Seller & Buyer Tips • January 15, 2024

The Benefits of Full Underwriting Approval vs. Prequalification

by Crystal Zabel

The Benefits of Full Underwriting Approval vs. Prequalification written by my friend Branch Manager and Loan officer with Union Home Mortgage, April Bynum.

When it comes to obtaining a mortgage, being fully approved through underwriting offers significant advantages over prequalification. Let’s dive into the differences between the two processes.

Pre Approval is an initial assessment of your financial information. The loan originator verifies your income and uses their experience to determine if the mortgage is financeable. However, it’s important to note that when you’re under contract for a new home, the mortgage will still need to be approved by a mortgage underwriter.

On the other hand, underwriting approval is a more thorough and rigorous process. It involves a comprehensive review of your income, assets, debts, credit history, and other relevant documents. Underwriting approval confirms that you meet all the necessary requirements for obtaining a mortgage. This stage provides a more accurate assessment of your financial situation and increases your chances of securing financing.

Now, let’s explore the benefits of full underwriting approval:

Increased Confidence: Full underwriting approval instills confidence in both you and potential sellers. It shows that your financial information has been thoroughly reviewed, making you a stronger candidate in the eyes of sellers.

Accurate Assessment: Underwriting involves a comprehensive analysis of your financial history and documentation. This ensures an accurate assessment of your financial situation compared to prequalification, which may only be based on self-reported information. With underwriting approval, you can make informed decisions about your budget and avoid any surprises down the line.

Faster Closing Process: Full underwriting approval speeds up the closing process as most of the necessary documentation has already been reviewed. This reduces delays or last-minute requests for additional information and allows for a smoother transaction.

Competitive Advantage: In competitive real estate markets, having full underwriting approval gives you a significant advantage over other buyers who have only gone through prequalification. Sellers are more likely to choose a buyer who has already secured financing, reducing the risk of the deal falling through due to financing issues.

Negotiating Power: Being fully approved through underwriting gives you stronger negotiating power when it comes to the terms of your mortgage. Sellers may be more willing to accommodate your requests, such as a lower purchase price or favorable closing dates, knowing that you have already secured financing.

In conclusion, while pre qualification provides an initial assessment, full underwriting approval offers numerous benefits. From increased confidence to a faster closing process and stronger negotiating power, choosing underwriting is a smart move in the mortgage process. It ensures a thorough evaluation of your financial situation and positions you as a more attractive candidate in the home buying process. For more details of the Benefits of Full Underwriting Approval vs. Prequalification call to get answers to any questions you may have on the home buying and prequalification process.

April Bynum -Branch Manager, Cell: 810.407.1444

Click here to find out more or reach out to April Bynum (uhm.com)

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

Crystal Zabel, Realtor
“Your Crystal Clear Realtor”
Coldwell Banker Professionals
67395 Main Street
Richmond, MI 48062
586-727-2741 – Office
810-683-4560 – Cell
micrystalclearrealtor@gmail.com
Website / Facebook / LinkedIn – Like me on Facebook
What is my home worth?

Seller & Buyer Tips • December 5, 2023

Winter Wonderland Homes: Exploring Michigan Real Estate Trends in December

by Crystal Zabel

Welcome to where we dive into the enchanting world of Michigan real estate during the magical month of December. As the snow blankets our beautiful state, there’s a unique charm to exploring homes and making real estate decisions against the backdrop of winter wonderland landscapes. Join us as we take a closer look at Michigan home sales trends, market dynamics, and some hidden gems waiting to be discovered this holiday season.

1. **The Winter Market in Michigan: A Snapshot**
December brings a special allure to the Michigan real estate market. While some might believe winter is a slow season, savvy buyers and sellers know that this is an opportune time for strategic moves. We’ll explore how the market behaves, what motivates buyers during the winter, and how sellers can make their homes stand out in the snow-covered landscape.

2. **Michigan’s Festive Neighborhoods: Where Tradition Meets Real Estate**
Michigan is known for its tight-knit communities that come alive during the holiday season. In this section, we’ll highlight neighborhoods that go all out with festive decorations and explore how these traditions can impact the real estate market. From charming suburban streets to historic districts, discover the neighborhoods where homebuyers can experience the true magic of Michigan winters.

3. **Year-End Tax Benefits for Homebuyers**
December isn’t just a season of celebrations; it’s also the time to consider the financial benefits of purchasing a home before the year ends. We’ll discuss potential tax advantages for homebuyers in Michigan and provide insights into why December can be a financially strategic time to make a real estate investment.

4. **Staging Your Home for Winter Success**
Selling your home in December requires a different approach to staging. Learn valuable tips on how to showcase the warmth and coziness of your property, making it irresistible to potential buyers even in the colder months. We’ll explore the importance of proper lighting, winter curb appeal, and creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with prospective homeowners.

5. **Hidden Gems on the Market: Uncover Your Dream Home**
December often reveals hidden gems in the real estate market, with motivated sellers looking to close deals before the year’s end. We’ll showcase a few standout properties currently on the market, from charming cottages to modern family homes. Who knows? Your dream home might be waiting for you amid the winter snowflakes.

Conclusion:
As December unfolds, so do the unique opportunities within the Michigan real estate market. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, navigating the winter market requires a strategic approach. Embrace the enchanting charm of Michigan’s winter wonderland, and let the magic of the season guide you to your next home or real estate success.

Happy house hunting, and may your December be filled with warmth, joy, and the promise of a new home in Michigan!

*Click here to see things I recommend to do after buying a property and before moving in*

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

Recipe's • November 8, 2023

Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

by Crystal Zabel

Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Welcome to fall. Here is one of my favorite fall recipes and I wanted to share the warm fall night dinner to warm up your cool fall evenings with a yummy and nutritious dinner with this Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash. Let’s begin!

Ingredients For The Squash:

3 Medium Sized Acorn Squash
3 tbsp. avocado oil (or oil of choice)
McCormick Chicken Seasoning (or salt and pepper)

FOR THE FILLING:

1 1/2 c. Cooked Rice (instant rice, brown rice, white rice, ect will work)
1 lb. Ground Mild Italian Sausage (you can use plain or hot as well)
2 tbsp. Avocado Oil
10 sage leaves, chopped
8 oz. Baby Bella Mushrooms, Sliced
1/2 Red Onion, Chopped
1 tsp Minced Garlic
1 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped plus more for garnish
1/2 tsp. McCormick Chicken Seasoning (or Salt)
1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper, plus more for garnish
2/3 c. Heavy Cream
1 c. Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (or cheese of choice)

Directions

Step 1: We begin with the squash.

1. For the squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Carefully cut the squash in half, through the stem. Scoop out the seeds and fibrous center. Place on a baking sheet cut-side up. Brush with avocado oil and sprinkle generously with McCormick Chicken Seasoning or (salt and pepper). Roast for 30 minutes. Flip each half over, placing them cut side down, and continue to roast for 15 minutes or until very tender. Remove from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.

Step 2: Once you put the squash in the oven, let get started on the filling.

1. For the filling: While the squash is roasting, start cooking rice and continue with next steps as rice cooks.
2. heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add the sage and cook for 30 seconds or until dark green. Add the sausage to the skillet. Cook until fully browned, breaking up the sausage as it cooks, about 10 minutes. Transfer the sausage-sage on a paper towel lined plate or bowl to drain juices.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the same skillet you just cooked the sausage in, and no need to clean just continue cooking. Add the mushrooms, onion, garlic, thyme, McCormick Chicken Seasoning (or salt), and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms release their liquid and the onions are softened, about 8 minutes. Basically sauteed mushrooms.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and heavy cream. Stir in 1/2 cup Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (or cheese of choice) until well combined. Stir the sausage back into the mixture. Let simmer for a 3 minutes then remove from the heat.
5. Flip the squash cut-side up and divide the filling among each squash half. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and everything is warm throughout. Garnish with more fresh thyme leaves and black pepper before serving.

Now Enjoy Your Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash!

Click here to see why fall is also a good time to sell your home.

Seller & Buyer Tips • October 11, 2023

6 Advantages of Selling Your Home in the Fall

by Crystal Zabel

6 Advantages of Selling Your Home in the Fall

Although spring and summer are typically regarded as the peak seasons for real estate, the benefits of selling a home in the fall are underestimated. Here are 6 advantages of selling your home in the fall:

Reduced Market Competition

In contrast to the bustling real estate seasons, the autumn real estate market often encounters reduced competition. With a smaller number of properties in the mix, your home has the potential to garner greater attention, drawing in committed buyers who are actively seeking to make a purchase. This decreased level of rivalry can result in a swifter selling process and potentially even multiple offers. Fall homebuyers also tend to exhibit higher motivation, as their sense of urgency can play in your favor.

Accelerated Transactions

You’ll discover a benefit in a potential quicker closing procedure. Mortgage lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, and appraisers with lighter workloads can concentrate on guaranteeing a smooth transaction for you. These elements often result in a quick and effective closure, reducing stress and offering a harmonious experience for everyone involved.

Favorable Timing

In addition to finding a middle ground between the vibrant energy of summer and the more relaxed pace of winter, this season also provides an ideal opportunity for buyers looking to establish themselves in their new residences before the holiday season unfolds. Prospective buyers may be enthusiastic about commencing the new year in a fresh home. By putting your house on the market during the autumn, you sync with the typical flow of many individuals’ routines, enhancing the chances of attracting dedicated buyers.

Optimized for Comfort

During the colder seasons, you have the opportunity to embrace your home’s warm and inviting features in a manner that may not be as effective during the summer. In addition to implementing staging techniques suitable for all times of the year, the autumn season provides an excellent opportunity to transform a fireplace into the centerpiece of a room and decorate your interior to accentuate its warmth and coziness. Regardless of when you choose to sell your home, applying a fresh coat of paint is a wise decision, but in the approaching months, you might want to consider a rich chestnut hue for an accent wall or a neutral cream with warm undertones.

Enhanced Curb Appeal

Following the summer heat, the cooler climate can serve as a lively canvas to display your home’s curb appeal. In addition to strategic interior staging, maximize the exterior’s appeal to pique interest. Seasonal landscaping and tasteful but understated decorations like pumpkins or an autumn-themed wreath can enhance your home’s allure and assist potential buyers in envisioning themselves residing there. It’s also advantageous to go through a fall maintenance checklist to address any necessary updates before listing your property.

Showcase Energy Efficiency:

With the cooling weather, now is a great opportunity to emphasize your home’s energy-saving attributes, such as properly insulated windows, efficient heating systems, or smart thermostats. Prospective buyers value reduced utility expenses, making this an attractive selling point.

Yes, it’s true – the fall season presents many home selling advantages! From seasonal curb appeal to motivated buyers, this time of year offers unique opportunities for a highly successful transaction as you prepare for your new adventure. Keep in mind that it’s essential to work closely with your real estate agent to determine the best time to list your home and to develop a tailored marketing strategy to maximize the benefits of selling in the fall.

Click here to see what your house is worth!

Home Tips • September 12, 2023

HOW TO CREATE A GALLERY WALL

by Crystal Zabel

How to create a gallery wall.

First, What is a gallery wall? A gallery wall in your home is an easy, do-it-yourself way to bring your personal style into any room. There is no limit to the possibilities and no right or wrong way to create it. Before you get started check out the following tips for creating an eye-catching gallery wall that you will love!

Find your wall: Creating a great gallery wall doesn’t require a huge area to work with. Select a nook or corner in your living room, a small stretch of hallway, or your entry area.
Choose a focal piece: Find a favorite piece of art and use that as the centerpiece for your gallery wall. This cold be a large canvas painting, family portrait, metal feature piece, or stylish mirror. Then choose the pieces that complement and highlight the center piece.
Determine your theme: Is this gallery wall going to contain artwork and images of all the same texture, color, and materials? Or are you going to mix and match different pieces, photographs, prints, frames, or drawings.
Decide on the arrangement: Gallery walls usually lean one of two ways.
1. Linear and orderly.
2. Abstract and dimensional.
Select the design that matches the look you are going for and start hanging.
Tie the room together: Your gallery wall doesn’t have to end where the wall hits the flooring, consider tying in the other aspects of the room by coordinating colors and materials on pieces, such as rugs, furniture, lamps, plants, bedding, pillows, and more! Or if you have already styled the rest of room, use the colors already there to inspire the pieces and colors in your design.

The ideas are endless for a great gallery wall, use your imagination now that you know how to create a gallery wall and create what fits you and your room the best!

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

Moving Tips • July 25, 2023

Helpful Moving Tips When Downsizing To a Smaller Home

by Crystal Zabel

Helpful Moving Tips When Downsizing To a Smaller Home

When Downsizing To a Smaller Home

Let’s get into helpful moving tips when downsizing to a smaller home. As people adjust to the new economy and become more environmentally aware, one approach grows increasingly popular, which is downsizing. Young and old decide to leave their high-end mortgages with square footage to match and move into smaller and more affordable homes. This is an exhausting physical and emotional experience. Therefore, waiting until moving day before deciding on what to keep and what needs to go is not a good strategy. Moving is already a stress-loaded challenge. This is not the best time to start handling downsizing decisions.

Some people have to move to a smaller home for financial reasons. Maybe they just divorced and meeting up with their needs is hard. They may have lost their job. Moving to a new area could mean the cost of living is more suitable. Then you’re able to buy less of a home with the funding you have. Regardless of the reason, you can do things to make the process much easier on yourself. You are thinking about where you’re going to put your belongings or maybe you are not happy about the move. But, due to circumstance, it’s compulsory to move.

Coming to terms with the situation is the first order of action. Realistically, do you see the downsizing as a temporary or long-term situation? When it’s a temporary condition, you have hopes of moving to a bigger home in the future. You may want to place some items and furniture you want to use in that larger home in storage.

These are helpful moving tips for downsizing to keep every member of the family aware of things when it comes to getting rid of a percentage of your possessions.

Plan Early and Work at a Steady Pace

Planning a year before your move is a good decision. Set up a weekly goal of going through one room, storage space or closet in a week. Within each designated space project, determine to fill up 1 or 2 boxes to trash, donate to someone else not living with you. How do you determine what should stay or what should go? Anything that is not touched within 6 months to a year should be boxed up. Are you keeping it because you love it or someone gave it to you? These questions will cut through the clutter and isolate those items that are just taking up space.

Sort and Label

This could be an exhausting step. Sort everything you own. Wall hangings, pictures, mementos, holiday decorations and other decor items on display that will not have a chance in the new home. Ask yourself, do I need this? If your answer is yes, these items will find a spot in the new home. If not, it’s time to sell or donate it. If there are items that you love and can’t part with, but don’t need it at the moment, put these aside for storage or archives. A similar process takes place in the kitchen. If you’re no longer throwing big dinner parties, perhaps your collection of serving plates is no longer needed. Not cooking for a crowd? Maybe it is time to donate the additional sets of plates. Finally, go through your clothing. This is the time to be honest with yourself. If you don’t need it, don’t keep it. If you are not going to wear it, give it to people.

Hire an Objective Professional

Detachment is a tough perspective to maintain when it comes to things you have surrounded yourself with for many years. Professional movers are trained to handle the difficult process of managing emotions as you work through your attachments to stuff. A professional mover knows how to strategically move through each step, monitoring your emotional responses while moving through the hard work of leaving things behind. Another professional you may want to contact is a professional estate sale organizer. They won’t cost you any money up front, but they will take a percentage of your sales. Those who choose to hire an estate organizer usually make more money than those who hold a simple yard or garage sale. The biggest advantage is you don’t have to deal with the logistics of the event.

Adjust your Lifestyle

You must understand that your property is not the measure of the quality of your life. It is about simple living and organized spaces filled with people you love, making memories you cherish. It’s about simple life with a positive impact. The most challenging problem to overcome is an emotional one. If you’re having a difficult time getting rid of too many things at once, you can rent a storage space. Put the things that are not needed at your new home in the storage unit until you’re ready to deal with them. You’ll be amazed at how well you get along without them.

Downsizing to a smaller home can be affordable as well as comfortable. Once you know what to take and what to get rid of you will feel better about your new home. It’s very important to hire a professional and experienced moving company when you decide to move to a new home, this will make your belongings safe and your life easier. Downsizing is a good decision for some, a necessity for others. By taking advantage of these tips, you’ll be better prepared to move into your new smaller home without any difficulties.

If you need more help or have questions on helpful moving tips when downsizing to a smaller home I personally recommend reaching out to White Star Movers.

If you live or will be moving within specific Michigan areas check out https://whitestarmovers.com/ as an option for help, they do storage, packing, moving local and long distance.

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

Moving Tips • May 7, 2023

PRIORITY TASKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE IN

by Crystal Zabel

PRIORITY TASKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE IN

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, and you’re probably daydreaming about décor and paint schemes and new furniture. But before you get into the fun stuff, there are some basics you should cover first.

Change the locks

Even if you’re promised that new locks have been installed in your home, you can never be too careful. It’s worth the money to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no one else has the keys to your home. Changing the locks can be a DIY project, or you can call in a locksmith for a little extra money.

Steam clean the carpets

It’s good to get a fresh start with your floors before you start decorating. The previous owners may have had pets, young children, or just some plain old clumsiness. Take the time to steam clean the carpets so that your floors are free of stains and allergens. It’s pretty easy and affordable to rent a steam cleaner—your local grocery store may have them available.

Call an exterminator

Prior to move-in, you probably haven’t spent enough time in the house to get a view of any pests that may be lurking. Call an exterminator to take care of any mice, insects, and other critters that may be hiding in your home.

Clean out the kitchen

If the previous occupants wanted to skip on some of their cleaning duties when they moved out, the kitchen is where they probably cut corners. Wipe down the inside of cabinets, clean out the refrigerator, clean the oven, and clean in the nooks and crannies underneath the appliances.

Now you know my recommended priority tasks before your move in click in

Seller & Buyer Tips • April 24, 2023

Which Down Payment Strategy is Right For You?

by Crystal Zabel

WHICH DOWN PAYMENT STRATEGY IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

You’ve most likely heard the rule: Save for a 20-percent down payment before you buy a home. The logic behind saving 20 percent is solid, as it shows that you have the financial discipline and stability to save for a long-term goal. It also helps you get favorable rates from lenders.

But there can actually be financial benefits to putting down a small down payment—as low as three percent—rather than parting with so much cash up front, even if you have the money available.

THE DOWNSIDE

The downsides of a small down payment are pretty well known. You’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance for years, and the lower your down payment, the more you’ll pay. You’ll also be offered a lesser loan amount than borrowers who have a 20-percent down payment, which will eliminate some homes from your search.

THE UPSIDE

The national average for home appreciation is about five percent. The appreciation is independent from your home payment, so whether you put down 20 percent or three percent, the increase in equity is the same. If you’re looking at your home as an investment, putting down a smaller amount can lead to a higher return on investment, while also leaving more of your savings free for home repairs, upgrades, or other investment opportunities.

THE HAPPY MEDIUM

Of course, your home payment options aren’t binary. Most borrowers can find some common ground between the security of a traditional 20 percent and an investment-focused, small down payment. Your trusted real estate professional can provide some answers as you explore your financing options and find which down payment strategy is right for you.

Seller & Buyer Tips • March 3, 2023

10 Benefits of Homeownership

by Crystal Zabel

Homeownership is a great milestone to strive for, and there are lots of benefits that come with it. Below are 10 benefits of homeownership you might not be aware of yet. Lets get started.

Financial security: Homeownership gives you a place to call your own, which can provide stability and financial security.
Tax savings: As a homeowner, you can take advantage of tax deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and more.
Equity growth: Over time, your home’s value is likely to increase, which can create a strong source of wealth.
Home improvement: As a homeowner, you can customize your home to your liking, adding features and making improvements as you see fit.
Pride of ownership: Owning your home can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Sense of community: When you own your home, you can create relationships with your neighbors and become part of a community.
Privacy: Homeownership gives you the privacy you need to create a safe and comfortable space for you and your family.
Freedom: As a homeowner, you have the freedom to make changes to your home and lifestyle as you please.
Investment: Homeownership can be a good long-term investment, as it can help you build equity over time.
Stability: Homeownership can provide stability for you and your family, as your living situation won’t change unless you choose to move.

We hope these 10 benefits of homeownership give you a better understanding of why it’s such a great milestone to strive for. For tips on choosing the right lender to purchase your home I have got you covered Click Here to learn more.

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

Seller & Buyer Tips • January 2, 2023

Home Insurance Versus Home Warranty

by Crystal Zabel

The Difference Between Home Insurance and Home Warranty

When purchasing a new home, it’s important to do in-depth research on all facets of the homebuying process. One thing you’ll need to understand is how to best protect yourself and your investment if anything were to go wrong. Check out the information on home insurance versus home warranty below to educate yourself on your options.

Home Insurance

Homeowners insurance pays for any accidental damages and loss that are caused by fire, lightning strikes, windstorms, and hail, however, damage from earthquakes and floods is typically not covered. It also covers the replacement of personal property in case of theft or damage and liability if a person were to get injured in your home or on your property. According to American Home Shield, the average annual cost of a homeowner’s insurance policy ranges between $300 and $1,000, and the bank usually asks you to obtain a policy before the mortgage is issued. Make sure to keep in mind that each type of coverage in the policy is subject to a limit and, in most cases, you will have to pay a deductible.

Home Warranty

A home warranty is designed to cover the cost of repairs and replacements of larger appliances and crucial systems in your home that may fail or break due to age and wear and tear. This includes but isn’t limited to HVAC, electrical, or plumbing components, kitchen appliances, and your washer and dryer. With a home warranty, you are required to pay premiums year-round, even if you do not use it, and it won’t cover damages if appliances were not maintained properly or if the damage is from a fire or other disaster.

I hoped this article helped you understand the difference between home insurance versus home warranty. For more tips or to answer any questions email, text, or call me with my info below.

Crystal Zabel Your Crystal Clear Realtor

The Benefits of Full Underwriting Approval vs. Prequalification

Winter Wonderland Homes: Exploring Michigan Real Estate Trends in December

Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Fall Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Ingredients For The Squash:

FOR THE FILLING:

Directions

6 Advantages of Selling Your Home in the Fall

6 Advantages of Selling Your Home in the Fall

HOW TO CREATE A GALLERY WALL

Helpful Moving Tips When Downsizing To a Smaller Home

Helpful Moving Tips When Downsizing To a Smaller Home

PRIORITY TASKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE IN

Which Down Payment Strategy is Right For You?

10 Benefits of Homeownership

Home Insurance Versus Home Warranty

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