How do Cost Basis Factors into Capital Gains Tax? You can think of cost basis in real estate as the total cost of buying the property. Consider it as a baseline: When you sell the property, the cost basis is subtracted from the net sales price to determine capital gains tax liability. That’s why you […]
Most homeowners hope for a substantial increase in their home value – and these days many are achieving it when they sell their primary home. But that appreciation can come with a thorny issue: capital gains tax owed when they file their tax returns after selling. If you’re in that situation or anticipating it, you […]
Referrals — from neighbors, friends, or others —are a common source when looking for a remodeling contractor. Real estate professionals also recommend contractors and may offer extra assurance from their well-vetted network. Before you hire a contractor, schedule three to five in-person interviews, gather bids, and thoroughly check the background of any you’re considering. Google […]
If you receive multiple offers on your house, you’re going to face a question you may not have previously considered: How do you know if an offer is the best one for you? Your listing agent will be a big help here. They will understand and help you figure out the merits and faults of an offer […]
Before you decide to sell your home, your agent will help advise you about repairs you need to make before the home inspection. In fact, they may have recommended them to you even before you put the home on the market. And if you’ve been maintaining your home all along (hopefully), your punch list may […]
When you buy a house, you really don’t know who else has keys to your home, so its a good idea to change the locks. That ensures you’re the only person who has access. Install new deadbolts yourself for as little as $11 per lock or call a locksmith. If you supply the new locks, locksmiths […]
Once you’ve accepted a buyer’s offer on your home, it will get a once-over from the buyer’s home inspector. The inspection is usually a contingency of the offer, meaning the buyer can back out based on serious problems discovered. The lender also expects an inspection to make sure it’s making a good investment. During the home inspection, an […]
A well-maintained lawn can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. An efficient way to reach that goal is to install a sprinkler system. The investment will offer returns by saving time, conserving water, and keeping your lawn consistently hydrated. You’ll want to start the process by understanding the requirements, the costs, and your choices in installing […]
Selling is essentially a transfer of feelings. This transfer may be new to you if you’re a first-time home seller, especially given what’s involved. Most people love and cherish their home. You want the next owner to fall in love with it, too — through photos, through words, and through the experience of walking through […]
Ignoring your front yard — or doing something that’s out of character with the neighborhood — can jeopardize the assessed value of your home. Determining the value of mature trees is particularly difficult. Healthy, mature trees add an average of 10% to a property’s value, according to the USDA Forest Service. In addition, by planting […]
