Author Archives: bchrealestate

The real estate landscape is shifting, with new practices like mandatory buyer’s agreements becoming the norm. While these agreements aim to provide clarity and protection, they can also create unexpected complications. Imagine signing a buyer’s agreement with an agent, then … Continue reading →

Recent policy changes made by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have shifted the dynamics of buyer’s agent compensation, prompting sellers to reconsider their strategies. Many buyers, especially first-time homebuyers, have limited savings and may struggle to cover additional costs … Continue reading →

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, known as VA, issued a policy change that now allows payment to buyer brokers on VA loans. They will be subject to certain safeguards, such as the requirement that all buyer-broker fees charged to … Continue reading →

In today’s fast-paced world, home automation is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners seeking to enhance convenience and reduce energy costs. With advancements in technology, smart home devices offer innovative solutions that not only simplify daily tasks but also promote energy … Continue reading →

Pre-approval is a comprehensive process where the lender verifies the buyer’s financial information, including credit history, income, and assets. Pre-approval provides a conditional commitment from the mortgage company to lend a specific amount, pending appraisal of the property. Pre-qualification is … Continue reading →

Traditionally in the U.S. housing market, the seller has offered the buyer’s broker and agent a share in the commission specified in the listing agreement between the seller and the listing broker and agent. In a settlement between the National … Continue reading →

Last year, U.S. homeowners faced an average property tax bill exceeding $4,000, marking the highest increase in five years, according to data from Attom Data Solutions, a real estate data firm. Property taxes nationwide amounted to over $363 billion in … Continue reading →

There is a technique that has been attributed to Benjamin Franklin and used when faced with a decision. As the lore goes, whenever Ben was faced with a decision, like you are now, he’d take a piece of paper, draw … Continue reading →

Beginning August 17, 2024, many agents will be required to enter into a written agreement with a buyer before touring a home either in-person or through a live virtual tour and buyers should be familiar with what it entails. There … Continue reading →

Home insurance rates have increased by almost 20% nationally between 2021 and 2023 and even more in some states like Arizona where rates have jumped 62% in some cases. The appreciation that homeowners have enjoyed, especially in the past four … Continue reading →