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Items Every Chester County PA Homeowner Should Have

Tuesday, April 27, 2021
by Scott Darling


Becoming a homeowner usually means becoming a do-it-yourselfer, even if there are no plans to take on a major renovation. There is almost always a small job to do or an emergency that can be taken care of by having the right things standing by. What basic tools and other items does a homeowner need? 

 

  • Fire extinguisher Visit the USFA to see what type of extinguisher is needed for the kitchen, workshop, or multipurpose fires. 
     

  • Portable safe Secure important papers, valuables, and other important items in a portable safe. This could be quite an investment when upgrading to fireproof materials or digital passcodes, but valuables and irreplaceable items need to be protected. 
     

  • Cleaning items This seems obvious, but a good broom and dustpan, bucket, microfiber cleaning cloths, “shop rags,” and a flat mop are all that is needed to keep a home sparkling. 
     

  • Simple tools: A hammer, heavy-duty scissors, screwdrivers, hex key tool, measuring tape, handsaw, and more; all of these things will make a homeowner’s life much easier when they need them. 
     

  • Emergency kit FEMA offers a build-your-own kit list with everything necessary for an emergency. 
     

  • Heavy-duty extension cord Do not use an indoor-rated cord outdoors. A cord that can handle a large capacity of electricity and bad weather conditions is best. 
     

  • Wet-dry vacuum Having one of these handy can save clean up time from a dishwasher leak, or spilled nails on the floor.  
     

  • Ladder A sturdy stepladder or six-foot A-frame is best for smaller jobs. Find out what ladder is best for the job. 
     

  • Lawn and garden tools Besides a garden hose, mower, and string trimmer, every homeowner with a yard needs a leaf rake, shovel, pruning shears, and a wheelbarrow. 

 

Not only do homeowners need physical items for upkeep, learning how to do different jobs in the home saves money and builds confidence to handle regular maintenance, which could lead to bigger things! With the right tools on hand and a little know-how, being able to care for a new home is a great satisfaction without a price tag! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: SafeAuto

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for March 2021

Wednesday, April 21, 2021
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for March 2021

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 36.4% in March 2021 when compared to March 2020. 556 homes sold in March with a median sales price of $415,000.  The average days on the market fell by 29 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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Tips for a Better Credit Score

Wednesday, April 14, 2021
by Scott Darling


When you realize that you are ready to afford a home of your own, the first and most important item to consider is your financial situation.  For a lender to see you as a good prospect, the first thing they look at is your credit score.  While there are very few perfect scores, you can (and should!) take the time to improve it before you start looking at prospective homes. 

 

  • - Begin by requesting a free credit report from all three reporting agencies.   Look for errors and report them to the credit bureau and company that posted them.  Legitimate collections that have been paid will not be removed from your credit history for seven years, although they will be marked as paid.
     

  • - Late payments hurt your credit score.  Stay current by creating a written budget with due dates for your bills or set up automatic drafts through your bank. 
     

  • - Pay off your credit cards!  This is particularly important, because the more outstanding debt you have, the lower your score.  Begin by paying off the smallest balance. Larger balances can be paid off sooner by increasing your payments or send equal payments twice per month if the creditor allows. 
     

  • - According to FICO™, it is better to pay off a credit card than canceling the account.  Use it as minimally as possible--simply charging a once-a-month take-out meal will keep it active. 
     

  • - Having just one credit account in good standing is better than none for those who have not started establishing credit history. Shop around for a credit card with a good interest rate and apply. 
     

  • - Avoid new credit accounts while you are trying to bring your score up. Pay cash for everything, and if you do not have the cash, unless it is an emergency, do not buy it. 
     

  • - When you cannot see a light at the end of the financial tunnel, contact a reputable credit repair agency that can assist you in getting your bills paid, manage your finances, and increase your chance of becoming a homeowner. 

 

Plan on spending up to a year to bring your credit score up to a number that will impress lenders, not to mention getting a better interest rate.  Much like taking up exercise and a new diet to get into shape, take it slow, increase your efforts every month, and you will soon be showing off the results--in your new home! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: student loan hero

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Tips for New Construction Buyers

Friday, April 9, 2021
by Scott Darling


If you are searching for a turnkey home with the latest smart technology, energy efficiency, and modern floor plan and materials, you will want to investigate new construction.  Of course, buying a brand-new house has some differences than the purchase of an older home.  New construction has all the things on your wish list, but there are a few things new house hunters need to be aware of. 
 

  • - You will need a buyer agent to represent you. The builder’s agent will be looking out for their client--not you. 
     

  • - Go through the pre-approval process but shop around for the loan that fits your needs.  If the builder’s lender has incentives and discounts, take advantage of them if it will benefit you in the end. 

 

Ask the builder: 

  • - How many lots and homes have been sold, how large each lot is, and how much space is between houses? 

  • - What is the length of the home’s warranty, and what does it cover? 

  • - How much input does the buyer have in choosing paint colors and materials for flooring, kitchen, and bathrooms? What is the policy if the builder runs short on chosen materials? 

  • - Is smart technology wiring included in the basic home package, and is wiring to all bedrooms an extra expense? 

  • - What appliances are included in the basic price? 

 

  • - Keep in mind that the model home you are shown has all the bells and whistles! Never assume you are getting everything in your home that the model shows. Ask about these features and write everything down as you get answers. 
     

  • - Talk to residents who are already living in the community, and ask them about any concerns they have, and what they love about their new home. 
     

  • - Do not skip the home inspection just because it is new construction. Be sure your purchase contract allows you to hire an inspector outside the building company. 
     

  • - If the model home is one of the last homes left in the neighborhood, ask about buying it! You may not get every finish just as you would like, but you can paint a room or change the flooring! 

 

Be aware that the builder makes their main profit on upgrades and will do their best to convince you that you need that “free” entertainment package or other “gifts” they may offer. If you are a DIY-buyer, leave the custom closets and finished storage areas for later. Saving money on the purchase price of your new home is your most important goal, but you must do some “home” work first! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: moving.com

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