REAL ESTATE & RESTORATION Rockstars 30 MARCH 2025 | INTHEVUE.COM Each type of home is different, every mortgage product is different too! The loan products we offer have different benefits for credit scores, income levels, and down payments. The type of loan you qualify for changes your down payment! Many people think of a “traditional” loan needing 20% down payment when trying to buy a home but there are many options that require much less. Being in a rural county allows many people to qualify for a USDA loan with 100% financing. If you are a qualifying military service member or veteran, VA loans offer 100% financing as well! Conventional and Home Ready loans offer down payment options as low as 3%, and FHA offer down payments as low as 3.5%. When you begin the process of buying a house, your lender will be able to look at your goals and your finances to give you the best mortgage options! - LAKE CHEM FEDERAL CREDIT UNION How does my loan type affect my down payment? THE PROS to Know - BEN SIRK, SIRK & COMPANY REAL ESTATE Real estate costs are among the highest of most businesses’ expenses, and the decision to buy or lease can mean the difference between success and failure. Purchasing real estate allows you to take advantage of depreciation, make changes as needed, and grow equity over time. You can even lease out extra space for additional income and lease your space back to yourself as a tax deduction. However, owners must often carry the full load of expenses like property taxes, insurance, and maintenance, and they have a long-term commitment to a specific location. Leasing allows flexibility to relocate more easily, decrease risks of volatile market shifts, and sometimes pass off expenses to the landlord. But you could lock yourself into a rent payment or expense reimbursement that outpaces ownership costs over time. And, you don’t build any equity, have full control of the space, or get to take advantage of depreciation or additional rental income. Should a business buy or lease its real estate, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each option? - MELINDA WATSON, KELLER WILLIAMS EXPERIENCE REALTY Pricing your property correctly from the start is crucial. In a changing real estate market, it’s important to stay ahead rather than play catch-up. We analyze factors like your home’s condition, unique features, recent comparable sales, and current listings to determine the best price. While it may be tempting to list high with the idea of lowering the price later, overpricing can lead to longer market times and, ultimately, lower sale prices. A well-priced home, on the other hand, attracts more buyers and can lead to stronger offers. Beyond pricing, we’ll discuss how to prepare your home to attract buyers, from strategic updates to effective staging techniques that enhance buyer appeal. Even small adjustments can enhance listing photos and showings. Our marketing strategy includes professional photography and targeted outreach to maximize your home’s exposure. My commitment is to partner with you to make informed decisions that position your home for success in the market. What are the key factors to consider when selling your home?