Buying a new construction home seems like an ideal idea - no one has lived in it, brand new features, and modern designs. But underneath the perceived flawless exterior lies investment issues that many homebuyers do not initially consider. In this blog, we will discuss why a new construction home is not always the best investment for buyers in terms of real estate. Higher Prices Many buyers think that purchasing a new construction home will help them save money on costly repairs or renovations that come with older homes, but this is not always the case. A new construction home often comes at a higher price than resale homes because builders need to include the costs of land, materials, and professional fees. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, resale homes might be a better choice. Lower Resale Value New construction homes can depreciate rather quickly over time, especially if the builder has other developments nearby. If you plan to sell your new home in the future, you might end up losing your investment due to low resale values and competition with other new construction homes in the area. Limited Room for Negotiation When buying a new construction home, buyers do not have many options to negotiate prices or features compared to buying a resale home. Builders have set prices and set designs, and any changes you want might come at an additional cost. This lack of flexibility can hurt your budget and leave you with features you did not want or need. Longer Wait Times Building a new construction home takes time, and often construction can take longer than anticipated due to bad weather or unforeseen construction issues. This can be frustrating for buyers who have already sold their current home and have nowhere else to go. Moving into a new construction home might take a while, and waiting too long might leave you with a mortgage and rental fees. Unforeseen Issues A new construction home is not a guarantee for a perfect home. You might face issues after move-in, such as faulty wiring, plumbing issues, or poor quality materials used in the construction process. Fixing these issues might come at additional costs that were not anticipated, leaving some buyers feeling cheated and ultimately costing them more than they budgeted for. A new construction home might seem like a smart investment, but in reality, it comes with a host of issues that many buyers do not consider. From higher prices to lower resale values and limited negotiation options, new construction homes are not always the best investment for real estate buyers. If you are searching for the right home to invest in, consider exploring resale homes, which can offer better value, a range of features and settings, and more affordability. In the end, investing your time in the right home can save you money and spare you headaches in the future. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

If you are in the process of buying a home, you must have come across the term "real estate disclosures." Real estate disclosures are legal documents that provide information about a property's condition, history, and other relevant details. As a home buyer, understanding these disclosures is crucial to making an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at real estate disclosures, what they are, and why they matter. What Are Real Estate Disclosures? Real estate disclosures are legal documents that provide important details about a property that a home buyer should know before making an offer. These documents are typically provided by the seller or their agent, and they are designed to protect the buyer from any potential surprises after the sale. Disclosures vary from state to state, but most cover the property's condition, potential defects, past renovations or repairs, and any other material facts that can affect the property value. Types of Real Estate Disclosures: There are several types of real estate disclosures. Some of the most common ones include: 1) Property Disclosure: This form covers information about the property's condition, including any known defects, such as leaks or structural damage.2) Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: This is required for any home built before 1978, which is when lead-based paint was banned.3) Seller's Property Condition Disclosure: This form provides a complete record of the property's condition and all installed systems, appliances, and features.4) Natural Hazard Disclosure: This covers any natural hazards that may affect the property, such as flooding or earthquakes. Why Are Real Estate Disclosures Important? Real estate disclosures are essential because they help buyers make informed decisions. By knowing what the potential problems are, homebuyers can avoid expensive repairs or unexpected surprises after closing. Disclosures also protect sellers from future legal problems by disclosing any material defects or issues upfront. What Happens If There Are Issues Disclosed? If a seller discloses any issues with the property, the buyer has the opportunity to review the disclosure documents and decide whether to proceed with the purchase. If there are significant issues, the buyer can ask the seller to fix them or renegotiate the price of the property. Additionally, the buyer can choose to hire a home inspector prior to closing on the property if they want to ensure that any potential issues are identified before making an offer. In conclusion, real estate disclosures play a vital role in the home buying process. They provide transparency and help buyers make informed decisions. For sellers, they protect them from potential legal problems down the road. As a home buyer, it is crucial to review all disclosures carefully and ask questions if necessary. A competent real estate agent or attorney can help you understand these disclosures better and avoid any unpleasant surprises in the future. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

If you have made the decision to sell your house, you may be wondering whether you should choose a national or local company to help you with the process. While it can be tempting to opt for a local, boutique agency, choosing a national company can offer several benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore why using a national company to sell your house is a smart decision. Access to a Wider Pool of Buyers: National companies have a wider reach than local ones, meaning they have access to a larger pool of potential buyers. With a bigger network of agents and offices across the country, national companies can cast a wider net when marketing your home. This means you’re more likely to attract buyers from different cities and states, which can be particularly helpful if you’re selling in a slow market. Expertise and Experience: National companies often have more resources and experience than local agencies. They have large teams of agents who specialize in different areas, such as marketing, finance, and negotiation. This means they can offer a more comprehensive service when selling your home. In addition, national companies may have a better understanding of market trends and conditions, giving them an advantage when it comes to pricing and marketing your property. Better Marketing Tools: National companies have access to better marketing tools and platforms than local agencies. They have the resources to invest in high-quality photography, 3D virtual tours, and professional staging, which can help your home stand out from the rest. Additionally, they have access to a wider audience through their online presence and social media channels. Consistency and Reliability: National companies are more likely to have established processes and procedures in place, ensuring a consistent and reliable service. They often have strict quality control measures and guidelines that agents must adhere to, ensuring a high level of professionalism and integrity. This can give you peace of mind during what can be a stressful and emotional time. Selling your home is a big decision, and choosing the right company to help you with the process is essential. While there are benefits to choosing a local agency, a national company can offer several advantages that shouldn’t be overlooked. With access to a wider pool of buyers, expertise and experience in the market, better marketing tools, and a reliable and consistent service, a national company can help you sell your home quickly and efficiently. So, if you’re thinking of selling your house, consider a national company as your first choice. United Real Estate Solutions is a national company that provides a comprehensive suite of real estate services to its clients. With a solid reputation for delivering results, this company is known for its commitment to excellence and customer service. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, United Real Estate Solutions has the resources and expertise that you need to make informed decisions. From market research to negotiations to closing, their team of professionals is dedicated to providing guidance every step of the way. If you are looking for a reliable partner in the world of real estate, look no further than United Real Estate Solutions. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

Real estate in Knoxville is an ever-evolving industry that is crucial to the economy of the city. Knoxville's real estate sector covers both commercial and residential properties. However, the two types of real estate differ significantly in terms of their physical structure, use, clientele, and financial aspects. As a prospective investor or homeowner in the Knoxville market, it is essential to understand these differences. In this post, we will delve into how commercial and residential properties differ in the Knoxville market. Additionally, what you need to know as a homebuyer, seller, or investor. What is Commercial Real Estate in Knoxville? Commercial real estate refers to properties that are primarily used for business purposes, such as malls, offices, warehouses, and hotels. These properties are typically large, with higher value, and are often leased out to businesses or individuals that require such spaces. Commercial properties require specific features to suit the needs of businesses, such as parking, loading docks, and high ceilings. As a commercial client in Knoxville, you will need to work with a qualified Knoxville commercial REALTOR® to find the ideal property that fits your requirements. On the other hand, commercial properties have higher financial risks than residential properties, as their income source is dependent on a business or tenant. As a result, commercial leases often require longer terms, higher rents, and more stringent monitoring of the property's condition. It is why commercial landlords will demand a higher credit score, financials, and references than residential leases. A qualified Knoxville commercial REALTOR® can help you navigate the complex process of commercial property acquisition. What is Residential Real Estate in Knoxville? Residential real estate, on the other hand, refers to properties designated for the housing of individuals or families. These include single-family homes, condos, townhouses, apartments, and vacation homes. Residential properties often have a longer lifespan and may require lower maintenance costs than commercial properties. Many homeowners in Knoxville desire to purchase homes in well-established neighborhoods with parks, schools, and shopping centers nearby. As a residential buyer in Knoxville, you will need a qualified Knoxville residential REALTOR® to help you find your dream home. Additionally, residential landlords are subject to specific legal regulations with regard to property maintenance, security, privacy, and property access, making their financial risks lower than commercial landlords. Residential leases also tend to be shorter, giving homeowners the flexibility to move as needed. However, the residential real estate market in Knoxville is just as competitive as the commercial market. With the help of a Knoxville residential REALTOR®, you can position yourself for success in the market. What are the Key Differences between Commercial and Residential Real Estate in Knoxville? The primary differences between commercial and residential real estate in Knoxville lie in their clientele, financing terms, rental rates, valuation, and maintenance. Commercial properties are designed to meet the needs of businesses, which require more space, parking, and loading areas. Residential properties are primarily intended for individual or family living. Additionally, they have specific amenities such as yards and close proximity to grocery stores. Financing terms are also different between the two types of real estate. With commercial properties often requiring higher down payments, longer terms, and closer monitoring. This requirement is because commercial properties typically have higher income potential, stricter regulation, and more significant financial risks. In contrast, residential properties require less stringent financing terms, making them accessible to more buyers. In conclusion, Knoxville's commercial and residential real estate sectors remain crucial to the city's economy. As a homeowner, investor, or prospective tenant, you must understand the differences between the two forms of real estate to make informed decisions. A qualified Knoxville commercial REALTOR® or Knoxville residential REALTOR® can help you navigate the complex real estate market and find the best property that meets your requirements. By working with a seasoned agent, you're guaranteed to receive the right guidance and direction towards your Knoxville real estate goals. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

Selling a property can be a challenging experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the different legal and financial processes involved. As a seller, it's important to protect your interests and safeguard yourself against any potential legal or financial issues. Meaning, anything that may arise during, or after, the transaction. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the various ways in which you can protect yourself as a home or commercial property seller. 1. Hire an Experienced Real Estate Agent One of the best ways to protect yourself as a home or commercial property seller is by hiring an experienced real estate agent. A knowledgeable agent can provide you with in-depth market insights and handle negotiations. Additionally, they can ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time. By hiring a reputable agent, you'll have access to expert advice and guidance that can help you navigate the housing market. 2. Get a Home Inspection Before you put your property on the market, it's essential to get a home inspection. A home inspection can identify any issues that need to be addressed before you sell your property. From, structural defects, electrical problems, or plumbing issues. Addressing these issues before listing your property can help you avoid potential legal or financial issues down the line. 3. Be Transparent About Your Property When selling a property, it's important to be transparent about any known issues with the property. Failure to disclose issues can result in legal action, which is why it's always best to be honest with potential buyers. Additionally, your real estate agent can help you address any issues and ensure that you provide accurate disclosures to potential buyers. 4. Understand Your Legal Obligations As a seller, it's essential to understand your legal obligations. This includes ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time, adhering to local zoning laws and regulations. Additionally, ensuring that your property is in compliance with environmental regulations. Your real estate agent can help you navigate the various legal requirements and ensure that your property sale proceeds smoothly. 5. Consider Title Protection Title protection is a type of insurance that can protect you as a home or commercial property seller if any issues with the title arise after the transaction is complete. This type of insurance can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you're protected against any potential legal or financial issues arising from disputes over the title or ownership of the property. Selling a property can be a complex and challenging process, but by following the tips outlined in this guide, you can protect yourself as a home or commercial property seller and ensure that your transaction proceeds smoothly. Remember to hire an experienced real estate agent and get a home inspection. Finally, be transparent about your property, understand your legal obligations, and consider title protection. By taking these steps, you'll be able to safeguard your interests and protect yourself against any potential legal or financial disputes. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

Are you in the market for a new house, apartment, or any other type of real estate property? As a homebuyer or seller, it's important to understand the different agreements that exist in the real estate industry. Two of the most common agreements are exclusive right and exclusive agency. They may seem similar at first, but they have different terms, legal implications, and obligations. In this blog post, we will explain the difference between exclusive right and exclusive agency real estate agreements. Exclusive Right Agreement: What is it? An exclusive right agreement is a legal contract between the real estate agent and the home seller. This agreement gives the agent the exclusive right to sell the property during a specific period. What this means that the agent has the sole authority to market the property, find buyers, and complete the transaction. The seller cannot engage with any other agent or broker. Additionally, will not have to pay any additional fees, even if they find the buyer themselves. Exclusive Agency Agreement: What is it? An exclusive agency agreement is another type of contract between the real estate agent and the seller. In this agreement, the seller chooses one agent to exclusively market and sell the property. However, unlike the exclusive right agreement, the seller retains the right to sell the property through their own efforts and without the involvement of the agent. If the seller sells the property themselves, they will not have to pay any commission to the agent. 1. Legal Implications The exclusive right agreement is the most secure for real estate agents. Real estate agents will get paid regardless of how the property was sold. In contrast, in an exclusive agency agreement, the agent will only get paid if they're the one who introduced the buyer to the property. Otherwise, there is no commission for them. 2. Obligation With exclusive right, the real estate agent has to put more effort and money into marketing the property since they are guaranteed to earn a commission. The agent will use different tactics to attract potential buyers. Such as advertising, open houses, and online marketing. In the exclusive agency agreement, the agent's efforts are limited because the seller has the option to sell the property themselves. 3. Exclusivity In an exclusive right agreement, the seller is not allowed to work with any other agent or broker to sell the property. They still can still sell it on their own. An exclusive agency agreement, the seller is allowed to sell the property themselves and only the agent that the seller had selected can market and sell the property. In conclusion, opting for an exclusive right or exclusive agency agreement has its advantages and disadvantages. An exclusive right agreement is more secure for the real estate agent, and the effort put into marketing the property will be higher. On the other hand, an exclusive agency agreement provides the seller with flexibility and lower commission fees if they sell the property themselves. When deciding which agreement to choose, sellers should consider their personal and financial goals and consult with a real estate expert. By understanding the difference between these two real estate agreements, you will be well-equipped to make the best choice for your situation and get the most out of your sale. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

Selling your home can be a daunting process, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and easy transition. One of the most important aspects of getting your home ready to sell is ensuring it is visually appealing to potential buyers. Making simple updates and adding tasteful decor can not only increase your home's value but also make it stand out in a competitive real estate market. In this blog, we will provide some tips on how to spruce up and decorate your home to get ready to sell. 1. First Impressions Matter Before potential buyers even step inside, they’ll be taking in the overall appearance of your home from the curb. Sprucing up your front yard and entryway is a simple way to improve curb appeal. Ensure that your yard is well-maintained, add fresh paint to your front door or porch, and consider adding some potted plants or a welcome mat. Also, make sure your house numbers are visible from the street. 2. Neutral Tones Are Best While you may love bright and bold colors, not everyone is a fan. When decorating your home to sell, opting for neutral tones is more appealing. This can include painting your walls, furniture, linens, and accessories in neutral shades. Beige, ivory, and gray are great options. Neutral tones create a blank canvas for potential buyers to envision their own ideas and style in the home. 3. Declutter and Depersonalize One of the most important tips for preparing your home to sell is to get rid of any clutter. Rooms that are clean, spacious, and uncluttered tend to sell faster than those that are not. This includes your personal belongings such as family photos and knick-knacks. Buyers want to be able to picture their own belongings in the home, and this is hard to do if the home is cluttered and personalized. 4. Accessorize with Purpose Adding accessories to your home can help it look more inviting, and it can give potential buyers ideas on how to decorate the home themselves. However, be careful not to overdo it. Select a few well-thought-out accessories per room. This might include an area rug, throw pillows, and a vase of flowers. Keep in mind your neutral color scheme when selecting these accents, and don’t clutter the space. 5. Lighting is Key Good lighting can make your home look bigger, brighter, and more inviting, so it's essential to make sure your lighting fixtures are in good working order and are aesthetically pleasing. If necessary, update and replace light fixtures to give your home a more modern look. You can also add natural light through window treatments and strategically placed mirrors. In the end, preparing your home to sell means making it visually appealing to potential buyers. It’s important to create a blank canvas for them to envision their own ideas and style in the home. Neutral tones, decluttering, and accessorizing with purpose are all essential ways to give your home a fresh new look without breaking the bank. These tips, along with proper lighting fixtures and improving curb appeal, can give your home the edge it needs in a competitive real estate market. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

If you are looking for a small, welcoming community to call home, Strawberry Plains TN should be on the top of your list. Located in Jefferson County, East Tennessee, this town has a population of about 2,500 and boasts of a tranquil and refreshing environment. You can enjoy the slow pace of life without sacrificing access to all the amenities that you need. In this blog post, we will uncover what it is like to live in Strawberry Plains and discover the reasons why people cannot resist the allure of this charming town. Genuine Southern Hospitality When you decide to move to Strawberry Plains, expect to be greeted with warm embraces and courteous smiles. Residents are known for their kind-hearted nature and are quick to make newcomers feel at home. Whether you are shopping at the local farmers' market, attending a church service, or sharing a meal with your new neighbors, you will surely find yourself welcomed with open arms. Abundance of Outdoor Activities If you are an outdoorsy person, Strawberry Plains is the perfect place for you. The town has several forests made up of thousands of acres of land. The Holston River flows alongside the town, and there are plenty of spots for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. If you love hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, you can explore the renowned Seven Islands State Birding Park, where you can witness breathtaking wildlife and landscape. Affordable Housing and Low Taxes One of the biggest perks of living in Strawberry Plains is affordable housing and low tax rates. You can find houses, apartments, or condos, to cater to any lifestyle you desire, without breaking the bank. The town's proximity to Knoxville means you also have access to a wide range of job opportunities. The low property taxes make it easy to invest in a home, and residents enjoy the privilege of owning a home at a modest price. Schools and Healthcare Facilities Several schools that serve Strawberry Plains have a reputation for excellence in academics, arts, and athletics. The town has a mixture of public, private, and specialized educational institutions, providing access to education for every child. Additionally, Strawberry Plains has a modern medical center complete with exceptional medical facilities and highly skilled practitioners to assist in providing outstanding healthcare. Charming Downtown and Local Businesses Another reason to live in Strawberry Plains is the charming downtown and local businesses. You can find several mom-and-pop shops, boutique stores, and country-style diners that serve comfort food like no other. The farmers' market held every week ensures that you have access to fresh produce and homemade goods. The seasonal events that the town holds bring people together for fun, games, and community building. The town's simplicity makes it easy to get involved and feel like a close-knit community member. Living in Strawberry Plains, TN is like living in a slice of heaven on earth. The town's serene beauty, outdoor activities, friendly residents, and affordable housing make it the perfect place for home buyers, renters, customers, visitors, and home sellers. You can expect to fall in love with this small town and embrace a lifestyle that epitomizes the Old-Southern charm. Why not plan a visit and see for yourself what makes Strawberry Plains a hidden jewel in East Tennessee? Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com  

There’s no denying that houses can cost a fortune, which is why most people opt to take out a mortgage to finance their dream home. However, for businesses looking to acquire properties or expand their operations, commercial loans are often the go-to financing option. While both options involve borrowing money, why is it that commercial loans tend to have higher down payments and interest rates compared to home mortgages? In this blog, we’ll dive in and explore the reasons behind this discrepancy. Commercial Loans Require a Larger Down Payment Compared to home mortgages, commercial loans require a larger down payment, usually ranging from 20-30% of the total loan amount. This is due to the higher risk of default that comes with these loans. It is much easier for someone to walk away from a failed business than it is for them to abandon their home. Commercial lenders need to make sure that borrowers have skin in the game and are less likely to default on the loan if they have invested a significant amount of their own funds. Higher Interest Rates Another major reason why this type of loan often comes with higher interest rates is because of the increased risk level they represent. Commercial loans generally come with higher risk than home mortgages, which means that lenders charge higher interest rates to offset this risk. Furthermore, commercial loans typically have shorter repayment periods than home mortgages. Commercial loans require a higher payback rate, which increases the risk to the lender. The loan amount that is lent for commercial loans may also be larger than what is lent for home mortgages since it typically involves the purchase or expansion of a business. Therefore, lenders put higher interest rates in order to balance the risks involved. Creditworthiness Creditworthiness is also a significant factor in determining the interest rate. Unlike home mortgages, commercial loans require not only the business but the individuals related to it to submit their credit score. A borrower with a bad credit history will eventually be charged higher interest rates since his or her perceived risk is higher. Creditworthiness helps lenders determine how much interest they are going to charge since this will represent the risk associated with the borrower. The Economic Cycle Another factor that can influence the interest rates for commercial loans is what happens in the economy. Commercial lenders keep a sharp eye on the economic cycle, particularly when the economy is in the recession stage. Interest rates are higher when there is a recession, which makes borrowing more expensive for businesses. This is why it is always beneficial for borrowers to keep a lookout on the economic cycle to determine the appropriate time to get a commercial loan. Commercial loans have substantially higher down payments and interest rates compared to home mortgages and for good reason. Lenders face more risk when they approve commercial loans, making it important to offset this risk with larger down payments and higher interest rates. Lenders also take creditworthiness and the state of the economy into account when deciding on interest rates. At the end of the day, borrowers should carefully consider their financial situation and the risks involved before taking out any loan to ensure that they can make repayments on time. Contact Shawn Wilmoth REALTOR® today for help finding exactly what you're looking for. www.shawnwilmoth.com

The real estate market is steadily growing and many buyers are looking to buy a house. While there are many factors to consider when buying a house, timing is the most important. Good timing is based on your finances, job stability, and timeline. Continue reading to learn when is the right time to buy a house. Are You Financially Prepared? One thing that can help you determine when the right time is for you to buy a house is your financial preparedness. Your savings, credit, and debt effectively determine your financial preparedness. According to CNBC, the median price of a home in 2021 is $350,300. To buy a house, you'll need money to provide a down payment, pay mortgage closing fees, and cover other expenses associated with making your house ready and moving. Like your savings, your credit score is essential in determining your financial preparedness to purchase a house. A good credit score means that you can easily get loans from banks and other housing lenders. You can afford to buy a house with a loan if you have a good credit score. Debt also influences your financial preparedness. Lenders will evaluate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to decide whether you should be given a mortgage. A higher DTI of more than 40% will prevent you from getting a mortgage. Therefore, the right time to buy a house is when you have enough savings and good credit and DTI scores. How is Your Job Stability? Having safe job security means that you can't be cut off from your employment position even if the employer lays off employees because of outside forces. You can't buy a house if your job security is at stake because you risk running out of money. Also, having a stable job will also allow you to pay your mortgage. It is best to buy a house when your job is stable and your income is steady. What are the Current Market Trends? Like any business activity, demand and supply play a huge role in determining when the right time is for you to buy a house. It would be best to buy a house when the supply is high and the demand is low. This will help you find an affordable house without spending much time and energy searching the housing market. It is the right time to buy a house if you meet these factors. Contact a real estate agent today if you want to buy a house or have any questions.