Area Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

Sept. 5, 2023

Bringing Southern Charm into Your Home Decor: Tips to Achieve an Authentic Vibe

If you're a Southern hospitality and charm fan, why not bring some of that warmth into your home decor? Luckily, adding a touch of Southern inspiration is relatively easy, regardless of where you live. With the right colors, textures, patterns, and textiles, you can create an inviting and charming space that reflects your personality and a bit of Southern flair.

 

Mix Antique and Modern

Southern charm is all about creating a lived-in feeling with unique character. One way to achieve that is to mix antique and modern pieces. Look for vintage items that are still functional and use them alongside newer items that can complement them. For example, an antique wooden trunk as a coffee table in a modern living room can add a historical touch and warmth. 

 

Embrace Porch Life 

The Southern porch is a place for relaxation, conversation, and soaking in the sunsets. Incorporating Southern porch traditions such as rocking chairs, joggling boards, and gas lanterns can bring an authentic touch to your outdoor space. Add some plants and flowers for a softer, more inviting atmosphere. 

 

Foster Warmth 

Hospitality is the cornerstone of Southern charm. Creating a cozy and welcoming space for guests can make them feel right at home. Use soft color schemes and comfortable textures that appeal to the senses. Try to incorporate personal touches like family heirlooms, photo displays, or monograms for an added level of charm.

 

Play with Colors and Textures

Southern charm is all about creating a warm and inviting space. Playing with colors and textures can add depth and richness to any room. Use a purposeful color scheme and mix patterns, textures, and fabrics that complement each other. Consider using bold designs and prints on pillows, curtains, or area rugs to add a little bit of personality to the space.

 

Repurpose Vintage Elements

Vintage textiles and goods are always in style. Repurpose old fabrics into curtains, tablecloths, and throw pillows. Integrate unique vintage finds into your decor, like a tarnished tray or an old window frame as a picture frame. Be creative and use those vintage pieces in unexpected ways.

 

Enhance Curb Appeal

A Southern home is always inviting from the outside in. Brightly painted doors, flower pots, and plants add charm and color to the exterior of your home. Consider installing a porch swing for a touch of Southern romance. A little curb appeal can do wonders for creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

 

Find Your New Dream Home Today

Creating a Southern-inspired space is about blending modern and vintage pieces, celebrating porch life, infusing hospitality, playing with colors and textures, repurposing vintage elements, and enhancing curb appeal. With some creativity and effort, you can transform your home into a warm and inviting space that reflects a bit of Southern charm. 

Are you looking for a new home with some Southern flair? Get in contact with Chapel Hill Realty Group at (919) 740-0884 today to learn more about available houses in Orange, Durham, and Chatham counties. 

Posted in Market Updates
Aug. 14, 2023

The Advantages of Solar Homes

If you are considering purchasing Chapel Hill real estate, consider whether you want a home with solar power. Solar homes are becoming increasingly popular across the country for many reasons, and they are more affordable than they have been in years. Here are just a few of the advantages of solar homes.

 

 

Lower Your Utility Bills

Are high utility bills getting you down? Sky-high utility bills are common during the winter and summer months, but many people don’t know they can significantly reduce their bills using solar energy. The savings you enjoy will depend on factors such as how much electricity you use, the size of your solar energy system, and how much power your system can generate. If you want to enjoy the benefits of a solar energy system but don’t want to pay the full amount to install one, you should consider leasing a system instead. This can save you money for years to come without the upfront costs of permanently installing a system.

 

Increase the Value of Your Home 

Did you know that installing a solar panel system can increase the value of your home? Recently, solar systems have become just as desirable as fancy kitchens and finished basements. Simply put, homebuyers are willing to pay more for homes that can save them money on utilities. You may be able to financially benefit by offering a prepaid lease to potential buyers.

 

No Power Outages 

Power outages are no fun, especially when they are caused by inclement weather and last days at a time. However, you don’t have to worry about days-long power outages if you own a solar panel system. You can utilize electricity even when your grid isn’t working by pairing it with a battery storage system that stores electricity. Modern battery technology has also made batteries last longer. With a solar panel system on your side, you’ll never be left in the dark.

 

Heat Your Swimming Pool 

If your home has a swimming pool, the cooler fall and winter months make it impossible to use. Not being able to go for a swim between October and April can be irritating, but with a solar system, you can heat your pool during colder months without drastically increasing your electricity bill.

 

Solar Panels Are Affordable 

The price of solar panels has significantly decreased over the years, and now, they are more affordable than ever. Due in part to the federal residential solar tax credit, homeowners who install solar panels can claim up to a 30% tax credit on the installation cost when they file their income taxes. Many companies also offer generous financing options to fit a wide range of budgets.

 

View Chapel Hill Real Estate Listings Today 

Chapel Hill Realty Group is here if you are ready to buy Chapel Hill real estate, with or without solar panels. We maintain the most up-to-date listings in Orange, Durham, and Chatham counties, and we are ready to help you find your next home. Contact us today or call us at (919) 740-0884 to speak to a real estate expert.

Posted in Market Updates
July 26, 2023

23 Ways to Add Curb Appeal to Your Home

The front of your home is the first thing guests and potential buyers see. Here are some easy ways to improve your residence’s curb appeal.

One-Day Projects

1. Paint the Front Door

The door should be the focus of your home’s exterior. Give it a fresh look by adding a new coat of paint.

2. Make Over Your Mailbox

Your mailbox could probably use a new paint job, as well. You can even plant a garden around it.

3. Add Seating

Outdoor furniture can make your house feel more inviting. Throw pillows and end tables can turn a patio into a second living room.

4. Install Outdoor Lights

Lights do not just brighten up the outside of your home. They also provide security.

5. Use Symmetrical Compositions

A symmetrical entryway is eye-catching. Move your front-door accents to create symmetry.

6. Replace Hardware

Old house numbers or locksets can give potential buyers a bad impression. Update them so they work together as a unit.

7. Install Window Boxes

Window boxes add some color to your home’s exterior. For a more traditional look, opt for iron or copper boxes.

8. Buy Container Gardens

Buy pre-planted container gardens from your local garden center. Arrange them asymmetrically to create a livelier look.

9. Upgrade Your Garden Beds

Overgrown weeds can detract from your garden bed. Spruce things up by pruning overgrown plants.

10. Add a Fence or Gate

Put a fence in your yard and plant some annuals. You can also install a welcome gate.

Weekend Projects

11. Install Shutters

Accent trim or shutters can make a home look more beautiful. Trim is particularly low maintenance.

12. Create a Garden

Use planting beds to create a new outdoor garden. Pick plants that are different textures, sizes and colors.

13. Plant Streetside Flowers

If you have space between your sidewalk and the street, you can put some flowers there, as well. Use native plants like Baptisia.

14. Make Your Entrance Inviting

Adding molding or plants to your doorway can draw attention to your entrance. These updates are inexpensive, too.

15. Add Fence Panels

Once your garden is complete, surround it with fence panels. Then paint them so they match the color of your home.

16. Buy Outdoor Art

Outdoor artwork can make your home look whimsical. Just make sure the pieces you pick are weather resistant.

17. Replace Gutters

Rust spots indicate that your gutters need an upgrade. Have a professional install a new system.

Month-Long Projects

18. Fix Exterior Surfaces

Repair any rotting or cracked material in your home’s exterior. Defects can detract from the property’s appearance.

19. Clean the Driveway

Start by fixing any driveway stains and cracks. Then add flagstones or pavers.

20. Upgrade the Steps

Skip the drab welcome mat. Instead, add tiling to your front steps.

21. Repair Railings

Porch railings can wear down over time. Replace them with quality metal or wood components.

22. Apply Stone Veneer

Manufactured or natural stone can make masonry details look fancy. Stone also lasts a long time.

23. Construct a Walkway

Finally, invite guests to your home with a contoured walkway. Construct it using brick or stone.

Selling Your Home

Boosting your home’s curb appeal is a great way to get your house prepared to hit the market. Once you are ready to sell your house, contact our experienced and knowledgeable agents at Chapel Hill Realty Group, or call us at 919-740-0884.

 

Posted in Market Updates
June 22, 2023

7 Benefits to Owning a Second Home

Residential real estate has strong investment potential, but this is not the only reason many Americans are choosing to invest in second homes. While certain factors, such as the strength of the real estate market in your area, might help you determine when the time might be best to buy a second property, there are many clear benefits that come with doing so.  

Here’s a closer look at seven reasons to consider investing in a second home

1. It Has Tax Benefits 

Owning a second home allows you to take advantage of certain tax breaks. More specifically, you may be able to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes and rental expenses from any homes you own. The exact tax breaks to which you may be eligible may vary based on whether your second home serves as your primary residence, among other factors, but these tax breaks may add up, leading to significant savings over time. 

2. It Generates Vacation Rental Income 

Depending how often you use your second home and where you choose to buy it, you may have the option of renting it out and generating money through rental income. This may help you pay the mortgage on the second residence, and it may, too, help offset any expenses relating to depreciation. 

3. It May Appreciate in Value Over Time 

While it is difficult to predict where the real estate market is going to go each year, real estate tends to appreciate over time better than vehicles and most other investments. Typically, the longer you own a second property, the more you are going to see it appreciate in value. 

4. It Gives You a Designated Vacation Destination

With all the financial benefits that often accompany buying a second home, you might forget about the other perks that come with owning another property – especially if it is in an in-demand location. Many people invest in second homes to have a designated place to take their families on weekends or vacations. 

5. It Helps Diversify Your Assets

Investing in a second home helps you diversify your assets, which in turn reduces the risk of financial losses in other areas. This may come in handy if one or more of your other investments fail to produce what you thought they would. 

6. It May Help You Access Emergency Funds 

Having a second home may also prove beneficial if you face a financial emergency and find yourself needing cash fast. To free up cash quickly, you may be able to access your second home’s equity through a home equity loan while leaving your primary home untouched.

7. It May Bring You Closer to Loved Ones

Many people buy second homes as they age because they want to have a regular place to stay when visiting adult children or grandchildren. Your second home may also be able to double as a vacation property for other loved ones visiting from outside the area. 

Explore Your Options 

Discover the possibilities of having a vacation retreat or investment property that can provide both enjoyment and potential financial gains. Whether you're looking for a cozy beach cottage or a mountain getaway, Chapel Hill Realty can help you find the perfect second home that matches your needs and preferences. Don't wait! Call Chapel Hill Realty today at (919) 740-0884 and let our experienced team guide you through the process of finding your dream second home.

 

Posted in Market Updates
May 24, 2023

The Art of Home Staging: How to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale

When selling your home, the best way to prepare it for viewing is by going through a process called staging. Staging displays the strengths and features of your home, so potential buyers can see the benefits of purchasing it. It also impacts how fast your property sells and the amount of money you're able to get. If you want to know how to stage your home, here's what you need to do.

Boost Curb Appeal

Impress potential buyers as soon as they arrive by making small improvements to the exterior of your home. Here are a few important things that you should do:

Place outdoor furniture on your porch or stoop.

Replace old house numbers and a worn-out mailbox.

  Paint the front door with a bright but coordinating color.

  Use a pressure washer to clean dirt and grime off the roof, siding and gutters.

  Cut and trim the lawn, hedges and flowerbeds. Adding landscape lighting is an option too.

The hard work you put into cleaning and upgrading the outside of your home will increase its value and help you to sell it more quickly.

Make Minor Repairs

Before staging the inside of your home, walk around and make note of minor repairs that need to be completed. Some of these tasks include fixing a leaky faucet or a running toilet and patching small holes in the walls. Broken appliances that you are unable to fix may also need to be replaced. If you need information on which repairs are worth fixing while staging your home, look for a professional real estate agent who can help you.

Depersonalize

It's easier for potential buyers to visualize living in your home when you go through and depersonalize it. This involves removing personal belongings that you and your family use daily, along with items that are displayed throughout your home. Such items include:

  Toys 

  Clothes

  Kid's art

  Family photos

  Hygiene products    

A potential buyer is more likely to purchase your house when it feels like home to them.

Declutter and Deep Clean

Staging sets you apart from other sellers by showing off the strongest features of your home. By getting rid of clutter such as excess furniture and furnishings, buyers can appreciate the amount of space and defining features in your home. To really make your place shine, a deep cleaning should be performed once the clutter is gone.

Rearrange Furniture

Resist the urge to stage your furniture flush against the wall. Leaving space between the couch and the wall creates a more spacious and conversational area. Repositioning your furniture also allows visitors to enter, sit, move around and exit more comfortably.

Freshen the Air

Create a pleasant-smelling environment for buyers to enjoy as they walk through your home. To freshen up the air, use fragrances from products such as:

  Scented candles 

  Essential oils

  Fresh cut flowers

  Air Freshener

Pleasant smells help your home to stand out and buyers looking at multiple listings are more likely to remember it.

Get Help Staging Your Home 

Staging your home allows you to emphasize its benefits and best features for potential buyers to see. If you need help with this or selling your home, contact Chapel Hill Realty Group today at 919-740-0884. We understand the importance of staging and can advise you on the best way to do it.

 

Posted in Market Updates
April 20, 2023

How to Inspect the Plumbing in a New Home Before You Buy

Purchasing a new home is an exciting time in your life. Whether it is your first time or a new investment towards your dream home, you must check several factors to ensure you make an intelligent acquisition. One of the essential factors is checking the plumbing. Being proactive and knowing if everything functions correctly will save you from costly repairs after the sale. Here are some simple ways to check to ensure the water to your potential new home is running efficiently.

Inspect Drain and Water Lines

Walk through the home and inspect the water lines throughout the house. Look under the cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms and check the pipes for any possible issues. The lines should not show signs of any leaks or discoloration. Additionally, look for signs of corrosion or poor reparations. Any of these factors can be signs of potential problems. It is also necessary to check all the drains to ensure they are clear. Run some water and check to see how fast the drain is clearing. It is an excellent way to evaluate whether there is a potential clog if it drains slowly beyond typical household drain debris.

Ask About the Age of the Water Heater

Most water heaters last approximately ten years. If the water heater is approaching the end of its life, you will need to prepare for an expensive replacement. A simple way to check is to go online and search for the make and model number. An old water heater can pose additional problems, so it is better to take action ahead to avoid potential issues.

Check the Water Pressure

While walking through your potential new home, feel free to turn on all the faucets in the house. The water pressure will help you gauge whether there are clogs further down the line or other potential issues. If the pressure is unusually high, it can damage your appliances and the water heater, adding to additional expenses.

Inquire About the Water Supply

The pipes that feed water into the house are just as important as what is happening inside. If the water supply coming into the house is through faulty supply pipes, it can lead to future problems. For instance, find out if the lines are galvanized or constructed of polybutylene. Modern plumbing will be more cost-effective in the future.

Look for Water Damage

While investigating the water supply and pressure, another critical element to look for is any sign of water damage. Check crawlspaces and the basement for noticeable stains or leaks. Check the ceilings for signs of a prior leak or faulty repairs. Another place to check is around the toilets. Look for warping around the base and make sure the toilet flushes correctly.

When purchasing a new home, it's important to ask the right questions and carefully examine the fundamental elements to maximize your investment and avoid potential issues down the road. Don't let the excitement of buying a new home cloud your judgment. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate the property. To make sure you don't miss anything, reach out to Chapel Hill Realty Group at 919-740-0884. Our expert realtors can guide you through the process and ensure you make a sound investment. 

 

Posted in Market Updates
March 20, 2023

Freshen Up Your Home With Spring Maintenance Tasks

When winter ends and spring begins, it's easy to start thinking of all the exciting things that are on the way. From spending more time outside to barbeques to summer vacations, you can see the possibilities. To enjoy all of those moments to the fullest, it's a good idea to have your house in order so you don't have to worry about it. At the start of spring, take a moment to freshen up your home with some simple maintenance tasks.

Indoor Spring Maintenance

Spring days can vary wildly in temperature, so it's a good idea to have some indoor items on your list for those cool or rainy days. Here are some good things to add to your to-do list:

 Deep clean: Spring is the perfect opportunity to give your home a deep clean. Dust surfaces, wash windows, vacuum or sweep floors and clean carpets and upholstery.

 Check smoke detectors: Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.

 Check HVAC: Have your HVAC system serviced by a professional. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, checking the refrigerant levels and inspecting the system for any damage or wear and tear. Consider getting your chimney cleaned as well.

 Check plumbing: Check for leaks and drips in your plumbing system and repair them as necessary. Inspect the water heater for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or corrosion.

 Clean appliances: Clean your appliances, including the refrigerator, oven and dishwasher. This is the time to move the appliances and get anything that's fallen behind them.

You can do a lot of these tasks in just one weekend and they are good things to do if you plan on selling your home anytime soon.

Outdoor Spring Maintenance

When you have nice weather conditions, it's a good idea to also tackle a bit of outdoor spring maintenance. A few of these tasks require ladders and climbing, so work with a partner to stay safe.

 Clean gutters: Clean gutters and downspouts to remove debris and prevent water damage to your home. This will prevent water issues for your home.

 Inspect roof: Inspect the roof for any damage, such as loose or missing shingles, and replace them as needed.

 Check exterior: Examine the exterior of your home for any damage, such as cracks in the foundation or siding.

 Landscaping: Prune trees and bushes and plant new flowers and plants in your garden. Trimming protects your property while helping the plants grow properly in the new spring season.

 Check irrigation system: Test your irrigation system to make sure it's working correctly. Some pipes or spouts could have frozen and cracked during the winter. Check for leaks or broken sprinkler heads.

By performing these spring maintenance tasks, you'll be able to enjoy your outdoor spaces.

Embrace Spring Maintenance and Have a Great Year

It may take a bit of elbow grease, but spring maintenance can pay off in a big way. Not only do you get to live in a clean and orderly space, but you also stay ahead of potential maintenance problems that could become costly later. To see which spring cleaning tasks can help improve the value of your home, reach out to Chapel Hill Realty Group at 919-740-0884 for a chat.



Posted in Market Updates
Feb. 16, 2023

Seven Ways To Create a More Beautiful Front Door Entryway

Your front door makes an impression on visitors and passersby. With the right design, you can make guests feel welcome and boost curb appeal. Of course, you must find decor that works in an outdoor, public space. To jumpstart your creativity, here are seven ideas for beautifying your front door.

1. Roll Out the Welcome Mat

Welcome mats are an affordable and easy way to add something special to your front porch. A simple mat can fulfill several functions:

  Remind people to wipe their feet

  Prevent slipping

  Offer a laugh or cheerful greeting

There are as many welcome mats as there are homeowners, so you're sure to find something that suits your style. If you don't want to place your rug outside, you can always keep it in your entryway.

2. Embrace Greenery

Plants are more than decorations — they can reduce stress and improve air quality. As a result, they're the perfect way to set visitors at ease.

Of course, various plants have different needs. If you place them on the porch, they'll get lots of sun, which not every species can handle. Fortunately, several plants flourish in direct sunlight:

  Coneflowers

  Hydrangeas

  Lantanas

  Succulents

  Verbenas

  Geraniums

  Zinnias

  Spider flowers

  Cosmos

3. Upgrade the Lighting

Front porch lighting helps guests find their way and discourages would-be burglars. You can also turn this functional feature into intriguing decor with the right design. For example, string lights offer ambient illumination while creating a festive atmosphere. Pendant lights draw the eye and come in various shapes, including abstract.

4. Offer Comfortable Seating

The front porch is the perfect place to read a book, chat with friends or enjoy a cup of coffee on a beautiful day. Comfortable seating invites people to spend time catching up while giving your house character. You can find plenty of unique seating options:

  Hammock

  L-shaped porch bed

  Wicker chairs

  Church pew

  Porch swing

  Rocking chairs

5. Stencil Your Concrete

If you have a concrete porch, steps or walkway, you can add personality with stenciling. You can choose from a wide range of patterns:

  Floral

  Geometric

  Brick

The process is relatively simple: adhere the stencil to the concrete, then apply a stain. When you remove the stencil, you'll have a light pattern and dark background.

6. Decorate Seasonally

The front door and porch are perfect for seasonal decorations. You can place holiday-themed pillows on your furniture, hang a wreath and string lights on the porch railings. Best of all, you can decorate as comprehensively as you want, so if you love a particular holiday, go wild.

7. Choose Charming Colors

Colors significantly impact the human psyche, so choosing the right palette is essential, especially if you plan to sell anytime soon. Blues have a calming influence, so they're a great choice if you want a serene atmosphere. Yellows represent happiness, making them prime candidates for a cheerful exterior. Reds have a strong association with passion and excitement, helping your house stand out.

Are you looking for a house with the perfect porch? The experts at Chapel Hill Realty Group can help. We assist buyers in their dream home search and aid sellers in listing their properties. For more information, call 919-740-0884 or visit us online

 

Posted in Market Updates
Jan. 10, 2023

How to Compare Homes in Different Metro Areas

 

List price by itself can be an ineffective or incomplete way of comparing homes in different metro areas. That holds even if you adjust list prices for the cost of living and the different salaries you might earn in various areas. When assessing properties, consider factors such as commuting distance and availability of amenities.

5 Metrics to Compare Homes in Different Areas

One critical factor is the expenses associated with that neighborhood or metro area. These are not always expenses tied to the cost of living.

1. Whether Your Expenses Will Be Higher or Lower

Some metro areas come with increased security risks. You might need to pay for a security system and shell out more money in car and home insurance rates in one area than in another. Other common areas in which expenses differ include taxes, gas, food, and even private school tuition.

2. Your Income

If you work for your company at a branch in a certain metro area, will your income differ from if you worked at a branch in another area? Many times, employees doing the same jobs in different cities get paid different salaries.

The difference might be enough to compensate for any higher expenses, but run the numbers to make sure. Ensure that you have a comfortable monthly budget for your new home and enough funds for a down payment.

3. Your Commute

What is the traffic like in one metro area versus another? Ideally, you’ll be able to test-drive your commute in each area a few times. Whether you are able to test-drive or not, it’s worth taking the time to research commutes, public transportation options, gas costs, and similar factors.

Keep in mind that commuting can get expensive with long trips, high gas costs, and vehicle wear and tear. If you are gone from home a lot, that can also decrease your quality of life. You have less time for personal activities.

In other words, a cheaper or bigger house farther out from your job could end up being a bad deal if it chews up your wallet and your free time. However, if you work from home as many people do, it could be the bargain of the century.

4. Amenities in the Area

Shopping malls, dog parks, and mental health resources are just a few of the essentials many people compare when exploring different metro areas. It can be worth paying more for a home with access to lots of amenities and resources.

Mental and emotional health issues are important, as is convenience. Sometimes, people move and find themselves isolated when a bit more research would have directed them to a different area.

5. Your Support System

Where do your trusted friends and family members live? Proximity to them could give one metro area an edge over another.

Let Real Estate Specialists Help

Real estate agents can be valuable sources of data and other information on properties in various metro areas. Get in touch today with Chapel Hill Realty Group at 919-740-0884 to find out more about houses and regions in North Carolina.

Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 14, 2022

Cash Out Refi vs. Home Equity Loan: What You Need to Know

 

Your home equity can give you cash when you need it for home improvement projects, paying down debt, and other purposes. A cash-out refinance and a home equity loan are common options for tapping into that equity, but they are not right for every homeowner. Here’s the scoop on a cash out refi vs. home equity loan.

Cash Out Refi vs. Home Equity Loan: Key Differences

Both a home equity loan and cash-out refinance have you borrowing against your home's equity. You put your home up as collateral and can avoid selling it to get the money you need. These are key similarities. Now for the differences.

  A home equity loan is a second loan in addition to your regular mortgage loan.

  This second loan has its own interest rates and terms different from the first loan.

  A cash-out refinance replaces your mortgage with a new loan.

  The refinance pays the balance on your old loan.

  It is called a "cash out" because the new loan is for the debt remaining on the first mortgage plus the amount of money you are cashing out from the home's equity.

Cash-Out Refinancing

Your cash-out refinance will likely come with an interest rate that differs from what you've had and a loan period of up to 30 years. Credit score requirements tend to be lower vs. home equity loans. That is because the financer on a home equity loan has secondary access to the home as collateral if the loan defaults. Primary access remains with the holder of the first mortgage.

Generally, you must have at least 20 percent equity or more in your home to qualify for a cash-out. This type of refinance gives you one loan, not two, to manage, so that is an advantage. Interest rates tend to be low, and you can qualify with a relatively low credit score.

On the con side, closing costs tend to be high, and the process of a new loan can take a bit of time. Your finances must be in good shape and include a low debt-to-income ratio.

Home Equity Loan

With a home equity loan, you borrow against the equity in your home. You may be able to borrow as much as 85 percent of the equity especially if you have sufficient income and a stellar credit history.

Home equity loan interest rates are lower than the rates with personal loans and credit cards. The equity interest rates tend to be fixed, and you can use the cash for practically any purpose. The monthly payments can be low if you have a longer repayment term but you're paying on this loan in addition to your first mortgage.

If the payment comes in a lump sum, you may end up with more cash than you needed for your purposes. If this happens, you can put that extra money toward repayment.

Your credit score must be good, but the closing costs tend to be pretty low or nonexistent. A home equity loan can be a smart decision if you find one at an interest rate quite a bit lower than your mortgage rate.

Home equity loans come in two types: traditional and HELOC (home equity line of credit). A traditional loan gives you a lump sum and has you make regular, fixed payments.

HELOCs take the form of revolving lines of credit. They function similarly to credit cards in that you get replenished credit when you repay your balance. Unlike with credit cards, you could lose your house if you fail to pay on your HELOC. You are able to borrow as little or as much money as you want during the draw period. That tends to last 10 years, then the 20-year repayment period begins.

 

Contact Chapel Hill Realty Group today at 919-740-0884 to discuss buying a new home and the associated loans or selling your home instead of getting a cash-out refi or home equity loan.

Posted in Market Updates