Buying and Selling at  the Same Time

Buying and selling a house simultaneously can be a complex process, but with careful planning and organization, it can be managed effectively. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Timing

• Coordinate Timelines: One of the biggest challenges is syncing the closing dates of both transactions. Ideally, you want to time the sale of your current home so that the proceeds can be used for the purchase of your new one.
• Contingencies: You might negotiate a contingency in your offer to purchase a new home that allows you to back out if your current home doesn’t sell in time. Similarly, you can request a rent-back agreement from the buyers of your current home to give you extra time to move.

2. Financing

• Bridge Loans: Consider a bridge loan to cover the gap between buying and selling. This short-term loan can help you purchase the new home before selling your old one.
• Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): You can use a HELOC to access the equity in your current home for a down payment on the new one. Just ensure you can manage the additional debt.
• Contingent Offers: In a competitive market, you might need to make a non-contingent offer on the new home, which can be risky if your current home doesn’t sell quickly.

3. Marketing Your Home

• Prepare Your Home: Ensure your current home is in good condition and stage it effectively to appeal to buyers.
• Price Strategically: Price your home competitively based on recent sales in your area to attract potential buyers quickly.

4. Legal and Logistical Considerations

• Hire a Real Estate Agent: A good agent can help manage both transactions, providing expertise in timing, negotiations, and paperwork.
• Legal Advice: Consult with a real estate attorney to review contracts and ensure all legal aspects are covered.

5. Moving and Transition

• Plan for the Move: Arrange for moving services or a moving truck well in advance. If there’s a gap between selling and buying, consider temporary housing options.
• Utilities and Services: Schedule the disconnection of utilities and services at your old home and connection at your new one.

6. Market Conditions

• Buyer's vs. Seller’s Market: Understand the market conditions in both the buying and selling areas. In a seller’s market, you might sell quickly but face stiff competition for buying. In a buyer’s market, you may have more negotiating power but could face a longer selling time.

7. Emotional and Practical Impact

• Stress Management: Balancing the emotional and practical aspects of moving can be stressful. Staying organized and keeping clear communication with all parties involved will help manage this.

8. Inspection and Appraisal

• Home Inspection: Have both homes inspected to identify any potential issues that could affect the transactions.
• Appraisal: Ensure the new home’s appraisal meets the sale price to avoid complications with your mortgage.

Each situation is unique, so tailor these strategies to fit your specific needs and circumstances.  Are you considering selling your home in New Hampshire to buy another that meets your needs better?  Contact Lisa to discuss your options at 603-440-8486 or lisa@skyrealtynh.com, Lisa Waller-Gage owner/broker of Sky Realty

Buying a Home? Research  the Neighborhood!

There’s plenty of factors that go into deciding what home will suit you and your family best, but the location you will live in should rank high on your list of considerations. You can always update a home, but you can’t change its location. When trying to decide if a neighborhood or area is best for you, you can start by determining your most important criteria. It may be community amenities, distance to work or school, or even traffic/proximity to travel hubs like airports. Comprehensive neighborhood research is critical when it comes to ensuring you will end up in a home you love, inside and out. 

Here are a list of some of the factors you should consider as you perform your neighborhood research. 

1. Transportation to Work or School

t is key to research what your daily commute can look like and decide if it is doable. If heavy traffic could impact you, consider what a location could do to your commute time - even outside of work and schooling. If you are in need of public transportation, finding a home that fits that need should be high on your list of priorities

2. Community Atmosphere

If you have children or are planning to, an important element to research is whether the area you are considering is family-friendly. While checking out potential neighborhoods, notice if there are children playing outside in their yards or if you see signage to slow down in the neighborhood. These are just a few signs that the neighborhood is a welcoming environment for children. If you don’t have children and are still wanting to be involved in your local community, check out neighborhood Facebook pages and see if they offer what you are looking for.

3. Neighborhood Curb Appeal and Home Values

Does the appearance of your community factor into your decision? Take a drive through potential neighborhoods and see if the houses in that area are well-maintained and consider finding out if the community has an HOA.  

Also consider the value of the most recent sales in the neighborhood.  There is an old saying that holds true.  You don’t want to be the most expensive house in the neighborhood.  The properties around you will help carry a higher or lower value, it is all about the location.

Are you considering purchasing a home in Southern New Hampshire?  Contact me for to meet for a cup of coffee.  Lisa at 603-440-8486, Sky Realty of NH

Invest in Yourself by Owning a Home

Investing in yourself by owning a home can bring numerous benefits and opportunities. Here are some reasons why owning a home can be a wise investment:

1. Building equity: When you own a home, you are building equity as you pay down your mortgage. Equity is the difference between the value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage. Over time, as your home's value appreciates and you continue to make mortgage payments, your equity increases. This can provide financial stability and serve as a long-term asset.
2. Potential for appreciation: Historically, real estate has shown a tendency to appreciate in value over time. While there are no guarantees, owning a home can offer the potential for your property to increase in value. This can result in significant returns on your investment if you decide to sell in the future.
3. Tax advantages: Homeownership often comes with tax benefits. In many countries, homeowners can deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and certain closing costs from their taxable income. These deductions can help reduce your overall tax liability and potentially save you money.
4. Stability and control: Owning a home provides stability and a sense of control over your living situation. Unlike renting, where landlords can increase rent or decide not to renew your lease, owning a home gives you the freedom to create a living space that suits your needs. You have the power to make improvements, decorate, and personalize your home to your liking.
5. Forced savings: Paying a mortgage is a form of forced savings. Each monthly payment goes toward building equity and paying off your loan balance. This can be an effective way to accumulate wealth over time, as opposed to renting where your monthly payments go solely towards your landlord's income.
6. Potential rental income: Homeownership can also present opportunities for generating rental income. If you have extra space or decide to move but want to hold onto your property, you can rent it out and earn passive income. This can be a valuable source of additional cash flow and a way to diversify your investment portfolio.

It's important to note that homeownership also comes with responsibilities, including maintenance costs and potential market fluctuations. It's crucial to carefully consider your financial situation, long-term goals, and the real estate market in your area before deciding to invest in a home. Consulting with a real estate professional or financial advisor can help you make an informed decision.

If you are considering investing in a home, have a cup of coffee with Lisa to discuss the possibilities! No strings attached. Yes contact me for coffee!

Lisa Waller-Gage, Owner/Broker of Sky Realty of New Hampshire

603-440-8486 . lisa@skyrealtynh.com

Key Skills You Need Your Listing Agent To Have

When choosing a listing agent for your real estate needs, there are several key skills and qualities you should look for. Here are some important ones:

• Market Knowledge

  
  A good listing agent should have a deep understanding of the local real estate market. They should be familiar with current trends, comparable sales, and the competition in your area. This knowledge will help them price your property accurately and strategically.

• Marketing Expertise

  
  Your listing agent should have strong marketing skills to effectively promote and advertise your property. They should be proficient in various marketing channels, such as online listings, social media, photography, and virtual tours. A well-marketed property attracts more potential buyers, increasing your chances of a successful sale.

• Negotiation Skills

  
  Negotiating is a crucial aspect of the real estate process. Your agent should be a skilled negotiator who can advocate for your best interests. They should know how to navigate offers, counteroffers, and any potential obstacles that may arise during the negotiation process.

• Communication Skills

  
  Effective communication is essential in any real estate transaction. Your listing agent should be responsive, keeping you informed and updated throughout the selling process. They should be able to explain complex concepts clearly and address any concerns or questions you may have.

• Professional Network

  
  A well-connected agent can tap into their professional network to benefit your listing. They should have relationships with other real estate professionals, such as lenders, home inspectors, and contractors, to streamline the selling process and provide you with reliable referrals.  In addition, connections with other agents is critical in getting your home sold.  

• Problem-Solving Abilities

  
  Real estate transactions can sometimes encounter challenges. Your agent should be resourceful and proactive in finding solutions to any issues that may arise. Their problem-solving skills will ensure a smoother transaction and minimize stress for you as the seller.  Look for designations for higher skilled and educated agents such as the Certified Residential Specialist (top 3% of real estate agents nationwide) and the Real Estate Negotiation Expert, as well as a Certified Staging Advocate.

Remember to interview your agent, ask for references, and assess their track record before making a decision. Finding an agent with these key skills will increase your chances of a successful and profitable home sale.

If you have interest in selling your home and would like to see how we can help you best to sell your home, and for top dollar, please do reach out for a cup of coffee with Lisa at 603-440-8486.

Say hello to your amazing new home with this gorgeous colonial at Majestic Heights! 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, 2 Car direct entry Garage for all 4 seasons! New Trex Deck, brick and paver patio, hardwood 1st and second floor, custom tile in baths and kitchen. Master Suite, Living Room and Family Room on 1st Floor, Media Room and Bonus Room in Lower Level. Doesn't get any better! Call me for details, showings start Wednesday! Call Lisa Waller-Gage at 603-440 8486  

#realestate #nhhomes #nhliving #newlisting #skyrealtynh#603realestate #nhrelocation

Nike, Saks and Coach, oh my! The Merrimack Premium Outlets

The residents and homeowners of Merrimack and surrounding communities have the luxury of being able to shop at the a large variety of designer outlet stores at the Merrimack Premium Outlets. The Merrimack Premium Outlets are located on a beautiful hilltop with panoramic views of Southern New Hampshire.  Merrimack Premium shoppers can stroll the outdoor stone walkways and shop in various designer stores for athletic wear, handbags, luggage and handbags, jewelry and home accessories.  Sports enthusiasts and participants can head over to with Under Armor, New Balance, Nike, Aasics and Puma.  If you have a sweet tooth you can pop into Lindt Chocolates.  There is plenty for the kids at The Disney Store, Gymboree, American Eagle, J. Crew, Osh Kosh, and the Children’s Place.  Women have so many choices for casual and professional attire and accessories at women at DKNY, Michael Korrs, Kate Spade, Coach, Talbots, White House/Black Market and Anne Taylor.  Need an accessory for the full attire?  Those looking to accessorize for their New Hampshire travels to the beach, lakes or mountains can shop to Sunglass Hut, Fossil, Solstic or Oakley.  

Located in Merrimack, New Hampshire

Merrimack is a great place to visit to pop into a great local eatery such as Buckley's Bakery, The Lobster Boat or Portofino Italian Restaurant. Merrimack is only minutes to the cities of Manchester and the Manchester Airport, as well as Nashua.  Merrimack residents are within an hours drive to Boston, and a short trip to the lakes and mountains and seacoast and beach towns.

Merrimack, New Hampshire Lifestyle and Homes

Merrimack has great neighborhoods and four villages.  It is the home of major employers including Fidelity, BAE Systems, Anheuser Busch.  Residents enjoy the great outdoors with various nature walks, parks, and recreational events year round.  There are great schools, medical and shopping in the Town of Merrimack.

If you are a Merrimack Homeowner and are considering a move, consider contacting me: Lisa Waller-Gage, Broker of Sky Realty for your real estate needs.  Our office is local and was created to provide you with the local expertise you deserve.

I have been selling real estate here for 20 years, and Merrimack is my hometown.  I love it here.  Considering a move in Merrimack?  I have award winning achievements with 50 Million in sales coupled with local expertise to help you "love where you live."  Contact me anytime by calling or texting 603-440-8486 Mobile or 603-424-6629 at Sky Realty.

Follow and Like our Facebook Page NewHampshireHomes for updates on Merrimack and the surrounding towns and cities.

Receive the Latest Local Market Stats

Curious about local real estate? So are we! Every month we review trends in our real estate market and consider the number of homes on the market in each price tier, the amount of time particular homes have been listed for sale, specific neighborhood trends, the median price and square footage of each home sold and so much more. We’d love to invite you to do the same!

Get Local Market Reports Sent Directly to You

You can sign up here to receive your own market report, delivered as often as you like! It contains current information on pending, active and just sold properties so you can see actual homes in your neighborhood. You can review your area on a larger scale, as well, by refining your search to include properties across the city or county. As you notice price and size trends, please contact us for clarification or to have any questions answered.

We can definitely fill you in on details that are not listed on the report and help you determine the best home for you. If you are wondering if now is the time to sell, please try out our INSTANT home value tool. You’ll get an estimate on the value of your property in today’s market. Either way, we hope to hear from you soon as you get to know our neighborhoods and local real estate market better.