2022 has been a year of a changing real estate market. As we conclude the last month of the year, real estate bloggers continue providing very important information.

The real estate market has changed significantly from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market. Top real estate bloggers share information about the market and how to be competitive when either buying or selling a home.

Tips For Selling A Home In A Buyer’s Market

With the recent increase in interest rates, the real estate market has shifted to a buyer’s market. As a result, sellers are adjusting their selling strategies. Paul Sian has written an informative article, tips for selling a home in a buyer’s market.

One of the most important considerations is pricing the home correctly. Sellers are still trying to hang on to the prior market and thinking they can ask for an unrealistic list price. He also discusses has quality showings.

The home needs to be in tip-top condition, and be sure to address any deferred maintenance. This is a very timely article about this buyer’s market.

Tips for First-Time Home Sellers

Selling your home can be challenging, and it is essential to understand the home selling process. One of the most critical factors is to consider the time of year you will list your home to sell.

Bill Gassett has written an excellent article for first-time home sellers. Working with a real estate agent who is familiar with the area and has an excellent marketing plan is also essential.

Sellers also need to understand the difference between listing agents and buyers agents. Sellers need to remain objective and realize that selling a home is business, not personal. This is an essential article for any seller getting ready to sell their home.

What Are Tax Assessments in Real Estate?

When buying a home for the first time, one of the things you’ll quickly learn about is real estate taxes. Everyone will need to pay their fair share. Local communities need revenue for the city or town to run smoothly.

Providing good schools and maintaining roadways are two significant expenses that property tax assessments will cover. The taxes homeowners pay will be based on the local tax rate and the home’s assessed value. These two variables will determine precisely what you’ll pay.

Sometimes the taxes you pay won’t seem equitable compared to your neighbors. When that’s the case, you’ll need to file an appeal.

Staging Your Home Before Selling

If you are considering selling, preparing your home to sell and staging it for an optimal presentation is recommended. Sharon Paxson has written 8 easy steps to stage your home for maximum appeal. In the article, you will find step-by-step recommendations for staging your home tastefully. It is a good idea to select neutral colors when selecting a paint color.

Your choices of color and decor invite the majority of those looking for a home. A home that is staged will present well online and in person.

Property Contingencies: The New Hot Topic

The real estate market has done a 180 shift. Home prices are softening, interest rates have risen, and buyers are making offers on homes again, but they include contingencies again.

Buyers are once again asking for financing contingency, appraisal contingency, home inspection contingency, and review of documents, including HOA.

Home Buyers should include realistic contingencies with their offers. Vicki Moore has put together an excellent article about property contingencies. She has included resources from other respected real estate bloggers in her article.

Buyers should not be waiving contingencies and buying a home as is. And with this change in the market, sellers are now accepting realistic offers with contingencies.

Common Moving Scams & Ways to Avoid Them

There are scams out there, and when you consider moving, you will want to avoid scams at all costs. Luke Skar wrote about common moving scams and ways to avoid them.

When you hire movers, they will provide you with an estimate, pack your items and move to your new location. There can be additional costs after the fact, so it is a good idea to be aware of hidden costs.

Hire a reputable company that utilizes the name of their company when they answer the phone. If it is too good to be true, it probably is. Very low prices can be a sign of a scam. Movers can “hang on” to your stuff, holding you hostage.

Decorating Your First Home

Michelle Gibson has written an excellent article on decorating your first home. In the article, she recommends using a measuring tape to measure the size accurately. That way, furnishings can be selected that will fit into the space.

If you can obtain a floor plan, that is an excellent way to determine the home’s layout. You want to select tasteful furnishings and accessories that you will enjoy. Be sure to consider functionality, especially in a work office. You may want to purchase a stand-up desk or one that is adjustable.

Selling a Home With Solar Panels

Kevin Vitali has written a very informative article about selling a home with solar panels. Many homeowners think installing solar panels is an excellent idea to save money on electric bills. However, not every homebuyer is going to want solar panels.

A lease may exist with the solar company, which would be transferred to the new buyer. Buying a solar system outright will save on your electric bill. A typical installation runs $20,000 to $30,000. However, it is unlikely that a seller will recoup the amount invested.

Social Media Marketing For Rental Properties

Like any other marketing effort, it is essential to use social media for more exposure when renting rental property. Social avenues can put more eyeballs on your properties. See some of the best social media marketing methods for your rental properties, including Airbnb.

Options For Replacing a Roof

When it comes time to replace your roof, there will be several excellent options. Over at the Rochester Real Estate Blog, you will see five terrific options for roof replacement worth considering. Everyone knows about Asphalt shingles, but there are others you may want to think about too.

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed this month’s round-up of real estate articles and found them informative. We will continue to provide information about the changing real estate market and how to be prepared whether you are buying or selling. Have a wonderful holiday season.

PREVIOUS REAL ESTATE ROUNDUPS

Look at some of the excellent advice from previous real estate roundups.

• The best real estate articles November 2022 – last month’s real estate roundup was filled with inspiring content.
• The best real estate articles from October 2022 – See October’s roundup of great content.

About the Author: The article “Top Real Estate Articles for December 2022″ was written by Sharon Paxson, a top Newport Beach Real Estate Agent. With experience beginning in 2005, representing buyers, sellers, and landlords, we welcome the opportunity to share our expertise with you and guide you through your real estate transaction.