#Northern Virginia Buyer Agent

[regentsteelind]

Navigating the Home Buying and Mortgage Landscape in Northern Colorado and Beyond

Purchasing your first home or refinancing an existing mortgage can be an exciting yet complex process. Whether you're in Frederick, Maryland, Fort Collins, Colorado, or Northern Virginia, understanding your options and finding the best mortgage rates is crucial. This blog explores the various mortgage services available, including first home mortgages, refinance options, reverse mortgages, and home buying programs in Northern Colorado.

First Home Mortgage in Frederick, MD

Frederick, Maryland, offers a range of mortgage options for first-time homebuyers. First Home Mortgage Frederick MD is a popular choice, providing tailored services to help new buyers navigate the complexities of purchasing their first home. This company offers competitive rates, personalized customer service, and various loan programs designed to meet the unique needs of first-time buyers.

Frederick County also provides resources and assistance programs to help first-time homebuyers. These programs can include down payment assistance, home buying grants, and educational workshops to prepare buyers for homeownership.

Home Mortgage Options in Fort Collins

Fort Collins, Colorado, is a vibrant city with a robust housing market. Home Mortgage Fort Collins offers diverse mortgage products, including conventional loans, FHA loans, and VA loans. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, Fort Collins has numerous lenders to choose from.

First Time Home Buyers in Fort Collins can benefit from local programs and resources designed to make homeownership more accessible. These programs may offer down payment assistance, low-interest loans, and grants to help with closing costs. Local lenders and real estate agents can guide buyers through these programs, ensuring they take advantage of all available resources.

Refinancing Options in Northern Virginia and Frederick, MD

Refinancing your mortgage can provide numerous benefits, such as lower monthly payments, reduced interest rates, or access to home equity. Best Refinance Mortgage Rates Northern Virginia are often competitive, given the region's dynamic real estate market. Homeowners looking to refinance should compare rates from multiple lenders to find the best deal.

Mortgage Refinance Frederick MD also offers attractive options for homeowners seeking to lower their interest rates or change their loan terms. Local lenders in Frederick provide personalized refinancing solutions, ensuring homeowners achieve their financial goals.

Reverse Mortgages in Fort Collins, Longmont, and Loveland

Reverse mortgages are designed for homeowners aged 62 and older, allowing them to convert home equity into cash without selling their home. Reverse Mortgage Fort Collins offers various reverse mortgage products to help seniors supplement their retirement income.

Longmont Reverse Mortgage and Loveland Reverse Mortgage provide similar services, catering to the needs of seniors in these communities. These mortgages can provide financial stability and peace of mind, but it's essential to understand the terms and conditions fully. Consulting with a financial advisor or mortgage professional can help determine if a reverse mortgage is the right choice.

Home Buying Assistance and Programs in Northern Colorado

Northern Colorado offers a wealth of resources for homebuyers. Home buying grants in Northern Colorado and Down Payment Assistance in Northern Colorado can significantly reduce the financial burden of purchasing a home. These programs often target first-time homebuyers, low- to moderate-income families, and individuals in specific professions, such as teachers and first responders.

Home buying programs in Colorado and Home buying programs in NoCH (Northern Colorado Housing) offer additional support, including educational workshops, low-interest loans, and grant opportunities. These programs are designed to promote homeownership and make it more accessible to a broader range of residents.

Finding the Best Mortgage Rates

Securing the best mortgage rates is crucial for minimizing the cost of your home loan. Best Mortgage rates in Northern Colorado can vary depending on the lender, loan type, and borrower qualifications. It's essential to shop around and compare rates from different lenders to find the most favorable terms.

Online mortgage rate comparison tools can help you quickly identify the best mortgage rates. Additionally, working with a mortgage broker can provide access to a broader range of loan products and rates, as brokers often have relationships with multiple lenders.

Northern Investment Company

Investing in real estate is a significant financial decision, and partnering with a reputable investment company can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Northern Investment Company is known for its expertise in the Northern Colorado real estate market. They offer a range of services, including property management, investment advice, and real estate development.

By working with a trusted investment company, you can leverage their knowledge and experience to make informed decisions about your real estate investments. Whether you're a first-time investor or an experienced real estate professional, Northern Investment Company can help you navigate the complexities of the market and achieve your investment goals.

Conclusion

Navigating the home buying and mortgage landscape in Northern Colorado and beyond requires careful consideration and research. Whether you're exploring first home mortgages in Frederick, MD, refinancing options in Northern Virginia, or reverse mortgages in Fort Collins, Longmont, and Loveland, understanding your options and staying informed about current rates and programs is crucial.

By taking advantage of local resources, home buying programs, and assistance options, you can make informed decisions and achieve your homeownership goals. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner, Northern Colorado offers a wealth of opportunities to help you succeed in the real estate market.

[amitsellsrealestate]

How to Find the Best Real Estate Agents in Northern Virginia

Getting the best bargain possible is essential when hiring a real estate agent, whether you're buying or selling. You can tell if someone is a good fit for you by knowing what questions to ask. Let’s learn what the top Real estate agents in northern Virginia do.

What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?

Although you may believe that searching for a house online is easy enough, a competent real estate agent can take care of the search for you by keeping track of new listings, setting up appointments for viewings, and liaising with the seller's agent.

Additionally, agents have access to a greater number of property listings than the general public has. When the time comes to make a purchase, a real estate agent can help a buyer to find Homes for sale in Virginia and the purchase agreement. 

In a hot real estate market, homeowners might be enticed to try to sell their house alone. However, selling a house still involves a lot of time-consuming procedures and expenses that seasoned Real estate agents in northern Virginia regularly handle.

An expert seller's agent is going to understand how to market and stage a house for sale, as well as which repairs should be made and which can wait. It's also crucial to remember that sellers are typically in charge of paying the buyer's agent, therefore even if you decide not to retain your own representation, you will still be required to pay a commission.

How to Select Northern Virginia Real Estate Agents?

After you've gathered the names of a few agents, you'll need to refine your search by taking specific characteristics into account. These are important factors to think about when selecting Northern Virginia real estate agents.

Background

NAR reports that its members have eight years of expertise on average in real estate. Nevertheless, depending on your needs—for example, dealing with first-time buyers or condo or cooperative transactions—certain brokers are probably more experienced than others.

Local Information

The ideal person to provide you advice on a sales price based on current trends is an agent with local knowledge; they can tell you whether prices in your neighborhood have been gradually rising or falling recently. They can also assist you in selecting neighborhoods that meet your objectives, such as being near reputable schools or far from busy roads.

Technical and Marketing Proficiencies

Since most customers look at homes digitally before visiting one for sale, listing agents must know how to make a good first impression on the internet. The listing, which will be published on several websites, including the brokerage's website and consumer-focused websites like Zillow or Redfin, needs to have compelling images, videos, and descriptive text.

Accessibility

When you phone or text an agent, they are more likely to be available and able to arrange last-minute house tours as soon as they become available if they work full-time and aren't overly committed to other jobs. 

Personal Attention Level

You will have to choose between working with a team of two or more agents or an individual agent. An agency team should ideally collaborate so that support is constantly available. However, some choose to work with a single agent like Amit Nagpal so that they may establish a relationship with someone who will support them at every turn.

Obligations and Agreements

You will sign a listing agreement, which usually lasts two to six months, when you employ a listing agent. While commissions differ, they typically range from 5% to 6% of the transaction price, with the buyer's agent receiving half of the total. It's possible that listing agents will compromise on their commission.

Orginal Source : https://medium.com/@amitsellsrealestate/how-to-find-the-best-real-estate-agents-in-northern-virginia-ee02e9dc3441

[worldtopnews99]

Kingfisher House Buyers

Sell Your House Fast in Northern Virginia with Kingfisher House Buyers

Are you looking to sell your house quickly in Fredericksburg, VA, or anywhere in Northern Virginia? Look no further than Kingfisher House Buyers, your trusted cash home-buying company. We specialize in helping homeowners sell their houses without the hassle of real estate agents, ensuring a smooth and swift transaction. Whether you're facing foreclosure, dealing with probate, going through a divorce, or simply need to sell your house as-is, Kingfisher House Buyers is here to assist you.

Why Choose Kingfisher House Buyers?

At Kingfisher House Buyers, we understand that selling a house can be a stressful and time-consuming process. That's why we offer a straightforward solution: we buy houses for cash, allowing you to close in 30 days or less. Here are some reasons why our services stand out:

1. Fast and Efficient Process

When you choose Kingfisher House Buyers, you can expect a quick and efficient process. We buy houses in any condition, which means you won't have to spend time or money on repairs or renovations. Our team is dedicated to making the selling process as smooth as possible, allowing you to move on with your life without delay.

2. No Real Estate Agent Fees

Selling your house through a traditional real estate agent can be expensive, with commissions and fees eating into your profits. At Kingfisher House Buyers, we eliminate the middleman, ensuring you receive the full cash offer for your property. This means more money in your pocket and fewer headaches.

3. We Buy Houses As-Is

One of the biggest advantages of working with us is that we buy houses as-is. Whether your property needs major repairs or is in pristine condition, we are interested in making you a fair cash offer. You won't have to worry about fixing up your home or dealing with inspections – we take care of everything.

4. Local Expertise

With our headquarters located at 10703 Benning Way, Spotsylvania, VA 22551, we have extensive knowledge of the Northern Virginia real estate market. Our team understands the local housing market trends and can provide you with a competitive offer based on the current market conditions.

Our Services

At Kingfisher House Buyers, we offer a range of services to meet your specific needs:

Cash Home Buying: We provide fast cash offers for homes in any condition. Whether you're facing financial difficulties, relocating, or simply want to sell quickly, we can help.

Foreclosure Assistance: If you're at risk of foreclosure, we can offer a solution to help you avoid losing your home. Our team will work with you to find the best possible outcome.

Divorce Sales: Going through a divorce is challenging enough without the added stress of selling a house. We make the process easier by providing a quick sale, allowing you to move forward.

Probate Sales: Handling an estate can be overwhelming. We simplify the process by purchasing probate properties, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Selling As-Is: No need to invest in costly repairs or upgrades. We buy houses in any condition, saving you time and money.

Why We Are the Best

Kingfisher House Buyers stands out in the Northern Virginia real estate market for several reasons:

Experience: With years of experience in the industry, we have perfected our process to ensure a seamless transaction for our clients.

Trustworthiness: We pride ourselves on our transparency and integrity. Our goal is to provide homeowners with a stress-free selling experience and a fair cash offer for their property.

Customer Satisfaction: Our clients' satisfaction is our top priority. We go above and beyond to meet their needs and ensure they are happy with the outcome.

Local Commitment: As a local business, we are committed to serving our community. We understand the unique challenges homeowners face in Northern Virginia and are here to help.

Contact Us Today

If you're ready to sell your house quickly and efficiently, contact Kingfisher House Buyers today. Give us a call at 540-755-4099 or visit our website at www.kingfisherre.com to get started. Let us help you navigate the home-selling process with ease and confidence.

By choosing Kingfisher House Buyers, you're opting for a hassle-free, quick, and reliable solution to sell your house in Northern Virginia. Experience the benefits of working with a trusted local cash home-buying company and move forward with your life today.

[saidirealty]

Why Pick The Best Real Estate Markets VA For An Affordable Property?

In the real estate world, finding an affordable house can be difficult. There are some areas, though, where the best real estate markets VA present a special combination of potential and affordability. Virginia is a great alternative for people looking for reasonably priced real estate because of its varied landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and stable economy.

The Best Real Estate Markets VA For An Affordable Property

Everybody wants to have an affordable property. Somehow, in very few cases, it becomes possible. If you choose the best real estate market, you can easily make it happen. Continue reading to know the reasons.

1. Stability of the Economy

Virginia's economy is strong and steady, partly because of its close proximity to the federal capital. A stable job market has been facilitated by the existence of government agencies, defense contractors, and technological enterprises. Virginia is a desirable location for people and families seeking reasonably priced real estate without sacrificing employment opportunities due to its stable economy. You may also look for a property for business investment opportunities VA in the best real estate market.

2. A Range of Places

From the picturesque splendor of the Shenandoah Valley to the dynamic metropolitan scene of Northern Virginia, the state offers a broad selection of sites to suit different tastes. The real estate markets in Virginia offer choices for every lifestyle, whether you prefer the quiet of rural locations or the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

3. Learning Possibilities

Another strong point for families with kids is Virginia's educational system. The state is a great option for people wishing to invest in a home that provides access to high-quality education because it is home to respected schools, colleges, and institutions.

4. Accessibility Despite Expansion

Virginia has succeeded in striking a balance, in contrast to certain states that see a fast expansion that can result in skyrocketing housing values. Even in the midst of economic expansion, its buyers market buyers agents VA provide affordability, giving purchasers the chance to invest in a property that will probably increase in value over time.

5. Diversity of Cultures

Virginia is rich in culture and history, drawing tourists from all over the world to sites like Monticello and Colonial Williamsburg. The state's diverse population adds intangible value to real estate, making it an attractive destination to live.

Buy A Property At A Reasonable Price By Choosing An Experienced Agent!

For individuals looking for reasonably priced real estate in a stable and thriving economy, the best real estate markets VA make a strong argument. Virginia is a great option for people and families wishing to invest wisely in real estate while living in a high-quality state because of its many locations, educational options, and diverse cultural offerings. If you want to buy a property reasonably under your budget, you must contact Saidirealty. They help their clients with the best property offers. You may visit them for the best deals!

[jointcommandrealty]

Finding Your Ideal Home in Northern Virginia: A Guide by Joint Command Realty

Suppose you're a military family relocating to Northern Virginia, a service member stationed at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, or a Quantico Marine Corps community member. In that case, you understand the unique challenges of finding a home that suits your needs. That's where Joint Command Realty comes in. We are a real estate brokerage firm dedicated to serving the housing needs of military personnel and veterans, and we're here to help you find the perfect home in this vibrant and dynamic region.

Why Choose Joint Command Realty?

Joint Command Realty is not your typical real estate agency. We understand the intricacies of military life, including frequent relocations, deployments, and the need for stability and security regarding housing. Our team of experienced real estate agents specializes in assisting military families and veterans with their housing needs, but we are also here to assist all home buyers and sellers in the Northern Virginia area.

Here are some of the services we offer:

Home Market Evaluations: If you're considering selling your home, let us help you determine its market value. Our team of experts will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the local real estate market and accurately assess your property's worth. Contact us today to schedule your free home evaluation

Listing Your Home: When it's time to list your home for sale, our experienced agents will guide you through the process. From setting the right price to staging and marketing your property, we'll handle every detail to ensure a successful sale. Reach out to us today to get started.

Getting Your Home Ready for Sale: Selling your home can be daunting, but our team can help you prepare it for the market. We'll work with you to identify necessary repairs, declutter and stage your home, and ensure it's in top condition for showings. Contact us today to learn more about our home preparation services.

Buying a Home: Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, we're here to assist you. Our team will work closely with you to identify your needs and budget, helping you find the perfect property. Reach out to us today to begin your home search.

Investment Opportunities: Joint Command Realty offers unique investment opportunities for real estate market investors. We specialize in serving a niche market with high demand for specialized services. Contact us today to learn more about investment opportunities and take the first step toward a profitable partnership.

Rental Services: If you're a renter looking for a new place to call home in Northern Virginia, Joint Command Realty can help. Our leasing agents are experts in the local real estate market and can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the leasing process. From finding the right property to negotiating lease terms and signing the agreement, we'll be with you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a viewing of one of our available properties.

In conclusion, Joint Command Realty is a full-service real estate brokerage firm dedicated to serving military families, veterans, and all home buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and our deep understanding of the unique needs of military personnel set us apart. Whether buying, selling, renting, or considering investment opportunities, we have the expertise and resources to guide you through the real estate process. Contact us today, and let us help you find your ideal home in Northern Virginia.

For More Info:- Homes for sale military relocating to Northern, Virginia

Homes for sale Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia

[marnieschaarassociates]

Your Trusted Northern Virginia Compass Buyers Agent - Marnie Schaar

Looking for a reliable Compass buyers agent in Northern Virginia? Look no further than Marnie Schaar! With extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of the local market, Marnie is committed to finding your dream home. Trust her expertise to navigate the real estate process smoothly. Visit Marnie Schaar today for unmatched service and assistance in your home buying journey.

[comehomevirginia]

Is buying a home part of your new year’s resolutions? If so let’s talk we also have the only dollar-for-dollar $5000 home buyer savings guarantee. Learn more about it HERE and search homes on our website as well. ComeHomeVirginia.com

[homeplete-blog]

Buying a home is not a simple or easy task for anyone. And when you plan to buy one, it’s like dream come true situation for anyone. Homeplete is one of the top real estate brokers in McLean and are professionals in the real estate market that are able to determine the value of any property and provide proper detail of it.

[followourcustomhomesblog-blog]

New Homes in Northern Virginia Reviews

The current construction of homes happening in Northern Virginia is attracting many investors from across the world. You will note that many people looking forward to buying a new home are opting these homes. The main reason for the option of these homes is the fact that they are available in the most cabernet design. The new styles for these homes are also the reason behind why many buyers will select to buy the Northern Virginia homes. The most current ways of construction have been adopting making the homes to look appealing. You will be assured of getting in touch with your dream house if you pay attention to the Northern Virginia homes. Taking time to research online is also a reliable way if you are looking forward to getting the best home in Northern Virginia.

With technology advancing at a high rate, many changes have also been witnessed in the construction process. Many inventions are happening when it comes to the construction of new homes. Most custom home builders have also adopted the most recent ways of home construction. You are assured of buying a house which has the most current design and style if you choose the Northern Virginia homes. With the internet also changing at a high rate, it is currently straightforward to acquire a home even at the comfort of your home. You will also not need to move to the exact place if you consider buying the Northern Virginia homes online. The only requirement is to sign a contract with the agent and make the payment of the desired house via the website. When searching the best home to acquire, it is advisable to make a physical visitation on the home location.

This is much essential since you will get to see the site of the home. The good thing with making physical visitation is the fact that will even get a chance of interacting with a few of the neighbors around. They can help you gather more detail about the home location will also need to get more detail concerning the security of the place if you take the time to engage the neighbors in your research process. There are many reasons why most individuals choose to reside in Northern Virginia. The place is the best since it provided one of the annual cultural festivals where various artists display their skills as well as talents. The good thing with custom new homes Northern Virginia homes is the fact that they are quite affordable enabling most persons to buy the flats.  For more information about real estate, click on this link: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-start-a-career-in-real-estate_us_59b97c87e4b0390a1564da7c.

[mbdailynews]

Bidding Wars Overheated the Home-Buyer Market, Now They’re Coming for Renters

Competition among renters means many tenants feel compelled to pay more each month than what the landlord is asking When Donna Jones and her husband looked to rent a home in Northern Virginia in February, they often received the same response: Sorry, but someone else offered to pay more rent. “We didn’t even know you could do that,” Ms. Jones said. Bidding wars have long been a staple of hot housing markets, where buyers compete with offers above the seller’s listing price. Now, these contests are becoming more commonplace in the rental market. Real-estate agents from New York to Chicago and Atlanta say they see more people than ever making offers above asking to lease homes and apartments that they will never own. An increasing number of white-collar professionals—some of whom recently sold homes—are reluctant to buy because of record-high home prices, rising mortgage rates and limited supply. They are renting instead, helping to drive a frenzy for leased properties of all kinds, and helping fuel the trend of offering above asking rents, real-estate agents said. Get WSJ Print Subscription In some parts of Atlanta, so many people compete for the same homes that Re/Max agent Peter Beckford said he is renting out $3,500-a-month townhouses to couples making close to $1 million a year. “All of these applicants are extremely well-qualified,” Mr. Beckford said. A New York City panel last week approved rent increases of 3.25% for next year at properties covered by the city’s rent stabilization rules, the largest rise in nearly a decade. But for the city’s unregulated rental stock, which accounts for about half of all apartments there, it is open season on rent hikes. In popular high-end neighborhoods, more renters are making over-ask offers, real-estate agents say. “We’re politely recommending it,” said Adrian Savino, managing director of the Living New York brokerage firm. Large rental landlords also report having more business than they can handle. “In any given week, we get over 13,000 leads for only 200 homes available,” said Gary Berman, chief executive of Tricon Residential, during a May earnings call. The median U.S. asking rent passed $2,000 for the first time in May, according to real-estate company Redfin, and it has risen 15% over the past 12 months. If more high-income people enter hot rental markets, and the supply of new homes for them to rent or buy doesn’t substantially increase, rents are poised to keep rising, housing analysts say. Barron’s News Subscription (5-Years) Take 70% Off Rising interest rates also mean that builders are likely to build less because fewer people can afford a new home when borrowing rates are higher, said Taylor Marr, deputy chief economist at Redfin. “I think we’re in a really tough spot now with the outlook for new construction.” Many renters don’t stop at offering a higher rental price. Some are following other parts of the home-buyer playbook, such as drafting “pick me” love letters that introduce themselves to a landlord and make an emotional appeal. Others are asking previous landlords to write them recommendations, as if applying for a job. In Chicago, the website Brixbid.com facilitates an influx of people bidding on rent. Landlords start the bidding with a suggested price. Renters then have the choice to lowball them or bid even higher. Some apartments now go 10% to 15% over ask on Brixbid, said company co-founder James Peterson. Chicago real-estate agent Jodi Dougherty of Downtown Apartment Co. has told her clients to write in their best offers on any rental application they submit. Many applicants are losing out when they assume the asking rent is enough, she said. Subscribe New York Times Digital Subscription 3 Years $60 Earlier this month, a client succeeded by pre-emptively offering $1,000 over the asking price for a three-bedroom apartment near downtown Chicago that was listed for $4,000. “We did not win it by a landslide, by any means,” Ms. Dougherty said. It isn’t just high-end units in affluent neighborhoods where tenants feel pressure to pay above ask. For several months, Atlanta housekeeper Tabutha Robinson and her family had been looking to move when in April Ms. Robinson found a three-bedroom house listed for $1,325. The listing agent, Torrence Ford, warned her there were already other applications on the home. “I felt like, if I go up just a tad on the offer, then maybe I will get it,” Ms. Robinson recalled. She offered $1,500, a stretch for her budget, she said, but what it took to finally rent a home. “I ran it by the owner, and they were so elated they went with them instantly,” Mr. Ford said. Ms. Jones also entered the bidding-war fray. “Willing to pay $50 more,” she began writing on her applications for rental houses across the greater Washington, D.C., area. Get Bloomberg News Digital Subscription for 5-Years Save 70% Off Yet even though she and her husband T.J. have careers in government contracting and the military and say they have good credit, they were still getting outbid. At one point, they considered dressing in military garb for home showings in the hopes that might impress some property owners. Then in March, when a four-bedroom townhouse in Ashburn, Va., hit the market for $3,000, the couple pounced. They offered an extra $200 and were accepted. “It was scary, because at the end there we were just putting in applications sight unseen,” Ms. Jones said. “This is not normal.” Read the full article

[marnieschaarassociates]

The Art of Pricing: Strategies Used by Compass Listing Agents in Northern Virginia

In a world where buyers seek more than just a physical dwelling, Compass Listing Agents understand the importance of highlighting the lifestyle and experiences associated with a property. They meticulously curate marketing campaigns that showcase not only the home's features but also the unique qualities of the neighborhood and surrounding community.

[comehomevirginia]

2020 was Awful! Here’s to 2021 Happy New Year!

[homeplete-blog]

Here is the ultimate home buyers guide list that will lead to your dream house.

[myersjackson]

WV Land for Sale at Auction with Jarrod Hines

West Virginia Land Auction

#WestVirginiaAcreage536

AMAZING WEST VIRGINIA LAND AUCTION 536 +/- ACRES of WOODED LAND AND FIELDS Hatcher Road, Princeton, WV SEALED BIDDING ONLY SEALED BIDS TO BE OPENED AUGUST 4 AT 1:00PM PRINCETON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1809 WEST MAIN STREET, PRINCETON,WV 24740 Property Tour Dates July 14 and July 22 2:00PM-5:00PM Private appointments may also be scheduled to see this property. Call Martha Hilton at 304-667-7060 INSTRUCTIONS ARE PROVIDED BELOW THAT DETAIL THE REQUIREMENTS TO REQUEST A SEALED BID PURCHASE AGREEMENT West Virginia Land Auction #WestVirginiaAcreage536

AUCTIONEER’S COMMENTS: ALMOST HEAVEN!! WHAT AN AMAZING PIECE OF PROPERTY!! This wonderful property sits high on a mountain side in beautiful Mercer County, West Virginia. It is a hunter’s paradise. Plenty of wooded areas, multiple springs and a fully stocked pond. The property also features multiple open fields that are currently being cut for hay. The property has also been used as a functional cattle farm during its lifetime. The property is easily accessible by the main access road. Several roads cross the property and allow for easy passage for farm equipment and ATV. Additional logging roads that form a trail system allow for simple and easy passage across and through the wooded areas by ATV . This property is perfect for an off the grid style campsite, weekend camper getaway or just a nice manageable recreational and hunting tract with convenient access and a private secluded feel. Located close to interstate 77 from two different exits, either Princeton (Rt. 460 East) or Athens (Eads Mill Rd. & Pisgah Rd.) exits. This property is approximately 15 minutes east of Princeton,WV and Interstate 77. If you’ve been looking for that private piece of land that you can call your own, you’ll want to take a look at this one. Sold subject to seller confirmation and acceptance of highest bid received Required minimum bid – $350,000.00 Acreage – 536 +/- acres Great trail system Electricity present on central parcel along with small caretaker’s house Multiple large open fields surrounded by wooded areas. Open fields currently being cut for hay Several springs and fully stocked spring-fed pond Food plots already present Parcel ID Number and Legal Description 05 11001500000000 184 ACS PAYNES FK 05 11001600000000 187.5 ACS PAYNES FK 05 11001700000000 0.62 ACS PAYNES FK 05 12001100000000 92.25 ACS PAYNES FK 05 20000600000000 71.80 ACS PAYNES FK Municipality: Mercer County Zoning:Tax Class 2, Land Use 112 Active Farm RECOMMENDED DIRECTIONS AND ACCESS POINT – Interstate 77 to Route 460 East. Travel approximately 5 miles – Left turn onto Goodwins Chapel Road. Travel 1.2 miles. – Left turn onto Cheesy Creek Road. Travel 0.1 mile – Sharp left onto Hatcher Road. Travel approx. 4.4 miles to property entrance NOTE: Hatcher Road is a narrow, paved, unlined road that turns to gravel around the 3.3 mile mark. After traveling on the gravel for approx. 1.1 miles you should arrive at the property entrance. West Virginia Land Auction #WestVirginiaAcreage536

IMPORTANT TRAFFIC NOTE: buyers traveling from the south or from northern VA are advised to detour around Interstate 77 North. There are major delays being caused by construction approximately eight miles south of Princeton,WV and the intersection of Rt. 460. Suggested alternate routes traveling from the south or northern VA are: – Interstate 81 to Dublin, VA. Route 100 North to Pearisburg, VA. Route 460 West then travel approx. 20 miles to Goodwins Chapel Road on the right. -Interstate 81 to Christiansburg, VA. Route 460 West toward Blacksburg, VA. Travel approx. 50 miles on Rt. 460 West to Goodwins Chapel Road on the right. -Interstate 77 North to the Bluefield, WV exit 1 and Route 52 north. Travel approx. 2 miles to the ramp for Rt. 460 East. Take Rt. 460 East approx. 17 miles on Rt. 460 East to Goodwins Chapel Road on the left. Questions??Call Martha Hilton, Broker at 304-667-7060 SEALED BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS for SEALED BID REAL ESTATE AUCTION TO REQUEST A SEALED BID PACKET AND PLACE A BID: Detailed Bidder’s Information Packets containing the Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreement, title reports, tax parcel numbers, aerial and topographic maps and bidding instructions are available from Vision Quest Realty via email, fax or mail order. Contact Martha Hilton at agentwv@mountain.net or call 304-667-7060 West Virginia Land Auction #WestVirginiaAcreage536

REAL ESTATE TERMS: 1. TERMS OF SALE: This Auction is being conducted subject to the Terms and Conditions of Sale and the Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreement. Five tracts totaling approximately five hundred and thirty six (536) +/- acres in the State of West Virginia, Mercer County. The Auction Tracts are being offered for sale as a whole. 2. BIDDER’S INFORMATION PACKET: Detailed Bidder’s Information Packets containing the Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreement, title reports, tax parcel numbers, aerial and topographic maps and bidding instructions are available from Auction Company via email, fax or mail order. 3. PROPERTIES OFFERED SUBJECT TO MINIMUM BID: The property in its entirety is offered subject to the seller’s confirmation of the highest bid. All bids presented must be greater than or equal to the published Minimum Bid of $350,000.00 4. BIDDING: The Auction Tracts are being offered by a sealed bid auction. ELECTRONIC MAIL BIDS, U.S MAIL BIDS, BIDS DELIVERED BY DELIVERY SERVICE (UPS, FEDEX, ETC.): To participate and bid in the auction via mail, delivery service or electronic mail, all fully executed and signed Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreements (contained in the Bidder’s Information Packet) must be completed and delivered to Martha Hilton, Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty, on or before 5:00 PM Eastern Time, Friday, August 3, 2018. All bids sent through U.S. Mail or by delivery service, must be sent by certifiable means, requiring a signature upon receipt. Bids may be emailed, mailed or delivered to: Martha Hilton, Broker and Auctioneer 951 Washington Street, West Lewisburg, WV 24901 agentwv@mountain.net HAND DELIVERED BIDS: With prior approval from Martha Hilton, Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty, fully executed and signed Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreements (contained in the Bidder’s Information Packet) may also be hand delivered to Martha Hilton at the Princeton Presbyterian Church located at 1809 West Main Street, Princeton, WV 24740 on Saturday, August 4, 2018 before 12:30 pm. All requests for hand delivery at the Princeton Presbyterian Church must be received via electronic mail. No requests for hand delivery and no hand delivered bids will be accepted after 12:30 PM on August 4, 2018. 5. BID BASIS: Bidding is by a lump sum bid, not per acre. 6. BUYER’S PREMIUM: A ten percent (10%) buyer’s premium must be added to the final High Bid to determine the total Purchase Price. Example: $400,000.00 bid + $40,000.00 buyer’s premium = $440,000.00 total purchase price 7. EARNEST MONEY DEPOSIT: A Deposit of 10% of your bid must accompany the bid either by cashier’s or certified check or wire transfer. Deposit checks must be made payable to “Vision Quest Realty Trust Fund ”. Cashier’s checks will not be deposited during the bid consideration period. All Deposits on offers not accepted will be returned to the respective bidders by August 28, 2018 with time allowed for mail delivery. Deposits for accepted winning Bids are NON-REFUNDABLE and will be deposited to the Escrow account of Martha Hilton, Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty, and held per the terms of the Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreement. Call 304-520-0992 or 304-645-7700 for wiring instructions. 8. BID OPENING: Bids will be opened at the Princeton Presbyterian Church located at 1809 West Main Street, Princeton, WV 24740 on Saturday, August 4, 2018 at 1:00 PM, Eastern Time. Only the high bids will be announced.

9. NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTED BIDS: The successful bidder(s) will be notified if their bid(s) has/have been accepted by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on Thursday, August 9, 2018. 10. TIE BIDS: In the event of any tie bids, all tied bidders will be given another opportunity to make their best and final offer with 5 business days’ notice. 11. SETTLEMENT: Seller will prepare, and Buyer(s) will accept, a General Warranty Deed. Buyer(s) and Seller shall pay their own settlement costs as is customary in the state of West Virginia. Each party will be responsible for its own attorneys’ fees. Seller is providing a commitment for title insurance for all Auction Tracts. If Buyer elects to purchase title insurance, the title insurance premium shall be at the Buyer’s expense. All Auction Tracts shall be conveyed per the Property Description in the commitment for title insurance. The settlement date shall be on or before Sept 6, 2018. 12. ALL SALES ARE FINAL: All property is auctioned “AS IS, WHERE IS” with all faults in its condition at the time of sale without recourse by way of refund, reduction of the purchase price, or otherwise. Bidders should perform such independent investigation with respect to the property as they deem necessary or appropriate. 13. FINANCING: Your bidding and purchase of the property is not conditional upon financing. Be sure you have arranged financing, if needed, and are capable of paying cash at closing. Any and all buyers requiring financing MUST present a letter of qualification or pre-approval to Martha Hilton prior to the date and time of the auction. 14. BROKER PARTICIPATION: Any appropriately licensed West Virginia broker whose agent properly registers the successful high bidder will be paid a commission of 20% of the net buyer’s premium at settlement by the Seller. Broker Participation Applications must be on a Martha Hilton Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty, Broker Participation form and contain the name, address and signature of agent and prospect as well as the Broker’s license number and Federal Tax ID number. The form must be received in the office of Martha Hilton Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty, 24 hours prior to the receipt of or accompanying the Sealed Bid Auction Real Estate Purchase Agreement and Deposit. Agents acting as principals buying on their own account, on account of a business in which they are a principal member, on behalf of family members, other licensed real estate agents, or who represent prospects that have had prior contact with the Seller or Auction Company are not eligible. An agent may register multiple qualified bidders. 15. BOUNDARY LINES: Boundaries on aerial photos and topographic maps are approximate. Potential buyers will have ample opportunity to inspect boundary lines during scheduled property tour dates or by scheduling a private tour of the property. Buyer assumes all risk associated with entry upon the land and traversing the land. 16. ACREAGE AND SQUARE FEET: All acreages and square feet descriptions are approximate. If there is a discrepancy between the seller, Vision Quest Realty, Martha Hilton Broker and Auctioneer, its contractors, employees, affiliates, assigns and the actual acreage and/or square feet as determined by a surveyor or appraiser, the final accepted high bid and subsequent sales price including the buyer’s premium will not be adjusted. The statements, while not guaranteed, are from reliable sources. Any costs incurred in establishing boundaries shall be the responsibility of the buyer. Each sale is subject to easements, rights-of-way, reservation and/or restrictions of record. 17. RESERVE AUCTION: Once declared the high bidder and signing the required Sealed Bid Real Estate Purchase Agreement, the offer shall be irrevocable for seven (7) business days from the date of submission, and shall not be withdrawn for any reason by buyer. If not accepted by seller within that time frame by delivery of a signed copy of the Sealed Bid Real Estate Purchase Agreement, the Sealed Bid Real Estate Purchase Agreement and the buyer’s offer shall become null and void and the deposit held by the auction company shall be promptly returned to the buyer. 18. INDEMNIFICATION OF AGENT AND CLOSER: Buyer jointly and agrees to indemnify and hold closer and agent their agents, principals, associates, affiliates, assigns and employees harmless against any and all losses, claims, damages or liabilities and expenses not resulting from agent or closer’s bad faith or gross negligence, including costs of investigation, attorney fees, and disbursements, which may be imposed upon or incurred by agent or closer hereunder relative to the performance of their duties related to the parties or the property, including without limitation any litigation arising from or in respect of this contract or the transactions contemplated hereby. Closer and agent shall not be liable for any error of judgment or for any act done or omitted by them in good faith. Closer and agent are authorized to act on any document believed by them in good faith to be executed by the proper party or parties, and will incur no liability in so acting. Closer and agent are in all respects and for all purposes third party beneficiaries of this contract to the extent that this contract would entitle them to rights or benefits if they were signatory parties hereto, and each of them is entitled to enforce such rights and benefits, as herein provided, to the same extent they would be entitled if they were such signatory parties. ANY INDEMNIFICATION, DEFENSE OR HOLD HARMLESS OBLIGATION OF BUYER FOR THE BENEFIT OF SELLER, CLOSER, OR AGENT IN THIS CONTRACT SHALL SURVIVE THE CLOSING AND/OR TERMINATION OF THIS CONTRACT. 19. GENERAL: The information contained in this brochure and otherwise provided by Seller and Auction Company is subject to verification by all parties relying on it. No liability for its accuracy, error, or omissions is assumed by the Seller or the Auction Company. 20. AGENCY: Martha Hilton, Auctioneer and Broker, Vision Quest Realty and her representatives represent the Seller. 21. QUESTIONS: Sale related questions should be directed to: Martha Hilton at 304-667-7060 or agentwv@mountain.net Vision Quest Realty WV0004244 WV#1357

[anisanews]

Yes. America Still Has Affordable Homes (Gasp!). Here’s Where They Are

America’s torrid housing market isn’t showing any signs of slowing down—at least for now.

In April, every home sold in the U.S. had at least 5 offers on average according to the National Association of Realtors, while three-quarters of offers for homes represented by Redfin agents resulted in bidding wars. In some markets like Westchester, NY, homes are for up to 30% over ask with no contingencies and 48% of houses nationwide last month sold for more than their original list price.

One suburban Washington, D.C. 4-bedroom home reportedly recently had 76 all-cash offers within 72 hours of being listed and eventually sold for 70% over asking price.

Metro Washington, D.C., northern Virginia, and Maryland remain one of America’s most unaffordable … [+] housing markets for first-time home buyers along with San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle

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The current hyper-caffeinated housing market isn’t just isolated to the U.S.

Home prices in 37 of the world’s wealthiest countries comprising the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (a.k.a. the OECD), including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, Turkey, Korea, and virtually all of Europe, rose 7% year-over-year between 2019 and 2020, the fastest pace of international housing inflation in two decades since before the Great Recession.

48% of all U.S. homes this past April sold for over ask. On average, homes had a minimum of five … [+] offers

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For Millennial first-home buyers in the U.S., current homeowners and Baby Boomers looking to downsize or pull new-found equity out of their homes, or growing families needing to trade up, all of the panic buying raises two essential questions. How long will the current boom last? And, more importantly for buyers who don’t have the time to wait around to find out, are there any affordable houses in America left?

On the former question, there are mixed opinions on how long the current froth can sustain itself against persistently high unemployment and low wage growth on the backside of the pandemic. But most real estate economists and experts largely agree that the fundamentals of the present housing upswing are strong—unlike the glass house that was 2008 and despite predictions that the pandemically-induced economic contraction last year could force tens of millions of Americans into foreclosure and eviction, triggering another national housing crisis.

The reality is that the opposite happened.

Buyers and investors who got in on Miami and South Florida’s recent real estate boom before it hit … [+] scorching mode are reaping the rewards

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For an American economy that’s still recovering, this is all great news for current homeowners, recent buyers, and investors who’ve gotten in early enough to get a piece of the action on one of the hottest asset classes right now outside of the stock market.

But the panic homebuying has driven up prices beyond most current buyers’ financial capabilities, which in turn is exacerbating an affordability and housing supply crisis that’s been building in the U.S. for years since the Great Recession, particularly among the approximately 5 million Millennials turning 30 every year and entering prime first-time homebuying years.

As to the more important second question: Where are affordable homes in vibrant, stable American cities still available?

It turns out a lot of places—if you know where to look and don’t have to commute every day to a top ten U.S. metropolitan area like New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, or Washington, D.C., which fortunately tens of millions of Americans don’t have to any longer in the new remote work normal.

Against most buyers expectations, most of these affordable cities right now are also in some of America’s hottest destinations currently when it comes to everything Millennials and first-time homebuyers want according to real estate experts, including thriving local hubs for food (Louisville), music (Memphis), sports (Pittsburgh), tech (Indianapolis), and jobs (Birmingham).  

Memphis’s Beale Street was Tennessee’s music soul long before Nashville according to many locals

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What’s ultimately driving affordability in America’s last attainable housing markets are prices that already were reasonable priced in the first place before the pandemic hit, say most experts. As a result, compared with currently super-charged markets like South Florida and Austin that just got tighter and more irrational over the past twelve months, many homes in these cities already were within most first-time homebuyers’ financial limits in the first place despite nationwide housing supply constraints.

“These affordable markets are not necessarily any less competitive than many others around the country. The crucial difference is price point,” says Arpita Chakravorty, a Zillow Economist. “In some of these cities home values are up almost 20% from a year ago, which are some of the highest growth rates in the country and not far off from what we’re seeing in places like Phoenix or Austin. But even with the strong appreciation in the markets on this list, they remain among the least expensive large U.S. metros in terms of home prices overall.”

The new remote work normal is opening up real estate opportunities in cities and places that people … [+] had never thought of living before. Many are motivated by affordability more than any other factor

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The new remote work normal is also empowering millions of potential homebuyers to look at cities and neighborhoods that were never on the map before because they needed to commute to jobs in major metropolitan areas. That’s making homes in formerly lesser know cities in the Midwest and South that always had thriving downtowns and sustainable economies before the pandemic some of the best places to invest in real estate after it based on year-over-year appreciation.

“The explosion of remote work has caused many to reimagine what and where they want their home to be,” continues Chakravorty. “So more affordable areas of the country are in high demand as buyers look for homes that offer more room to spread out. That could mean moving farther from a downtown core into nearby suburbs, or from a more-expensive metro to a less-expensive one which is in part what’s driving price appreciation in these smaller, Midwestern and Southern cities. The bottom line is that we are still in the early stages of what we call the Great Reshuffling as many are taking advantage of more flexible remote work policies to rethink where and how they want to live. Some who have been working remotely during the pandemic may be called back to the office. But others will receive firm guidance from their employer of a permanent ability to work remotely and take advantage of that freedom for years.”

Smaller cities like Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Memphis, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Birmingham, and Baton … [+] Rouge will all benefit from America’s ongoing housing affordability crisis

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As for the future of America’s housing affordability crisis, few are bold enough to predict what comes next. But everyone agrees on the most obvious solution: more supply—particularly when it comes to first-time, women, minority, and immigrant homebuyers.

“More housing is the clearest path to a more balanced market between buyers and sellers,” says Chakravorty. “Ideas like down payment assistance can help, especially for younger generations who are competing in today’s incredibly competitive market with long-time homeowners who have built up equity from the home price gains in recent years. But demand shows no signs of meaningfully slowing any time soon, so without more supply to meet that demand it’s likely that prices will continue to grow at a fast pace and make down payments a bigger and bigger challenge for first-time buyers. Builders are doing their part, but it will take years, if not decades, to catch up from the underbuilding that took place following the Great Recession.”

One of America’s most affordable cities is also one of its most historic and picturesque. Jackson, … [+] Mississippi

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In the meantime here are fifteen of America’s most affordable cities where home prices still are attainable with some of the most, vibrant up-and-coming cultural, entertainment, hospitality, and tech scenes in the country.

[NOTES: Cities are ranked from high to low based on mortgage affordability as determined by Zillow and based on the share of a metro’s median income that would be needed to pay a mortgage on the median house in that metro area. A negative number in mortgage affordability Y-O-Y means that city got more affordable between Jan. 2020 and Jan. 2021. All data courtesy of Zillow]

Scranton, PA

·     Mortgage Affordability: 11.1%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -2.2%

·     Median Home Price: $139,985

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 14.2%

Jackson, MS

·     Mortgage Affordability: 11.1%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -6.9%

·     Median Home Price: $157,611

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 8.8%

Little Rock, AR

·     Mortgage Affordability: 11.3%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -7.2%

·     Median Home Price: $166,580

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 7.6%

Baton Rouge, LA

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.6%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -5.4%

·     Median Home Price: $198,547

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 3.3%

Birmingham, AL

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.6%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -2.9%

·     Median Home Price: $195,643

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 10.7%

Oklahoma City, OK

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.7%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 0.8%

·     Median Home Price: $179,922

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 8.9%

Indianapolis, IN

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.8%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -1.2%

·     Median Home Price: $212,334

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: $13.7%

Columbia, SC

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.8%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 2.1%

·     Median Home Price: $179,785

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: $10.3%

Augusta, GA

·     Mortgage Affordability: 12.9%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 1.4%

·     Median Home Price: $177,614

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 12.2%

Louisville, KY

·     Mortgage Affordability: 13%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -6.8%

·     Median Home Price: $205,647

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 10.6%

Memphis, TN

·     Mortgage Affordability: 13.3%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -0.7%

·     Median Home Price: $182,914

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 13.2%

Pittsburgh, PA

·     Mortgage Affordability: 13.4%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: -0.1%

·     Median Home Price: $185,063

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 13%

Winston-Salem, NC

·     Mortgage Affordability: 13.4%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 0.5%

·     Median Home Price: $184,526

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 15.1%

St. Louis, MO

·     Mortgage Affordability: 13.7%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 0.4%

·     Median Home Price: $205,604

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 11.5%

Cleveland, OH

·     Mortgage Affordability: 14%

·     Mortgage Affordability Y-O-Y Change: 0.8%

·     Median Home Price: $184,224

·     Y-O-Y Price Appreciation: 13.5%

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[mbdailynews]

Bidding Wars Overheated the Home-Buyer Market, Now They’re Coming for Renters

Competition among renters means many tenants feel compelled to pay more each month than what the landlord is asking When Donna Jones and her husband looked to rent a home in Northern Virginia in February, they often received the same response: Sorry, but someone else offered to pay more rent. “We didn’t even know you could do that,” Ms. Jones said. Bidding wars have long been a staple of hot housing markets, where buyers compete with offers above the seller’s listing price. Now, these contests are becoming more commonplace in the rental market. Real-estate agents from New York to Chicago and Atlanta say they see more people than ever making offers above asking to lease homes and apartments that they will never own. An increasing number of white-collar professionals—some of whom recently sold homes—are reluctant to buy because of record-high home prices, rising mortgage rates and limited supply. They are renting instead, helping to drive a frenzy for leased properties of all kinds, and helping fuel the trend of offering above asking rents, real-estate agents said. Get WSJ Print Subscription In some parts of Atlanta, so many people compete for the same homes that Re/Max agent Peter Beckford said he is renting out $3,500-a-month townhouses to couples making close to $1 million a year. “All of these applicants are extremely well-qualified,” Mr. Beckford said. A New York City panel last week approved rent increases of 3.25% for next year at properties covered by the city’s rent stabilization rules, the largest rise in nearly a decade. But for the city’s unregulated rental stock, which accounts for about half of all apartments there, it is open season on rent hikes. In popular high-end neighborhoods, more renters are making over-ask offers, real-estate agents say. “We’re politely recommending it,” said Adrian Savino, managing director of the Living New York brokerage firm. Large rental landlords also report having more business than they can handle. “In any given week, we get over 13,000 leads for only 200 homes available,” said Gary Berman, chief executive of Tricon Residential, during a May earnings call. The median U.S. asking rent passed $2,000 for the first time in May, according to real-estate company Redfin, and it has risen 15% over the past 12 months. If more high-income people enter hot rental markets, and the supply of new homes for them to rent or buy doesn’t substantially increase, rents are poised to keep rising, housing analysts say. Barron’s News Subscription (5-Years) Take 70% Off Rising interest rates also mean that builders are likely to build less because fewer people can afford a new home when borrowing rates are higher, said Taylor Marr, deputy chief economist at Redfin. “I think we’re in a really tough spot now with the outlook for new construction.” Many renters don’t stop at offering a higher rental price. Some are following other parts of the home-buyer playbook, such as drafting “pick me” love letters that introduce themselves to a landlord and make an emotional appeal. Others are asking previous landlords to write them recommendations, as if applying for a job. In Chicago, the website Brixbid.com facilitates an influx of people bidding on rent. Landlords start the bidding with a suggested price. Renters then have the choice to lowball them or bid even higher. Some apartments now go 10% to 15% over ask on Brixbid, said company co-founder James Peterson. Chicago real-estate agent Jodi Dougherty of Downtown Apartment Co. has told her clients to write in their best offers on any rental application they submit. Many applicants are losing out when they assume the asking rent is enough, she said. Subscribe New York Times Digital Subscription 3 Years $60 Earlier this month, a client succeeded by pre-emptively offering $1,000 over the asking price for a three-bedroom apartment near downtown Chicago that was listed for $4,000. “We did not win it by a landslide, by any means,” Ms. Dougherty said. It isn’t just high-end units in affluent neighborhoods where tenants feel pressure to pay above ask. For several months, Atlanta housekeeper Tabutha Robinson and her family had been looking to move when in April Ms. Robinson found a three-bedroom house listed for $1,325. The listing agent, Torrence Ford, warned her there were already other applications on the home. “I felt like, if I go up just a tad on the offer, then maybe I will get it,” Ms. Robinson recalled. She offered $1,500, a stretch for her budget, she said, but what it took to finally rent a home. “I ran it by the owner, and they were so elated they went with them instantly,” Mr. Ford said. Ms. Jones also entered the bidding-war fray. “Willing to pay $50 more,” she began writing on her applications for rental houses across the greater Washington, D.C., area. Get Bloomberg News Digital Subscription for 5-Years Save 70% Off Yet even though she and her husband T.J. have careers in government contracting and the military and say they have good credit, they were still getting outbid. At one point, they considered dressing in military garb for home showings in the hopes that might impress some property owners. Then in March, when a four-bedroom townhouse in Ashburn, Va., hit the market for $3,000, the couple pounced. They offered an extra $200 and were accepted. “It was scary, because at the end there we were just putting in applications sight unseen,” Ms. Jones said. “This is not normal.” Read the full article