New Construction communities are popping up all over Delaware and Southeastern PA – but are the prices too good to be true?
 
If you’re considering purchasing a New Construction home, you probably have already factored design specifications and upgrades into your total purchase price. But it’s also important to be aware of the costs you will have after the closing.


Here are four commonly overlooked costs to prepare for if you’re purchasing a New Construction home:
 
Utilities
Yes, all homeowners have to factor utilities into their budget, but if you’re moving into a larger home or switching utility types (for example, from gas to electric), it’s important to account for the differences in the price of utilities you can expect to pay each month. If you are relocating, you may also have to pay a deposit or set-up fee for installing new services or bringing in new equipment.
 
To minimize utility costs, consider fi! ...

Thinking of Buying a NEW HOME?

If you’re thinking of buying your new home directly from a home builder – stop! Buying directly could leave you paying much more than necessary for your home. Worse, it can also leave you without recourse if something doesn’t go as planned! This is because a home-building contract is written one-sided – and it’s on the side of the builder!
 
Here are 12 important reasons why you need a Buyer’s Agent when you are buying a newly-built home, or having a new home constructed.



12 REASONS TO USE A BUYERS AGENT FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION


1. Many Builders sales agents are employees of the Builder. These sales agents represent the Seller and are employed to show model homes, handle inquiries and write contracts. In DE Builder sales agents are NOT required to have a Real Estate license. Since they represent the Builder, they do NOT represent your interests.  

2. If the Builder does not employ its own s. ...

The idea of cutting your monthly mortgage payment down by refinancing your loan may sound intriguing to you as a Delaware or Southeastern Pennsylvania homeowner, but there is much more to consider before diving in. In fact, there are cases in which refinancing does not truly pay off for the homeowner. But don't worry! As your local real estate experts, you can count on the Kat Geralis Home Team to help you make the best decision for your situation.
 
Below are four factors to consider before making the decision to refinance your mortgage:
 
REFINANCING IS NOT FREE
Just as you likely paid some closing costs when you purchased your home in Wilmington, Newark and the surrounding areas, you will be required to again with refinancing. Closing costs are typically 2 to 5 percent of your loan amount and will need to be paid up front when you refinance. While your lender may offer a no closing costs refinance, be aware that it may come packaged with a higher interest rate. It's3 ...

Excitement runs high when you have an accepted offer on your Delaware or Southeastern Pennsylvania home, but what comes next could bring you down if not properly prepared for— the home inspection. The inspection could make or break your deal and is a contingency often written into most offers, meaning the buyer could walk away if the results are less than ideal.

 Below are just a few of the items that inspectors will be looking for during their time at your home:
1. STRUCTURE - Integrity of your foundation, state of windows, doors and frames
2. GROUNDS - Faulty grading, dilapidated pathways and walks, trees, and any standing water
3. ROOF - Defects in shingles, flashing, fascia, gutters, chimney and skylights
4. INTERIORS - Water damage, insulation, heating vents
5. KITCHEN - Venting, sink leaks
6. BATHROOM - Toilets flush, showers spray, sinks work

 If you're worried about the home inspection, there are also several ways you can prepare to reassure both y ...