3 Reasons to Buy a Home in Medina, Cuyahoga County

August 13th, 2014

There is much to consider when purchasing a home in Medina or Cuyahoga County this year, especially if this is your first time doing so. But given the current state of the real estate market, with rising housing prices and interest rates, waiting just doesn’t make sense anymore.

A study released out of Harvard University last year took a look at the future of homeownership in America and cited five top reasons to purchase a home, one of them being it is the best long-term investment to make right now. If you’ve been mulling over why or when to purchase a home in Strongsville, Medina, Hinckley or Brunswick, be sure to take these into consideration:

Housing is the best long-term investment
Very few people today are interested in purchasing stocks and bonds, especially if it requires taking on a loan. However, homeownership is striking most as the better option. “Homeownership allows households to amplify any appreciation on the value of their homes by a leverage factor,” the Harvard study states. “Even a hefty 20 percent down payment results in a leverage factor of five so that every percentage point rise in the value of the home is a 5 percent return on their equity.”

You have a housing payment either way
Think about it this way— regardless of if you rent a home or buy a home in Medina County, you still have a housing payment. If you rent, it just happens to be that you’re paying down the mortgage of your landlord. When you own a home, you’re paying down your own principal.

There are tax benefits for homeowners
When you own a home, you do have significant tax benefits that come along with the territory. Homeowners are able to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from their income, thus making homeownership the better option over renting.

Whether this is your first time buying a home in Ohio or you’ve been through the process before, BOLD Real Estate Consultants can help you make the best decision on your real estate investment. Contact us today!

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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Community Spotlight: Strongsville, OH

August 8th, 2014

When choosing where to purchase a new home in Ohio, especially in Medina and Cuyahoga Counties, you have many great communities to pick from. Strongsville, OH is one of them! A suburb of Cleveland nicknamed the “Crossroads of the Nation,” Strongsville is an affluent community that many residents have happily decided to call home.

Strongsville, named after settler John Stoughton Strong, gained its nickname the “Crossroads of the Nation” as it is where the Ohio Turnpike and Interstate 71 intersect. It boasts an ideal location for any Ohio residents looking for a tight-knit community feel as well as proximity to all of the entertainment, nightlife, restaurants and shopping that Cleveland has to offer.

The town also comes from a rich historical background— it’s a location where even John D. Rockefeller’s family once resided. Following on the historical note, residents can also see the town’s beginnings reflected in the main streets of the city named after important figures and landowners of Strongsville, like Howe, Drake, Shurmer and Whitney.

So look no further, Ohio homebuyers! Strongsville is the perfect place to purchase a home this year with the following points of interest also found inside the city limits:

  • Mill Stream Run Reservation— A branch of the Cleveland Metroparks system that can be found along the eastern branch of the Rocky River
  • Strongsville Business and Technology Park—  The largest industrial park in Northeast Ohio
  • Strongsville Commons and Clock Tower
  • Water F. Ehrnfelt Covered Bridge
  • Gardenview Horticultural Park
  • Southpark Mall
  • The Pomeroy House— A former stop on the Underground Railroad
  • The Preserve of Strongsville— the community’s only national preserve

Ready to make this Cuyahoga County community your home? BOLD Real Estate Consultants would be happy to assist you! Contact us today for a list of available homes in Strongsville.

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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Rising Closing Costs Not Hurting Ohio Homebuyers

August 6th, 2014

Homebuyers nationwide have been debating about buying a new home given the rapidly rising housing prices and also, closing costs. To be exact, mortgage closing costs have climbed nearly 6 percent over the past year. And while it is true that both housing prices and closing costs are increasing, the fact remains that Ohio still has some of the lowest closing costs in the country.

According to a Bankrate.com study, Ohio is one of few states (along with D.C., Missouri, Tennessee, and Nevada) with low average closing costs, coming in at an average of $2,392.

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a home in Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina, Strongsville or another surrounding community, this is just another reason why now is a great time to make a move. You can sell your current home, pack up and settle into your dream home now for less than the rest of the country (especially in terms of closing costs) when all is said and done— and certainly pay less than you would if you waited to start the Ohio real estate process at this time next year.

Why mortgage closing costs are rising
In Bankrate’s recent closing costs study, they attributed the increase to the high fees lenders charge to start a home loan. Fees for originating home loans have risen close to 9 percent while the other factors associated with closing costs—third-party fees and appraisals— rose just 1 percent.

It also has to do with stricter regulations in the real estate and mortgage industries. “The biggest reason [for the higher fees] is the additional regulations,” one finance expert told Bankrate. “The No. 1 at the moment is the qualified mortgage rule. That alone has really added additional man-hours to the mortgage approval process.” The rule, also known as the borrowers ability to repay rule, began in January and now requires lenders to verify that a borrower can afford to repay the loan before beginning the process and granting approval.

The costs to purchase local real estate in Medina County, OH are indeed on the rise, but your actions now can tackle many of them. No matter if you’re in the market to sell your home or purchase something new in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville, BOLD Real Estate Consultants can help! Let us guide you through the process and assist you in taking advantage of today’s market conditions.

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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What to Do This Weekend in Brunswick, Medina OH

August 1st, 2014

A new month is here again in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville and to kick it off, the weekend is bringing a host of fun events! From a night under the stars in Medina to a game day challenge in Brunswick, here is a list of community events around Medina County and Cuyahoga County that you can attend, starting tonight:

Friday, August 1

Medina County Fair
710 West Smith Road
Medina, OH

In case you missed our last blog post on the Medina County Fair— this is one local event you won’t want to miss. The fair runs through August 3 and today is Heritage Day. You’ll find music all day long, heritage crafts, a free BMX show, and animal exhibits in addition to a demo derby and karaoke contest. Visitors can also enjoy the fair’s main feature today— the Open to the World Draft Hitch Show.

Saturday, August 2

Medina Farmers Market
9 AM to 1 PM
Every Saturday through October 25th
Medina Square
Medina, OH

What better place to spend a summer Saturday than at the Medina Farmers Market? Held every Saturday on Medina Square through October 25, the Farmers Market features freshly-picked produce, baked good, artisan cheese, high quality handmade items and more.

Wild Weekends: Game Day
12 PM to 5 PM
Susan Hambley Nature Center
1473 Barschen Blvd.
Brunswick, OH

Celebrate summer at the nature center with a series of games and challenges. Put on by the Medina County Park District, the challenges are a race against the clock and test all skills and abilities, of all ages. No registration is required and this weekend-long event is FREE to attend!

Starry, Starry Night
9 PM to 11 PM
Letha House Park West
5800 Richman Road
Medina, OH

Spend a night under the stars in Medina, OH! Using the Cuyahoga Astronomical Association’s telescopes, you can see deep-sky objects, planets and the moon, all up close! This FREE event will go on rain or shine (except for cases of severe thunderstorms) and more displays and activities will be set up inside the barn. It’s fun for the entire family as the observatory will also be open to the public, with members able to answer any questions.

Hiking for the Health of It
8 AM to 10 AM
Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Kendall Lake

Start the month off on a healthy note with this community hike around Kendall Lake. Intended for adults who can hike four to five miles at a brisk pace, the Hiking for the Health of It event is free and open to the public. Ideal for ages 10 to adult.

If you’re a resident in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville, we’re happy to help with recommendations to enjoy the area! From finding your next home to selling your current property to finding ways to get involved in the community, BOLD Real Estate Consultants is your go-to resource. Contact us today!

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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Avoid Losing Value in Your Hinckley, Medina OH Home

July 30th, 2014

As many Ohio homeowners plan home projects for the rest of the summer, it’s important to keep in mind which will boost your home value and bring a great return on investment and those that will actually de-value your Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina or Strongsville property. Every homeowner wants to maintain a healthy property value, regardless of your timeframe for selling the home, so stop and think before you pick up that hammer. If you’re selling your home now, these blunders are all the more reason to reevaluate your upcoming home projects.

Here are a just a few ways you can actually de-value your home in Medina County, OH:

Remove a Bedroom
If you’re not using the space—especially if you’re now an empty-nester— it may be especially tempting to turn that spare bedroom into an office, craft room or home gym. However, Ohio homebuyers are not looking for those in particular, they’re looking for the bedroom count and more space than their current homes have to offer. The number of bedrooms you have drastically affects your property value, so ask yourself if the space is absolutely necessary. If it is, go ahead and change the room, but perhaps convert it back before you sell.

So-So Renovations
When selling your home in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville, you might be motivated to do the necessary, inexpensive improvements to pass the property to a new owner, but not those that are worthy of your investment. If your kitchen needs work and you complete a mediocre renovation, homebuyers could factor that into their offer. Before renovating, take everything into account— from hiring a contractor to which materials are the best use of your money. Choosing the right ones can really pay off.

Poor Maintenance
It’s important that you keep up with the everyday maintenance tasks of your Medina County home. In fact, according to homeowner helper website BrightNest, “without proactive maintenance—like cleaning lint from the dryer or changing your furnace filter— your home could lose up to 10 percent of its value.” Routine maintenance tasks boost curb appeal, protect home value and ensure safety.

Looking for more ways to impress Ohio homebuyers this year? Contact BOLD Real Estate Consultants today! Now is the time to sell and we’re happy to help attract the right buyers to your property.

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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What to Do in Medina, OH: Medina County Fair

July 25th, 2014

Summer is the time for great fun, great food and great weather— the upcoming Medina County Fair will include all of the above! No matter if you’re visiting Medina County, a long-time resident or have just relocated to the area, the fair is the perfect chance to explore local businesses, try out local fare and really learn more about the community.

The Medina County Fair
The fair will kick off at the Medina County Fairgrounds on Monday, July 28 and run through Sunday, August 3. The week-long event is one of Ohio’s oldest and largest county fairs and this year will mark the fair’s 168th anniversary. Since its beginnings in 1846 (with a budget of just $67.50), the Medina County Fair has grown to include a new grandstand, “big name” entertainment, a new sheep barn, horse arenas, a home department and much more. Today’s fair sits on 92 acres and houses the well over 800 exhibits, 350 food vendors and concessions, and 1200 Junior Fair members that help make the event possible for 110,000 plus attendees every year.

This year’s fair highlights will include the following:

Monday— ’80s and Newer Demolition Derby
Tuesday— Motocross
Wednesday— Rough Truck Contest
Thursday— The Band Perry
Friday— Open to the World Draft Hitch Show
Saturday— Old Iron Demolition Derby
Sunday— Farm Tractor Pull, Buckin’ Ohio Bull Riding and Fireworks

The fair will also include many free events and entertainment, including free health screenings, local bands, a talent show, kiddie tractor pull, musical contests and dancing. And just like any great local fair, the Medina County Fair will host numerous rides for both Ohio kids and adventurous adults alike.

This year’s fair will be one opportunity for exploring that you won’t want to miss. As your local real estate experts in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville, it is our pleasure to help you learn more about these great communities. From buying and selling homes in Medina County to providing suggestions on local events, consider BOLD Real Estate Consultants your go-to trusted resource.

Have questions about the local real estate market or how you can sell your current home and purchase new this summer? Contact us today!

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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Top Reasons to Sell Your Brunswick, Strongsville OH Home

July 23rd, 2014

For many homeowners in Medina County this year, selling may not seem like the best option. In fact, those low interest rates homeowners secured in past years are a major factor in their decision to stay put. However, inventory is low in local communities like Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville and selling now could provide you the opportunity to get your home in front of a wealth of motivated buyers.

You may have snagged a rate as low as 3.3 percent back in 2012, a common scenario according to Realtor Magazine, but don’t let that be your only reason for shying away from selling. To calm your fears of selling your home in Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina or Strongsville this year, as well as help you feel more comfortable with today’s interest rates, here are just a few more reasons to make a move to a new Ohio property.

Rates are not as high as you think
If interest rates are what is holding you back from selling your Ohio home, know that today’s rates are still hovering around historically low levels. “Buyers still have it pretty good,” Realtor Magazine advises. “The practical effect between [interest rates of ] 3.5 percent and 6 percent may not be as extreme as it sounds.”

Rates will only increase over time
Interest rates are indeed higher than they were two years ago, but waiting around to sell your Medina County home is likely not the best choice. Interest rates, while still pegged as low in the current real estate market, are expected to continue their climb and will be considerably higher a year from now. If you will need to upgrade to a bigger or better home in the coming months or in the future, it may make sense to buy now while the rates are favorable.

Now is the time
For homeowners, the decision to sell your Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina or Strongsville home is about you. It’s about your personal situation and your quality of life. “It’s about kids fighting about having to share the same room or their need for a studio space to pursue their artistic endeavors,” Realtor Magazine shares. Your need to move into a new home will probably still be present down the road, but the conditions in the local Medina County real estate market will not.

Do you have questions about selling your home in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville this year? BOLD Real Estate Consultants is here to help you!

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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How to Win a Bidding War in Medina County

July 18th, 2014

With the local real estate inventory being low, Medina County homebuyers are more likely to encounter a bidding war this summer. Even if you are an old pro in purchasing homes, you may come with the mindset that the largest offer gets the property— that’s no longer the case! Home sellers are leaning more toward accepting the offer that comes with the least amount of strings, including pre-approval and even strictly cash offers. Let’s take a look at a few more ways you can prepare to win a bidding war in Medina County real estate this summer:

Be Prepared
The easiest way to start out on the right foot— come prepared! After all, you might only get one shot at putting your bid in on a home in Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina or Strongsville. “Sellers want to see you’ve got a mortgage pre-approval and can close on the loan quickly,” says Fox Business. It’s essential that you include the proper documents that convey you’re more than ready to purchase the home, for instance documents that show your ability to cover a down payment and closing costs.

Pay with Cash
If your budget allows for a cash offer, go with that. Cash sales are becoming increasingly common in real estate and are one major way to win a bidding war. A cash offer shows the homebuyer has the funds to purchase the home and does not need to wait for a mortgage approval to process. The wait time is shorter and there’s no need to worry about financing not coming through.

Present Your Best Image
In some cases, coming out on top in a bidding war is not just about the numbers. Fox Business suggests many homebuyers have taken to writing a personal letter to the seller. “Be specific in conveying what you love about the home and your plans for it,” the news outlet says. The process of selling your home can be an emotional process and receiving a letter puts a face and story to the offer. It may not be for you, but at times, that’s just what a seller needs to feel more comfortable about the home sale.

If you’re ready to purchase a home in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville this summer, BOLD Real Estate Consultants can help you from start to finish. Let us help you make it through the bidding war and successfully move into your next home.

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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Home Staging Tips for Ohio Home Sellers

July 16th, 2014

In the local real estate market, communities like Strongsville and Brunswick have been experiencing low inventory and as a result, home sellers are now in high demand. The conditions are right in the market to allow  home sellers to take full advantage of increasing sales prices and the droves of buyers interested in purchasing new homes in  Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville.

Don’t feel your home is ready to list? No problem! Home staging is a popular tactic in real estate that can turn almost any home into a must-have for buyers.

Step Back and Observe
One of the first steps to increasing your home’s appeal to buyers is to step back and observe the spaces. Step out of your normal foot patterns in the rooms and put yourself in the homebuyer’s shoes. Note the dominant features in each room and if they are interfering with the overall flow. After you’ve done this, you can plan to rearrange and make changes before your home hits the market or you open the doors for a tour.

Declutter
This is a crucial step in the staging process— it’s time to declutter the home. Ohio homebuyers will have a hard time visualizing themselves in the home if nothing is in its proper place. Any paperwork, mail, small appliances and personal photos should be put away and out of sight when buyers begin to tour your home, especially in listing photos. You may have removed yourself from the home, but homebuyers cannot see themselves living in the home if your mail and personal photos are left scattered.

Edit Furniture
After you’ve stepped back and observed the interior spaces of your home in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville, it’s time to do a furniture edit. Remove any furniture that may be worn or too big for the room, including pieces that disrupt your navigation of the space. “There should be enough furniture in place to suggest proper scale and capacity, but not so much that traffic flow is hindered and architectural features are obscured,” says AOL Real Estate.

With these quick and easy tips, your home is well on its way to being ready for the local real estate market. And if the property is in great condition, let our marketing plan do the rest! We can price your home to sell and with our help, we can assure a sale in less than 90 days.

Contact BOLD Real Estate Consultants today to discuss how we can get started!

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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3 Ways to Boost Your Medina County Home Value

July 11th, 2014

Housing prices are on the rise in the local real estate market and in order to make the most of your seller experience, you might like to improve your Ohio home and help the property hold its value. This weekend, consider taking on the following home projects to boost your home’s value. No matter if you’re selling now or in the future, you can be assured these improvement projects will actually payoff, making them worth the investment.

Create More Space
One major reason buyers in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley or Strongsville have started their home search is the desire to move into a bigger space. In your current Ohio home, creating more space is well worth your time and effort. Consider knocking out a non-structural wall or removing your kitchen island to free up more living space. Today’s homebuyers are interested in the overall flow of the home and opening up a room or removing unnecessary furniture can do wonders. “Right now buyers want a wide open floor plan, the living room right off the kitchen. They are into big spaces,” one expert told This Old House.

Improve Curb Appeal
Did you know landscaping is one of the top three home investments that brings the biggest return? Don’t neglect your tress, bushes or landscaping this summer— instead, trim back anything overgrown that may be blocking a great view of the property. This is an important place to invest as just $400 or $500 can bring a return of at least four times that, according to real estate site HomeGain. What’s more, if you’re selling your home in Brunswick, Hinckley, Medina and Strongsville this summer, curb appeal is what might get those buyers through the front door.

Keep up with Repairs
One simple way to boost your home’s value and maintain it down the road is to keep up with the necessary repairs. Don’t be too quick to plan a major renovation until you’ve covered all of the bases. Do your rain gutters need replacing? Have you taken care of that leaky faucet? Ohio homebuyers will appreciate a home that has been well taken care of. And as a result, you won’t have any surprises when it comes to the home inspection and any negotiations that would arise from the findings.

You don’t need to break the bank to improve your home’s value, you just have to know where to invest. Consider these 3 ways to boost your Medina County home‘s overall appearance and you’ll be in great shape when the time comes to sell. Ready to start the process? Contact BOLD Real Estate Consultants today!

Sajag Patel
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