Why Your Credit Score Matters When You Buy a Home (2024)

The post test post appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.

Selling your home this summer is a bit different than it is under normal circ*mstances, but that doesn’t mean it’s harder. In fact, many sellers are finding the whole process runs smoothly – especially when they’re working with a Scottsdale real estate team that understands how important technology is to any transaction. Here’s what you need to know about how the closing process will most likely work when you sell your home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Related: Why this summer is the perfect time to sell your home

Home Closings During Coronavirus: A Guide for Sellers

Unsurprisingly, coronavirus has changed how we do business. With Arizona being one of the hardest-hit states so far this summer, things have had to change. Here are answers to our most common questions about how home closings work during a pandemic, such as:

• How long does it take to close on a house during this coronavirus pandemic?
• How do home inspections work during the pandemic?
• How do appraisals work during the pandemic?
• Can I do a walk-through?
• Are remote home closings possible?

Here’s a closer look at each.

How long does it take to close on a house during this coronavirus pandemic?

Generally speaking, home closings take a little longer than usual during the pandemic. However, every case is different, and the circ*mstances in your transaction might speed things up significantly. On average, closing takes about 60 days from start to finish.

There are a few reasons for this. One is that lenders have been swamped; interest rates are at record lows, which means more people are applying to refinance and purchase homes. Another reason is that social distancing and safer-at-home measures have kept people indoors.

How do home inspections work during the pandemic?

Home inspections are still humming along, but they’re operating a little differently right now. While buyers are generally always welcome to go along on an inspection, a lot of them are now asking for “remote home inspections” instead. The inspector visits the home and conducts the inspection and then discusses the findings with his or her clients through a videoconference.

How do appraisals work during the pandemic?

The Federal Housing Finance Authority has instructed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to temporarily allow exterior-only appraisals or desktop appraisals while all this is going on. That means appraisers are using public records, information found on the multiple listing service, and other data sources to get details on properties. They don’t need to go in the home at all, which is great news for sellers – but it can stretch out the process and make it take longer.

Can my buyers do a walk-through?

Buyers can do walk-throughs, but they don’t have to be in-person. Instead, they can do them virtually… or they can forego them altogether.

Are remote home closings possible?

Remote home closings are certainly possible. If you’re interested in taking that route, it’s a good idea to talk about it with your REALTOR®. Your agent can send you digital documents and tell you what needs to happen.

Are You Selling a Home in Scottsdale?

We can help you sell your home quickly and at the right price. If you’re also looking for your own trade-up, explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

• Desert Highlands homes for sale
• Hidden Hills homes for sale
• Legend Trail homes for sale
• Pinnacle Peak homes for sale
• Sincuidados homes for sale
• South Scottsdale homes for sale
• SunRidge Canyon homes for sale
• Winfield homes for sale

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 480-351-5359 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com

The post Home Closings During the Coronavirus Pandemic: A Guide for Sellers appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.

When you’re searching for your dream home in Scottsdale, you probably already know that we have some of the most spectacular homes for sale in the state. Check out these five Scottsdale real estate listings to see what’s available – and to admire the stunning architecture, modern and upscale amenities, and beautiful views.

Five of Scottsdale’s Most beautiful Homes for Sale Right Now

Check out:

• 17822 North 95th Street
• 26590 North Wrangler Road
• 10696 East Wingspan Way
• 10244 East Hualapai Drive
• 10412 East Robs Camp Road

Here’s an inside look at each.

Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale: 17822 North 95th Street

17822 North 95th Street, a 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath Maracay home located in the gated community of DC Ranch, is listed at $1,300,000 and features a resort-style backyard at the pinnacle of outdoor living space. You’ll find its fabulous kitchen something that aspiring chefs only dream about – and you can enjoy the two-way stone fireplace, a covered patio and a first-floor master suite with beautiful views.

See 17822 North 95th Street for sale here.

Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale: 26590 North Wrangler Road

26590 North Wrangler Road is a luxuriously appointed home on a private, 1.1-acre corner lot that’s listed for $720,000. This 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home has some of the most beautiful flooring – stone and wood – that we’ve ever seen throughout. Vaulted ceilings give you plenty of space, a gourmet kitchen, a fireplace and breathtaking views of sparkling city lights. The master suite has its own fireplace, a private balcony with great views, a jacuzzi tub and a dual-head shower, too.

See 26590 North Wrangler Road for sale here.

Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale: 10696 East Wingspan Way

10696 East Wingspan Way is an 8-bedroom, 10-bathroom architectural masterpiece with 15,534 square feet of indoor living space. Listed at $32,000,000, this gorgeous home is designed to impress from the moment the driveway’s gate swings open. This stunning estate home features a gym, an indoor shooting range, a full-sized theater and a 7,500-square-foot guest house with individual apartments and a yoga studio.

See 10696 East Wingspan Way for sale here.

Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale: 10244 East Hualapai Drive

10244 East Hualapai Drive, a $9,000,000 home with 7 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms and 9,802 square feet of living space, is tucked in the prestigious Silverleaf golf course community. Featuring soaring ceilings, a resort-style lap pool, a private putting green, a generous master suite with a sitting room and private patio, and a fully detached guest house, this home is a wonderful destination retreat or year-round home.

See 10244 East Hualapai Drive for sale here.

Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale: 10412 East Robs Camp Road

10412 East Robs Camp Road, listed at $7,750,000, is a 6-bedroom, 7-bath home with plenty of Mediterranean-style sophistication. Located in the prestigious Silverleaf, this mountainside home has southern exposure and tremendous views on both sides – city and mountain. Featuring a detached guest house and grand master suite with an indoor spa, steam room, sauna, exercise area and private patio, this home is architecturally spectacular.

See 10412 East Robs Camp Road for sale here.

Are You Buying or Selling a Home in Scottsdale?

If you’re selling a home in Scottsdale, we can get it in front of all the right buyers – and if you’re buying, call us now at 480-351-5359 so we can start searching for your dream home.

While you’re here, you can explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

• Desert Highlands homes for sale
• Hidden Hills homes for sale
• Legend Trail homes for sale
• Pinnacle Peak homes for sale
• Sincuidados homes for sale
• South Scottsdale homes for sale
• SunRidge Canyon homes for sale
• Winfield homes for sale

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 480-351-5359 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com

Explore Homes for Sale in North Scottsdale Now

The post Five of Scottsdale’s Most Beautiful Homes for Sale Right Now appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.

If you’re like most people, moving doesn’t make your “Top 10 fun things to do” list. It’s probably not even in the top 50 – but with these 21 moving tips from the pros, you can make your move easier and a lot less stressful.

Moving to Scottsdale? 21 Moving Tips From the Pros

While we can’t wave a magic wand and move your belongings from your old house to your new one, we can give you these 21 moving tips from the experts to help you de-stress the process.

Moving Tip #1: Schedule utilities ahead of time.

Call well in advance to set up your electricity, gas, cable and other utilities. That way, everything’s ready for you when you move into your new home.

Moving Tip #2: Hire movers ASAP.

Get on the phone (or internet) and schedule your movers as soon as you can. The sooner you can schedule them, the better – that way, you don’t risk getting bumped for an “emergency” move.

Moving Tip #3: Work with movers who have plenty of time for you in their schedule.

Avoid working with a moving company that says it’ll “squeeze” you in an otherwise busy day. If you take that cramped spot on the schedule, you’re likely to get the company’s most exhausted moving crew – and they might even show up late because they were on another job.

Moving Tip #4: Book an early morning move if possible.

Try to hire your movers to start early in the morning. That way, they’re fresh and haven’t already done three other jobs before they get to yours.

Moving Tip #5: Think about renting your own moving truck.

If you’re on a cost-cutting mission, sometimes hiring movers to pack up a truck and then unpack it in your new home is a lot cheaper than using a moving company’s mode of transport. You might even be able to save hundreds of dollars.

Moving Tip #6: Move during the week and save unpacking for the weekend.

It’s a pain taking a day or two off during the week, but if you move on the weekend, you’re going to be pretty wiped out by Monday morning. However, if you move on a Thursday and take Friday, Saturday and Sunday to unpack, you’ll spread out the work and make things easier on yourself.

Moving Tip #7: Skip grocery shopping a few weeks before your move.

If you can, work through all the food in your refrigerator, freezer and cabinets before your move. That way, you don’t have to rush from one house to another with ice cream (and let’s be honest – do any of us need an excuse to eat ice cream?).

Moving Tip #8: Get all your moving supplies at one time.

Going back and forth to buy more moving supplies is a huge inconvenience while you’re packing, so try to buy all your moving supplies at once. If you have extras when you’re finished, you can return them to the store or donate them – but there’s a good chance that you’ll use everything.

Moving Tip #9: Sell, donate and get rid of items you don’t use.

You’ll save time (and space) on moving day and simplify your life if you sell, donate or otherwise get rid of items you don’t use. A good rule of thumb: If you haven’t used or enjoyed something in the past 6 months, it’s time for it to find a new home.

Moving Tip #10: Hand-carry important documents.

Don’t risk losing insurance documents, birth certificates, passports and other important documents. Keep them with you when you move. On moving day, stash them beneath the seat of your car (just don’t forget to take them back out when you arrive at your new place).

Moving Tip #11: Pack an overnight bag for moving day.

Keep an overnight bag with all your essentials ready for moving day. Think about adding:

• Towels
• Blankets, sheets, pillowcases and pillows
• Medications
• Pet foods
• Phone chargers
• Tablets and other kids’ essentials

Moving Tip #12: Leave your clothing on hangers.

If you’re packing yourself, there’s no need to take your clothing off hangers. Use wardrobe boxes or even fold your clothes over their own hangers to pack in boxes – that way, you don’t have to do “chores” when you get to the new place.

Moving Tip #13: Put plastic wrap over your silverware tray and other organizers.

Don’t pack everything separately! Wrap plastic wrap over your silverware tray and other drawer organizers (you can even do this with dresser drawers if you’re so inclined) so you don’t have to find individual items and refill them in your new home.

Moving Tip #14: Invest in space-saving bags for fluffy items.

Puffy items like comforters, pillows and blankets can go straight into space-saving bags, and you can vacuum the air from them to save space.

Moving Tip #15: Store kitchen items in pots and pans, and secure the lids with rubber bands or tape.

Put measuring cups and other small kitchen items in pots and pans, put the lids on, and secure the lids with rubber bands or tape. That way, you’re saving space in your boxes and you’re keeping all your like items together, which makes unpacking much easier.

Moving Tip #16: Take pictures of the backs of your televisions and other electronics.

Snap a few photos of the backs of your electronics before you detach all the wires. That way, it’ll be easier to put everything back where it belongs when you’re setting up your new home.

Moving Tip #17: Keep screws, bolts and other fasteners in plastic bags, and tape them to your items.

Keep everything together (and organized) by stashing screws, bolts and other fasteners in a zippered plastic bag, then taping the bag to the items that need those fasteners.

Moving Tip #18: Finish packing two days before you move.

Don’t put off the last bit of packing until moving day. Aim to have everything finished two days before the big day, and then, if you need more time, you have the day before the movers arrive to pick up your belongings.

Moving Tip #19: Set up your new bathroom before moving day.

Head over to your new house and set up the bathroom before you actually move in. That might mean putting up a shower curtain, stocking towels, washcloths and soap, adding tissue and bringing an extra tube of toothpaste (and some new toothbrushes).

Moving Tip #20: Fill the refrigerator and freezer with easy meals before moving day.

While you’re stocking your new bathroom with essential supplies, put a few things in the refrigerator and freezer. That way, you’ll have everything you need for quick, easy meals as soon as the movers unload the last box.

Moving Tip #21: Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks before you move.

You – and your movers – will appreciate your forethought if you pack a cooler with simple snacks and some drinks on moving day. Let everyone know it’s available and make sure to stop and re-stock it between your current house and your new one.

Are You Searching for the Perfect Home for Sale in Scottsdale?

While you can use this Scottsdale relocation guide as a springboard to learn more about the area, we’ll be happy to show you the homes that interest you most. While you’re here, explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

• Desert Highlands homes for sale
• Hidden Hills homes for sale
• Legend Trail homes for sale
• Pinnacle Peak homes for sale
• Sincuidados homes for sale
• South Scottsdale homes for sale
• SunRidge Canyon homes for sale
• Winfield homes for sale

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 480-351-5359 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com

Explore Homes for Sale in North Scottsdale Now

The post Moving to Scottsdale? 21 Moving Tips From the Pros appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.

This year, 4th of July festivities are going to look a little different than they usually do – but there are still plenty of celebrations planned. If you’re looking for the best places to see fireworks in and around Scottsdale, this list will get you started.

4th of July 2020: Where to See Fireworks

These are the cities that still have fireworks displays planned:

• Apache Junction
• Buckeye
• Chandler
• Gilbert
• Goodyear
• Litchfield Park
• Maricopa
• Mesa
• Peoria
• Queen Creek
• Scottsdale
• Surprise

Here’s a closer look at what each one has planned, starting with Scottsdale.

4th of July 2020 in Scottsdale

A 4th of July parade takes place just before a drive-in concert at WestWorld of Scottsdale (Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers are headlining). Tickets for the concert are based on how close to the stage you want to be, but you don’t have to attend the concert to see the fireworks. Fireworks are $25 per car (although VIP tickets, which include parking for up to three cars, a catered dinner and premium viewing, are available for $570). Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Get more info here.

There’s also a July 4 celebration at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess that kicks off on July 2 and runs through Independence Day, but it’s limited to nightly fireworks shows. There’s a vintage air show on July 4 at 4:45 p.m., but attendance is limited to those who are staying at the resort or who dine at one of the resort’s restaurants on that day. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Apache Junction

The Apache Junction fireworks display will be at Apache Junction High School, on the track. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the fireworks start at 8:30 p.m. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Buckeye

Buckeye’s annual fireworks show is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. at Youngker High School. The school’s parking lot opens to the public at 7:30 p.m., but there’s limited space. You can watch the fireworks from outside the school or from inside your vehicle in the school parking lot. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Chandler

Chandler is sticking to just the fireworks this year, where you can see the show from Tumbleweed Park. Parking lots open at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. Parking spots are first-come, first-served, and once the lot is full, it’s being closed. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Gilbert

You can see fireworks from Crossroads Park in Gilbert, where parking opens at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks begin at 8:30 p.m. Only every other spot is open, and you can watch the fireworks from your vehicle or from within 5 feet of it. There will be food trucks, but you can bring your own food (you just can’t grill there). No alcohol, personal fireworks, tents or glass containers allowed. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Goodyear

Goodyear’s fireworks display is going to last 20 minutes, kicking off at 8:30 p.m. this year. You can head to the Goodyear Ballpark to see them, where the parking lot opens at 7 p.m. (and there’s overflow parking if the lot fills). You can bring snacks and water, and you can tailgate outside your vehicle – but you can’t cook or bring a tent. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Litchfield Park

The Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park is putting on a fireworks show that starts at 9 p.m., but only people staying at the resort or who have a reservation at Red’s Bar & Grill are allowed on the property. If that’s not you, you can watch the show from outside the resort property.

4th of July 2020 in Maricopa

The city of Maricopa is hosting two fireworks shows at 9 p.m. – one on the north end of town and the other on the south end of town. The shows start at the same time and last 15 minutes each. There’s no on-site parking, so the city asks people to watch the fireworks from their own homes.

4th of July 2020 in Mesa

Mesa’s drive-in fireworks show is best viewed from the parking lot of the Fiesta Mall (now closed). The show starts at 9 p.m. and ends at 9:30 p.m. Cars will park in every other space, and you can bring food, non-alcoholic drinks, chairs and blankets, but there are no vendors coming. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Peoria

Peoria’s setting off three fireworks displays around the city, but it hasn’t disclosed any locations – you’ll have to view from home starting at 9 p.m. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Queen Creek

Queen Creek’s fireworks this year will take place at Schnepf Farms. There will be DJs, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, beer and wine, and a 30-minute show. General admission gets you a parking spot (it’s $25 per vehicle), and you can only buy them on Schnepf Farms’ website here. Tickets are not being sold at the gate. Get more info here.

4th of July 2020 in Surprise

Surprise’s fireworks are going off near Bullard Avenue and Paradise Lane at 8:40 p.m., and the display lasts 20 minutes. There’s limited parking available at Surprise Stadium, Surprise Aquatic Center and Dreamcatcher Park, but the city is asking people to watch from home if possible. Get more info here.

What Cities Have Cancelled 4th of July 2020 Celebrations?

Here’s a list of cities that won’t have 4th of July 2020 celebrations:

• Anthem
• Avondale
• Fountain Hills
• Phoenix
• Tempe

Fort McDowell Casino and Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, which usually have big celebrations, have both cancelled 4th of July 2020 fireworks displays, as well.

Are You Searching for the Perfect Home for Sale in Scottsdale?

While you can use this Scottsdale relocation guide as a springboard to learn more about the area, we’ll be happy to show you the homes that interest you most. While you’re here, explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

• Desert Highlands homes for sale
• Hidden Hills homes for sale
• Legend Trail homes for sale
• Pinnacle Peak homes for sale
• Sincuidados homes for sale
• South Scottsdale homes for sale
• SunRidge Canyon homes for sale
• Winfield homes for sale

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 480-351-5359 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com

Explore Homes for Sale in North Scottsdale Now

The post 4th of July 2020: Where to See Fireworks in and Near Scottsdale appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.

When you’re selling a home in Scottsdale, your REALTOR® will most likely talk to you about home staging – the process of making it as appealing as possible to prospective buyers. Some people choose to hire a professional home stager, but when that’s just not in the cards, you can stage your own home beautifully.

Here’s what you need to know about staging your bathrooms.

7 Bathroom Staging Secrets From the Pros

We can all take a page or two from professional home stagers’ playbooks – and to get started, check out these seven bathroom staging secrets:

1. Update outdated tile
2. Replace exhaust fan covers
3. Invest in fluffy, new towels
4. Clean shower doors completely or replace shower curtains
5. Replace drawer and cabinet hardware
6. Group like items on countertops
7. Let the sunshine in

Here’s a closer look at each.

#1. Update outdated tile

If your tile has seen better days, now is a great time to invest in something fresh. Talk to your REALTOR about what’s going to work best in your space – and start looking at online listings of homes near yours that are on the market. See what their bathrooms look like to get inspiration.

Related: How to make your bathroom look like a luxury bathroom

#2. Replace exhaust fan covers

Most people rarely clean their bathroom exhaust fans, but if you’re selling your home, you may want to do just that. You can remove the exhaust fan cover and clean the fan inside – and if your cover has yellowed or looks old, it’s time to replace it. You can typically find these covers at home improvement stores (just make sure you measure accurately or bring the old one with you).

#3. Invest in fluffy, new towels

Buyers want to see clean, fresh bathrooms reminiscent of spas, and you can create that look with fresh, light-colored towels that nobody’s ever used before. Put them out for showings or home photos – and then put them away again. You can use them in your new home, but not while your house is on the market and prospective buyers are coming to check it out.

Related: How to get a house ready to sell quickly

#4. Clean shower doors completely or replace shower curtains

Nobody wants to see soap scum on a shower door… or an old, dated shower curtain, either. Scour your shower doors until they’re gleaming, and don’t forget to do the tracks; people will open your shower door to get a glimpse at how roomy it is inside. The same is true for your shower curtain. If it’s not stylish and on-trend, it’s time to replace it so your whole bathroom looks new while your house is on the market.

#5. Replace drawer and cabinet hardware

Simple and cost-effective, replacing drawer and cabinet hardware can make a huge difference in your bathroom. Choose hardware that matches your faucets and light fixtures (which you can also replace if they’re dated) to create a streamlined look that can turn any bathroom into a beautiful space.

Related: How to stage a house for sale while you still live in it

#6. Group like items on countertops

Keep your counters clear except a few, small decorative items. (And if your counters are small, skip the decor!) Think about grouping just a few things – a candle, a small stack of fresh washcloths tied with twine, and a vase with a few fresh flowers in it – on a tray between dual sinks.

Pro tip: Never leave toiletries on your bathroom counter! The only exception: liquid hand soap at each basin.

#7. Let the sunshine in

Pull up the blinds and draw back the drapes on your bathroom windows when people are coming to see your home. You want to let in as much natural light as possible. That way, people can see all the potential your bathroom has, and they’ll create positive associations with it.

Are You Selling a Home in Scottsdale?

Call us now at 480-351-5359 to find out how we can aggressively market your home and put it in front of all the right buyers. We’ll be happy to show you how to get a house ready to sell quickly and to help you sell at the right price.

If you’re looking for a new home in Scottsdale, explore all our Scottsdale real estate listings or look in specific communities:

• Desert Highlands homes for sale
• Hidden Hills homes for sale
• Legend Trail homes for sale
• Pinnacle Peak homes for sale
• Sincuidados homes for sale
• South Scottsdale homes for sale
• SunRidge Canyon homes for sale
• Winfield homes for sale

If you’re selling a luxury home in Scottsdale, we can help. You can use our home value calculator to get a ballpark idea on what your home may be worth – and you can call us at 480-351-5359 to talk to a REALTOR® about how we can market your home to all the right buyers.

Don Matheson
REALTOR® | Founder
The Matheson Team
RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com

Explore Homes for Sale in North Scottsdale Now

The post 7 Bathroom Staging Secrets From the Pros appeared first on Scottsdale Real Estate.