Monday, September 5, 2011

Home Property Value - Factors That Contribute To Price

There are many factors that contribute the value of a home property.  Interest rates and the economy will always play an active role in the equation and can directly effect supply and demand which is the first factor we consider when determining home property value.

Supply and demand is a major factor contributing to home property value. If there is a large quantity of unsold property in an area the buyers have bargaining power and can negotiate prices down. On the other hand too little inventory in a given market has the opposite effect. This can cause propety values to rise dramatically. Houses for sale in highly sought after neighborhoods with little inventory can almost always command a higher than average price.

While all factors come into consideration location is key in determining the value of a house. Sand or City?  Foot for foot, homes near the ocean or located in a major metro area are almost always valued higher than those in the suburbs. You can make all the home improvements in the world but if the property is in a remote location that is where it will stay.

Another key factor to consider when determining home property value is to compare your home with active local listings. While all properties are unique and will command a different price a general price range can be cultivated using this strategy. We look at similar houses currently on the market, expired listings and houses that have sold in the surrounding areas.

Along with location and comparables the neighborhood surrounding your home can affect the value of your home.  A neighborhood with a prominent school district may be more desirable than a neighborhood with high traffic, dark alleys, noise, or potential natural dissasters.

Another consideration in property value is the house itself and upgrades to the structure. Landscaping, remodeling the kitchen, installing wood flooring, new paint, tile roofing, energy efficient lighting all can increase property value. When planning a major remodel make sure to speak to a professional to ensure your money will be well spent on upgrades. While a coy pond in the entry way may be part of the paradise you envision it may not have much appeal to the home buyer who is terrified of fish.

Supply and demand, location, comparables, the neighborhood, basic structure and improvements to the property are just some of the factors to consider when determining home property value. To access the most accurate data regarding home property value login an try our site.

Monday, August 22, 2011

7 Considerations To Refinance


As the economy changes and your home value adjusts here are some considerations to help you decide if the time is right to refinance your property. 

Rates are lower, should we refinance?
If the interest rate is lower than your current rate and you are saving monthly on your payment then it might be a good decision. When making this decision look at your long term goals to ensure it makes financial sense. By taking the amount you pay in closing costs (not to include your prepaid interest, taxes or insurance) and divide this number by your projected savings per month, this will give you the time it will take to recoup these costs. From there you can determine whether or not to move forward.

There are many options available. The fees associated with refinancing your mortgage can be negotiated with the institution you decide to work with. 

Can my closing costs be financed?
When refinancing, you have the option to include the closing cost in your new loan if there is enough equity. 

Is an appraisal necessary when I refinance?
Yes, unless you are doing an FHA streamline refinance (for existing FHA mortgage holders only, FHA does not require an appraisal)

What is the difference between a Fixed Rate and ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage)?
A fixed rate mortgage will be for a term of 10, 15, 20, 30 or 40 years and the interest rates stay the same throughout the term of the loan. An adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) means that after a fixed term of 1, 3, 5, 7or 10 years, your interest rate can change according to the terms of your note.

What is an Interest Only Loan?
This type of loan is fixed for a specified term (ARM) and you are only required to pay the interest only portion of the payment. This will usually reduce the monthly payment significantly. You also have the option to pay additional monies towards the principal of the loan.

What is Cash out Refinance?
If you have enough equity in your property, you may be eligible to refinance with a loan amount greater than your existing mortgage. You can use this money for home improvement, debt consolidation, college tuition or other areas that this money may be needed.

A HomeValue Fax Report provides price prediction,  range depending on variances in location, view, quality & condition, sale trends & market data influencing the potential appraisal of your home helping you determine your equity, loan and program options, saving you time, money, frustration and disappointment.

For more information on Home Values please visit http//www.homevaluefax.com or http://homevaluefax.com/homeowner.html