Thursday 30 July 2020

Can you sell the house you live in when a dead relative owns it?

The death of a family member is always an emotionally trying experience. Unfortunately, it also comes with its lot of legal and financial woes. If you have been living in the house of a dead relative, you may be wondering if you are entitled to sell it. After all, you likely maintained the property as your own for some time. You may also have been paying the property tax bill, part of the mortgage if applicable, and so on.

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. Whether you can sell the house of your dead relative depends on many factors. For example, did the deceased left a will? Is the property going through probate? Being the occupant of the house – even if you have lived there for many years – does not give you the legal right to sell it.

This article will help you figure out if – and how – you can sell the house you live in if a dead relative owns it. As always, when it comes to legal transactions, please hire the services of an attorney to sort the particulars of your situation and the documentation you need in your state.

 

 

Scenario 1: The dead relative left the property to you in their will

 

If the deceased family member leaves a will clearly naming you as the property’s legal owner after their passing, it will make it easier for you to sell the house. However, it is only the first step.

The property – as part of the estate of the deceased – still need to go through probate. This legal process ensures that all the heirs and designated beneficiaries and potential creditors receive their share. If no one contests the will, you should receive the deed of the property according to your dead relative’s last wishes. You can then sell the house if you wish. However, beware that the probate process takes on average six to nine months from the moment the probate case is opened with the court.

 

 

Scenario 2: You are the beneficiary of the property held in a Trust

 

 

A Trust is a legal document that allows the Settlors to manage their assets after their death, including who the beneficiaries are. A Trust also allows to bypass the lengthy probate process.

It is managed by a Trustee. Their job is to distribute the Settlors’ assets according to their wishes. In most cases, the Settlor will have included a provision in the Trust authorizing the Trustee to sell the house.

If your dead relative listed you as the beneficiary of the house, you have two options to sell the house. The Trustee can conduct the sale of the property on your behalf, giving you the proceeds. He or she can also transfer the property title to your name so you can conduct the transaction yourself.

 

 

Scenario 3: Your dead relative did not leave a will or a trust

 

 

Unfortunately, the worst-case scenario is a common one: only 4 in 10 American adults have set up a will or a living trust. If the owner of the house you live in dies intestate, it will be a lot more complicated to sell it.

The rules of inheritance vary depending on the state. Generally, the the heirs, , including the surviving spouse of the deceased and any children, receive an equal share. You may be able to avoid probate if all the heirs of the dead sign the deed of the house over to you. At this point, you will be able to sell the property.

Otherwise, the estate of the dead family member will go through probate. Unless you are the sole heir, it is unlikely that you will be able to sell the house. In most cases, the administrator of the estate appointed by the probate court conducts the sale of the property. The proceeds will be used to pay any creditor, and the remainder will be divided among the heirs.

Selling a property through probate is often a lengthy, complicated and emotionally taxing business. Cash home buyers like National Cash Offer can help you streamline the process, making it as easy and quick as possible. If you are considering selling your inherited home, we may be able to help.

See how much your house may be worth today.

The post Can you sell the house you live in when a dead relative owns it? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/can-you-sell-the-house-you-live-in-when-a-dead-relative-owns-it/

Thursday 23 July 2020

What can you do when your house is in pre-foreclosure?

Are you having trouble paying your mortgage? You are far from being the only one. With unemployment at a record high, many people are faced with difficult decisions when comes the time to pay their bills. It is only a matter of time before they receive a notice of default and their lender starts the pre-foreclosure process. Typically, lenders will send a notice after three missed mortgage payments.

 

So, what can homeowners do when their property is at risk of being foreclosed? The good news is that all is not lost. The lender has not taken any legal action against you, and you can still reverse the process. The easiest way to avoid foreclosure is to pay off any missed payments, including interests. However, it isn’t always possible. Nevertheless, you can still walk out without any significant adverse effect on your credit. Sometimes you can even keep your house.

 

Here is what you can do when you receive a notice of default, and your home is in pre-foreclosure.

 

Request a loan modification

 

 

If you are struggling to make your monthly payments but want to keep your home, you may be able to work out with your lender to renegotiate your loan terms. Be proactive if you feel like you may not be able to pay your mortgage on time and in full, for example, if you get sick or get laid off. You do not need to wait to be late on your monthly payments to get in touch with your mortgage agent.

 

A loan modification allows you to change to your mortgage’s original terms to lower your monthly payments. There are several ways to modify your loan, depending on your financial situation and your lender’s offering.

 

Some common loan modifications include a lower interest rate or an extended-term. You can also request more predictable payments with a fixed-rate loan if your current mortgage has an adjustable rate. If you are going through a rough patch with an end in sight, your lender may be willing to delay some payments without paying a penalty fee (forbearance agreement). More rarely, your lender may allow for principal reduction.

 

 

Negotiate a deed in lieu of foreclosure

 

In some cases, the homeowner may want to cut their losses and walk away from the deal entirely. If your mortgage allows, you may be able to avoid foreclosure by handing over the deed and any claim you have on the property to your lending establishment. In exchange, your lender releases you from your mortgage obligations.

Sometimes, the lender may also offer a cash sum. It allows the former homeowners to start their new life. They are also more likely to leave the property in good condition. It is commonly known as “cash for key.” By allowing the homeowner to walk away, the lenders save themselves to the lengthy and expensive foreclosure procedure.

 

 

 

Sell your home during the pre-foreclosure process

 

 

Finally, the homeowners are allowed to sell their property throughout the pre-foreclosure and foreclosure process. They can then use the proceeds to pay off their debt.

 

If you owe more than the house I worth, the bank may allow for a short sale. In this situation, the bank takes the money from the sale, but forgives the outstanding balance, allowing the homeowner to walk out debt-free. However, it is up to the owner to find the real estate agent to list the property. Homebuyers can also be wary of short sales, which tend to take a long time to close because of the amount of paperwork involved in this atypical transaction.

 

The homeowners can also try their luck directly on the real estate market if they think they can raise enough cash to pay off what they owe. Although they get to keep any excess leftover from the sale, time is often of the essence as the pre-foreclosure and foreclosure process run their course. It is best to price the property slightly below market value to attract buyers and offer a quick closing if possible.

 

Homes in pre-foreclosure also often suffer from deferred maintenance due to the owner’s lack of funds. It is another factor to consider when pricing the property to sell as it may affect financing.

 

Finally, homeowners facing pre-foreclosure can also opt for an alternative solution. They can sell their property directly to a cash home buyer like National Cash Offer. These companies guarantee a quick closing and a fair offer. It allows distressed home sellers to walk away in the best possible conditions.

The post What can you do when your house is in pre-foreclosure? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/what-can-you-do-when-your-house-is-in-pre-foreclosure/

Monday 13 July 2020

The best loans and programs for first-time homebuyers

There are a lot of things to think about when buying your first home. Where should you live? What are your must-haves and nice to have, and what is your budget? However, it is also the moment to face a decision as important as finding the right property: what is the best loan to use as a first-time homebuyer?

 

Finding the perfect fit among the many loans and programs offered by various lenders can be intimidating. After all, your mortgage will follow you for years, if not decades to come, and will likely account for a significant share of your budget.

 

There are a lot of factors that will affect your financing options as a first-time homebuyer, such as your credit score, the type of property you intend to buy, and how much you want to put as a down payment. People looking into buying their starter homes often have limited funds for a down payment and may not have the best credit score. It is always a good idea to shop around for a mortgage lender before settling, but here are some loans and programs you should look into as a first-time homebuyer.

 

 

FHA Loans

 

The Federal Housing Administration backs FHA loans. In other words, the FHA will pay back your lender if you were to default on your mortgage. It allows borrowers with lower credit scores (580 FICO and up) and limited means to buy a home they may not otherwise be approved for, with down payments as low as 3.5%. Therefore, FHA loans are a popular choice for first-time home buyers. However, FHA loans come with their limitations. They are subject to limits on the mortgage amount, which varies based on your location. Not all properties qualify: they must meet basic safety and livability standards. You will also need to pay for mortgage insurance.

 

Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac

 

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac back mortgages from local lenders and allow the borrower to put a low 3% down payment. Their credit score requirements are higher than FHA loans and start at 620. They also require first-time homebuyers to take a class to qualify.

Because of the low down payment requirements, you will need to pay for cancelable mortgage insurance.

 

 

USDA loans

 

USDA loans are similar to FHA loans and have comparable requirements. They also offer no down payment options in some cases.

However, as they are back (or sometimes issued) by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they primarily target properties located in rural areas. Do not let this requirement deter you: it covers approximately 97% of the U.S. landmasses!

 

 

VA loans

 

V.A. loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and are reserved for military personnel, veterans, and their families. They offer many advantages for first-time homebuyers who qualify, including no down payment or mortgage insurance requirements.

 

Good Neighbor Next Door

 

HUD sponsors the Good Neighbor Next Door program. It is an initiative targeting law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and teachers, providing incentives such as a 50% discount off the list price of eligible properties, located in designated “revitalization areas.”

 

 

Native American Direct Loans

 

The Native American Direct Loan program is an initiative of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and targets veterans who are either Native American or married to a Native American. They offer multiple benefits, including no down payment or private mortgage insurance, as well as low interests and limited closing costs for those who qualify.

 

 

First-time homebuyer programs by state

Most states, as well as many local governments, offer assistance programs for first-time homebuyers. These incentives often target borrowers interested in buying a home in a specific area. They can take many forms, including down payment and closing cost grants. Check the requirements in your state to see what you may qualify for.

 

 

Good luck hunting for your first home!

The post The best loans and programs for first-time homebuyers appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/the-best-loans-and-programs-for-first-time-homebuyers/

Things to know about Buying a Home in Fort Lauderdale

Buying a house in Florida can be a challenging experience for both first home and veteran home buyers. Since Ft Lauderdale has been a coveted vacation and retirement spot for people all over the United States and abroad, finding the right place with the most affordable price may not be as easy as some home buyers may think. In fact, even though there are homes for rent in Fort Lauderdale, many new Floridians may prefer to buy their own homes instead. Whatever the case, here are just a few things that you should consider as you move forward with your plans.

 

 

1. New Home Communities Available

Just like other places around the globe, there are new home communities that have been built for people to move in. These communities are being designed for a wide range of different reasons and purposes. Therefore, you need to pay special attention to all of the amenities that are offered to you and your family. For instance, some of these communities are particularly attractive to people who enjoy living very active lifestyles. So, the owners of these communities offer extra suites with lots of extra rooms for family and friends.

 

 

2. Homes in Fort Lauderdale that’s Perfect for the Health Conscious Individuals and Families

It is also important for you to know that you may be interested in locations that foster good healthy family habits and activities. Typically, based on where the home is located, you may find communities with clubhouses, guarded entrances, awesome lake views, and long walking trails. In fact, if this sounds like you and the needs of your family, you may want to start your home and location search by looking for this information online. When you search online for homes for sale in Fort Lauderdale, some real estate site will provide you with specific names, locations, and addresses that you can review in detail.

 

Additionally, in some of these communities, you may have access to a wide range of great features including waterfronts, fitness centers, and boat storage. As mentioned before, you may have everything in one community. From buying a townhome for a couple to purchasing a single-family home for a family of four, there are different types of homes available to everyone who is interested in living in the Fort Lauderdale area.

 

 

3. Don’t Forget to Hire a Veteran Florida Realtor — Experienced Realtors Know the Best Locations and Homes

If you have decided to move your family to Fort Lauderdale, one of the best things that you can do is hire a Florida realtor who has a lot of experience assisting homebuyers with finding the best fit for their family. These realtors are essential to the process for a number of different reasons, including allowing guiding prospective Fort Lauderdale home buyers through the entire process. Actually, once you have hired a professional realtor from this area, you can consult with this expert first so that they can steer you in the best communities possible. These realtors are not only trained in working on your behalf but will also possess the knowledge that is needed to assist you in finding the best property at affordable prices. For instance, if you are looking for the best quality high schools and colleges in the area, they can provide you with this information and more.

 

 

4. Look for the Differences in buying a house in Florida and homes for rent in Fort Lauderdale

When you move to Fort Lauderdale, you may want to take advantage of the best housing offer that you can find. In some cases, this may mean buying a house in Florida or choosing to rent a house instead. The choice that you make is up to you and your needs so you may want to research the pros and cons of each prior to making a decision. For instance, if you are only moving to Fort Lauderdale because of a new job opportunity, you may be looking to rent a home. Or, if you are moving to Fort Lauderdale permanently to be closer to other family members, you may be looking to buy a home. In either case, you need to look at your personal preferences, the cost of the home and any other factors that give you the best option.

 

 

5. Buying Home Insurance Can Be Challenging — May Be Required to Pay Higher Premiums

If you are looking to buy a home in Florida, you need to know exactly what types of home insurance coverage is required. Based on the area that you are interested in and the home that you are purchasing, there are specific types of insurance that may be optional, while other home insurance policies are required. For instance, in some areas, your mortgage company may require you to buy flood insurance. Also, based on the condition of your roofing system and plumbing inside of the home, in certain areas in Florida, you may be required to pay higher premiums. Therefore, before you begin to finalize your decision, you need to make sure that you know exactly what will be required of you.

 

 

Takeaway

Buying a home in Florida can be a very challenging experience for anyone who has an interest in homes for sale in Fort Lauderdale. Therefore, it is very important that you do your research before you make your decision to move to these areas with your family, particularly since there are a lot of factors to consider. From finding the best-suited communities to live in and high-quality schools and colleges for your kids to attend to looking for affordable home prices and insurance premiums, there are many different things that you should know about buying a house in Fort Lauderdale.

 

To make this process as easy as possible, you need to make sure that you are hiring an experienced Florida realtor that can assist you in all of your efforts. Because of their industry experience in the area of Fort Lauderdale and their expertise in matching an individual or family with the best properties in the area, prospective home buyers and realtors will have an opportunity to relocate their family’s without a lot of unnecessary hassles or expenses.

The post Things to know about Buying a Home in Fort Lauderdale appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/things-to-know-about-buying-a-home-in-fort-lauderdale/

Friday 10 July 2020

Tips for Selling Houses in Arizona While Social Distancing

When it comes to these tumultuous times, people need to become creative when they have the objective to sell my house. You may have one of the many houses for sale in Arizona. However, you wonder how to execute the sale during COVID-19. We all can feel a little bit uneasy about how to do business while social distancing. But guaranteed there will still be people looking for houses for sale in Phoenix, Arizona. The following is a detailed breakdown on how to sell your home while you are social distancing.

 

Utilize Social Media

You may have never been one for posting online. However, now that people are sitting at home with nothing to do, you can start to post your house there. You can create an ad that will showcase how you are sitting at home wanting to give people a virtual tour. The ad should pique the interest of your friends and connections. You can pitch to them in this time because they might know someone who is in the market. It always helps to look at your personal network first. You might not think you have much of one, but your friends might be more active in trying to keep occupied than you imagine. You can offer a finder’s fee for a lead that will result in a sale. It doesn’t hurt to be creative and give out that monetary incentive. A lot of people have been laid off during this time and are just looking for a bit of extra cash. If you motivate someone, this person might follow up with people they think are interested. It can be a great way to help the community and help yourself.

 

Ask Your Real Estate Agent About Virtual Tours

You can ask you real estate agent about giving virtual tours of the home. There is software that you can use to stage the home. Most home stagers know how to do this as it is becoming something that people demand. If you utilize this staging and have the virtual pictures, no one needs to be moving furniture in and out of a home. Additionally, people can take a tour first visually to see if they are really interested. This will help to weed out candidates that just make it a hobby to home browse. It can be fun to go and do this on one’s spare time, however, people now shouldn’t be doing this. You can make it a point to only show the home to interested candidates. If your real estate agent is willing, you can still show the house. Just be aware that you won’t be able to do an open house like you may have wanted before. Also, try to hold off from cookies or any handshaking. There were little touches that the real estate agent used to do that are no longer applicable. Make sure you have Lysol wipes and hand sanitizer on hand there and actively offer it out to candidates.

 

Use Zillow

Zillow is a great place to put your home up. A lot of people will look there to just get an idea about what is on the market. In fact, there are so many people now that are probably pulling up the site out of sheer boredom. The crowd that used to go to open houses are probably flocking here now instead. You can make great use of this site by filling out the details thoroughly. You will want to have many pictures on hand as you can easily post them up here. Zillow is a great place to market yourself and show off your home.

 

Don’t be Pushy

We all probably know about closing the deal. You may want to close the deal but you feel that people aren’t willing to meet. If they aren’t, try to set up a video conference on Skype. Here you can look the person in the eye and tell this individual that you would like to negotiate terms. You can do everything via video that you can in person. If the candidates do not want to risk contact with a real estate agent, you might arrange to drop the keys at their door so they can go. It’s a little bit of a risk on your part, but not making others sick is what is vital right now. The drop off doesn’t have to involve personal contact. You should ring the doorbell and leave the key on the stoop. Then, step back at least 6 feet if not more. You can wave hi and introduce yourself from a distance. Try to respect that other people will be even more cautious than you. You can then arrange to pick up the key in much the same manner. Always step back and put distance between you and your candidates.

 

Ask Your Real Estate Agent to Walk through the House on Skype with Candidates

You can use Skype and have just one person physically present in the home. Most people won’t buy a home without seeing it physically, but these days you never really know. You can ask your real estate agent to call candidates and go through the area while on Skype. They can ask questions about the rooms, but you don’t need to worry about any exchange of germs in these encounters. This can be a respectful way for them to meet with a real estate agent without actually meeting. You can also be assured that this encounter will mimic real tours. Your real estate agent will probably be happy to work without actually having to be in contact with anyone. If you are looking to sell my home by myself, then you can do these virtual tours with prospectives.

 

Conclusion

When looking to sell my home, you might feel you are among many of the houses for sale in Arizona. Even though there are many houses for sale in Arizona, yours will sell better if you practice social distancing. Houses for sale in Phoenix, Arizona are a desirable commodity, even in the presence of a pandemic.

The post Tips for Selling Houses in Arizona While Social Distancing appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/tips-for-selling-houses-in-arizona-while-social-distancing/

Thursday 9 July 2020

Should you sell your house to a cash home buyer or list it?

So, you have decided to sell your house? Congratulations! Now is the time to determine whether you want to go the traditional route and list your property with a real estate agent or explore alternative options like a cash home buyer.

 

You have undoubtedly noticed signs in your area, advertising the services of companies interested in purchasing houses for cash. Most of them buy buildings as-is, repair them as needed, and resell them for a profit.

 

However, what is the right choice for you? This article will help you decide what the most appropriate way for you to sell your property is.

When should you list your house with a real estate agent?

 

Most people with a house for sale choose to list it with a Realtor. There are many reasons why.

You want to get the most money out of your sale.

 

The main reason why people prefer to sell their house with a real estate agent is that they, understandably, want to get the most bang for their buck. After all, you may have spent a lot of time and money making your property attractive, and you likely want to recoup some of this investment in the sale of the house. People also buy properties as investments and tab on house sales to purchase their next home. If money is your top priority and the housing market in your area is flourishing, you will likely want to list your house with a real estate agent.

Your house is ready to show.

 

Getting your house ready for sale is a long process. You will probably need to complete some repairs to compensate for normal wear and tear and attract potential buyers. If your house has been well maintained, it should be a simple process. You will also need to keep the house ready for showing even on short notice, which can be a hassle if you have young children or pets. Many sellers choose to move out of the house into their new home if they have the opportunity.

You are not pressed by time.

 

The major disadvantage of listing your house with a real estate agent is that you will depend on the market. It could be months before your home is sold if the real estate market is sluggish in your area. Some people may be in the position to wait and see, but if time is of the essence, you may want to explore alternative opportunities.

 

When should you sell your house to a cash home buyer?

 

In some circumstances, selling your house to a wholesale company like National Cash Offer may be the best choice.

You want to sell your house fast.

 

A quick closing is one of the main advantages of selling your house to a wholesale company instead of listing it with a real estate agent. You need to move quickly and are not in a position to carry two mortgages or be dealing with difficult circumstances like a job loss or a divorce. In these cases, selling your house as quickly as possible is a priority.

Your house needs significant repairs

 

Houses that have sustained considerable damages, such as fire or water damage, are not attractive for most buyers. They demand too much work to be livable, and most financing institutions will not offer mortgages for these properties. Investors can be interested in these buildings. However, they are few and far between. On the other hand, cash home buyers are happy to work with properties that may not otherwise be saleable.

You want to avoid the hassle of putting your property on the market.

 

Listing your property with a real estate agent requires a significant amount of preparation and paperwork. If you are out-of-state – if the property you want to sell is part of an estate settlement, for example – and do not have the time or ability to deal with inspections, repairs, appointments, and so on, cash home buyers are often the way to go.

 

If you think that selling your property to a cash home buyer may be the right choice for you, National Cash Offers purchase buildings in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, Washington, North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Florida. Contact Us today what your house may be worth!

The post Should you sell your house to a cash home buyer or list it? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/should-you-sell-your-house-to-a-cash-home-buyer-or-list-it/

Wednesday 8 July 2020

The Cost Of Living In Nevada vs California

When we talk about the cost of living, then we do not only mean housing costs, but rather, we include some other costs that facilitate the smooth living of a person. The additional costs that determine the cost of living of a pace may include utility costs, cost of food, transportation cost, taxes, and other miscellaneous costs. This article will compare the cost of living between two major states in the United States, namely, Nevada and California. Both of the states are highly reputable states that you set your settlement with your family. But before doing so, it is crucial to have a look at their costs of living.

 

 

Cost of living in Nevada

Nevada is a big state that has got various cities in it, with Carson City being the capital. Some other segments of the state have higher costs of living, while other segments have lower costs of living. For example, the average cost of health and utility bills in Nevada is less than the national average cost. However, transportation and grocery costs are higher than the national average cost. Let’s look at each segment individually.

 

 

· Housing Cost In Nevada

Over the past year, the price of houses in Nevada has grown exponentially, and they are still expected to grow in the coming years. It is expected to rise by 3.5% in 2021. Currently, the average cost of a home on Nevada State is $306,954. This is cheaper as compared to the cost of a home in California. The median value of a square foot in Nevada is $179. Nevada State is much lower than most of the states. The median rental price in the state is $1,550. Buying homes in Reno, Nevada is much cheaper than buying in Sacramento, California. There are various houses for sale in Reno, Nevada, and the prices are as estimated above.

 

 

· Utility Costs In Nevada

Utility costs in Nevada are much higher as compared to California. This is because of the climatic condition of the state. In Nevada, people run their ACs 6 to 8 months in a year. This means that one household will have to pay almost $100 per month as their bill. Individuals who live in Mc Mansion styled houses, are likely to pay lower prices to regulate temperatures in their homes.

 

 

· Transport Costs In Nevada

The average price of a gallon of gas in Nevada is $2.8, which is cheaper than that of California, as you will see later. Also, moving around the cities found in Nevada State is not expensive. Most of the transport fares around the towns range from between $1 to $2. The average price of auto insurance in the state is $985.39, which is a bit higher than that of the country, which is $889.01.

 

 

· Food Costs in Nevada

Food costs in Nevada State are affordable as the average cost of the state hovers around the national average cost. A gallon of milk in Nevada costs $3.4, and a dozen of eggs is $2.35. This is just an estimate of the food prices in the state.

 

 

Cost Of Living in California

California State is a home of both the richest and poorest people in the country. This means that the cost of living in the counties varies depending on the location and economic state of the county. The capital city of California State is Sacramento, which is one of the most amazing places you can reside in. Let’s look at the various aspects of living standards in California.

 

 

· Housing Costs in California

The costs of houses in California are higher as compared to Nevada. The price of homes in California is even higher than the average rental cost of homes in the country, which is $1,175. When you look at the median cost of homes in Sacramento is $355,030, which is higher than in other counties. Los Angeles has a median rental value of $1,752, which more elevated than the national average. This signifies that the cost of houses in California is expensive. Houses for sale in Sacramento are available, but they require you to commit yourself before purchasing one.

 

 

· Utility Costs in California

According to the U.S EIA (Energy Information Administration), residents of California pay relatively low bills for their utilities. The average monthly bill of Californians is $101.49%, which is lower than that of Nevada since, to them, that is the least amount you can pay. New Mexico pays the cheapest utility bills, while Hawaii pays the most expensive bills.

 

 

· Food Costs in California

MIT Living Wage Calculator states that an adult who has no children and he is living in California requires a wage of $30,392, that is before taxes. Out of this amount, 11% of it will be spent on food only. This means that food expenditure accounts for almost $3, 500. However, the cost of food varies in the state. For example, the average price of dozens of eggs in LA is 3.24 dollars, while in Fresno, it is 1.83 dollars.

 

 

· Transport Costs in California

California State has the best traffic and stretches of highways. According to the analytics of GasBuddy, the average of a gallon of regular gas is $4.09. Care insurance rates in California are higher than the national average, which is $ 1,457. In California, car owners pay an average premium of $1,846. There are various public transport options in the state, but they vary from one region to the other.

 

 

Conclusion

It is now evident that the cost of living between the two states varies depending on which segment you are talking about. Generally, when we talk about the cost of living between the two states, then life in California is more expensive than in Nevada. This is by considering the most vital sectors, housing cost. The cost of a house in Nevada is cheaper than that of a similar home in California. Otherwise, your area of residence in the state also matters. Some areas in Nevada are more expensive than some other regions in California. In the same way, some regions of California are cheaper to reside than some in Nevada.

The post The Cost Of Living In Nevada vs California appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/the-cost-of-living-in-nevada-vs-california/

Monday 6 July 2020

What It Is Like To Live In Sacramento, California

Sacramento is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. It is the capital city of the state of California and its political center. In California, it is the sixth-largest city while in the country; it is the ninth-largest city. California is well known for its beautiful scenery and natural attractions, with Sacramento playing an important role in this. Sacramento is always overshadowed by the flashy coastal cousins. Various factors make it interesting to live in Sacramento. Here are to reasons as to why living in Sacramento is interesting.

 

 

1. It is a city of trees

In most of the city’s downtown streets, there are trees lined hence providing a luxurious canopy that gives the city a beautiful image. Besides, the trees provide shade and protect the residents from the hot sun during summer seasons. Sacramento Tree Foundation is striving to make the city look more natural by planting and maintaining trees in the town. When you live in Sacramento, you will be breathing fresh oxygen from the beautiful trees. The foundation also offers guided tree tours, and you will get to know various species of plants found in the city.

 

 

2. Affordable homes

California’s rich cities boast for high home prices, which go past the average home prices at the national level. The average cost of a house in San Francisco, for example, is more than $ 1 million. While this is happening, houses for sale in Sacramento have lower prices than some other prices. Their prices are affordable, with the median home price in Sacramento being $ 333, 000. You can find different types of homes in Sacramento, ranging from bungalows, condos, single-family apartments, among many others. If you want homes for sale in Sacramento, then you can get them depending on the size of your wallet and your house preference.

 

 

3. Conducive Climate

When you live in Sacramento, you will not experience harsh climatic conditions like very cold winters and very hot summers. The climate in the region is mild because the city hardly snow during the winter season. During steamy summers, the steam is mellowed away by the more cooling breezes which blow in through the delta. If you are carving for some snow, then you can get it during the winter season by driving only some miles away from the city. The delta breeze makes the residents enjoy the cool breeze throughout.

 

 

4. There are rivers everywhere

Sacramento is a city of rivers; therefore, boating, rafting, and kayaking are some of the common activities that people do for enjoyment. The rivers contribute to the beauty of the city. If you are a fan of skimming, then the Sacramento River scene is a perfect place to immerse yourself in. If you do not like getting into the water, then taking a bike ride or a jog on the American River Parkway is also an option. The parkway runs for 23 miles along the shores of America.

 

 

5. Food is affordable

Food is not expensive in Sacramento as it is in some of its neighborhoods, such as California. This is because Sacramento is endowed with fertile land, and there are many farms, vineyards, orchards in the city. Farming is one of the economic activities of the capital of California. The city produces much of what the country eats. Some of the foods that come from Sacramento include rice, beef, almonds, and many other delicacies.

 

 

6. Various outdoor activities

There are various outdoor activities that you can conduct in Sacramento apart from the mentioned ones that you can do in the rivers. The city is besieged with parks, and the famous one is Land Park downtown. You can never miss an outdoor activity that you can do every weekend or when you are free. The Sierra foothills, which are just nearby the city, offer you a beautiful place for hiking. The Folsom Lake is a perfect place for sunbathing, water-skiing, and also swimming.

 

 

7. Low-population density

The population of Sacramento is not too big; neither is too small. It has a medium population density, which sits at around 500,000. However, it is a cosmopolitan city that hosts people of different races and religions. There is no overcrowding in Sacramento city as it is in many of the biggest cities in the country. This makes it an exciting place to reside in.

 

 

8. It is a city of culture and arts

One of the oldest public art in the United States is the Crocker Art Museum, which is located in Sacramento. The city is a city of art and culture, and this is evident when you take a walk through the city. There are art walks and live cultural music of Second Saturdays Philharmonic and Opera and Sacramento. If you are a fan of art, then Sacramento is the place to live.

 

 

9. Improved Security

Sacramento is one of the safest cities in the country as there are no extreme cases of crimes and theft. There are no gangs in the city as the security agencies work hard to ensure that residents in the region live safely. The crime rates in the city are low because it is not overpopulated and there are no suburbs.

 

 

10. Excellent transport channels

The transport infrastructure of Sacramento is a classic one. There are various transport channels that you can use to move from one place to the other. There are also airlines that will help you fly from one state to the other or even outside the country. The cost of transport in Sacramento is cheap because the average cost of a bus around town ranges between $1 and $2.

 

 

Conclusion

According to the U.S News and World Report’s recent ranking of the best places to live, Sacramento has risen in terms of its position. It is now number 82, and initially, it was number 92 on the list. This is a sign that Sacramento is an excellent place to live as it has an overall score of 6.2 out of 10. Sacramento is going technological advancements and cultural development, therefore, bringing a good life in the capital of California.

The post What It Is Like To Live In Sacramento, California appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/what-it-is-like-to-live-in-sacramento-california/

Thursday 2 July 2020

How To Tour Houses in Sacramento during Coronavirus

House sales have sharply reduced during the Coronavirus pandemic due to fears and lockdowns. There are hardly any open house viewings currently as more people are following the government directive of isolation and social distancing.

 

However, some people are searching to buy houses during this pandemic. How are they supposed to go about it? How do you get to view and tour houses for sale? If this is the current situation that you find yourself in right now, then you have come to the right place.

 

People selling houses have, however, found a way to showcase houses despite the COVID-19 lockdown. This means that you can get to view and tour houses for sale without having to physically be there. Now, this comes as excellent news in a time when home buyers were wondering what the next step was.

 

Houses for sale in Sacramento, for example, can be viewed virtually using the latest 3D video tours. Although real estate is taking a huge blow in times of sales right now, experts are predicting that the industry will bounce back once it adapts to new house viewing technologies.

 

In this article we are going to talk about the technologies used by people selling houses to ensure they can showcase their houses. These virtual tours can be conducted quite easily from a Smartphone device which makes everything that much more convenient.

 

 

Technologies used to achieve virtual tours

 

1. Panoramic pictures

The simplest option that home sellers are currently using is panoramic pictures. The advantage of panoramic pictures is that they showcase full-length images of a particular room complete will all the shapes and features. The panoramic images are great when showcasing houses that have distinct features or that overlap to the next room.

 

Panoramic pictures help home buyers get a clear picture of the house shape and how the different rooms match with each other. Many houses in Sacramento have distinct features that can be displayed quite wonderfully thanks to panoramic images.

 

 

2. Recorded videos

Some house sellers have resorted to recorded videos that let you view the entire property just the same as you would a face to face tour. These are high-quality videos that walk you through the entire house with some have notes on the top to prospective buyers know more about the property.

 

With the recorded videos, you get to leave comments on the bottom so that the seller can get back to you. The comments and answers are public which ensure that other buyers get to go through them and understand everything about the property better.

 

 

3. Virtual open house hosting on YouTube

Technology has evolved so much in the recent past and some home sellers are using this to their advantage. Some homes in Sacramento are showcased through live stream YouTube events. Prospective buyers simply need to visit the YouTube channel at the same time where they can all take part in a real-time live tour.

 

The good news is the comments are left in real-time ensuring that everybody gets all the information they need. YouTube live tours make the house selling quite interesting and you could end up making some good profit since interested parties view the property at the same time.

 

 

4. 3D home tours

Some companies such as Zillow, have incorporated a new 3D house tour technology. According to their website they increased their creation of 3D home tours by 191% in March compared to the average number in February.

 

With the 3D home tours, buyers get a true picture of the house they want to buy right at their homes which is pretty cool if you ask me. Although not a lot of homes for sale in Sacramento have adopted the 3D home tours, the number is expected to rise soon.

 

With 3D home tours, the sellers need to resort to hiring creative realtors who are adopting this technology. The realtor companies will take over the house sale and market it for you thus giving you some peace of mind.

 

The 3D home tours allow the prospective buyer to view a dozen homes within a short period which saves a lot of time. Equally, they get to view more houses which means that the probability of finding the dream house is increased further. Experts predict that 3D home tours may just be the revolution that real estate needed. For example, you could view a dozen homes for sale in Sacramento within minutes and therefore finding the best won’t be hard anymore.

 

 

5. Robots

Some home sellers give prospective buyers home tours using robots. Once the buyer gets to the home, they are met with a robot that has a screen. The real estate agent speaks though the screen while leading them through the property.

 

One of the real estate companies that are embracing the use of robots is Zenplace. The robots ensure that the real estate agent and prospective buyers don’t interact physically during the entire tour. Social distancing is better maintained due to robots, which are equally quite effective.

 

As a prospective buyer, how amazing does a robot tour sound like? Whether you want to buy a home in Sacramento, New York, Arizona, California, or any other place, a robot tour sounds interesting.

 

 

Conclusion

One of the most stable and sound investments has always been property. Yes, the real estate markets are bound to experience a huge recession. However, the Coronavirus pandemic will pass and the markets will bounce right back up. Experts are predicting that the property market will recover and stabilize once the COVID-19 pandemic is dealt with.

 

However, this does not mean the real estate market has fallen completely. Those looking to sell and buy property use the virtual methods listed above to conduct business. It is expected that the virtual home tour technology industry will rise further and this might revolutionize real estate completely. Even after the Coronavirus pandemic is long gone, the virtual home tours will remain a significant part of the property market. Let us know whether you found this information helpful in your search for a home.

The post How To Tour Houses in Sacramento during Coronavirus appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-tour-houses-in-sacramento-during-coronavirus/

Wednesday 1 July 2020

Which home repairs do you need to do before listing your house?

Listing your house for sale is an exciting time, but there are also many things to think about before taking the next step. One of the most common questions would-be house sellers have is: “what repairs do I need to take care of before listing my house?” As any homeowner knows, house repairs are often expensive. If you are planning to put your house for sale, the last thing you want to do is spend some of the hard-earned cash you are saving for your next home purchase on a building you will not enjoy. However, house sellers also want to make their property as attractive as possible for potential buyers.

So, which repairs should you prioritize when starting the house selling process? Your real estate agent should be able to help you with a to-do list that can help you sell your property, but here are some common issues that will give you the best bang for your buck when selling your house.

  1. Paint your house before listing your house

A fresh coat of paint will instantly make your house look brand new. It is a relatively inexpensive fix that will instantly wow the potential buyer. Often, you can do yourself over the course of a weekend, especially if you are selling your house empty.

Choose light and neutral colors to brighten up your abode and help visitors picture their possessions. It is also a great way to de-personalize your home to make it appealing to a wide range of buyers. The bright pink walls in the bedroom may have thrilled your daughter, but a couple of empty-nesters may see it as an eyesore.

  1. Take care of the curb appeal.

Many would-be buyers do a drive-by of properties they could be interested in before setting up an appointment with their real estate agent to weed out contenders. If your property’s exterior is run down, it could scare off house shoppers even if the interior of your home has been thoroughly updated.

Before listing your property for sale, give your landscape a bit of extra care. It can be as simple as mowing your lawn regularly, adding some seedlings to bare patches, and planting a couple of colorful annual plants in strategic areas. Repaint your front door and fence if needed for a fresher look.

  1. Freshen up the kitchen and bathrooms

Updated kitchens and bathrooms rank high in the wish list of home shoppers. However, a complete renovation can be costly, and it is unlikely that you will recoup the cost in the house sale. Instead, focus your attention – and your wallet – on strategic elements.

Repainting and putting new hardware on the cabinets and updating the appliances, if needed, is an easy way to make your kitchen and bathrooms look newer without breaking the bank. You can also make the space more functional by adding a pantry in an underutilized space.

  1. Fix damaged flooring

Floorings often suffer severe damages from normal wear and tear, from pet scratches and accidents to food stain and furniture marks. They also often retain odors that could deter potential buyers.

Replacing the carpets and refinishing the hardwood floors, especially in high traffic areas like the bedrooms and living rooms, will give your house a brand-new feel at a lower cost.

  1. Splurge on a pre-inspection

Discovering major but invisible issues at the last minute is every buyer and seller worse nightmare. More often than not, a house sale will be compromised if structural problems are discovered during a house inspection, as it would affect financing. The best way to avoid any bad last-minute surprise is to have your house pre-inspected. It will also make your home more marketable.

Depending on the outcome of the inspection, you can decide to fix the issues or price your home accordingly so buyers can budget for any necessary update.

However, you may also discover that your property suffers from significant issues that could affect financing, significantly reducing potential buyers’ pool.

If you find yourself in such a situation, you can opt to price your house low enough to appeal to cash buyers and investors. You can also get a quote to sell your home fast to a company like National Cash Offer, which offers fast closing and purchases home as-is.

The post Which home repairs do you need to do before listing your house? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/which-home-repairs-do-you-need-to-do-before-listing-your-house/