possible by removing debris and leaves and freshening up flowers. To really boost your curb appeal, you may want to invest in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upwork.com/services/landscape-design" target="_blank" rel="noopener">landscape design services</a>&nbsp;to help you create a beautiful plan for your yard. You can then either implement the design on your own or hire professional landscapers. Either way, the improved curb appeal will improve your chances with buyers.
Know What to Expect
With more buyers using online realtor websites, you&rsquo;ll need to have photos of your home available. If you have experience with taking real estate photos, then you can handle it. If not, you&rsquo;re best off hiring a real estate photographer with a strong portfolio of work and the right equipment. To get the most impact, make sure the home is clean and properly staged. It&rsquo;s best if rooms are photographed when they&rsquo;re well-lit by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.slrlounge.com/10-real-estate-photography-mistakes-avoid/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">natural lighting</a>, and make sure to highlight must-see features of your home like solar panels, steam showers, or views of the water.
While a realtor can handle your open house, it&rsquo;s your job to keep the house in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thebalance.com/preparing-for-open-houses-1799037" target="_blank" rel="noopener">show-ready condition</a>. You should keep the house clean and make arrangements for the house to be unoccupied at the time of the open house.
Before putting your home up for sale, be sure to declutter, depersonalize, and accentuate your home&rsquo;s features. All the steps involved in selling a house can seem overwhelming at first, but they will be worth it once you sell your home.
When you&rsquo;re ready to sell your San Antonio home, make sure to connect with&nbsp;<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Newman</a>! Call (210) 789-4216 for your consultation!
&nbsp;Photo courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/sale-sold-hand-signature-house-3701777/">Pixabay</a>

Tips for preparing your home to sell for top dollar. Things that can make a difference in a quick sale or letting your home sit on the market awhile. 

Top Things That Can Get Your House Sold in No Time

When it comes to home improvement projects that can add tons of value, fence and deck projects are some of the best. A deck that functions as an outdoor living area or an eye-catching and unique fence really contribute to a home&rsquo;s curb appeal. Depending on the type of fencing, your project can recoup at least <a href="https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/34773-20150506-fencing-can-add-value-to-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">50 percent</a> of the material and installation costs on resale. Meanwhile, a 16-by-20-foot pressure-treated wooden deck can net a profit of an average of <a href="https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/repair/increase-home-value.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">85.4 percent</a> of the project cost.
Of course, there aren&rsquo;t hard-and-fast numbers. What&rsquo;s really important is picking a project that you like. The following projects combine eye-catching appeal with affordability. When looking for deals on DIY materials, you&rsquo;ll find several ways to save at big-box retailers, including in-store offers and sales, online coupons, and cashback offers. Taking a few minutes to see what offers are available can save you a bundle.
The Classic White Picket Fence
There are some things that never go out of style -- the white picket fence is one of those things. This is the perfect option if you want to add a bit of privacy to a front yard without blocking the view of your lawn and garden. White picket fences are also one of the easiest types of fences to do yourself. Of course, that also means that it will be one of the most affordable if you have one professionally installed. Best of all, when made with <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Lumber-Composites-Fencing/N-5yc1vZbrk7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">quality materials</a> your white picket fence can last for years. Check out <a href="https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-diy-a-white-picket-fence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this tutorial</a> on how to build this classic household fence.
A Customizable Deck
Building a deck is like adding another room to your house as far as value is concerned. Your new outdoor living space doesn&rsquo;t even have to be complex to be appealing. However, the more <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/decks/diy-deck-add-ons-that-are-seriously-cool/view-all/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">extra features</a> you add, the more use you can get out of your new deck. The best way to start is by having a professionally built base that you can customize DIY-style. From deck rail planters to shade shelter, you can add on new aspects as time goes on to personalize and optimize your deck.
The Wabi-Sabi Privacy Fence
A <a href="https://www.diypete.com/how-to-build-a-6-foot-privacy-fence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">privacy fence</a> is one of the best ways to secure your yard. It is perfect for keeping pets on your property, hiding unsightly electrical features, and establishing privacy between your home and prying neighbors. As far as fencing projects go, privacy fences are among the most popular for homeowners today.
You don&rsquo;t have to spend a fortune to build a gorgeous privacy fence. When picking out materials, look for select and <a href="https://homeguides.sfgate.com/construction-grade-lumber-vs-cabinet-grade-lumber-90600.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">construction-grade woods</a> as a way to save money while investing in both quality and beauty. Select and construction-grade woods may have some imperfections, but just embrace these little details in the spirit of the Japanese <a href="https://www.utne.com/mind-and-body/wabi-sabi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wabi-sabi</a> philosophy-- that is, the art of finding beauty in imperfection and revering authenticity above all else.
Unlike constructing a white picket fence, installing a privacy fence isn&rsquo;t a job you should DIY. A professional fence installer will be licensed and insured and be aware of underground utility lines. Finding reputable installers is easy when you search &ldquo;<a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/fence-companies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best fence company near me</a>&rdquo; or visit a site like Angi that offers endorsements and reviews from previous customers.
If you want to add value to your home, a great place to start is its curb appeal. A classic white picket fence looks great and doesn&rsquo;t conceal the yard you worked so hard on. Adding functionality is also a great way to boost your home&rsquo;s value. Start with a basic deck then add DIY features to make your outdoor living space truly unique. Finally, a privacy fence is a surefire way to add to your home&rsquo;s asking price. Save money when you buy select or construction grade wood and simply embrace its imperfections as part of its beauty.
When you&rsquo;re ready to find the perfect San Antonio-area home, connect with trusted and experienced <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">REALTOR, Jerry Newman</a>. Call (210) 789-4216 to schedule an appointment!
Photo via Pexels

Affordable home improvement projects that can add value to your home. 

Affordable Fence and Deck Projects That Add to Your Home's Value

Your future real estate transaction, whether it involves buying a new one, selling your current one or both is an exciting process. There may be a few nerves and butterflies, but overall it&rsquo;s a happy journey in which you are moving forward. In order to continue moving forward, you&rsquo;ll need the help of a realtor, and <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a> offers a few tips on what you&rsquo;ll need to do first.
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1000707" src="https://d2ywo5dctk15m4.cloudfront.net/sites/632/jerry-newman-san-antonio-tx-real-estate-Buying-or-Selling-450x300.jpg" border="0" alt="Jerry Newman San Antonio Tx Real Estate Buying Or Selling" width="450" height="300" />
<h2>Buyer&rsquo;s Corner:</h2>
Sort Out the Details
Looking at houses is fun, and perhaps you&rsquo;ve even attended an open house just because you&rsquo;ve always wondered what it looked like inside, but it is important to nail down some details before you and your real estate agent start looking. Buyers should get financing in order and figure out which area/s they want to live in before hiring a real estate agent.
First off, you need to get your finances sorted out so that you can pinpoint a realistic price range. Meet and settle on a lender so that you can gather all the information to get pre-approved for a mortgage. You may find that you need to pay down some of your debt or work on raising your credit score before you qualify. Once you&rsquo;ve got a budget pinned down that also accounts for future expenses such as utilities or maintenance, decide what areas you want to look at and determine what you <a href="https://www.canstar.com.au/home-loans/checklist-buying-a-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">want and need</a>. For example, is the area pet-friendly to accommodate your pooch? Does the home have enough bedrooms to support a growing family? Make a checklist to take with you to each home, but don&rsquo;t count out a house if it can be changed to meet your needs. There are some home renovation funds available with certain lenders if you want to replace carpet, or update an existing kitchen or bathroom. Your agent will be helpful in connecting you with those lenders, who do home renovation loans.
Connect with an Agent
You need to do your homework before you hire an agent. There are more than enough realtors to go around, and their signs are everywhere, so ask for recommendations from family members and friends. Set up an interview with at least three potential agents so you can ask them the <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/questions-to-ask-a-real-estate-agent/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">important questions</a> about their experience/credentials, average number of clients, and the contact information for at least three references. Look for someone who has at least five years of experience and works full-time so that you can ensure they are dedicated to the job and your happiness.
Keep your Business in Mind
If you run a home-based business and your move is an upsize to accommodate your business, remember to take a mindful approach when it comes to where you plan to buy. Zoning restrictions could be an issue depending on your business. You&rsquo;ll also need the requisite business licenses, and a decision on your <a href="https://www.allenfairviewchamber.com/blog/the-complete-business-owners-guide-to-forming-an-llc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">business structure</a> if you&rsquo;re first starting out. Many business owners opt for sole proprietorships, but if your business will be based out of your home, an LLC&rsquo;s limited liability protection will ensure your home isn&rsquo;t at risk in the event of a business dispute. You can easily <a href="https://www.zenbusiness.com/texas-llc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">register LLC in Texas</a> online to conveniently formalize your business.
<h2>Seller&rsquo;s Corner:</h2>
Put in the Work
This might sound like a no-brainer, but one of the biggest things a seller can do is put the work in to get the house show-ready. Sellers should be committed to selling by cleaning thoroughly and by packing non-essentials. For example, if their home is going on the market in the summer they should go ahead and pack up winter clothes.
In other words, getting your home ready to sell requires a lot of work on your end, including major <a href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/34-important-things-to-do-when-planning-to-sell-your-home/view-all/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cleaning and decluttering</a>. Clean anything and everything, including those steps you tend to skip in your regular cleaning routine. Remove items from all surfaces, as well as personal items so that buyers can picture their life in your home.
Fix It Up
Homes in San Antonio, Texas, are typically on the market for about <a href="https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/San-Antonio_TX/overview" target="_blank" rel="noopener">35 days</a>, and it could take a lot longer if you wait to make repairs and updates. Take into consideration that if your home needs a new roof or AC unit to sell, those types of tasks should be done first. However, smaller jobs like painting, floor coverings, and the like should be done after you contact an agent. Either way, it's good to have an initial meeting to determine what fixes need to be addressed.
Your agent will be able to tell you what fixes are worth it and which ones are better left alone. Before you upgrade your cabinets or tear out a wall, make sure it is adding value.
No matter what side of the real estate transaction you are on, there is work to be done. Before you hire an agent, follow the suggestions above to streamline the process. Then, bring in a realtor and enjoy the ride.
If you&rsquo;re preparing to buy a new home, connect with the great real estate advisors at <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a>. Reach out today at 210-789-4216.
&nbsp;

Buying or Selling a Home? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you&rsquo;ve raised your children in your current home and like where you live, you may find it hard to leave it in favor of a smaller place even after the kids have moved out. The truth is that downsizing has many benefits, but you need to make smart decisions throughout the process in order to have a smooth and successful transition. Here are some important details to know about downsizing.
&nbsp;Looking for the perfect San Antonia-area home to downsize into? Connect with dedicated realtor<a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Jerry Newman</a> today! (210) 789-4216
&nbsp;Benefits of paring down
There are lots of reasons to cut down on square footage. Having less house to heat and cool is one, and a smaller roof to repair or replace is another. A smaller yard is often part of the package, and just having less floor to vacuum can be a boon. Among the biggest reasons people choose to downsize is because it has so many financial advantages. Here are some of the benefits of living a more simplified life.
How downsizing<a href="https://www.americanfinancing.net/saving-money/home-downsizing-tips" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> saves you money</a>
How to downsize your<a href="https://www.payoff.com/life/money/10-painless-ways-to-cut-your-expenses/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> daily expenses</a>
<a href="https://educatorfi.com/benefits-of-downsizing-your-home-to-save-money/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Surprising</a> financial benefits of downsizing your home
Finding a new place to live
Choosing a new home is rarely a simple process, and it should always begin with your personal situation. Take time to evaluate your priorities. What do you want out of your next location? Will it put you closer to friends and family, or perhaps you&rsquo;re looking to get away from the daily rigamarole? Additionally, there are special considerations you should make when you&rsquo;re looking for a downsized dwelling. These insightful articles will help you narrow down your prospects.
How can a real estate agent<a href="https://caretomove.com.au/downsizing-can-real-estate-agent-help/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> help me</a> with my downsize?
Is now the<a href="https://www.rocklandtrust.com/learning-center/personal-resources/is-now-the-time-to-downsize-" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> right time</a> for me to downsize?
<a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/how-much-house-can-i-afford" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How much house</a> can I afford?
How much will I pay in<a href="https://www.movebuddha.com/moving-cost-calculator/"> moving expenses</a>?
Getting your current home ready to sell
If downsizing sounds attractive to you, then you&rsquo;ll want to increase the resale value of your home before taking the plunge. One of the best ways to do so is to make home improvements. Major home modifications will require a professional&rsquo;s expertise, but there are many DIY projects that can make your home stand out among a sea of others in your local market. And happily, there are plenty you can do with just a small investment of time, money and energy. Evaluate your home for areas of improvement, then consider the following:
How much should you<a href="https://homeguides.sfgate.com/much-money-should-put-house-before-sell-it-58503.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> budget</a> for home repairs for the home you&rsquo;re selling?
Does your home&rsquo;s exterior need help? Explore DIY<a href="https://listotic.com/17-easy-and-cheap-curb-appeal-ideas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> curb appeal ideas</a> that anyone can do
Give your walls a lift with artist-created<a href="https://www.spoonflower.com/en/wallpaper" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> temporary wallpaper</a> that goes on and comes off easily, or freshly repaint all your walls with a very neutral color.&nbsp;
How to deep clean your carpets so they<a href="https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/a36051771/carpet-cleaning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> look like new</a> when it&rsquo;s time for a house showing
Downsizing has both financial and emotional benefits, since fewer responsibilities around the house can add up to more leisure time and less stress. When it&rsquo;s time to downsize, make sure to complete needed repairs on your current home to get the most resale value out of your home. You can take that profit and put it toward your downsized future!&nbsp;

Knowing and understanding the benefits for downsizing may save you some money in the long run, and help to maintain a more simplified lifestyle.

Downsizing: The Benefits and How to Pull It Off 

Thinking of hitting the housing market? You might be concerned about shifts in the market due to the pandemic, but while selling these days involves some <a href="https://www.redfin.com/guides/selling-home-during-coronavirus" target="_blank" rel="noopener">forethought</a>, there are ways to give yourself an advantage. Case in point: highly sought-after features like smart home technology.
By adding smart home features to your property, you give your place an edge in a competitive market so you can <a href="https://lifehacker.com/how-smart-home-tech-can-help-you-sell-your-house-1826237725" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sell more quickly</a> with the possibility of making more on the sale. Smart home technology may sound fancy, but many of the best features people want are affordable and easy to install.
Smart Climate Control
Installing a <a href="https://www.techhive.com/article/3206565/thermostats/best-smart-thermostat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smart thermostat</a> is a great way to improve your home&rsquo;s heating and cooling efficiency. Smart climate control systems help homeowners save money on their power bills by automatically adjusting the temperature based on the family&rsquo;s needs and preferences. In fact, manufacturers <a href="https://www.techwalls.com/energy-can-smart-thermostat-save-home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">estimate</a> that smart thermostats can save a household 10 to 12 percent on heating and 15 percent on cooling, which totals around $131-$145 in savings a year. In addition to making heating and cooling more efficient, many models also feature remote access that allows homeowners to make corrections to the temperature when they are traveling or simply out of the house.
Smart Security System
Security systems are a huge draw for families looking to invest in a home. Among the benefits of investing in a <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2498510,00.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smart security system</a> is its proactive nature. While older security systems simply react to movement or intrusions after they&rsquo;ve already happened, a smart system provides real time updates with the help of an app you can check with your smartphone or tablet. They are also programmable to a family&rsquo;s needs. For instance, they can be programmed to send alerts to parents when kids get home late at night.
Smart Lighting
Most homeowners already know that switching to LED light bulbs saves energy while cutting down on waste due to their long lifespans, and as HowStuffWorks notes, you might even go <a href="https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-tech/sustainable/led-light-bulb2.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">20 years</a> without changing one.
But the benefits of the latest smart lighting systems go way beyond those desirable efficiencies. Smart lighting can be connected to your security system to go on and off as needed to make it appear as if there is activity in the home, which is great for deterring burglars. It also gives homeowners more choices when it comes to lighting. You&rsquo;re able to turn the lights down at night when you&rsquo;re wanting to relax, and up in the morning when you need to get going. These settings can even be programmed and timed so the light dims without command.
Finally, many <a href="https://www.gearbrain.com/best-home-smart-light-system-2563580425.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smart lighting systems</a> have the added benefit of color lights, which isn&rsquo;t so much necessary, but very fun and useful for creating atmosphere.
Smart Refrigerator
When we talk about energy conservation, the conversation generally revolves around reducing power bills by making electric and gas appliances more efficient. However, there is so much more we could be doing.
As FoodPrint points out, <a href="https://foodprint.org/issues/the-problem-of-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">food waste</a> in the United States is out of control. Forty percent of the food we buy is wasted every year, costing the average American household $2,200 annually. Every time we throw away food, it wastes a staggering amount of freshwater, land, and energy. Furthermore, all the food we fail to eat ends up in landfills, where the decomposition of organic matter accounts for 16 percent of the country&rsquo;s methane emissions. Finally, the amount of food we throw away could feed the <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2016/12/13/americas-dirty-little-secret-42-million-are-suffering-from-hunger.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one in seven Americans</a> who go to bed hungry each night.
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelkanellos/2016/01/13/hold-the-laughter-why-the-smart-fridge-is-a-great-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Smart refrigerators</a> help households reduce food waste. These high tech appliances keep an inventory of what food they contain, and send alerts to homeowners letting them know what they need and what they can do with the items on hand. Furthermore, smart refrigerators are <a href="https://www.consumerreports.org/energy-efficiency/why-new-major-appliances-use-less-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more energy efficient</a> than their older counterparts, saving the household energy and money.
From climate control to refrigerators, smart features all focus on reducing wasted electricity and the bills that come with it. However, the benefits go beyond that. Adding smart features to your home before putting it on the market can give your property the edge it needs to sell more quickly and for more money.
Whether you&rsquo;re selling or buying, connect with <a href="https://selling-sanantoniorealestate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brown Realty and Property Management</a> for a seamless and stress-free experience!
Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/2d4lAQAlbDA?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText" target="_blank" rel="noopener">iAlicante Mediterranean Homes</a> on Unsplash
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Adding Smart Features and Updates to sell your San Antonio, TX home.

Sell Your House with Smart Home Updates

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