[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1179},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-posts":3},[4,287,435,678,731,811,856,945,1022,1084,1130],{"id":5,"title":6,"author":7,"body":8,"categories":266,"date":267,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":269,"meta":270,"navigation":271,"path":272,"seo":273,"slug":274,"stem":275,"tags":276,"__hash__":286},"blog/blog/the-home-appraisal-process-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know.md","The Home Appraisal Process: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know","adam",{"type":9,"value":10,"toc":250},"minimark",[11,15,25,28,35,66,73,81,84,91,94,117,124,131,138,141,148,186,193,198,216,221,232,239,242],[12,13,14],"p",{},"Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll make and somewhere in the middle of that process sits a key step, the home appraisal. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned seller, or simply curious, understanding how appraisals work can save you stress, time, and potentially thousands of dollars.  While this is just the tip of the iceberg, here’s some basic information about what appraisals are and how they work! ",[16,17,21],"h2",{"className":18,"id":20},[19],"wp-block-heading","what-is-a-home-appraisal",[22,23,24],"strong",{},"What Is a Home Appraisal?",[12,26,27],{},"A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of a property’s market value conducted by a licensed appraiser.  It’s designed to protect both the buyer and the lender by making sure the agreed upon purchase price is fair compared to the home’s true value.",[16,29,32],{"className":30,"id":31},[19],"why-appraisals-matter",[22,33,34],{},"Why Appraisals Matter",[36,37,40,50,58],"ul",{"className":38},[39],"wp-block-list",[41,42,43,46,47],"li",{},[22,44,45],{},"For Buyers"," – An appraisal confirms that you’re not overpaying for the home.",[48,49],"br",{},[41,51,52,55,56],{},[22,53,54],{},"For Sellers"," – It validates your asking price and can support negotiations with buyers.",[48,57],{},[41,59,60,63,64],{},[22,61,62],{},"For Lenders"," – It protects them from the risk of lending on a property that is not priced appropriately .",[48,65],{},[16,67,70],{"className":68,"id":69},[19],"how-the-appraisal-process-works",[22,71,72],{},"How the Appraisal Process Works",[74,75,78],"h3",{"className":76,"id":77},[19],"_1-appraisal-is-ordered",[22,79,80],{},"1. Appraisal Is Ordered",[12,82,83],{},"Once you’re under contract, the lender orders the appraisal through an appraisal management company (AMC). You don’t pick the appraiser — this ensures impartiality.",[74,85,88],{"className":86,"id":87},[19],"_2-on-site-inspection",[22,89,90],{},"2. On-Site Inspection",[12,92,93],{},"The appraiser visits the property to evaluate:",[36,95,97,102,107,112],{"className":96},[39],[41,98,99,100],{},"Square footage and layout",[48,101],{},[41,103,104,105],{},"Condition of the home (inside and out)",[48,106],{},[41,108,109,110],{},"Upgrades, renovations, or damage",[48,111],{},[41,113,114,115],{},"Location, neighborhood, and surrounding amenities",[48,116],{},[74,118,121],{"className":119,"id":120},[19],"_3-comparable-sales-analysis",[22,122,123],{},"3. Comparable Sales Analysis",[12,125,126,127,130],{},"The appraiser researches recent ",[22,128,129],{},"comparable sales"," (similar homes in the same area) to determine market value. This step is critical, as it ensures your home’s value is based on actual market data.",[74,132,135],{"className":133,"id":134},[19],"_4-final-report",[22,136,137],{},"4. Final Report",[12,139,140],{},"The appraiser provides a detailed report with the home’s estimated value, photos, and reasoning behind the valuation.",[16,142,145],{"className":143,"id":144},[19],"possible-outcomes",[22,146,147],{},"Possible Outcomes",[36,149,151,159],{"className":150},[39],[41,152,153,156,157],{},[22,154,155],{},"Appraised Value Meets or Exceeds Sale Price"," – Great news! The deal moves forward without issue.",[48,158],{},[41,160,161,164,165,167],{},[22,162,163],{},"Appraised Value Is Lower Than Sale Price"," – This can cause problems with financing, but there are options:",[48,166],{},[168,169,171,176,181],"ol",{"className":170},[39],[41,172,173,174],{},"Renegotiate the price.",[48,175],{},[41,177,178,179],{},"The buyer pays the difference in cash.",[48,180],{},[41,182,183,184],{},"Dispute the appraisal with additional evidence.",[48,185],{},[16,187,190],{"className":188,"id":189},[19],"how-to-prepare-for-an-appraisal",[22,191,192],{},"How to Prepare for an Appraisal",[12,194,195],{},[22,196,197],{},"For Sellers:",[36,199,201,206,211],{"className":200},[39],[41,202,203,204],{},"Clean and declutter to make the home presentable.",[48,205],{},[41,207,208,209],{},"Make small repairs and touch-ups (this should be done prior to listing).",[48,210],{},[41,212,213,214],{},"Provide a list of upgrades to ensure the appraiser doesn’t miss any important info.",[48,215],{},[12,217,218],{},[22,219,220],{},"For Buyers:",[36,222,224,229],{"className":223},[39],[41,225,226,227],{},"Understanding the process and timelines to avoid surprises.",[48,228],{},[41,230,231],{},"Work closely with your agent if the appraisal comes in low.",[16,233,236],{"className":234,"id":235},[19],"final-thoughts",[22,237,238],{},"Final Thoughts",[12,240,241],{},"The home appraisal might feel like just another box to check, but it’s one of the most important steps in the real estate process. By understanding what it is, how it works, and how to prepare, you’ll be in a much stronger position.  Teaming up with a real estate professional will help ensure that this step, along with the many others, goes smoothly.",[243,244,247],"figure",{"className":245},[246],"wp-block-image",[248,249],"img",{},{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":253},"",2,[254,255,256,263,264,265],{"id":20,"depth":252,"text":24},{"id":31,"depth":252,"text":34},{"id":69,"depth":252,"text":72,"children":257},[258,260,261,262],{"id":77,"depth":259,"text":80},3,{"id":87,"depth":259,"text":90},{"id":120,"depth":259,"text":123},{"id":134,"depth":259,"text":137},{"id":144,"depth":252,"text":147},{"id":189,"depth":252,"text":192},{"id":235,"depth":252,"text":238},[],"2025-09-07T15:40:42Z","md","/media/2025/09/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-3.jpg",{},true,"/blog/the-home-appraisal-process-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know",{"title":6,"description":251},"the-home-appraisal-process-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know","blog/the-home-appraisal-process-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know",[277,278,279,280,281,282,283,284,285],"Adam carpenter","alpha realty","buying a home","closed with carpenter","home value","real esate","realtors in springfield","Springfield MO","Springfield mo realtor","zS-o-dempTP2FO18MX3A9pMQOsNYqLnt4rcR20wESk8",{"id":288,"title":289,"author":7,"body":290,"categories":421,"date":422,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":423,"meta":424,"navigation":271,"path":425,"seo":426,"slug":427,"stem":428,"tags":429,"__hash__":434},"blog/blog/understanding-closing-costs-what-every-homebuyer-should-know.md","Understanding Closing Costs: What Every Homebuyer Should Know",{"type":9,"value":291,"toc":414},[292,295,302,305,308,315,318,361,368,371,378,401,406,409],[12,293,294],{},"When buying a home, many people focus on the purchase price and their down payment — but closing costs are an equally important part of the transaction. These costs can sometimes surprise buyers if they’re not prepared. In this guide, I’ll break down what closing costs are, what they include, how to plan for them, and how you can get a seller to pay for all of them.",[74,296,299],{"className":297,"id":298},[19],"what-are-closing-costs",[22,300,301],{},"What Are Closing Costs?",[12,303,304],{},"Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay at the end of a real estate transaction (at closing).  Closing costs are combined with your downpayment and make up your total “cash to close amount” (how much money you need to bring to closing) . Closing costs cover the services, paperwork, and processes provided by the title company and lender and also your prepaid expenses such as home owners insurance.  ",[12,306,307],{},"Depending on the price of the home, the lender and the type of loan product you’re receiving, a good estimate for your total closing costs is around $7,000.00.  So if you’re wanting to calculate how much cash you need to close on a home, taking $7,000.00 and adding it to your down payment amount will get you close!  Keep in mind-there are ways to get the seller to pay for all of your closing costs!!!  More info to come! ",[74,309,312],{"className":310,"id":311},[19],"whats-included-in-closing-costs",[22,313,314],{},"What’s Included in Closing Costs",[12,316,317],{},"While every transaction is unique, here are some of the most common expenses you may see:",[168,319,321,329,337,345,353],{"className":320},[39],[41,322,323,326,327],{},[22,324,325],{},"Loan Origination Fees"," – Charged by the lender for processing your mortgage application.",[48,328],{},[41,330,331,334,335],{},[22,332,333],{},"Appraisal Fee"," – Covers the cost of having a licensed appraiser determine the home’s market value.  In most cases, this is required by the lender.",[48,336],{},[41,338,339,342,343],{},[22,340,341],{},"Title Search & Title Insurance"," – Protects you from disputes over property ownership.",[48,344],{},[41,346,347,350,351],{},[22,348,349],{},"Recording Fees"," – Fees to officially record your purchase.",[48,352],{},[41,354,355,358,359],{},[22,356,357],{},"Prepaid Costs"," – Items like homeowner’s insurance premiums, property taxes, and interest that must be paid in advance.",[48,360],{},[74,362,365],{"className":363,"id":364},[19],"who-pays-closing-costs",[22,366,367],{},"Who Pays Closing Costs?",[12,369,370],{},"Did you know that closing costs can be paid by the buyer, seller, or both? — depending on how we write the offer, in some cases, buyers can negotiate for the seller to cover part of or all of the closing costs!  Working with an experienced agent is important to ensure you get the negotiation skills needed to put you in the best situation. ",[74,372,375],{"className":373,"id":374},[19],"tips-for-being-prepared-for-closing-costs",[22,376,377],{},"Tips for Being Prepared For Closing Costs",[36,379,381,387,393],{"className":380},[39],[41,382,383,386],{},[22,384,385],{},"Ask Your Lender"," – Different lenders have different fees, so ask them up front what to expect.",[41,388,389,392],{},[22,390,391],{},"Ask Your Agent"," – Talking through your situation and goals with me will allow us to discuss different options and decide on what the best plan is for you.",[41,394,395,398,399],{},[22,396,397],{},"Run Your Numbers","- After talking to your lender and realtor, run your numbers. Think about how much your down payment plus closing costs will be and how much that will leave you in savings after you close on your home.  If those numbers are too tight, then we know up front that we are trying to negotiate a way to get your closing costs covered by the seller so that you can keep that money in your pocket as an emergency fund. ",[48,400],{},[74,402,404],{"className":403,"id":235},[19],[22,405,238],{},[12,407,408],{},"Closing costs are a normal part of buying a home, but understanding them ahead of time can help you avoid last-minute surprises. By budgeting for these costs early in your home-buying journey, you’ll have a smoother path to getting your keys and moving in.",[243,410,412],{"className":411},[246],[248,413],{},{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":415},[416,417,418,419,420],{"id":298,"depth":259,"text":301},{"id":311,"depth":259,"text":314},{"id":364,"depth":259,"text":367},{"id":374,"depth":259,"text":377},{"id":235,"depth":259,"text":238},[],"2025-08-10T14:21:29Z","/media/2025/08/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-5.jpg",{},"/blog/understanding-closing-costs-what-every-homebuyer-should-know",{"title":289,"description":251},"understanding-closing-costs-what-every-homebuyer-should-know","blog/understanding-closing-costs-what-every-homebuyer-should-know",[277,278,430,279,280,431,281,282,432,283,433,284,285],"buyers agent","closing costs","realtor","selling your home","kJ3GH8cktbsVCCmKlov92fNKmbUd2lCT2x2Z4w_VeMY",{"id":436,"title":437,"author":7,"body":438,"categories":659,"date":660,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":661,"meta":662,"navigation":271,"path":663,"seo":664,"slug":665,"stem":666,"tags":667,"__hash__":677},"blog/blog/affordable-upgrades-that-add-value-to-your-home.md","Affordable Upgrades That Add Value to Your Home",{"type":9,"value":439,"toc":647},[440,443,450,469,476,493,500,517,525,542,549,566,573,588,595,615,622,638],[12,441,442],{},"Investing in your home doesn't have to drain your wallet. There are budget-friendly upgrades that deliver a strong return on investment  while improving aesthetics and function. Here are some of the most cost-effective enhancements you can make:",[16,444,447],{"className":445,"id":446},[19],"_1-fresh-paint-pressure-wash",[22,448,449],{},"1. Fresh Paint & Pressure Wash",[36,451,453,461],{"className":452},[39],[41,454,455,458,459],{},[22,456,457],{},"What to do:"," Apply neutral paint (e.g., grays, creams) to interiors and repaint or pressure wash exteriors, walkways, and driveways.",[48,460],{},[41,462,463,466,467],{},[22,464,465],{},"Impact:"," Instantly refreshes the home and enhances curb appeal.",[48,468],{},[16,470,473],{"className":471,"id":472},[19],"_2-update-light-fixtures-hardware",[22,474,475],{},"2. Update Light Fixtures & Hardware",[36,477,479,486],{"className":478},[39],[41,480,481,483,484],{},[22,482,457],{}," Replace dated light fixtures and cabinet/elbow hardware in kitchens and bathrooms; add dimmers.",[48,485],{},[41,487,488,490,491],{},[22,489,465],{}," Modern fixtures lift the aesthetic.",[48,492],{},[16,494,497],{"className":495,"id":496},[19],"_3-bathroom-fixture-refresh",[22,498,499],{},"3. Bathroom Fixture Refresh",[36,501,503,510],{"className":502},[39],[41,504,505,507,508],{},[22,506,457],{}," Swap faucets, shower heads, mirrors, and re-grout or re-caulk tiles.",[48,509],{},[41,511,512,514,515],{},[22,513,465],{}," Cleaner, modern bathrooms appeal strongly to buyers.",[48,516],{},[16,518,521,524],{"className":519,"id":520},[19],"_4-floor-refinish-or-replace",[22,522,523],{},"4. Floor Refinish"," or Replace",[36,526,528,535],{"className":527},[39],[41,529,530,532,533],{},[22,531,457],{}," Refinish rough, existing hardwood floors and replace old/damaged flooring.  Questioning the carpet?  Most buyers don't seem to mind carpet in bedrooms but, you are right, the less carpet the better.  ",[48,534],{},[41,536,537,539,540],{},[22,538,465],{}," Refinishing the rough stuff will help your home show better to potential buyers. ",[48,541],{},[16,543,546],{"className":544,"id":545},[19],"_5-smart-home-features",[22,547,548],{},"5. Smart Home Features",[36,550,552,559],{"className":551},[39],[41,553,554,556,557],{},[22,555,457],{}," Install a smart thermostat, smart doorbell camera, or smart lighting.",[48,558],{},[41,560,561,563,564],{},[22,562,465],{}," Tech-savvy buyers love these.  ",[48,565],{},[16,567,570],{"className":568,"id":569},[19],"_6-improve-curb-appeal-garage-door",[22,571,572],{},"6. Improve Curb Appeal & Garage Door",[36,574,576,583],{"className":575},[39],[41,577,578,580,581],{},[22,579,457],{}," Tidy landscaping, fresh mulch, repaint/revive the front door, update or repaint the garage door.",[48,582],{},[41,584,585,587],{},[22,586,465],{}," Curb appeal upgrades can make your home stand out amongst others.",[16,589,592],{"className":590,"id":591},[19],"_7-exterior-maintenance",[22,593,594],{},"7. Exterior Maintenance",[36,596,598,605],{"className":597},[39],[41,599,600,602,603],{},[22,601,457],{}," Pressure wash siding, trim bushes, repaint trims, and seal windows/frames.",[48,604],{},[41,606,607,609,610],{},[22,608,465],{}," Enhances first impressions and avoids turn-offs for buyers",[611,612,614],"a",{"href":613},"https://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/cheap-ways-increase-home-value.amp?utm_source=chatgpt.com"," ",[74,616,619],{"className":617,"id":618},[19],"final-takeaways",[22,620,621],{},"Final Takeaways",[168,623,625,630,635],{"className":624},[39],[41,626,627,628],{},"Focus on clean, updated, and energy-efficient improvements.",[48,629],{},[41,631,632,633],{},"DIY when possible—spend a few days and put some sweat equity in your home.",[48,634],{},[41,636,637],{},"Even small cosmetic touches make a big difference in perception.",[243,639,642],{"className":640},[246,641],"size-large",[248,643],{"src":644,"alt":251,"className":645},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sage-Green-Minimalist-New-Product-Makeup-Product-Serum-Instagram-Post-2-1024x1024.png",[646],"wp-image-1152",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":648},[649,650,651,652,654,655,656],{"id":446,"depth":252,"text":449},{"id":472,"depth":252,"text":475},{"id":496,"depth":252,"text":499},{"id":520,"depth":252,"text":653},"4. Floor Refinish or Replace",{"id":545,"depth":252,"text":548},{"id":569,"depth":252,"text":572},{"id":591,"depth":252,"text":594,"children":657},[658],{"id":618,"depth":259,"text":621},[],"2025-07-12T11:57:40Z","/media/2025/07/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-6.jpg",{},"/blog/affordable-upgrades-that-add-value-to-your-home",{"title":437,"description":251},"affordable-upgrades-that-add-value-to-your-home","blog/affordable-upgrades-that-add-value-to-your-home",[277,668,278,279,280,669,281,670,671,672,673,674,675,676],"Adam carpenter real estate","getting pre-approved to buy a home","how much is my home worth?","Missouri real estate","real estate","realtors in Springfield mo","selling a home","Springfield mo homes for sale","working with a realtor","oOCGDyJsS_BNT3vg7FRoe6EEz-80kmC41ABeuFjhqEU",{"id":679,"title":680,"author":7,"body":681,"categories":721,"date":722,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":723,"meta":724,"navigation":271,"path":725,"seo":726,"slug":727,"stem":728,"tags":729,"__hash__":730},"blog/blog/getting-organized-for-your-move-in-2025.md","Getting Organized For Your Move In 2025",{"type":9,"value":682,"toc":719},[683,686,707,710],[12,684,685],{},"Are you one of the many people that are thinking of making a real estate move in 2025?  You are not alone!  So many of us have been waiting around on interest rates, election results, and now the Holiday Season  before making a big move.  Come to mention it, my wife and I are actually in discussion about selling and buying next year!!!  Since I'm in the same boat as you are, here are some pro tips on how you can GET ORGANIZED for your move in 2025. ",[168,687,689,695,701],{"className":688},[39],[41,690,691,694],{},[22,692,693],{},"Get a ball park idea of what your home is currently worth. ","  If you're going to be selling and buying, you need to know how much equity to expect from your sale.  That number may be used as a down payment for your next purchase so knowing that amount is essential to discovering what price point you can afford to purchase.  There is nothing wrong with calling your realtor now and asking them to go ahead and run a CMA on your property so that you have an idea of what to expect.  Of course, you'll need an updated CMA when the time comes to sell but the numbers today will get you close.  ",[41,696,697,700],{},[22,698,699],{},"Talk to your lender.","  I always advise starting with the numbers and working backwards.  I wouldn't necessarily get pre approved today, but, I would recommend letting your lender know your plan, timeline, and how much money you have to put down.  They will be able to run some soft numbers to let you know what monthly payments to expect based on different price points.  Obviously your payment has a lot to do with interest rates but this will give you an idea of what price point you may be shopping in.   ",[41,702,703,706],{},[22,704,705],{},"Ask your realtor to set you up on a soft search. "," Why not go ahead and keep your eye on the market?  While I don't show buyers homes without being pre approved, I have no problem setting up a search based on your current needs that will allow you to see homes hitting the market in the price point and location you're wanting.  Gaining market knowledge now will make you more confident when the time comes to get approved and start shopping. ",[12,708,709],{},"If you're thinking of selling/buying next year, it's not too early to GET ORGANIZED.  A good realtor and lender will meet you where you're at, NOT push you to make a move sooner than you're comfortable with.  If you're thinking of making a big move in 2025 let's think ahead! ",[243,711,714],{"className":712},[246,713,641],"aligncenter",[248,715],{"src":716,"alt":251,"className":717},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/How-Much-money-you-need-to-buy-a-home-576x1024.png",[718],"wp-image-1121",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":720},[],[],"2024-11-24T15:25:45Z","/media/2024/11/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-9.jpg",{},"/blog/getting-organized-for-your-move-in-2025",{"title":680,"description":251},"getting-organized-for-your-move-in-2025","blog/getting-organized-for-your-move-in-2025",[277,668,278,279,280,669,281,670,671,672,673,674,675,676],"auPeCWlEWCTGG3Qc8Et3ckHBOv5E3nKp2IDSGXgoWSs",{"id":732,"title":733,"author":7,"body":734,"categories":797,"date":798,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":799,"meta":800,"navigation":271,"path":801,"seo":802,"slug":803,"stem":804,"tags":805,"__hash__":810},"blog/blog/determining-the-price-for-your-home.md","Determining The Price Of Your Home",{"type":9,"value":735,"toc":795},[736,754,787],[12,737,738,739,742,743,746,747,749,750,753],{},"Here we are, the time has come to sell your home and for you to walk away with as much money and as little headache as possible.  When it comes to sales, ",[22,740,741],{},"pricing"," and marketing are key.  If you ",[22,744,745],{},"price"," your home too high, it sits on the market and becomes less and less appealing to buyers.  They'll start wondering \"what's wrong that house?!\" and it quickly loses its excitement and becomes an old \"Oh-I've seen that one before\" listing.  On the other hand, if you list your home too low you end up walking away feeling like you left money on the table.  The key to this dilemma is two fold- first we use the current market to find your ",[22,748,745],{}," ",[22,751,752],{},"range"," and then, we allow your situation to help us determine whether we are coming in on the low or high end of that range.  Year to date, my listings has sold for 99.95% of list price and spent an average of 12 days on the market.  Here's my process of helping you determine the right price for your home.  ",[168,755,757,763,769,775,781],{"className":756},[39],[41,758,759,762],{},[22,760,761],{},"Gathering Your Home's Data- ","Using tax information, old listings, recent appraisals and information you provide I gather important details of your home such as location, year built, square footage, lot size, bedroom count, bathroom count, parking, additional buildings, fencing, improvements and any other information that is pertinent to value. ",[41,764,765,768],{},[22,766,767],{},"Researching Comparable Sales-"," Before viewing your home I use the data I have to spend time researching comparable sales in your area.  Using the MLS, I can hone in on homes similar to yours and in your location that have sold within the last year.   This research tells me the price per square foot these homes sold for, how many days they spent on the market, the type of financing that was used, and helps me understand what the higher end price point is compared to the lower end.  I'm also using this time to view active listings that are comparable to your home to get an idea of current competition on the market.  My key take away from this research is understanding the price range and the average days on market. ",[41,770,771,774],{},[22,772,773],{},"Viewing Your Home-"," After my research, I have a good idea of the range that your home will sell for but it's impossible for me to narrow that down until I view your home.  At this viewing, I'm looking at specifics such as layout, finishes, updates and overall condition.  This will helps me determine whether your home falls into the high or low end of recent sales. ",[41,776,777,780],{},[22,778,779],{},"Discussing Your Situation- ","Do you need to sell quickly?  Do you NEED to sell at all?  Understanding what circumstance in life is causing this sale also plays a role in where we list at. ",[41,782,783,786],{},[22,784,785],{},"Determining The Price For Your Home-"," Using what we know, we have developed a plan and settled on a price.  Now it's time to put my marketing to work and sell!!!",[243,788,790],{"className":789},[246,713,641],[248,791],{"src":792,"alt":251,"className":793},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-Much-money-you-need-to-buy-a-home-576x1024.png",[794],"wp-image-1100",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":796},[],[],"2024-07-28T11:18:18Z","/media/2024/07/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-7.jpg",{},"/blog/determining-the-price-for-your-home",{"title":733,"description":251},"determining-the-price-for-your-home","blog/determining-the-price-for-your-home",[277,278,279,280,806,281,807,282,283,808,285,809],"determining the price of a home","how much is my home worth","sale price of a home","what should I ask a realtor","gNTXRmJXnTT6YKyoiVOB5e8zXhAsktd-f_HWoFtZYhY",{"id":812,"title":813,"author":7,"body":814,"categories":843,"date":844,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":845,"meta":846,"navigation":271,"path":847,"seo":848,"slug":849,"stem":850,"tags":851,"__hash__":855},"blog/blog/the-value-of-a-buyers-agent.md","The Value Of A Buyer's Agent",{"type":9,"value":815,"toc":841},[816,819,830,833],[12,817,818],{},"If you've never bought a home, never used a buyer's agent, or never had a good one- it may seem unclear why a buyer should use a realtor.  On the selling side it's pretty clear.... but what benefit does a real estate agent bring you as a buyer?  Let's dive in!  ",[168,820,821,824,827],{},[41,822,823],{},"Searching/Finding/Showing Homes:  The first stage of a buyer's agent service is to find what you're looking for.  During a buyer consultation (phone call, face to face meeting, zoom) I ask details about the specifics including price, location, and the specs of a home.  From there, I set up a search using the MLS which automatically sends us listings that match your list of needs.  Outside of the MLS, I'm using my contacts and tools to find homes that aren't listed, but for sale.  When we find a home you want to view, I handle setting up showings and meet you at the property.  If you are working with a skilled agent, they will be searching for homes both on and off market, digging deeper into property details and bringing major value during walk throughs.  ",[41,825,826],{},"Writing Offers/Negotiating Contracts/Going Under Contract: Once we find the home you want to buy, it's time to LOCK IT IN.  This is a very important stage of the buying process because you want a realtor that's capable of writing a competitive offer that the seller will accept (above other offers they've received) but also an offer that protects you and your best interests.  Once buyer and seller agree on terms, you're officially under contract to purchase that home.",[41,828,829],{},"From Contract To Close: Once under contract, I work hand in hand with my clients to ensure tasks are completed as we move towards closing day.  Some of these tasks include communicating with title companies, your lender, submitting earnest money, scheduling inspections, reviewing inspection reports, negotiating repairs, reinspecting repairs, securing home insurance, negotiating appraisals, switching over utilities, scheduling closing times, and making sure you are fully prepared for a smooth closing.",[12,831,832],{},"There is a lot that goes into purchasing a home- but using a seasoned realtor that you trust will make the process go smoothly and ensure that your best interests are being represented.  If you're thinking of buying a home, or have more questions about the process, use the contact button at the top of the page to reach out!  I would love to be the resource for you dealing with all things real estate related.  ",[243,834,836],{"className":835},[246,713,641],[248,837],{"src":838,"alt":251,"className":839},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/How-Much-money-you-need-to-buy-a-home-576x1024.png",[840],"wp-image-1054",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":842},[],[],"2024-03-23T12:05:16Z","/media/2024/03/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-10.jpg",{},"/blog/the-value-of-a-buyers-agent",{"title":813,"description":251},"the-value-of-a-buyers-agent","blog/the-value-of-a-buyers-agent",[277,278,430,279,280,852,853,854,282,283,284,285,809],"does a buyer need a realtor","homes in Springfield","how to buy a home","dMRbDMLxDCsf3R-G-dMxIMemfDseMC0kXLfsyyNdiQk",{"id":857,"title":858,"author":7,"body":859,"categories":932,"date":933,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":934,"meta":935,"navigation":271,"path":936,"seo":937,"slug":938,"stem":939,"tags":940,"__hash__":944},"blog/blog/questions-to-ask-realtors-before-listing.md","Questions To Ask Realtors-Before Listing",{"type":9,"value":860,"toc":930},[861,867,919,922],[12,862,863,864],{},"Here you are.... you know that selling your home is in the near future and you know you want to hire a professional (realtor) to lead you through the process.  You are also aware that there are thousands ( roughly 2,600) licensed realtors in the greater Springfield area.  So how will you choose?  To help-here is a list of great questions you can ask before hiring a realtor to an ",[22,865,866],{},"exclusive agency agreement. ",[168,868,869,880,887,898,905,912],{},[41,870,871,879],{},[872,873,878],"mark",{"style":874,"className":875},"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)",[876,877],"has-inline-color","has-vivid-cyan-blue-color","How long have you been a licensed realtor?","  You don't want an agent that's burnt out because they've been doing it for 30 years, but you may also be hesitant to be someone's first client.  While this isn't the most important question, it's a great way to get to know their experience. ",[41,881,882,886],{},[872,883,885],{"style":874,"className":884},[876,877],"How many homes have you sold this year? ","You want to find an agent that's actively selling homes!  This doesn't mean to automatically go with the realtor with the most sales- but you do want to use a professional that's hustling and selling homes in the current market.  ",[41,888,889,893,894,897],{},[872,890,892],{"style":874,"className":891},[876,877],"What price do you recommend I list my home for and why?","  Once you get to know a little bit about the agent, it's time to get down to the numbers!  You want to know what your home is worth to them and why.  Now... keep in mind that, unfortunately, some agents may recommend a higher listing price just to get your business.  Don't be fooled... listing your home for more than what it's worth will hurt your listing and could result in you making less money.  What you want to know is what they recommend and ",[22,895,896],{},"WHY.","  A good agent will be able to tell you a price range and share clear data to support the recommended value. ",[41,899,900,904],{},[872,901,903],{"style":874,"className":902},[876,877],"How much do you charge for your services?","  As a seller hiring an agent, you will be paying for their services.  Make sure you have a clear understanding of what the fee is and when it's due.  While there is a market norm, this fee can vary from agent to agent.  Once again, don't be fooled by an agent that is willing to charge less than others.  To me, that's the same as hiring a painter just because they would charge me less to paint my home.  Sounds like a good way to end up with a professional that does a sub par job.  In the end, hiring the best agent for the job will result in you making more money. ",[41,906,907,911],{},[872,908,910],{"style":874,"className":909},[876,877],"How will you market my property? "," Get details of how an agent will go about finding buyers.  Make sure whoever you hire has strategies in place that keep your home in front of people for the duration of the listing.  Proper and aggressive marketing that highlights your home's major selling points will result in you earning top dollar. ",[41,913,914,918],{},[872,915,917],{"style":874,"className":916},[876,877],"How do you communicate with your clients once you list their home?","  Selling your personal home can be stressful.  Make sure you are working with someone that is willing to communicate in a fashion that fits your expectations.  ",[12,920,921],{},"Beyond these key questions, you want to make sure you are hiring a realtor that you feel confident and comfortable with.  Choose someone that you trust to take care of the businesses side of things, but also one that you click well with... after all, you will be working with them for the next few months.  My job as a realtor is to help my clients get top dollar for their home while also having the best experience possible.  Have more questions about selling a home?  Click the contact button at the top of the page to reach me directly! ",[243,923,925],{"className":924},[246,713,641],[248,926],{"src":927,"alt":251,"className":928},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/How-Much-money-you-need-to-buy-a-home-576x1024.png",[929],"wp-image-1042",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":931},[],[],"2024-02-12T17:03:49Z","/media/2024/02/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-2.jpg",{},"/blog/questions-to-ask-realtors-before-listing",{"title":858,"description":251},"questions-to-ask-realtors-before-listing","blog/questions-to-ask-realtors-before-listing",[277,278,280,941,942,282,283,674,285,943,809],"hiring a realtor","how to sell my home","what does a realtor do?","Yx_KYVDETzMVjF4yr3nUX-ZmsFc_GgCzIbazBctIMCY",{"id":946,"title":947,"author":7,"body":948,"categories":1010,"date":1011,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":1012,"meta":1013,"navigation":271,"path":1014,"seo":1015,"slug":1016,"stem":1017,"tags":1018,"__hash__":1021},"blog/blog/how-much-cash-you-need-to-buy-a-home.md","How Much Money You Need To Buy A Home",{"type":9,"value":949,"toc":1008},[950,953,991,994,997],[12,951,952],{},"When I talk to anyone who's ready to buy, one of the main topics is how much cash will it take to close on their home's purchase.  Here's a breakdown of the costs that are incurred when buying a home and when those costs are due:",[168,954,955,968,981],{},[41,956,957,960,961,964,965],{},[22,958,959],{},"Inspections:","  When purchasing a home, it's important to hire professionals to inspect the property before you close on it to ensure your new home and safe and functions correctly.  The cost of a home inspection ranges depending on its size, but typically you are looking at a range from ",[22,962,963],{},"$300-$450"," for a full home inspection.  This is typically ",[22,966,967],{},"due once the inspection is complete and before you close on your new home.  ",[41,969,970,973,974,977,978,749],{},[22,971,972],{},"Down Payment: "," Your down payment is money you are putting down up front on the principal of your home loan.  The amount is based on a percentage of the purchase price and the required percentage differs depending on the loan type.  These amounts ",[22,975,976],{},"range from 0%-20% of the purchase price. "," It's important to consult with your lender to determine what loan works best for you and what percentage you are required to put down.  For example, if you're buying a home that's $300,000.00 and putting 5% down, you would need $15,000.00 for a down payment.  This money is ",[22,979,980],{},"due at closing as part of your \"cash to close\" amount.",[41,982,983,986,987,990],{},[22,984,985],{},"Closing Costs:"," Closing costs are fees charged by the lender and the title company.  These fees change slightly depending on the price of the home, but to get you close, I normally see a total for closing costs being anywhere between $4,000.00-$5,000.00.  This money is ",[22,988,989],{},"due at closing as part of your \"cash to close\" amount. "," Closing costs, however, is a fee that I can negotiate on your behalf to get the sellers to pay a part or even all of.  ",[12,992,993],{},"For example)  Let's say a buyer is using a conventional loan to purchase a home that is $200,000.00.  The loan requires they put 5% down.  To help this buyer have an idea of how much cash they will need to close on the home, I would estimate they'll need a total of around $15,000.00 to cover inspections, down payment and closing costs.  If this was an issue, we could negotiate the offer and ask sellers to pay for the buyer's closing costs which would lessen the amount needed to around $10,000.00.  ",[12,995,996],{},"Have more questions about buying a home?  Would you like a more specific examples tailored to you and your situation?  Use the contact button to reach me directly!  ",[243,998,1002],{"className":999},[246,713,1000,1001],"size-full","is-resized",[248,1003],{"src":1004,"alt":251,"className":1005,"style":1007},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/How-Much-money-you-need-to-buy-a-home.png",[1006],"wp-image-1019","width:240px;height:auto",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":1009},[],[],"2024-01-14T19:20:11Z","/media/2024/01/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-11.jpg",{},"/blog/how-much-cash-you-need-to-buy-a-home",{"title":947,"description":251},"how-much-cash-you-need-to-buy-a-home","blog/how-much-cash-you-need-to-buy-a-home",[277,278,279,1019,1020,854,672,283,284],"cash needed to buy a home","home buying","ZgKyWdrQm2oB0x41bDwvFHwxUH7Wt11lzaxRd5oF_tk",{"id":1023,"title":1024,"author":7,"body":1025,"categories":1069,"date":1070,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":1071,"meta":1072,"navigation":271,"path":1073,"seo":1074,"slug":1075,"stem":1076,"tags":1077,"__hash__":1083},"blog/blog/whats-a-cma-anyway.md","What's a CMA, Anyway?",{"type":9,"value":1026,"toc":1067},[1027,1034,1048,1058],[12,1028,1029,1030,1033],{},"Country music awards?  Yes… but that’s not what I’m talking about :)  CMA is an acronym for “comparative market analysis”.  This is one of my favorite parts of this profession because it’s how I ",[22,1031,1032],{},"help people"," determine the value of their home.  Curious how it works?  Here you go:",[168,1035,1036,1039,1042,1045],{},[41,1037,1038],{},"I gather important information on your home such as location, lot size, square footage, year built, bedrooms, bathrooms, parking features, exterior finishes, interior finishes, etc. ",[41,1040,1041],{},"I use my resources to find homes similar to yours that have recently sold in your area.",[41,1043,1044],{},"Since no two homes are the same, I make adjustments as needed. ",[41,1046,1047],{},"I use information such as sold price per square foot and days on the market to determine a current competitive price range for your home. ",[12,1049,1050,1053,1054,1057],{},[22,1051,1052],{},"At no cost","- I develop CMA’s before listing appointments, annually for past clients, ",[22,1055,1056],{},"and for anyone who reaches out to me directly.","  When it comes to knowing the value of one of your biggest investments- don’t rely on friends, family, or “zestimates”… call a pro!",[243,1059,1061],{"className":1060},[246,713,641,1001],[248,1062],{"src":1063,"alt":251,"className":1064,"style":1066},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/ACR_Logo_Icon_Navy-1024x1024.png",[1065],"wp-image-1012","width:315px;height:auto",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":1068},[],[],"2023-12-20T17:58:52Z","/media/2023/12/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-8.jpg",{},"/blog/whats-a-cma-anyway",{"title":1024,"description":251},"whats-a-cma-anyway","blog/whats-a-cma-anyway",[277,278,1078,281,1079,1080,1081,282,1082,284,285],"cma","home worth","how much should I sell my home for","how to sell a home","sell my house","7cYDNL3K5d-DbcgAHpa0k4tYqx7o9_Z0d0k2I4fX9v0",{"id":1085,"title":1086,"author":7,"body":1087,"categories":1120,"date":1121,"description":251,"extension":268,"featuredImage":1122,"meta":1123,"navigation":271,"path":1124,"seo":1125,"slug":1126,"stem":1127,"tags":1128,"__hash__":1129},"blog/blog/welcome.md","Welcome",{"type":9,"value":1088,"toc":1118},[1089,1092,1101,1108,1111],[12,1090,1091],{},"Hi there! I'm Adam Carpenter. Before I started out in real estate, I was a college athlete and coach. So, I get teamwork and going all out to hit your goals.",[243,1093,1095],{"className":1094},[246,713,1000,1001],[248,1096],{"src":1097,"alt":251,"className":1098,"style":1100},"https://closedwithcarpenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/adam-carpenter-closed-001.jpg",[1099],"wp-image-773","width:317px;height:auto",[12,1102,1103,1104,1107],{},"That's what I bring to the real estate game. This business isn't just about paperwork and keys, it’s about ",[22,1105,1106],{},"helping people ","reach their real estate goals in competitive markets.",[12,1109,1110],{},"So, welcome to my blog! Hang out here for tips, insights, and advice on all things property. Whether you're selling a property, buying your first home, moving up—or downsizing—ready to invest or just looking, I’m here to help.",[12,1112,1115],{"className":1113},[1114],"has-text-align-center",[22,1116,1117],{},"Let’s take this journey together!",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":1119},[],[],"2023-12-09T16:14:12Z","/media/2023/12/What-to-Expect-During-a-Home-Inspection-A-Buyers-Guide-4.jpg",{},"/blog/welcome",{"title":1086,"description":251},"welcome","blog/welcome",[],"uFgSZtFGTzeMpa3XPEpGZVDLWwcVUizvbKI7XaCJyb4",{"id":1131,"title":1132,"author":1133,"body":1134,"categories":1133,"date":1133,"description":1142,"extension":268,"featuredImage":1133,"meta":1174,"navigation":271,"path":1175,"seo":1176,"slug":1133,"stem":1177,"tags":1133,"__hash__":1178},"blog/blog/example.md","Example Blog Post",null,{"type":9,"value":1135,"toc":1170},[1136,1140,1143,1147,1158,1162],[1137,1138,1132],"h1",{"id":1139},"example-blog-post",[12,1141,1142],{},"This is an example blog post. Add your blog posts here in Markdown format.",[16,1144,1146],{"id":1145},"features","Features",[36,1148,1149,1152,1155],{},[41,1150,1151],{},"Write in Markdown",[41,1153,1154],{},"Use Nuxt Content to query and display",[41,1156,1157],{},"Automatic parsing and rendering",[16,1159,1161],{"id":1160},"getting-started","Getting Started",[12,1163,1164,1165,1169],{},"Create new blog posts by adding ",[1166,1167,1168],"code",{},".md"," files to this directory.",{"title":251,"searchDepth":252,"depth":252,"links":1171},[1172,1173],{"id":1145,"depth":252,"text":1146},{"id":1160,"depth":252,"text":1161},{},"/blog/example",{"title":1132,"description":1142},"blog/example","8e5ZWhlgnGsWXs3bfD0Hr1pCB0WVMhI2w7qE-tBcYEg",1782591433732]