Author name: mkincaid24

It’s all over the news, it’s a sellers’ market! So that should mean that deciding to sell your home is a pretty easy decision, right? Think Again. While getting an offer on your house is about as easy as it gets, that’s just one small piece of the puzzle. I find many homeowners I talk to still have several concerns about what selling will look like for them, AND more commonly, where will they move if they sell. So, I thought I would let you in on the conversation, with 4 tips to selling your home in this crazy market.  Have a plan first Before any homeowner should list their house, they need to have a plan. That plan should include whether they plan to rent or buy after selling. If buying, they need to know if they can qualify to buy before selling, or if they need to sell first. Have a plan for what areas you’re looking in and how competitive that marketplace is, as competition does vary zip code to zip code. Once you start answering these questions, we can tailor a listing that meets your needs and, in this market, you can usually get all of your needs as a seller covered! Ask Homebuyers to solve your problems That’s right. Ask the new owner of your home to make the transition easy for you! How does that look? You can ask to stay 30,60,90 days in your home after closing, sometimes even rent free. You can price your home such that buyers can confidently waive an appraisal contingency, leaving less opportunity to last minute cancellations. You can essentially tailor a transition to your needs, advertise those needs in your listing and expect buyers to comply. All of this assumes you price your home correctly.  Price Your Home Correctly Some might think any price tag will get offers in this market, and that is NOT true. There is still 10-20% of our inventory that is sitting on the market beyond 60 days. Days on market nearly always reflect an issue in price. A pricing strategy not only will get you the highest & best value for your home, but it will also ensure you can get that price on the terms that fit your needs. (Like the closing, renting back, waiving contingencies). Your pricing strategy often not only reflects in price, but in the likelihood of closing with the first offer.  Work with a Pro This may sound salesy or biased, but homes DO NOT sell themselves in this market. Can you get an offer without an agent or on a limited-service company? Sure. Will it close? Not likely. This market is ripe with buyer indecision, constantly changing trends in appraisals, terms, and more. A professional realtor will not only help to get you 15-20% more than selling yourself, but they will also set up you to get to closing when planned. They can walk you through the process of trading from one home to the next and make it seamless. They will help you avoid legal pitfalls and protect your best interests above all else.  Selling in this market may not be as easy as the media makes it sound. However, it may be the most profitable time to make a move. Capitalizing on historic equity gains and low interest rates at the same time makes a lot of sense for many homeowners. If it’s something you’re kicking around, let’s set up a free consultation call. We can dive into whether it makes sense for you to sell now, and what that will look like for you! 

When is the earnest deposit non-refundable? When committing to purchase a home or accept an offer, it’s important to know when the deposit goes non-refundable, or hard in real estate slang.  First, let me clarify the deposit, an earnest deposit is consideration for the offer made to purchase. It is a deposit the buyer makes, which is most often held at the title company from contract to closing date. This deposit is credited towards the purchase price and is a show of good faith to perform per the contract guidelines. This deposit is typically 1% of the purchase price, but entirely negotiable up or down.  So is this deposit refundable to buyer at any point? Is it awarded to seller at any point? Let’s look into the fine print here.   There is not simply a date when this deposit goes hard, as it is guided by several contract principles. Here’s a list of those timelines/principles, though not entirely conclusive: -Inspection period: In this timeframe, buyer is to investigate the property to the fullest extent and may cancel the contract for just about any reason. Once proper notice is delivered to seller, buyer is entitled to deposit refund. This is the most common timeframe for cancellations. This timeline is standard 10 days, but is negotiable. Addiontally, buyer has the right to make requests of seller in this timeframe. Seller then has 5 days to respond, buyer then has 5 more days to agree to sellers response. So at the longest, this could be a 20 day process.  -Appraisal: Assuming this contingency is not waived, the buyer is protected from a low appraisal. Meaning if the appraisal comes in below the purchase price, buyer may renegotiate price with seller, elect to come in with cash over appraised value  or cancel with deposit refunded. If the appraisal comes in over purchase price, the seller does not have the same luxury.  -Loan Contingency: If the buyer is getting a loan to purchase, then their offer is contingent upon receiving full loan approval prior to closing. If it is not approved at any point, the buyer has the right to cancel contract and receive deposit back. However, buyer must prove their good faith efforts to obtain loan approval and must deliver notice 3 days prior to closing.   -Septic Tank: If the home is on septic, the inspection typically takes place within a week of the closing date. If there are major issues with the system (above 1% of purchase price), then the buyer is able to cancel with return of their earnest. This can take place within 5 days of receipt of the septic inspection.  -Contract breach: If at any point during the contract period, the seller breaches on their commitments by contract (like allowing access to home, clearing out personal property, etc) then you are again protected from losing your deposit. However, in any case of breach, the breaching party must always be given 3 days to cure the breach. After 3 days is passed if there is no correction, cancellation is permitted.  Woh, that seems like a lot right?!  The moral of the story for both buyers and sellers being, it isn’t a sealed deal until its closed and funded. Both parties should be mentally, financially and emotionally prepared for what can transpire throughout the process.  Because so many things can and do go sideways in a real estate transaction, having a seasoned realtor representing you is paramount. Your realtor will ensure you are prepared and protected each step of the way to get the deal done. 

One bright spot in the pandemic for me personally, was the wake up call on local business I can support in my area. Over the course of this year, I have found some incredible products, eats & services that I just can’t help but share!  Joelle Martine SkinCare & Melt by Melissa I started using the skin products early this year, and my skin is thanking me! I find all of the products to be very gentle but effective, they also smell amazing! Joelle Martine offers all kinds of products specific to your skin type & needs! Better news? You can shop these in person at Melt by Melissa, along with other locally sourced skin goodies. Not sure what to get as a gift? Buy a gift card!  https://melt-by-melissa.myshopify.com See Salt If you want to elevate your culinary game, shop See Salt! This incredible female-owned local business sources their fleur de sel directly from France, and I guarantee it will change how you See Salt! <see what I did there You can order online for in person pick up or grab at Urbana!  https://seesalttaste.com Urbana This has become my most favorite gift stop. You will most definitely find a one of a kind, beautiful gift for anyone in your life here. Urbana carries a variety of products from cocktail mixers to beautiful candles to a cozy throw blanket. An intimate shopping experience with ever changing selections, it’s a must.  Village Coffee Roastery Know a coffee lover? Get them the goods here! Village Coffee roasts their own coffee in house, features a full menu of bites and the perfect cup of joe for any palate. You could also give a coffee subscription! 3, 6, 12 month options for a coffee lover to enjoy each month! http://villagecoffee.com/all-products Rusty Nail Meats Have a guy in your life that is tough to shop for?? Stock up his BBQ supplies here! Rusty Nail is a great butcher shop in Central Scottsdale carrying incredible selection of prime cuts and great seafood. Even better they’re always stocked with delicious compound butter, rubs, spices, local bread & more!  https://www.rustynailbutchershop.com Common Ground Culinary If you live in or around McCormick Ranch, you’ve most likely stopped into one of Common Ground’s amazing restaurants. We frequent Twisted Grove & Grass Roots, and cannot forget to stop into their ice cream shop Sweet Provisions. Grab a pie & a gift card for someone you love! Give $100 and get $20 for yourself! https://www.commongroundculinary.com/gift-cards Village Coffee Roastery Know a coffee lover? Get them the goods here! Village Coffee roasts their own coffee in house, features a full menu of bites and the perfect cup of joe for any palate. You could also give a coffee subscription! 3, 6, 12 month options for a coffee lover to enjoy each month! http://villagecoffee.com/all-products Reformed Pilates If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m always making time for some pilates! My studio Reformed is an approachable  & effective workout that can be enjoyed by any skill level. With locations all over the valley, a class package here would make a great gift. Need some workout gear? Shop their new apparel that’s benefitting charity, its MAGIC.  Ellery Mae Candles      I received one of these candles as a gift this year, and promptly ordered 3 more! These are hand poured soy candles with the most delicious scents! They burn super clean and come in a variety of sizes. Not to mention, the owners story is just precious and her passion is clear.  The Mick Brasserie My neighborhood bar, sells wine! This cozy restaurant features out of this world small bites, it is the perfect spot to meet friends or have a date night. Even better, you can shop from their amazing wine selection for a bottle to enjoy at home.  https://www.themickaz.com Naked Rebellion Masks are part of our new reality… so lets make them chic & comfortable. My most favorite masks are made by this local powerhouse Naked Rebellion. Their silky masks are light, matched to your skin tone and so effortless. Grab them online or stop by Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market. https://nakedrebellion.com/product/silk-lined-face-mask/ https://junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com/markets/pop-up-market/ <<Actually definitely stop by JIT in the Scottsdale Quarter, they have SO many amazing local vendors.  I hope you’ll remember to support local this season and throughout the year. 

Real Estate can be very nuanced, from agency relationships to contract terms to mortgage. In my new series ‘The Fine Print’, I will break down some of those nuances for you! What’s Included in a Home Sale? What Comes With and What needs to be negotiated? The standard Arizona Real Estate contract is very clear on what items convey in a sale, and all other items must be negotiated. The easiest way to think of it when touring homes is, if it is attached then it will convey. If it is not attached, it is considered personal property and would be negotiated. The items most commonly negotiated by buyers are Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer. Those three big items DO NOT automatically convey, and must be requested in the contract. Here’s a list the contract uses to spell out the attached items that convey: -built-in appliances, ceiling fans and remotes  -media antennas/satellite dishes (affixed)  -storage sheds -central vacuum, hose, and attachments – outdoor fountains and lighting storm windows and doors -draperies and other window coverings  -outdoor landscaping (i.e. – shrubbery, stoves: gas-log, pellet, wood-burning -fireplace equipment (affixed) – trees and unpotted plants -timers (affixed) -floor coverings (affixed)  -shutters and awnings  -towel, curtain and drapery rods -free-standing range/oven  -smart home devices, access to which shall be transferred (i.e., video doorbell, automated thermostat) -wall mounted TV brackets and hardware, Not TVs -garage door openers and remotes  -light fixtures  -water-misting systems and covers (including any mechanical or water purification systems – mailbox speakers (flush-mounted)  -window and door screens, sun shades -affixed alternate power systems serving the Premises (i.e., solar)  -in-ground pool and spa/hot tub equipment  -security and/or fire systems and/or alarms Some of these may pleasantly surprise you.. Like a the TV mounts, easy for hanging your TV assuming you like the position! Or that smart home system! While other items you may wish didn’t convey, like that dirty old shed in the backyard!  Regardless, it is SO important for a buyer to know what to expect when touring homes and more importantly when negotiating. Don’t fret, anything is negotiable so you can always ask for unattached items to convey or ask that attached items (that creepy shed) be removed!  I would love to help guide you through this process, so if you’re thinking of buying or selling.  Interview Me!

I had a career and my own business for nearly 10 years before becoming a mother. With my high-achieving, perfectionist personality, I thought becoming mother would just be another job on my resume and one that I would excel at while still thriving in my business. Any parent reading this probably laughs at that last sentence. Boy, was I misguided!?  Given my own experience and many conversations with other parents at various stages of the journey, it seems we are on the search for that elusive balance. Struggling to excel in either area, or giving up career with a sense of failure, or leaning into business with a sense of mom guilt. Add to this journey, a global pandemic, and balance seems impossibly out of reach.  These days find many parents bouncing a little one on their lap while participating in a zoom meeting, or all of the sudden homeschooling their kids while also working! Out of the house activities are scaled back and anxiety around a family’s wellness is at an all-time high! As with most things in life, there are seasons of balance and seasons when the scale must tip in one direction. Most likely, you’re finding yourself in a season of the latter. In talking to many moms and parents on this wild ride I’ve found that we can learn to embrace these seasons. If we’re successful, it is truly possible to enjoy the journey and escape those feelings of failure or guilt.  Here are some tips I’ve gathered. I find it helpful to stay away from comparing my journey to another, comparison often kills joy. Often times that looks like less social media and more time on deeper connection with friends like a phone call or text. Also, try to stay present when you are in mom mode or work mode, segment your day to be fully present vs multi-tasking. Breaking down a schedule that works for your family will make this easier, might mean that  parents take turns throughout the day or kiddos get a movie break. Lastly, Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Lean into your sphere for support, ask for the grandparents to stay over a weekend or trade off kid free time with another family! While not an ideal world, reassure yourself that this time is not forever. And looking back, this time may be some of the most precious. Seasons will change and the scales will tip again, but you’ll never have this moment right now again.  If you’re like me and are in a greater need of community in this stage of motherhood, please join our Facebook group: McCormick Moms, an authentic place for connection and fun.  

How do you know what’s behind the walls? I remember having a buyer client ask me this, when walking a remodeled home. They had watched one too many HGTV nightmare episodes and were petrified of buying a lemon.  While you really can’t tell what’s behind the walls in a built home, a good inspector will get you pretty close. They inspect every square inch of the property, crawling in attics, testing outlets, scoping sewers and more. An inspection will give you the inside out view of your new home and help you to make an informed decision. I had the pleasure of hosting Kris Houser with Insight Inspections on Instagram Live a few weeks ago, we discussed all the ins & outs of home inspection. I’d encourage to hop over to my Instagram to watch it (link in footer of this page).  Here are some of the bigger takeaways from our chat: Why Get an Inspection: Identify any systems not functioning in the home Identify Any safety concerns Identify the age of big ticket items and expectation of useful life Learn about how your new home operates. Some of the more common items on an inspection report: Cracked roof tiles Landscape irrigation leaks Broken window seals Big Ticket Items on an Inspection: Roof condition HVAC function Plumbing/Sewer Electrical System What to Expect in an Inspection Report: 2-3 days to schedule, so plan ahead! 30-40 page report is standard 5-10 page summary will point out issues/items to watch Inspectors don’t give estimates of repair costs I find an inspection report is the closest thing to an ‘owners manual’ you will get for an already built home. You can refer back to it for things like electrical shutoffs, water main location, plumbing cleanouts, a/c filter location, water heater location/age, and so much more.  Buying a home is a big step and can be a scary process. But it doesn’t have to be!!

So you’ve decided to buy a house, Now What? Where do I start? Here are three steps you should take before jumping into searching zillow or perusing open houses: Find a Real Estate Agent I suggest this step first because a realtor should act as your guide through this process. More than just a paper pusher, a realtor can layout a game plan from start to finish to get you into your dream home. Choosing a realtor who meshes with your personality and goals will make the process so much smoother.  Get Prequalified This step is vital to complete before searching for homes. A true prequalification is proof to any potential seller that you have been vetted and have the income/assets to support a purchase up to a certain price. This step will get you your budget, giving you an idea of what your monthly expense will look like and tell you where your price sweet spot is. Expect to provide documentation and have your credit pulled in order to fully complete this step. If your timeline is more than 6 months out, then you may just complete some initial steps with a discussion of goals. The lender will be able to give you a game plan for your purchase in the future, or steps to complete in order to qualify.  Identify Areas of Interest  There are some many factors that play into the perfect home location for you. Any home your purchase is an investment, so location plays a huge role in the health of that investment. Additionally, home location will have an effect on your quality of life and lifestyle! Things to explore when looking at neighborhoods are architectural style, amenities, proximity to freeways/airports, public transportation, crime statistics, etc. Your realtor can help point you to resources to investigate further. An agent with expertise in areas of interest will have additional insight to help answer your questions.  Buying a new home is such an exciting opportunity, but can be stressful, especially in a hot sellers market. I like to get my clients as prepared as possible before entering the market, so they make informed decisions they can be confident in for your years to come.  Read more blogs…

After living in Scottsdale for 10 years, owning a home in South Scottsdale and getting the itch for change… My husband and I embarked on a new home search. As any good home search should, we started with homing in on our desired neighborhood. We wanted an area that was family friendly, low traffic, good schools, walkable, convenient to freeways and airports. We settled on McCormick Ranch, specifically Paradise Park Trails on the northern edge of the community.  After finding a fixer upper off market, remodeling my home and living in the neighborhood a few years, I have truly fallen in love with the area and all of its hidden gems. Things I had no idea I was getting when I moved here. Here are some things that just might tip the scales for you.  Walkable, in every sense of the word.  McCormick Ranch features an intertwined greenbelt system unmatched elsewhere in the valley. This greenbelt not only connects specific neighborhoods but is a lifeway for the community. Elementary age kids travel the greenbelt to and from school. Families can reach several public parks, without even crossing a street! The greenbelts also connect to beautiful lakes like Marguerite, as well as restaurants & coffee shops! The walkability of this community truly lends to its overall sense of camaraderie and connection.   True Community I have been extremely impressed with the connection of this community. Upon closing on our home, all of our neighbors made a point to introduce themselves and welcome us. We were flooded with gifts, meals and bottles of champagne when our daughter was born, just 3 weeks after moving in! It is not uncommon to meet new families on the greenbelt, as your dog interrupts their walk or they stop to coo at your little one. The community members host Halloween block parties, front patio cocktail hours, adult sport leagues and more.  Local Businesses McCormick Ranch attracts local businesses and takes supporting them seriously! We have trendy, locally owned restaurants like Twisted Grove, The Mick & Obon Sushi,  just to name a few of my favorites! We have bars like Zipps, Phx Beer Co, Scottsdale Beer Co. Coffee shops galore like Lakeview Coffee and Village Coffee Roastery. We’ve expanded our workout studios to feature Modern Yoga, Madison Improvement Club, Club Pilates, and my personal home, Reformed Pilates. These businesses are walkable to most residents in McCormick Ranch!  Architecture McCormick Ranch offers one of the most diverse, yet harmonious architectural landscapes I’ve seen in Scottsdale. Most of this planned community was built in the late 1970s to mid 1980s. You’ll find this inspiration among the original homes, like red tile roof decos, interior atriums, and indoor/outdoor living. The community takes green space seriously, so it brings on a California vibe with tons of vegetation, light stucco homes and welcoming front courtyards.  Location, Location, Location Last but certainly not least, is the location of this community. McCormick Ranch is Central Scottsdale, placing is perfectly in-between Old Town Scottsdale with its bustling entertainment district and North Scottsdale with airpark business centers, Kierland Commons/Scottsdale Quarter and renowned Scottsdale Princess. This community is just 20 minutes to the airport and 10 minutes to access to 51. Its accessibility to the rest of the valley is truly what makes it such an easy place to call home! Thinking of making McCormick Ranch your new home? I’d love to help you find the perfect place, not only for a place to rest your head but an investment for your financial future!