Social Media Calendar

DECEMBER 2ND

Caption: As a first-time homebuyer, there’s a lot to navigate, but with preparation and the right knowledge, you can make the process smooth and exciting. Here’s what you should know:

1. Understand Your Budget: Calculate what you can afford, considering monthly payments, taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Aim to spend no more than 28-30% of your gross monthly income on housing.

2. Check Your Credit Score: Your credit score significantly impacts the mortgage rate you’ll qualify for. A higher score can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: A pre-approval shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and gives you a clear price range. Shop around for lenders to find the best rates and terms.

4. Research First-Time Buyer Programs: Many states and federal programs offer grants, low-interest loans, or down payment assistance. Check for FHA loans or local housing authority options.

5. Save for More Than Just the Down Payment: Factor in closing costs (2-5% of the home price), moving expenses, and future repairs or renovations. Create an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses after moving in.

DECEMBER 4TH

Caption: Real estate is one of those industries that is heavily influenced by environmental, political, social, and broader economic forces that affect property value and pricing, as well as people’s buying and selling decisions. Additionally, the real estate market is shaped by these four factors:

Demand: This is both the quantity of homes wanted, at a specified price at a specific time, and buyers’ willingness and ability to purchase a home (i.e., homes are for sale that a buyer can afford and wants to purchase).

Rarity: This refers to the limited supply of certain types of property in particular locations (i.e., the buyer is ready and able, but a property is not available, so the sale won’t take place).

Utility: This factor asks the question: “Is the commodity suitable for use?” (i.e., the buyer might be ready and able, the property might be available, but if the residence is riddled with asbestos, the sale still will not take place until the problem is remedied).

Transferability: This refers to the ability of the home to legally change hands. For example, if all the other elements line up, but the buyer discovers that the seller’s name is not on the title or another legal encumbrance with the deed, he or she still cannot purchase the property.

DECEMBER 6TH

Caption: Boosting your home’s value doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Here are some of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your home's appeal and increase its market value:

1. Refresh the Paint 🎨

A fresh coat of neutral-colored paint on walls, trim, or even your front door can make your home look newer and more inviting. Consider trendy but classic colors like greige (gray-beige) or off-white.

2. Improve Curb Appeal 🌳

Maintain your lawn, trim bushes, and plant flowers. Power wash your driveway, walkway, and siding to remove dirt and grime. Update your house numbers, mailbox, and exterior light fixtures for a quick refresh.

3. Update Lighting 💡

Replace old light fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options. Install LED bulbs for brighter, cost-effective lighting.

4. Upgrade Your Kitchen Hardware 🍳

Swap out old cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and faucet fixtures for sleek, modern designs. Consider installing a stylish backsplash to give your kitchen a high-end feel.

5. Declutter and Deep Clean 🧼

Remove personal items and excess furniture to make your home look larger and more spacious. Professionally clean carpets and polish hardwood floors for a fresh look.

DECEMBER 9TH

Caption: Closing costs are the expenses and fees that buyers and sellers pay at the conclusion of a real estate transaction. Here's a breakdown for both buyers and sellers:

Closing Costs for Buyers

Buyers typically pay 2-5% of the home’s purchase price in closing costs. These include: Loan-Related Fees like Origination Fee, Credit Report Fee, Appraisal Fees, Title and Escrow Fees, Government Fees like recording fees and transfer taxes. This can also include Prepaid Costs which includes property taxes, homeowners insurance, and mortgage insurance and miscellaneous Fees like inspection fee, HOA fees if applicable, 

Closing Costs for Sellers

Sellers usually pay 6-10% of the home’s sale price in closing costs. These include: Real Estate Agent Commissions which are typically 5-6% of the sale price, split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. Title and Escrow Fees, Transfer Taxes where applicable, prorated Costs like property taxes and HOA fees up to the closing date. There can also be Miscellaneous Fees like attorney fees, mortgage payoff, repairs or concessions.

Many closing costs are negotiable, and the buyer or seller can agree to cover specific fees during negotiations. In some areas, certain fees are customarily paid by one party (e.g., sellers often pay for title insurance in some states).

DECEMBER 11TH

Caption: Here are the top three real estate myths and the truth behind them:

1. Myth: You Need a 20% Down Payment to Buy a Home

Reality: While a 20% down payment can help you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI) and lower monthly payments, it’s not a requirement. Many loan programs allow for lower down payments.

2. Myth: Selling Your Home "As-Is" Means You Don’t Have to Make Repairs

Reality: While selling “as-is” means you won’t be making repairs, buyers can still request an inspection. If major issues are uncovered, buyers may negotiate a lower price or back out of the deal. Homes in poor condition may attract fewer buyers or sell for less, so minor repairs or staging can still boost appeal.

3. Myth: You Should Always List Your Home at a Higher Price to Leave Room for Negotiation

Reality: Overpricing your home can backfire by driving away potential buyers and causing the property to sit on the market longer. Homes that linger on the market often get lower offers as buyers perceive them as less desirable. Pricing competitively based on market value can generate more interest, leading to better offers.

DECEMBER 13TH

Caption: Many homeowners cite the following reasons for why they love their neighborhood:

Sense of community: A good neighborhood is a safe, friendly place where people know each other and have a strong sense of community. 

Low crime rate: A low crime rate can give a neighborhood a sense of calm and ease. 

Nearby amenities: A good neighborhood has more than just a nice view, it also has nearby essentials. 

Things to do: People love neighborhoods where they can pursue a variety of activities. 

Neighbors: Neighbors are a convenient way to interact with people face-to-face. 

Facilities: A neighborhood can offer many facilities, such as a park with swings for kids.

Do any of these factors contribute to how much you love your current neighborhood? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!

DECEMBER 16TH

Caption: Here are the key do's and don'ts of home improvement DIY to ensure your projects are successful, safe, and value-adding:

The DOs

1. Do Plan Ahead: Research the project thoroughly, including materials, tools, and time required.

2. Do Start with Small Projects

3. Do Invest in the Right Tools: Consider renting specialized tools if you don’t want to buy.

4. Do Prioritize Safety

5. Do Know When to Call a Professional: For complex tasks like electrical wiring, major plumbing, or structural changes, hire an expert to avoid costly mistakes or safety risks.

The DON'Ts

1. Don’t Skimp on Quality Materials

2. Don’t Ignore Permits: Some projects, like structural changes or electrical upgrades, require permits.

3. Don’t Underestimate Costs or Time

4. Don’t Overestimate Your Skills: A poorly done DIY job can decrease your home’s value or require costly repairs.

5. Don’t Start Without Proper Measurements

DECEMBER 18TH

Caption: Wondering the perks of selling your home in the winter months? Here are a few:

1. Less Competition
Fewer homes are listed in December, giving your property a better chance to stand out.

2. Motivated Buyers
Buyers looking during the holiday season are often serious and motivated to close quickly, whether due to job relocations, tax purposes, or other end-of-year deadlines.

3. Festive Appeal
Homes can look warm and inviting with tasteful holiday décor, creating an emotional connection with buyers.

4. Potential Tax Benefits
Some buyers may be eager to close by year-end to take advantage of tax benefits like mortgage interest deductions.

5. Flexible Schedules
Many people have extra time off during the holidays, making it easier for buyers to tour homes and for sellers to prepare for showings.

DECEMBER 20TH

Caption: Understanding mortgage terminology is key when buying a home. Here are five must-know mortgage terms:

1. Principal: The amount of money you borrow to purchase your home. It doesn’t include interest, taxes, or other fees.

2. Interest Rate: The percentage charged by your lender for borrowing money. Can be fixed (stays the same) or adjustable (changes over time).

3. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): The percentage of your home's value financed by the loan. Calculated as: Loan Amount ÷ Home Value.

4. Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Insurance required by lenders if your down payment is less than 20%. Protects the lender, not you, in case you default on the loan.

5. Escrow: A neutral account where funds for property taxes and homeowners insurance are held by your lender. Part of your monthly mortgage payment goes into this account.

DECEMBER 23RD

Caption: Homeownership offers several potential tax benefits that can help reduce your overall tax liability. Here's an overview:

1. Mortgage Interest Deduction: You can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage for your primary home and, in some cases, a second home.

2. Property Tax Deduction: You can deduct state and local property taxes paid on your home.

3. Capital Gains Exclusion: If you sell your primary residence, you may exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples) of the profit from capital gains taxes.

4. Energy-Efficient Home Improvements: Tax credits may be available for installing energy-efficient systems like solar panels, windows, or insulation.

5. Home Office Deduction: If you work from home and use part of your home exclusively for business, you may deduct related expenses.

6. Mortgage Insurance Premium Deduction (If Applicable): You may deduct premiums paid for private mortgage insurance (PMI) or government-backed insurance like FHA or VA loans.

7. Home Equity Loan Interest Deduction: If you use a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC) to improve your home, the interest may be tax-deductible.

DECEMBER 27TH

Caption: In the 1970s, the average home was about 1,500 sq. ft. Today, it's around 2,300 sq. ft., but tiny homes are making a comeback! Is your current square footage meeting all of your needs? If you are in the market to downsize or if you need more space, we can make it happen.

DECEMBER 30TH

Caption: As we welcome in a new year full of possibilities, we are here to help you! What would you like to accomplish in real estate in 2025? Whether you want to sell or buy, we are here to help.