Planning a Move in 2018? Get Started Early
If you're planning to move next year, smooth out the process by getting started now with these helpful tips.

Choose a real estate agent. Contracts and negotiations can take time, so select a real estate agent sooner rather than later.
Fix up and clean up. Take an objective look at your home and assess what needs to be repaired and deep cleaned before your home goes on the market. Give yourself plenty of time to do repairs and cleaning at your current place, perhaps even before listing the home on the market.

Time for a yard sale. Plan a yard sale for unwanted items. Yard sales are a great way to get rid of unneeded items and save you money on your final moving bill. Just remember that planning and holding a yard sale will take a lot of time. Be sure to get started well in advance before moving day.

Consider all the costs. Relocation costs will include the moving truck(s), packaging materials as well as the possibility of temporary storage and hotel fees. It's important to calculate all related costs when considering whether to hire professional movers. Don't forget to consider whether or not the price of hiring movers is worth your own time on moving day. Making these decisions early will save you redundant costs in the future.
Don't get intimidated by all there is to consider when planning your move. Get started early to enjoy a more comfortable move in 2018.
Camelot Moving & Storage 255-3112

courtesy of shutterstock

In 2018, Resolve to Invest in your Home
Whether the market is up, down or doubling as a perpetual rollercoaster, one thing holds true: You're always better off if your home is in good to excellent condition. In tight markets, houses with fresh paint, updated fixtures, quality flooring and an overall sense of pride of ownership are going to sell when others don't. In seller-friendly markets, those qualities can land you over-asking-price bids and, when things are more to the buyer's advantage, they'll get your home it's very own "sold" sign well before the competition. Even if you're not thinking of selling now, it's always good to think long term - especially since we never really know what the future holds. Wondering if your home meets the cut, or if you have a little elbow grease to invest before you list? Call an experienced, trusted Realtor who's an expert in Santa Clarita micro-market conditions.
Kathy Watterson of RE/MAX Santa Clarita 284-5066

Homeowner's Association Resolutions
As we reminisce about 2017, we eagerly look forward to the new beginnings that 2018 has to offer. A New Year would not be the same without some resolutions!

Get fit. Workout clothes are for more than running errands. Let's put them to use at your HOA's gym.

Be debt free. Financial goals are always important. Generate a plan that ensures early payment for your HOA dues. The community committed to this will have less of a chance for a dues increase.

Volunteer. You can volunteer your time in your community! This can easily be done by joining your HOA's board of directors or by joining a committee. There are never too many volunteers!

Read more. Look for some light reading. You can start with your HOA's Rules and Regulations or CC&R's. Being aware of the rules in your community could cut down on potential violations and/or fines.

Quit smoking. When you quit smoking on your balcony/patio, your neighbors will thank you.
NPMG can assist your board with a plan for 2018 to help your community thrive. 295-5966

Four Questions Homebuyers Should Ask
by Dori GregoryBuying a home is one of the most exciting, and oftentimes overwhelming, decisions we make. We dream of a place to call our own and build our future - and that's exciting. But it also comes with a lot of questions and unknowns. Before you get started, take a few minutes and consider these four questions.

1. What are the costs of owning a home? Consider that the monthly mortgage is not the only cost you will face. You need to budget for homeowner's insurance, association dues, home maintenance costs and utility bills - and be sure to allow for property taxes, which may be rolled into your monthly payment.

2. How much house can I afford? Here's a good estimation method: You usually can purchase a home with a value of two or three times your annual household income. However, the amount you borrow will depend on your employment and credit history, savings and debts, and the amount of your down payment.

3. What are the benefits of homeownership? Enjoy the savings that can come when you deduct your property taxes and mortgage loan interest on your federal income taxes and possibly your state taxes. With every loan payment made, you build more equity in your home. This equity is like a savings account that you cash in when you sell or borrow against it.

4. Which type of home loan fits me? There is no simple formula to determine the type of mortgage that is the best fit for you.This choice depends on a number of factors, including your current financial picture and how long you intend to stay in your home.

At Fit Mortgage, our experienced staff is driven to find you the best financing options. Our service is what defines us; we will always be here to answer your questions! If you're looking to buy your first home or ready to move up, we're the perfect fit for you. 818-524-1678