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Bargain Properties >Bargain Homes
Most buyers want a home that is in tip-top condition and ready for them to occupy, but many homes sell for bargain prices because they need work. Buyers love "fixer-uppers" for the obvious reasons: the affordable price and the satisfaction of remodeling the house to accommodate your tastes and needs.
Whether you are buying the property for yourself or as an investment, choose a house that is in a good location and structurally sound. It should be priced enough below market value (usually 25%) to allow plenty of room for a profitable re-sale after the work is completed.
It is important to educate yourself before taking on a fixer-upper project. Inexpensive cosmetic improvements often give the greatest return on your investment-- paint will increase the value three times for every dollar invested. Landscaping, carpeting, and light fixtures are also relatively inexpensive improvements. Try to avoid purchasing a house that needs expensive structural improvements such as a new roof, plumbing, wiring, or foundation repairs.
Remodeling a kitchen will rarely add more than the cost of the upgrade, but new appliances usually give a fine return. An extra bathroom is the best renovation from an investment point of view, often giving twice its cost in added value.
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What does "contingency" mean in real estate?
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A contingency is a specified event that must take place before a home purchase contract is binding; for example, a sale can be said to be "contingent upon the sale of the buyer's current residence." |
 See More Real Estate Trivia > |
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Ray Gernhart and Associates
RE/MAX Allegiance
5100 Leesburg Pike
Alexandria, VA. 22302
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With Ray's successful career of over twenty years in real estate, he has personally experienced all the ups and downs of the market. Since 1984, he has coordinated hundreds of new home sales as well as easing the transition for families as they move on to new horizons. Ray's expertise lies in his complete understanding of all facets of real estate, from buying and selling, to an all-encompassing grasp of the individual financial aspects for each client. Call or email America's NUMBER1EXPERT™ in real estate for the Alexandria area today!    
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