Are you in the market to purchase? Do the current market prices scare you? Have you thought about holding off to purchase a home in hopes that the market will correct itself? You’re not alone. In speaking with hundreds of homebuyers over the past few years, this is a common theme amongst would-be homebuyers. For some, the remnants of the 2007 financial crisis linger in their minds, and the fear of buying at the top of the market still haunts them today.

Those thoughts may have kept some from taking part in the recent 11% of appreciation nationwide that took place year-over-year from 2020-2021. Those who bought homes, were able to see their equity increase, providing financial stability, and the comfort in knowing that they are not going be priced out of the market if inflation takes hold of the economy, which it seems to be doing. Rates are at historical lows, so the cost of money is cheap, with rates still at historical lows, and this offsets some of the burden that comes with higher prices. The fear that comes from not knowing where the market is headed, and the fear of buying at the top of the market before it may correct itself can ultimately develop into a paralysis for some. This keeps them on the sidelines even though they have all the reason to buy a home and get back into the game of homeownership.

For those worried about a correction. Let’s take some time to think through a few questions. What if the market does correct itself and we see a tremendous fall in prices? What would that look like? What could cause the next Great Recession? Will it be a student loan debt crisis, a war with China, extreme inflation and the ensuing market crash that comes from a hyper-inflation economy? Well, if I (or anyone for that matter) had a crystal ball, I would tell you exactly what it would be. But, unfortunately, I do not. What I can say is if you buy a home and are confident that you have budgeted properly for it, are confident in your current job, and the stability of that job during a recession, then you can allow yourself to feel more confident in the pursuit of homeownership. If you answer no, to those questions, you may want to rethink it.

You must ask yourself; Can I truly afford the home I would like to buy? What I’m asking here is do you have enough money to afford the payments each month, or are you stretching past your comfort zone? Think long and hard about that question, and furthermore follow it up with, what other monthly obligations do I have to pay each month to support my lifestyle, family or both? Some buy too much home, and they are strapped for cash afterwards. This works for some, and not for others, so give that some serious thought because if you do buy a home, and you experience cash flow problems that you cannot overcome, you run the risk for foreclosing or short-selling your home, which has a huge negative affect on your credit. Sometimes it may be worth it to wait until you are making more income or have a larger down payment to put down on the purchase of a home to alleviate potential cash flow problems.

The market has been on an upward trajectory and some economists think this run that we’ve experienced for the last few years is going to continue for a few more. Don’t take this as the end-all be-all statement in deciding whether you buy a home. You need to be ready for homeownership first, and then try and navigate the market. It’s not the other way around. Real estate will be there when you are ready. If you are not ready now, then you should wait. Don’t get caught up in the pressure to buy for fear of missing out. This is what a lot of people did during the run up to the financial crisis, and as a result, when the market turned, they were stuck in a lose-lose position and forced to let go of their underwater homes because they couldn’t afford the payments. Every potential homeowner should ask the difficult questions up front, so they don’t run the risk during this real estate cycle.

Rental vacancies and tenant turnovers cost investment property owners a lot of money. To ensure your investment is a success, you need to take steps to appeal to renters and keep them happy. One simple way to maximize the income potential of your rental home is to make some design upgrades. Here are some simple ways to appeal to your renters.

Hire a Property Manager

Before you start making changes to your home, consider hiring a property manager. These professionals can reduce a lot of the stress that comes with being a landlord. A good property manager will know what to do to make your home more attractive to the tenants you want living there. A strong property manager will also screen your tenants, collect rent, and coordinate maintenance to protect your investment.

Protect Your Investment

You already know that diving into the world of investment property is a great way to generate income, but you want to make sure to protect your investment. This starts with securing landlord insurance, which will cover the entire property in the event that something happens. In addition to insurance, it’s wise to formalize yourself as a business with the state and apply for LLC (limited liability company) registration. An LLC offers you personal asset protection in the event of a dispute with a tenant or neighbor, as well as tax advantages

Brighten Up with Paint

Paint is the cheapest way to quickly transform the appearance of a home. Take advantage of certain paint colors and finishes to make your rooms appear brighter. Choose paint with an eggshell or satin finish — these reflect light back into the room instead of absorbing it. Use paint to highlight special features of the home inside and out, such as trim, paneling, or built-in bookcases. When it comes to color, opt for something neutral that will please anyone. Cream, beige, and gray are always safe options. This neutral style should translate to other décor features of your home, like window dressings and countertops.

Invest in Minor Landscaping

The exterior of your property is the first thing that potential renters see when they come for a visit. If the front yard appears neglected, tenants may think that the rest of the home has been neglected as well. Tackle some light landscaping yourself or hire a professional to get your yard in shape. Some important tasks to take care of include mowing and edging the lawn, spreading fresh mulch on flowerbeds, and trimming overgrown shrubs. If your property doesn’t have a yard, you can still update the front entrance with new lighting and a few potted plants.

Replace Carpet with Low-Maintenance Floors

Carpets can hold onto stains and odors forever. Instead, consider installing some low-maintenance floors. Hard floors stand up to wear and tear much better than carpets, so you won’t have to replace them as often. Plus, tenants will appreciate that they’re much easier to clean. Luxury vinyl is another excellent option for rentals because it’s highly resistant to damage from foot traffic and moisture.

Update the Kitchen and Bathrooms

If your rental’s kitchen and bathroom appear outdated or unclean, it’s time for an upgrade. Fortunately, updating these rooms doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. In the kitchen, replacing the faucet, cabinet hardware, and light fixtures may be all you need. Both rooms will also benefit from a fresh coat of paint. If you need to replace your countertops, go with granite or laminate. Granite countertops are both appealing and extremely durable, and they’re much more affordable than they used to be.

Add Extra Amenities

Special amenities like air conditioning, in-suite laundry, and extra on-site storage are always appreciated by tenants. For some tenants, these features are a bonus; for others, like families with young children, they’re a necessity. Make sure you know what kind of tenants you intend to attract to your rental before investing in amenities. If you have a three-bedroom house near a school, you’ll need to invest in some family-friendly home features.

Owning a rental property requires a lot of hard work. Some investors may be lucky enough to put their property on the market and find great tenants right away, but most will have to make a few changes to attract renters. As you’re planning your upgrades, think about the features you would want to see. This can help you design a house that’s inviting to your ideal tenants.

For most of America, the end of summer is paired with visions of pumpkin patches, hayrides and fallen leaves. ?Is it really even fall if you?re not out picking apples in boots and a cozy sweater?

However, when you think of California weather, these images aren?t exactly what comes to mind. ?When someone says California, you?re actually probably thinking about trips to the beach and al fresco dining.

In Anaheim, temperatures usually stay in the mid-seventies. ?It?s not quite sweater weather and if you?re outside in boots, you might be wishing for sandals to magically appear in the trees amongst the apples.

Luckily, fall is a state of mind. ?No matter where you are, regardless of the weather, you can still take part in your favorite traditions. ?So grab a pumpkin spice latte, throw on a scarf and let?s take a look at all the fun fall activities Anaheim has to offer.

Enjoy Seasonal Beers at a Local Brewery

Favorites among local Anaheim Breweries include Bottle Logic Brewing, Noble Ale Works and Bruery Terreux. ?According to several online reviews, all three of these breweries have the following in common: ?a unique and wide selection of beer to choose from, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a bustling atmosphere. ?Check out their seasonal selections when you stop by in the fall. ?There?s so much more to fall drinks than your average Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Pick a Pumpkin

When it comes to fall, all roads lead to pumpkins. ?Even in the warmer California climate, you can still find the perfect pumpkin to carve among one of their many pumpkin patches.

The Pumpkin Factory, a local favorite, is the spot where all things fall emerge. ?Not only do they have tons of pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors to choose from, but they?ve also completed their experience by providing guests with a petting zoo, games, corn maze, carnival rides, ponies, food and so much more.

Head there in the afternoon and make a day of it. ?There?s so much to see and do, you?ll never want to leave.

Enjoy the Views

Getting up high and seeing a great view is a fun activity year-round, but doing so in the fall makes it that much better. ?Not only will you enjoy the colors and scenery of fall from above, but you?ll also enjoy it in a cooler climate.

At A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure you can purchase early morning tickets for a tour that include breakfast, champagne and wine tastings. ?There?s no better opportunity to check this off your bucket list.

Disneyland

For the most part, people don?t think of Anaheim without thinking of Disneyland. ?Although Disneyland is a notorious spring and summer destination, a visit in the fall will not leave you disappointed.

In fact, Disneyland is noted for being more fall-friendly than one may think. ?Parents will appreciate smaller crowds while kids will love the decorations and fall-themed rides spread throughout the park.

In terms of events, consider stopping by Mickey?s Halloween Party. ?Dress up and visit the park for a new magical experience each year complete with costumes, surprises in your hotel room and more.

As if Thanksgiving wasn?t already magical enough, imagine spending it with your family at America?s favorite theme park. ?A Thanksgiving at Disneyland includes meals prepared by world-class chefs enjoyed alongside your family?s favorite Disney characters.

Partake in the Anaheim Fall Festival

It?s a true Anaheim tradition. ?Locals and travelers alike have been coming together since 1923 to have a ball in the name of fall. ?Recently the festival has become Halloween-focused and includes attractions such as a pumpkin patch, costume contests, carnival games, live music, local vendors and so much more.

Admission is free to Anaheim Fall Festival, making it accessible to all. ?So get the family together and take part in a celebration that has something for everyone.

Watch the Anaheim Halloween Parade

The Anaheim Fall Festival would not be complete without the Anaheim Halloween Parade. ?Ghosts, monsters and witches line the streets of downtown Anaheim to spook and entertain families who travel to the sidewalks each year.

Locals see the parade as an opportunity for businesses and organizations and the creative personalities that come out of them to showcase all that makes Anaheim a truly special place. ?Furthermore, the parade is seen as an opportunity to restore and maintain a true sense of community pride. ??If you want to get to know this little town, the Halloween Parade is the right time and place to do so.

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It can be tough to get in the fall spirit without cool temperatures, we understand. ?Luckily for you, Anaheim does every other aspect of fall and they do it well. ?So grab your favorite flannel and head out to see the sites. ?Winter will be here before you know it!

After deciding on the perfect location,?it?s?now?time for the big move. When planning for your upcoming move,?it is important not to overlook even the seemingly small tasks that can make a big difference in facilitating a low-stress move and avoiding major hiccups.?The?checklist?below?will help?you on your way to?a seamless move.?

1. Create a budget for all your moving expenses before getting started. Consider what resources you have and?assess whether hiring movers will be necessary. Determine?if home repairs will be needed, and?the?general costs?associated with moving materials?and?the appropriate?equipment?needed?before the anticipated move out date.??

1. Make sure that your moving company is licensed and insured by verifying their?DOT?number. This ensures that your belongings will be properly cared for and?protected?during the move. Be aware that not all?moving companies?are qualified to move?fragile or?larger items.??Those items?may require hiring?specialty movers.??

1. Address minor home repairs like cleaning the carpets or repainting the walls?and taking care of minor touch ups. This should be of particular interest to renters given the need to?return?the?rented property?to the owner in the same condition they received it, and to homeowners who are handing over their home to the new buyers.? If there are damages caused during the move out of the home the new buyers could require the sellers to correct those damages, so may as well handle them before they become a problem.??

1. Be sure to service your vehicles ahead of time?if you?re driving long distance or out of state.? Servicing your vehicle?could prevent?unpredicted breakdowns which can?save you?money and prevent?potential stress and anguish?in an already stressful time.??

1. Before?hitting the road?label your boxes?and use color coded labels to indicate which rooms?each box belongs to.?This will save you time on the back end of your move,?and?help the movers take the right boxes to the right rooms, so that once the move is complete, you are not left moving heavy boxes from one room to the other.???

1. Measure the space?of your new home?ahead of time to ensure all your furniture and belongings?will be able to comfortably fit in the space.?

1. To dispose of miscellaneous and unwanted items that you plan on leaving behind, have a garage sale?or make a goodwill donation.?

1. Make arrangements for a babysitter or pet sitter during the move to keep kids and pets safe and out of the way during the move.??

1. Be sure to have your?mail forwarded?to your new address and update your?voter registration?accordingly. Update billing information on your bank cards, checks, and remember to shut off utilities and services you will no longer need at your new residence.?
2. Take a deep breathe and remember this is a process and not an event.? It takes time to move out and get situated in your new place.? Don?t over do it.? Find a comfortable pace that works for you and the family?and stick to it.?

The moving process doesn?t have to be overly stressful if you plan it right.? Be sure to schedule the planning process?well?in advance, and use these 10 steps as a guide to assist you along the way.? Make sure to get the right help and don?t be afraid to ask for an extra hand from friends and family.???Moving into a new home is a time to begin a new?chapter of your life and create new and lasting memories.? Be sure to take it all in and enjoy the journey.????

When you think of Anaheim, CA, the first thing that comes to mind may be Disneyland.? But if you?re in the mood for an experience that?s a little more unique, or allows you to have some PG-13 fun, you?ll be pleased to know that Anaheim has a lot more to offer than roller coasters and people dressed in giant mouse costumes.

For the Craft Beer Lover

All PG-13 fun begins with drinks and luckily, there?s plenty of high-quality craft beer to choose from in Anaheim.? The first brewery in the area opened in 1870 and, today, the craft beer community is thriving.

The three highest rated breweries on RateBeer.com include Bottle Logic Brewing, Noble Ale Works and Bruery Terreux. According to several online reviews, all three of these breweries have the following in common: a unique and wide selection of beer to choose from, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a bustling atmosphere.

For the Artistic Type

At the Anaheim Garden Walk, not only will you have access to a variety of popular restaurants and shops, but you?ll also be able to enjoy exhibits featured at the Artists Republic gallery.? Since their location switched from Laguna Beach, Artists Republic has been able to open one of their most popular exhibits, the Mural Garden. Here you?ll find seventeen large-scale, evolving murals right above the gallery.

When you think theatre, chances are, the east coast comes to mind and, more specifically, Broadway. What many don?t know is that California has a rich community of talented performers and writers. South Coast Repertory (SCR) is a Tony-award winning theatre featuring plays and performances by some of America?s most creative talents. With a mission to bring human experience to light, SCR is rated one of the best theatres in America and a must-see when visiting Anaheim.

For the Night Owl

If live music and good food are on your radar, you?ll want to check out Anaheim?s new House of Blues located on the Garden Walk. This venue will hold up to 2,200 guests in its main concert while still having space around the building for other private events, art displays and a restaurant serving southern-inspired dishes. Every week they have rotating theme nights such as ?Geeks Who Drink? trivia nights on Tuesdays and ?Nashville Night? where happy hour is served till last call.

Drinking with friends is more fun when games are involved.? The Blind Donkey is on the same page which is why they?ve set up pool tables, dart boards, shuffleboard, arcade games and a photo booth so you and your friends will have plenty to choose from.

For the Foodie

If you?re really making the most of the local nightlife, you?re probably waking up with just enough time to make yourself presentable and head out to brunch.? At Habana, you can enjoy a Cuban-style, all-you-can-eat, alfresco brunch buffet with a little bit of background music to set the mood.

Just like with any other buffet experience, you?ll need some time to recover.? If you build up enough of an appetite for dinner, you can splurge at THE RANCH where several of the reviews on TripAdvisor begin with ?best? and end with ?ever?.

And finally, when you?re ready for dessert, you can?t back away from Anaheim without enjoying one of Sweet Cup?s famous dessert tacos (only served on taco Tuesdays).? These delicious treats are made with a waffle cone taco and rolled ice-cream base with a wide variety of toppings.

For the Instagrammer

The first stop on your Instagram journey is the Anaheim Packing House located in a shopping center referred to as the Packing District.? Built in 1919, the Packing House was a spot for local farmers to bring their fresh citrus and packed it into wooden crates.? Today, this building acts as a food hall where the community comes together for food and entertainment.? Scattered greenery and natural lighting will catch many eyes in an Instagram newsfeed.

For your second stop you can hop right next door and visit The MAKE Building.? This adult beverage paradise opened in the early 1900s as a marmalade factory and is filled with bygone-era decorations, a perfect backdrop to put on your Instagram feed.

For the Whole Family

At Adventure City, there are plenty of age-appropriate activities for the littlest members of your family.? If your family doesn?t have patience for long lines, this is the place for you.

For some educational fun, be sure your family stops by Aquarium of the Pacific where you can get up close and personal with over 12,500 different marine species.? Family members of all ages will be in awe as the family will learns some valuable information on better ways to respect our planet and enhances their appreciation for marine life.

We would be remiss if we didn?t mention the happiest place on earth..? Disneyland opened its doors on July 17, 1955 and has fueled Orange County to open up several of aforementioned businesses for a more high-quality and diverse tourist experience.? You?ll become a part of the nostalgia, magic and wonder that Disney movies are famous for when you enjoy the cinematic experience Disneyland has to offer kids and adults of all ages and interests.

Regardless of the reason for your visit, you?ll find that Anaheim has something for everyone to appreciate.? Colleagues, family members, clients and friends will love taking part in the world-famous attractions and events found here.? Start planning your visit today!