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!

Jan. 21, 2019

MLS homes- Search MLS homes in Yuma AZ

Search yuma mls homes

search mls homes

Searching for MLS homes in Yuma AZ, is quite easy. The easiest way is to search through our website. That’s right, our site is connected directly to Yuma’s entire MLS system. All you need to do is go to our main page or click on the “Home Search” button on the menu bar. You will then be redirected to a page where you will be able to select different criteria for your search.

Our site is continuously connected to Yuma’s MLS and is updated immediately with any changes. If you sing up, you will be able to receive immediate notifications on new listings or price changes.

searching yuma mls homes

yuma az mls homes

The other way to search MLS homes, is for us to set you up directly within our MLS proprietary client portal. This will allow you to search all MLS homes just like you can within our site. We can also send you immediate notifications of new homes and price changes within this portal.

So… Searching for MLS homes is super easy and straight forward. Don’t hesitate on contacting us if you need any help or have questions

Posted in Real Estate Blog
Jan. 15, 2019

11 Common Questions to Ask a Realtor When Buying a House

questions to ask a realtor when buying

Are you looking to buy a house soon? Maybe you've already found a house that you're interested in?

But, when you find a house that you like, how are you supposed to know if it's any good? Easy! Ask a real estate agent!

If you're working with a real estate agent, they can help ensure that the house you choose is a good fit for you and your family. But, to ensure it's a good fit, you need to make sure you ask the right questions. 

Check out this guide to learn the top questions to ask a realtor when buying a home. 

1. Why is the Seller Leaving? 

First things first, you want to figure out exactly why the seller is leaving. If they're leaving because they're moving overseas or need something bigger to accommodate a growing family, then you have nothing to worry about. 

However, you may find out that the seller is moving due to an issue with the home, which might make you reconsider your purchase. 

Also, knowing why the seller is moving can help you figure out how motivated they might be to negotiate the price. If they're moving because the suddenly landed a job overseas and they need to get their house off the market, then they may be more willing to negotiate the price. 

2. What's Included in the Sale?

Typically, anything that's considered a fixture is included in the sale- think sinks, cabinets, faucets, and window blinds. 

However, this isn't always the case, which is why you should always inquire. If certain fixtures aren't included in the sale, then you may be able to further negotiate the price. 

3. How Old is the Roof? What About the Major Appliances and Systems? 

Let's face it- roofs are extremely expensive but necessary. If a roof is at the end of its lifespan, you may end up shelling out thousands of dollars within your first few months of moving in. 

This is why you should always ask about the age of the roof beforehand. 

In addition, you should also ask about the age of major appliances and systems. Things you'll want to ask about include the furnace, air conditioner, water heater, stove, washer, and dryer. 

By knowing the age of these items, you'll better be able to anticipate expenses down the road. 

4. What's the Neighborhood Like? 

By investing in a house, you're also investing in a community. 

Therefore, it's very important to ask about the neighbors and the neighborhood. So, ask these questions about the neighborhood:

  • Is it noisy or quiet?
  • Is it pet-friendly?
  • Are the existing neighbors friendly or do they tend to keep to themselves?
  • What are the school ratings and crime statistics?
  • How's traffic?

By finding out more about the neighborhood, you'll be able to see if the place is the right fit for you. 

Questions to Ask a Realtor When Buying a Home: Wrap Up 

Now that you have these questions to ask a realtor when buying a home, it'll be much easier to find your dream home. 

And, if you're buying a home in the Yuma, Arizona area, be sure to check out these listings

Posted in Blog
Jan. 8, 2019

Home Buying 101: Things Every First-Time Buyer Needs to Know

home buying 101

You're excited about buying a home—but don't rush. If you rush into buying a home without knowing home buying 101, you might find yourself in a sticky situation.

We want to make sure that the process of buying a home stays exciting for you. Continue reading this article to learn how to buy a house when it's your first time.

You Need a Home Inspection

If you think you don't need a home inspection because you're purchasing a brand new home, you're mistaken. All homes, even if they are brand new, should have a home inspection from a home inspector you hire.

There may be issues with your potential new home that aren't easy to see or even visible without a proper inspection. If you're trying to save money, this isn't the best strategy because missing a major problem like a plumbing or electrical issue will cost you big time.

Get Prequalified

Before you go out shopping for a home, it is helpful to get prequalified. Some properties won't even allow for showing to buyers that aren't prequalified.

When you get prequalified it makes it easy to go shopping for your new home because you know your limits. If you create a budget without knowing what amount of loan you can qualify for, you may go shopping for homes that are outside of what you can buy. You'll save time and energy if you know what you can buy.

Make a Wishlist

When you're shopping for a home, make a checklist of what is important to you. On your wishlist, you should name all that you want in the perfect house, even if you don't think you'll be able to find one that has everything.

Once you've finished with your wishlist, put an asterisk next to the points that you must have if you buy the house. This list will not only be helpful to you but it will also be helpful to the real estate agent you're working with.

Don't Be Afraid of Negotiation

When you're buying a house for the first time, you might be a little nervous to negotiate. You don't want to lose the home you're going after, so you are willing to pay more than the home is worth.

If you overpay for the home you're buying, this can cause problems in the future. If you want to sell the home, you might not be able to because no one will pay the price you need or if you need a line of credit on your home, you won't be able to get it.

Work with your real estate professional on negotiating a deal that will work out in your best interest.

Now You Know Home Buying 101

Congrats on learning the above home buying 101 tips. You're now on your way to owning your brand new home. Make sure to look at some of the new listings to see what's available for you today.

Posted in Blog
Jan. 1, 2019

7 Benefits of Living in a Multigenerational Home in Yuma, AZ

multigenerational homes

Around 20% of households are multigenerational homes. This number has continued to rise since 1980.

While many people may feel forced to live in this situation because of finances or health concerns, others choose this lifestyle for the many benefits it comes with.

Let's take a look at just a few of the reasons you may want to bring several generations together under one roof.

1. Save Money

Two isn't always better than one, especially when it comes to a mortgage loan. So, rather than paying the bills on two homes, you can easily save money by living with other family members.

You can also save money in other ways, by maintaining fewer vehicles, large appliances, and other normal household expenses.

2. Care for Aging Parents

As people get older, they often need more care. For adult children with other responsibilities, it can be difficult to find the time or money to ensure their aging parents are properly cared for.

If you're in that situation, bringing your parents into your home is an easy way to care for them yourself and ensure they get to medical appointments as needed.

3. Share Childcare Responsibilities

Today, there are more couples than ever in which both the man and woman work in addition to having children. In many homes, covering the cost of childcare is difficult.

However, multigenerational households provide easy access to childcare as there are more adults present that can watch children while parents work.

4. Share Household Chores

Although children can start helping with chores at age two, there are still many things that need to be done around the house which can be difficult for only two adults to cover.

As you add more adults to a household, it makes chores easier for everyone.

5. Strong Family Bonds

According to this study, a strong bond between grandparents and grandchildren can decrease depression in both parties. This is easiest to do when both grandkids and grandparents are in the same home.

6. Pass on Wisdom

There's no way to measure how much wisdom has been lost because of how little time is often spent with previous generations.

Whether it's stories of the way life used to be or a favorite family recipe, having this wisdom passed down is a great way for aging adults to continue to have a sense of purpose in their lives.

7. Safer for Everyone

If an elderly parent has a medical emergency while living alone, there's a far lower chance of them getting help in time compared to if they were living with their children.

There's also a lower chance of something like fire or burglary happening to your house if there's always someone at home which helps keep the entire family safer.

Looking for Multigenerational Homes?

Now you know seven of the benefits that come with multigenerational homes. As you can imagine, there are also challenges that come with these unique living arrangements but the advantages outweigh these.

If you're looking to buy a multigenerational home in Yuma, Arizona, contact us today. We'd be more than happy to show you homes that will allow your whole family to live comfortably under one roof.

Posted in Blog
Nov. 29, 2018

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN FOOTHILLS YUMA AZ

Beautiful home for sale in Foothills Yuma AZ

QUALITY CUSTOM HOME! 14512 E 54th Dr, Yuma AZ 85367. PRICE REDUCED! $294,500.00! This 4 bed, 2 bath home features 2,060 sf of high ceilings, split floorplan, tile high traffic areas, ceiling fans EVERYWHERE, extra insulation = LOW UTILITY BILLS! Master suite features a huge walk-through closet, shower with double heads, & separate jet tub. Fully paved low maint. yard with covered patio & built in wet bar! OVERSIZED GARAGE W/AC & TONS OF OUTLETS! RV Access & Hookup. Too many details and upgrades to list here! Schedule your showing to see this one of a kind home!

Posted in Blog, Real Estate Blog
Nov. 29, 2018

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN FOOTHILLS YUMA AZ

Beautiful home for sale in Foothills Yuma AZ

QUALITY CUSTOM HOME! 14512 E 54th Dr, Yuma AZ 85367. PRICE REDUCED! $294,500.00! This 4 bed, 2 bath home features 2,060 sf of high ceilings, split floorplan, tile high traffic areas, ceiling fans EVERYWHERE, extra insulation = LOW UTILITY BILLS! Master suite features a huge walk-through closet, shower with double heads, & separate jet tub. Fully paved low maint. yard with covered patio & built in wet bar! OVERSIZED GARAGE W/AC & TONS OF OUTLETS! RV Access & Hookup. Too many details and upgrades to list here! Schedule your showing to see this one of a kind home!

Posted in Blog, Real Estate Blog
May 15, 2018

SUMMER TIME IN YUMA... ARE YOU READY? 5 THINGS TO REMEMBER THIS SUMMER!

SUMMER TIME IN YUMA... ARE YOU READY? 5 THINGS TO REMEMBER THIS SUMMER!

 

Summer time in Yuma

Ahhh... Summer time in Yuma. It’s almost officially summer time, but for us Yuman’s it feels like it’s already arrived. With the scorching heat, high humidity and thunderstorms that our monsoon season will bring us, there several things we need to be self aware of. Regardless if you’re a long time resident or a newcomer, take a look at our top 5 reminders to make it through summer in Yuma!

1. Service Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are a must in Yuma! Temperatures linger in the mid 110’s for most of our summer days. There’s nothing worse than having your air conditioner go out on a weekend when you are relaxing or have company visiting. It is highly recommended that you service your air conditioner before every summer to reduce the chances of your Air conditioner giving out at the most inconvenient time. Servicing your AC unit will help you identify any underlying issues with your air conditioner, and can even extend the life of the unit.  As part of a regular maintenance, it is equally important to change your air filter frequently, sometimes as often as once a month. Dirty air filters will make your AC unit work overtime, and much less

Summer time in Yuma

2. Seal your home

Air leaks during the summer can be a costly problem. Make sure all of your windows and doors have weather seals and are in good condition. Make sure any other potential sources of air escape routes are sealed, such as fireplace, dryer vents, kitchen exhaust, holes on ceilings and walls.

Summer time in Yuma

3. Pool Maintenance

Pools are awesome during the summer in Yuma. Swimming is one of the few things us locals take pleasure in doing during the summer. But with great fun, comes great responsibility. The high heat and intense sun can easily disrupt your pool’s chemistry. Algae thrives with high temperatures and sunlight; and Chlorine deteriorates at a tremendous pace. Therefore, it is recommended to check your pool's chemicals and water levels every 2-3 days. If you are busy and short on time, I would recommend hiring a pool maintenance company. Make sure you interview, compare prices, and ask around for recommendations before settling on just anyone.

Summer time in Yuma

4. Thunderstorms

Monsoon season can bring some weather excitement to our region at any moment. Thunderstorms can vary in intensity and duration. Some years are more active than others. Winds can be very strong, and rain fall very heavy. Therefore, it's recommended that you make sure your roof is in good condition, free of any water leaks. Securing everything on the exterior that could possibly be damaged by strong winds is very important. Having emergency items such as batteries, flashlights and a generator is also very important (if you have important perishables). Sometimes we can lose power for several hours. 

Summer time in Yuma

5. Pets

We all love our pets, they are like an extension our families. Although the following advice might seem like common sense, it’s always good to remind ourselves of the dangers we might put our pets in unintentionally. It’s always a good idea not to leave our pets in a vehicle, even if the A/C is left on. It only takes a very short period for heat to be fatal to our pets. If the air conditioner happens to fail, it could potentially be fatal. It’s always recommended to leave our pets behind at home if possible during these extreme hot months. Another good idea is to install a doggy door, if you don’t already have one. This will allow pets to travel in and out of the home to relieve themselves, without someone manually letting them in or out. Forgetting a pet is outside without the proper water and shade can be fatal as well.

Summer time in Yuma

Written by Kenneth Huskey  

 

 

Posted in Real Estate Blog
July 31, 2017

Curious About Local Real Estate?

Receive the Latest Local Market Stats

Curious about local real estate? So are we! Every month we review trends in our real estate market and consider the number of homes on the market in each price tier, the amount of time particular homes have been listed for sale, specific neighborhood trends, the median price and square footage of each home sold and so much more. We’d love to invite you to do the same!

Get Local Market Reports Sent Directly to You

You can sign up here to receive your own market report, delivered as often as you like! It contains current information on pending, active and just sold properties so you can see actual homes in your neighborhood. You can review your area on a larger scale, as well, by refining your search to include properties across the city or county. As you notice price and size trends, please contact us for clarification or to have any questions answered.

We can definitely fill you in on details that are not listed on the report and help you determine the best home for you. If you are wondering if now is the time to sell, please try out our INSTANT home value tool. You’ll get an estimate on the value of your property in today’s market. Either way, we hope to hear from you soon as you get to know our neighborhoods and local real estate market better.

Posted in Market Updates