Thursday, June 1, 2023 / by Lance Kelehan
As a buyer, one of the most crucial steps in the homebuying process is the home inspection. A home inspection is a thorough examination of the home's structure, systems, and components to identify any defects or issues that may need to be addressed. Here's what buyers can expect during a home inspection and what to look for when hiring a home inspector.
The Home Inspection Process:
A home inspection typically takes a few hours to complete and involves a comprehensive examination of the home's interior and exterior. The inspector will examine the roof, foundation, electrical system, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and other structural components of the home. They will also check for any signs of water damage, mold, or pest infestations.
After the inspection, the inspector will provide a report outlining their findings. This report will include a list of any issues or defects they found, along with recommendations for repairs or replacements.
What to Look for When Hiring a; ...
Read More
first time home buyer, homebuying, home buyer tips, inspections
Thursday, June 1, 2023 / by Lance Kelehan
Welcome to The Local Acadiana Real Estate Market Update with Lance Kelehan!
If you have any questions, feel free to email me at moneyman@kw.com.
The real estate market statistics for this period reveal some interesting trends. The number of new listings stands at 708, indicating a healthy level of activity in the market. However, the total active listings are relatively lower, at 1591, suggesting a smaller supply of homes compared to the current demand.
534 homes were sold during this period, which reflects a significant level of buyer activity and indicates a relatively strong market. The relatively low number of months of inventory, at 2.9, which further highlights a seller's market, suggests that there is a limited supply of homes available relative to the current rate of sales, potentially leading to increased competition among buyers.
The average days on the market, at 64, imply that homes are selling relatively quickly, which is a positive indicator for sellers ...
Read More
market recap, market stats
Monday, May 1, 2023 / by Lance Kelehan
As a buyer, one of the most important aspects of buying a home is securing financing. There are many different financing options available for homebuyers, including mortgages, and it's important to understand these options and how to qualify for the best rates. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common types of financing options for homebuyers:
Conventional Mortgage: A conventional mortgage is a home loan that is not guaranteed or insured by the government. These loans typically require a higher credit score and down payment than other types of mortgages, but they also offer some of the lowest interest rates available.
FHA Loan: An FHA loan is a government-backed mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. These loans are designed to help lower-income and first-time homebuyers qualify for a mortgage. FHA loans typically require a lower down payment and credit score than conventional mortgages, but they also require mortgage insurance premiums.
VA Loan; ...
Read More
first time home buyer, homebuying, home buyer tips, financing
Monday, May 1, 2023 / by Lance Kelehan
Welcome to The Local Acadiana Real Estate Market Update with Lance Kelehan!
If you have any questions, feel free to email me at moneyman@kw.com. ...
Read More
market recap, market stats
Wednesday, April 12, 2023 / by Lance Kelehan
As a realtor, I'm often asked by clients whether it's better to buy or rent a home. The decision to buy or rent can have significant long-term financial implications, so it's important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of each option. Here are some factors to consider when comparing the costs and benefits of buying versus renting a home:
Upfront costs: When buying a home, there are significant upfront costs, including a down payment, closing costs, and home inspection fees. Renting, on the other hand, typically only requires a security deposit and first month's rent.
Monthly costs: When buying a home, monthly costs include mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs. Renting typically only includes rent and utilities.
Equity and appreciation: When you buy a home, you build equity in the property, which can be a valuable long-term investment. Additionally, the value of the property may appreciate over time, further increasing its ; ...
Read More
first time home buyer, homebuying, owning vs. renting