Tips For Buyers And Sellers

It is certainly nowhere as easy as going to the bank and stating your income on a piece of paper and getting approved these days. However, do not let that deter you. 

The very first thing to do when you decide to purchase a home is look at your credit report, know your credit score! if there are blemishes on your credit, you will have to fix them before you can be approved to get a mortgage. Also, if there is something on your credit that you know should not be there, you may be able to get those removed. Make sure that you leave plenty of time to fix any problems that may affect your credit score. In other words, do not check your credit and expect to fix problems in only a month, leave about six months to fix these marks before applying for a…

It is true that buying a home is cheaper than renting. Reasons for this is that home prices continue to fall and mortgage rates are at historically low levels, and rents are on the rise as more and more people are choosing rentals over buying. The prices of homes are also something to take into consideration. If home prices are on the rise, people are more likely to buy as they expect a bigger return on their investment. 

A great alternative to renting an apartment again, would be to buy a starter home. Just listed in a great neighborhood in Lake Katrine, this cute three bedroom ranch fits the bill. Close in proximity to Kingston, Saugerties and the NYS Thruway makes this a convenient choice. Whether you are using the bedrooms as an office and a guest…

If you are like most people who are interested in purchasing a home, you don’t have enough money in your savings account to cover the entire cost. As such, you will need to go through a lending institution in order to obtain the money you need to purchase your home. To ensure you get the best rate and loan possible, it would be a good idea to take steps toward improving your credit rating before you start looking into your loan options. While improving your credit rating is a process that needs to be completed over time, it really is easier than you might think to improve your credit rating. Whether looking at Maryland luxury homes or a condo in Ulster County, here are 5 tips for improving your credit rating before you purchase a home.

Tip #1: Review…

When buying or selling a house, what is the number one most important thing that we all look at, the kitchen. The kitchen is the center of the home, the place where family and friends gather for food and drink or just conversation. Even if your kitchen is tiny and only three people can fit in it at a time, it is and always will be the heart of the house. 

When you choose to start a remodel on your home, consider starting with the kitchen, it will give you the most return on your investment. However, there are a few things to consider before you start. Look at the homes in your area, go to some open houses, consult a real estate agent on what houses are selling for before you begin. If houses in your neighborhood are selling without granite, stainless…

The trend of solar powered homes is moving from the popular west coast, nationwide, allowing homeowners to combat energy costs by giving back to the power grid. Some of these homeowners are even realizing a small profit. When Walmart is putting solar panels on their buildings, I think it's time that everyone else start thinking about it. 

What is curbing energy consumption? The answer is really common sense. Builders are smartly designing the layout of homes and features such as dual paned windows, air tight duct work, high caliber wall andattic insulation are considered with great detail. When paired with solar energy, which is captured through panels these homes are feeding electricity back into the grid. 

It is true that in the sun-scarce days…

A fixer can be the greatest investment you will ever make, or it can be a huge disaster and money pit. Fixers are great as they are not contingent on the conditions of the real estate market. Any time is a good time to buy a fixer. Lower sales price, less competition (not many people want to buy fixers), and the infinite potential for re-sale.

What should you look for in a fixer? Here are a few suggestions...

Location. You have heard this time and time again. Always remember this valuable piece of advice! Buy the fixer in a desirable neighborhood, with good schools close by, it will make it easier when you go to sell the home. Configuration. How is the house set up, are the bedrooms separated, kitchen on the main floor, etc.? Layout. Is there an open floor…

When looking for homes to purchase, many times we look at so many and just cannot find the perfect house. There is a simple and more affordable solution than you may think: build a home. 

Depending on what your budget is, you can customize every aspect of your new home or you can choose from a range of already existing floor plans and features. Building allows you to have complete control over the way your home is designed, you will gain knowledge and have expert advice right at your fingertips. The builders and contractors will be taking care of the permits and thinking about the codes that need to be followed, leaving you with peace of mind. 

A new development of land called Cedar Ridge in Kingston New York is the perfect place to build your new…

Buying or selling a house is sometimes an overwhelming prospect that can leave you with stress and anxiety. Hiring a real estate agent here at Murphy Realty Group can alleviate that stress, here are some reasons why:

1. Education and Experience - Years of training and experience makes our agents well aware of all the ins and outs of the business. Most likely, they have seen it all, which will make negotiating a breeze.

2. Agents Act as Liaisons - There are multiple calls that need to happen, an agents phone is always ringing. Buyers and sellers can be pushy, agents will guard against bad deals. 

3. Area Knowledge - This is an agents job...think of them as your personal concierge, especially if you are from out of town. They know the…

Spring is just around the corner and is a time when sellers are ready to call an agent and get their home on the market. Preparing and staging your house is beneficial for both obtaining maximum price and for selling quickly. Taking the time to prep your home, turns it into a desirable and very marketable property that buyers will certainly be interested in. Consider the next few ideas before doing anything!

• DO NOT LOOK BACK. Look toward the future! Part with or separate yourself from your house – imagine that it is just someplace to stay temporarily. Look at it as if you will be handing over the keys any day to the new owners.

• DE-PERSONALIZE. Buyers often have a hard time looking past personal photos of family and what you like to call,…

Thanksgiving in Ulster County is always a beautiful time of year. The autumn foliage is still bright and colorful; and decorations are put up, giving that warm glowing feel. The community comes together offering celebration and services to everyone. Some travel to be with friends, family and loved ones, while others open their homes to host Thanksgiving Dinner. If you're like many, who scramble with getting everything prepared, here are some good, and odd tips that may help make things a bit easier in preparing for company......

Cleaver Cleaning Tips!

1. Eliminating Pet Hair - To pick up pet hair, put on a wet rubber dishwashing glove and wipe your hand over surfaces. The hair will stick right to it. 

2. Shaving Cream to clean kitchen/bathroom…