Rachel Ellis Homes

So you're thinking about doing a renovation, but don't have the cash. Don't worry, there are various options to help finance home improvements and renovations! Let's dive in a little deeper to the most common financing options: ... This type of refinancing replaces your existing mortgage with a new home loan for more than your current loan amount with the difference being the extra cash. Lenders will generally let you borrow enough to pay off your current mortgage and take out more cash, usually up to 80% of your home’s value. You must have equity built up in your house to use a cash-out refinance. A HELOC is another way to borrow against the value of your home. With a HELOC, you receive a line of credit usually up to 80% of your home’s value, minus the amount of your current loan amount. With a home equity loan, instead of getting a line of credit that you can tap into as needed, you would receive a lump sum of money. A home equity loan could make sense if you don’t want to do a cash-out refinance because you have a low interest rate. Another option for smaller home improvement projects is to use a credit card. This may be a good idea if you can get a 0% introductory rate, and you plan on paying off the amount before the higher interest kicks in. Also look for sign-up bonuses and cashback incentives. It is equally as important to know how much money you will need for the renovation. If you're hiring a contractor, get a bid for labor and materials, and add on 10% for surprises. If doing the work yourself, compile materials, quantities, costs, to get a total. Be sure to include permit fees, and equipment rental. If you're considering a renovation, I can provide lender recommendations, as well as I contractors trust, to help make your dream home a reality! Message me today with any questions you may have. . . . . . . . #homereno #homerenovations #homefinancing #realestateagent #realestatetips #realestate #realestatelife #househunting #realtorlifestyle #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realtorlife

Buying a home is a lot like falling in love. You begin casually, browsing the online sites, going to a few open houses, and figuring out what really matters to you. Then you narrow down your list of "must-haves" and deal breakers, and eventually, you find "the one". However, in our current market, finding "the one" has become a little bit more challenging, between the historically low inventory, and crazy competition. If you are thinking about starting your home search, it's important to have an experienced agent by your side to help educate you and guide you through the process. Looking for an agent like that? Send me a message I’d love to connect and help you find the right home for you!

Buying a home is a lot like falling in love. You begin casually, browsing the online sites, going to a few open houses, and figuring out what really matters to you. Then you narrow down your list of "must-haves" and deal breakers, and eventually, you find "the one". However, in our current market, finding "the one" has become a little bit more challenging, between the historically low inventory, and crazy competition. If you are thinking about starting your home search, it's important to have an experienced agent by your side to help educate you and guide you through the process. Looking for an agent like that? Send me a message I’d love to connect and help you find the right home for you!

If you've spent any time on real estate sites, you've probably come across a listing or two that states the property "needs a little TLC". In other words, the property needs some repairs... and most homes that state they need "TLC" typically need more than just a fresh coat of paint or new carpet. Does that mean you should pass on a home that needs TLC? No, but buying a home that does require it should be given some serious consideration, including a budget for making specifi...c types of repairs, the type of financing you'll get, and how long it could take to be liveable, especially if you need to move in right away. Keep in mind that these types of "diamond in the rough" homes are not for everyone. If you aren't able to tackle some of the repairs yourself, it could end up costing you more money than you bargained for! Make sure you have an agent by your side who can tell you what may be too much work or not worth it. . . . . . . #realestateagent #realestatetips #realestate #realestatelife #househunting #realtorlifestyle #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realtorlife #hometlc #fixerupper #homerepairs

If you've spent any time on real estate sites, you've probably come across a listing or two that states the property "needs a little TLC". In other words, the property needs some repairs... and most homes that state they need "TLC" typically need more than just a fresh coat of paint or new carpet. Does that mean you should pass on a home that needs TLC? No, but buying a home that does require it should be given some serious consideration, including a budget for making specifi...c types of repairs, the type of financing you'll get, and how long it could take to be liveable, especially if you need to move in right away. Keep in mind that these types of "diamond in the rough" homes are not for everyone. If you aren't able to tackle some of the repairs yourself, it could end up costing you more money than you bargained for! Make sure you have an agent by your side who can tell you what may be too much work or not worth it. . . . . . . #realestateagent #realestatetips #realestate #realestatelife #househunting #realtorlifestyle #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realtorlife #hometlc #fixerupper #homerepairs

An honest approach to the reality of home renovations: ' ...' . No matter what type of change, there's always a mess in its wake. So if you're thinking of tackling your own renovation, make sure you sit down, do your research and planning, and know what you're getting into. home reno edition:... COST/BUDGET The actual cost to renovate your home to match what you see on TV or online is one of the biggest misconceptions. That stainless steel french door fridge made by Wolf costs $10,000, and that farmhouse sink from Kohler starts at $1,000. Sit down with your contractor. Be realistic about your budget and set a contingency line for 10-20% of the projected costs it will cost more than you expect and surprises WILL come up. TIMING The renovations you see on TV that happen over a week or even just a few days are the result of extensive editing and 24-hour workdays. This is not realistic. Expect that it will probably take longer than you originally planned, especially with all of the shortages in materials and labor we are currently experiencing. Do you have a plan and know what you can afford? It’s important to find a good, trustworthy contractor to complete your renovation. It is critical that you do your research, ask for references, and interview a few contractors to find the best fit. Need some recommendations or guidance on where to start? Give me a call! . . . . . .#realestateagent #realestatetips #realestate #realestatelife #househunting #realtorlifestyle #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realtorlife #homerenovations #homereno

I'm all about languages of LOVE... especially when it comes to real estate! So unbelievably thankful for all of my wonderful buyers & sellers! Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!

Buying a fixer-upper can seem like a great idea getting to turn that shabby house into your dream home. If you have the vision and the wherewithal to see beyond the overgrown yard, peeling wallpaper, and rundown roof, you can land a property that you (or another buyer) will love someday. However, before you decide to sign on the dotted line, there are a few things you should consider when purchasing a house that needs repairs. Generally speaking, cosmetic repairs cost much ...less and are easier to complete than structural, electrical, or plumbing repairs. Here are a few red flags that may mean walking away from a fixer-upper: Structural concerns and foundation issues Potential water issues Old, dangerous electrical and wiring Walls that need to be moved, particularly those that are load-bearing Significant window replacement It's best to speak with a contractor or builder before you make any decisions to see if the home is worth the investment, and always opt for an inspection so that you can understand what you are getting into, and find any hidden "defects" ahead of time. Have questions about purchasing a fixer-upper for yourself or as an investment? Reach out to me today! . . . . . . . #realestateagent #realestatetips #fixerupper #realestate #realestatelife #househunting #realtorlifestyle #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer

I'm all about languages of LOVE... especially when it comes to real estate! So unbelievably thankful for all of my wonderful buyers & sellers! Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!

Let's do something a little differently this year, and surprise those closest to us with flowers this Valentine's Day to show our love and appreciation. Not only will you be supporting those you love, but you'll be supporting a local business! Was there someone who helped you out this past year? Show them you are grateful with this small gesture.

If you're thinking of making a move this year, but are wondering if waiting a few years will save you in the long run, . You may think it is wise to wait for the spring to list your home, however, this year is expected to be much different than our typical "spring market" due to low inventory, and that could end up costing you. Here's why...... Buyers are looking right now, and are eager to buy Waiting until the spring will mean more competition, giving buyers more options There will never be a better time to move up prices are still appreciating, which will cost you more in a mortgage and downpayment if you wait. If you are considering buying a home this year, start your search sooner rather than later. Home prices are expected to appreciate by 7-8% this year Mortgage rates are not going to stay low forever. They have already started to tick up slightly There will be more competition as we enter the "spring market", which could hike up prices even more The longer you wait, the more you'll pay even the slightest change in the rates can have a big impact on your buying power no matter your price point. If you are planning on making a move this year, connect with me today to start the conversation. I would love to help you get the ball rolling! . . . . . #realestatetips #realtortips #homeselling #homesellingtips #homebuying #homebuyingtips #realestateinfo #2022housingmarket

Let's do something a little differently this year, and surprise those closest to us with flowers this Valentine's Day to show our love and appreciation. Not only will you be supporting those you love, but you'll be supporting a local business! Was there someone who helped you out this past year? Show them you are grateful with this small gesture.

No matter what phase of life we find ourselves in, far too often we’re our own harshest critics. Can you imagine what would happen if you were to talk to yourself like someone you love? The way that you speak to yourself . If you lack confidence in yourself, it stops you from allowing yourself to do what you love to do. How would your life change if you gave yourself a pep talk every morning rather than putting yourself down?... For this moment right now, appreciate yourself, cheer yourself on, give yourself a compliment, treat yourself... .

Many homeowners take on major renovations to spruce up their home before putting it up for sale. After all, fixing up your home will always increase your home's value, right? WRONG. "Fix it and flip it" is a term often associated with real estate, but more often than not, upgrades fail to pay for themselves. This is why it is so important to have an agent by your side to guide you, who knows the local market and what buyers are looking for.... In order to figure out which renovations will add the most value when you sell, and therefore yield the highest return, you must first understand the different types of renovation projects: . . These types of renovations include items like a new roof and/or windows, updating mechanical systems such as your HVAC, and making sure safety issues like electrical concerns are addressed. Updating the "big ticket items" will allow buyers to purchase your home with more confidence. These are the "unseen" items that hurt the most to update but typically bring the best return. . Sprucing up your curb appeal helps your home look good when prospective buyers arrive. This is their first impression of your home. Although these updates don't add a considerable amount of value, curb appeal is important if you want your home to sell faster. This includes a well-manicured lawn and landscaping, a freshly painted door, and new fixtures and house numbers. . . These are typically your larger projects. While most of these efforts will not recoup their entire cost, most will come close. This includes updating kitchens and bathrooms, new flooring, adding central air, and fresh paint. If you're considering tackling a home renovation of your own whether you are thinking of selling now or in 15 years give me a call first! I can tell you what projects will give you the best return on investment and recommend trusted contractors to help. . . . . . . #homeselling #homebuying #homerenovations #realestatetips #realtortips

It's amazing how one person's random act of kindness can change the course of someone's day, or even life. Being nice is a human trait that can be practiced and perfected, and it’s one that never goes out of style. This is your reminder that even though we are living in unprecedented times that may be difficult at the moment for so many of us . .... . . . #bekind See more

No matter what phase of life we find ourselves in, far too often we’re our own harshest critics. Can you imagine what would happen if you were to talk to yourself like someone you love? The way that you speak to yourself . If you lack confidence in yourself, it stops you from allowing yourself to do what you love to do. How would your life change if you gave yourself a pep talk every morning rather than putting yourself down?... For this moment right now, appreciate yourself, cheer yourself on, give yourself a compliment, treat yourself... .

Moving can be stressful and time-consuming, which begs the question, why do so many people choose to do it? Due to the shifting economy, rise in remote work opportunities, and the desire to move to less densely populated areas, more than one in ten people moved in 2021! This year will be no different. The top 3 reasons people are projected to be making a move in 2022 are: ... 1. More space & privacy 2. Proximity to family 3. More work-from-home opportunities ? . . . . . . #2022move #realestatetips #realtortips #2022hometrends

It's amazing how one person's random act of kindness can change the course of someone's day, or even life. Being nice is a human trait that can be practiced and perfected, and it’s one that never goes out of style. This is your reminder that even though we are living in unprecedented times that may be difficult at the moment for so many of us . .... . . . #bekind See more

! Your monthly homeowner to-do list. February the month of love is the perfect time to put some into your home and tackle some maintenance tasks to keep your house clean, organized, and warm for the remainder of the winter. And don't forget to make something special for the people you love! Custom-made baked goods or handmade gifts are always welcomed by family and friends this time of year. Don't forget to treat yourself to some chocolate and flowers whi...le you're at it! Save this post for later and pick 1 or 2 off the list every weekend to keep your home fresh and functioning at its best! What are you tackling first?

Moving can be stressful and time-consuming, which begs the question, why do so many people choose to do it? Due to the shifting economy, rise in remote work opportunities, and the desire to move to less densely populated areas, more than one in ten people moved in 2021! This year will be no different. The top 3 reasons people are projected to be making a move in 2022 are: ... 1. More space & privacy 2. Proximity to family 3. More work-from-home opportunities ? . . . . . . #2022move #realestatetips #realtortips #2022hometrends

! Your monthly homeowner to-do list. February the month of love is the perfect time to put some into your home and tackle some maintenance tasks to keep your house clean, organized, and warm for the remainder of the winter. And don't forget to make something special for the people you love! Custom-made baked goods or handmade gifts are always welcomed by family and friends this time of year. Don't forget to treat yourself to some chocolate and flowers whi...le you're at it! Save this post for later and pick 1 or 2 off the list every weekend to keep your home fresh and functioning at its best! What are you tackling first?

? The average time someone lives in a home is 10 years. Additionally, in the past 10 years, the median duration of homeownership increased by three years, with the main reasons being housing supply shortage and low affordability. Basically, people are staying in their homes longer. More often than not, your first home purchase will NOT be your forever home. This is a home you'll be happy living in for about 5-7 years. As your family dynamic changes over the years,... typically your home needs change as well. With the rising home prices over the past few decades, it is no longer possible for most to purchase their "forever home" as their first home. If you are in the transition period, let's connect! I'd love to help you find your first home, or your forever home! - - - - - - #realtortips #foreverhome #firsthome #realestatetips