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When It Is Cold Outside, Play Inside
Espire Sports Open in Prescott
When the weather is too cold to have fun outside, don’t worry, you can still play inside! Espire Sports is a one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor sports complex in the Pine Ridge Mall (previously known as the Prescott Gateway Mall).
The former Sears building at Mall off Highway 69 now has an over 100,000 square feet sports complex complete with pickleball, sports, fitness, and wellness opportunities.
You can read more information on the facility, classes, and membership prices at EspireSports.com. The facility is truly a unique complex that will benefit people of all ages in the Prescott area.
Types of Activities at Espire Sports
At Espire Sports, you will find Indoor pickleball, a multi-purpose sports court, yard games, arcade, bocce ball, cornhole, ping-pong, billiards, a fitness center with rooms for yoga, aerobics, or Pilates, golf simulators, a 9-hole putting green, pro-shop, cafe, and juice bar. There are also locker rooms with showers.
Pickle Ball Courts
The complex has 18 indoor and 12 outdoor pickleball courts with a pro-regulation outdoor acrylic surface where you can use any outdoor pickleball. The ceiling height is 20′, allowing players to execute the perfect lob.
What is Pickle Ball
According to USAPickleBall.org, Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities — are credited for creating a game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the US and Canada. The game is also growing internationally, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines tennis, ping-pong, and badminton elements. It is played on a court that is roughly half the size of a tennis court. Players use “paddles” to strike the ball. The pickleball itself is similar to a wiffle ball.
Prices
Espire Sports has memberships for those who want to utilize the facility regularly and a drop-in day pass for those just coming short term to experience this incredible complex. Membership Information
Refreshments
Enjoy refreshments before and after play at the THIRD SHOT refreshments bar. The bar includes juice, smoothies, acai bowls, organic coffees, lite fare, and healthy snacks.
About Prescott, Arizona
In Prescott, Arizona, you will find countless activities, including horseback riding, golfing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, local breweries, restaurants, and shopping. In addition to the hometown feel, these activities keep Prescott visitors, young and old, returning year after year.
Once the state’s territorial capital, Prescott, Arizona, is rich with history embodied in its world-famous Whiskey Row, the historic courthouse, and numerous historical landmarks. Whether you’re seeking to relax in a natural environment filled with beauty and wildlife or the history of “Everybody’s Hometown,” you will find something that will interest you. Visit the official Prescott, Arizona, website to learn more by clicking here.
Located in the Bradshaw Mountains, Prescott sits at an altitude of 5,400 feet. The average high temperature in the winter in Prescott is around 52 degrees and averages 89 in the summer. There are approximately 46,000 people in Prescott, but the surrounding “Quad-City” area of Dewey-Humboldt, Chino Valley, and Prescott Valley and the smaller towns of Mayer, Paulden, and Wilhoit, comprise around 119,000 people.
>>See Homes for Sale in Prescott
7 Embarrassing Home Staging Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Home’s Value
When you’re staging your home to sell, you want to do everything possible to make it look its best. But sometimes, good intentions can lead to embarrassing mistakes that could hurt your home’s value.
Here are seven of the most common home staging mistakes to avoid:
1. Personal Photos Mementos
You may love your family photos and cherished mementos, but potential buyers don’t want to see them. They want to imagine their own family in the home, not yours. So pack up those personal items before staging your home.
2. Too Much Furniture
Too much furniture in a room can make it feel small and cramped. Reduce your furniture to the essentials and arrange it to make the space feel open and inviting.
3. Poor Lighting
Good lighting is essential in any room, but it’s critical when staging a home for sale. Poor lighting can make a space feel dark and uninviting, so open up the curtains and turn on all the lights before potential buyers come through.
4. Messy Kitchens and Bathrooms
Your kitchen and bathroom are two of the most essential rooms in your home, so they must be spotless when you’re staging them. Clear off countertops, wash dishes, and declutter cabinets or drawers. In the bathroom, hide personal items and ensure clean and clear counters.
5. Unmade Beds
An unmade bed can make a bedroom look messy and uninviting. Be sure to straighten the sheets and plump the pillows before potential buyers arrive.
6. Pets and Pet Messes
Pets can be a turnoff for some potential buyers, so removing them from the home during showings is best. If that’s impossible, put away any pet toys, food, and water dishes. And always clean up any pet messes before potential buyers come through.
7. Personal Items in Plain Sight
You may think your home is clean, but if personal items like mail or bills are in plain sight, potential buyers will think you need to keep up with the housework. Be sure to put away any personal items before staging your home.
Avoiding these seven embarrassing mistakes will go a long way toward helping you stage your home successfully and sell it for the best price possible.
Call me, I can help you sell your home!
Trent Beaver (928) 916-1921
Check out Granville in Prescott Valley
Granville is a thriving community on Glassford Hills Road in Prescott Valley, Arizona. This growing community has large homesites and incredible amenities, including a fabulous clubhouse, meeting rooms, a complete gym, parks, tennis, basketball, pool and spa, and trails (the Iron King Trailhead is located in the subdivision). Granville is just a few miles from the new Yavapai Regional Medical Center East Campus, schools, shopping, and dining.
You can find the Granville Elementary School located in Granville. According to the school’s website, the Mission of the school:
Every student will achieve their highest academic and personal pursuits through an educational program distinguished by:
- a safe and nurturing environment focused on learning and the development of the whole child
- a research-based and highly effective signature program supported by response to intervention strategies that meet the needs of all learners
- an innovative approach to teaching and learning
- a high-functioning team of committed people modeling great character and inspiring excellence the honoring of all voices of our community
>>View Homes For Sale in Granville<<
About Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley, Arizona, is a family-oriented community that sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet and is located 85 miles north of Phoenix.
Strong in economic development, the community attracts retailers and restaurants such as Kohl’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx, Sprouts, Culvers, Chick-fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings, and a host of independent food and shopping choices.
There is no shortage of places to spend your leisure time. Attractions such as Fain Park, Mountain Valley Splash Pool, and special events such as Prescott Valley Days, Balloon Glow, or the Christmas Valley of Lights will keep you entertained all year.
Families and retirees have chosen to buy homes and relocate to Prescott Valley because of its strong work ethic, quality educational system, family values, and great year-round weather. Can you tell that we love Prescott Valley?
About BloomTree Realty
When you hire a BHGRE Agent, you are not hiring just one agent; you are hiring a company with a committed group of professionals who support each other. You are hiring a dedicated leadership team committed to attracting and training the best agents and supporting the community in which we all live.
About Trent
Trent Beaver grew up in Parker, Arizona; a small-town along the Colorado river. Growing up in the small town atmosphere Trent soon learned two key traits growing up, honesty and loyalty. Trent Beaver observed first hand that for any long term success, these qualities are a priority. Trent uses these two attributes for the basis of his business as a REALTOR ®.
As a REALTOR ® Trent puts his client first by being a good listener, good communicator, and responding to your needs quickly. He upholds his core values and looks to be your lifetime REALTOR ® finding you the home or property that suits your needs best.
In 2006, Trent Beaver moved to Prescott to further his education. He soon graduated from Yavapai College with his Associates of Business and from Old Dominion University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Upon purchasing a house with his wife, Jenni, who is a 3rd grade teacher in the Prescott School District, Trent Beaver soon realized his passion for real estate and began to fulfill the requirements to get his real estate license.
When Trent Beaver isn’t working at the BloomTree Realty Office, he enjoys traveling, Off-Road Racing, Golfing, and playing with his dogs: Scout and Piper.
Trent Beaver
(928) 916-1921
Winter Activities To Do in Arizona
There’s no need to hibernate during the Winter in Arizona – in fact, there are tons of fun things to do! Below are our top five things to do in Arizona during the Winter:
Ski Arizona
Snowbowl Mountain is part San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, Arizona. The mountain is a dormant volcano and is a sacred site to 13 Native American tribes. The ski resort is located on the southeast side of the mountain. This area usually receives a significant amount of snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. There are over 40 trails that range in difficulty from beginner to expert. There is also a terrain park for those who want to try their hand at some more challenging obstacles.
Ice Skating in Prescott, Valley
One of the best places to enjoy a winter activity in Arizona is Prescott Valley. There, you can enjoy a leisurely ice skating session at the Prescott Valley Event Center. The center has a 200-foot by 85-foot rink that is open to the public. You can even bring your own skates if you prefer!
The Prescott Valley Event Center isn’t the only place to ice skate in Arizona, but it is one of the most popular. If you’re looking for a more adventurous skating experience, try out the ice rink at Flagstaff’s Thorpe Park. At nearly 12,000 square feet, this rink is the largest in Northern Arizona.
Ice skating is a fun way to stay active and enjoy the winter weather. There are several ice skating rinks in the Phoenix area, including AZ Ice Arcadia, AZ Ice Peoria, and Skate Westgate Outdoor Ice Rink.
Go Tubin’ in the Snow!
What a great way to spend a winter day, tubing down a snow-covered hill in Arizona! There are a few locations around the state where you can enjoy this fun activity.
One popular spot is Mount Lemmon Ski Valley near Tucson. In addition to tubing, you can also ski and snowboard here. The season usually runs from November through March.
Another great option is Sunrise Park Resort in Greer. This resort offers tubing, skiing, and snowboarding. It’s open from December through April.
In Flagstaff, you have the Flagstaff Snow Park, located in the Fort Tuthill County Park. The park offers multiple groomed snow tubing runs, unlimited commercial snow tube use, a groomed kiddie hill, outdoor fire pits, multiple food trucks, portable restrooms, and picnic tables. You need to purchase tickets in advance; no walk-up tickets are available. More information here.
Canyon Coaster Adventure Park in Williams, Arizona, has tubing! From the Canyon Coaster Website: “Zip down our freshly packed snow slopes and ride back up the hill on one of our two conveyor lifts. With the help of our 4 state-of-the-art snowmakers, we guarantee snow from mid-November until Easter! Best of all you don’t need any special skills or equipment rentals to experience this fun family-friendly activity.” More Information
Zoolights, Phoenix Zoo
Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo features a dazzling display of more than a million lights that transform the zoo into a magical wonderland. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this event, from children’s activities and live entertainment to delicious food and drinks.
Be sure to check out the new “Festival of Lights” show, which is a spectacular light show set to music. You’ll also want to see the zoo’s famous Christmas tree, which is festively decorated with more than 10,000 lights. Zoolights Information
Hiking Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, Arizona
Hiking Camelback Mountain is a popular winter activity in Arizona. The summit offers sweeping views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding mountains. The trails are well-marked and range from easy to difficult, so there is a hike for everyone. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as it can be hot and sunny on the mountain. There are also a few restaurants and cafes at the base of the mountain, so you can refuel after your hike. Click here for more information on hiking Camelback Mountain.
Winter Sleigh Rides, Arizona
Flagstaff, a northern Arizona city of about 70,000 people, is a wintertime destination for skiers who are willing to brave the cold. There are a wide variety of activities suited for the colder months (November through March) in Northern Arizona. One activity taking place all Winter long is a sleigh ride! The sleigh ride at Historic Hitchin’ Post Stables is pulled by a team of horses and a guide will narrate a story while you travel through the Coconino National Forest.
Tickets for this ride should be booked well in advance as there are a limited number of seats. Be sure to dress warmly – temperatures can still get chilly at night!
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Arizona during the Winter. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or something more adventurous, Arizona has something to offer everyone. So get out and enjoy all that our wonderful state has to offer.
Call Trent Beaver for your real estate needs! Trent Beaver (928) 916-1921
Helpful Open House Checklist
The run-up to an open house is as significant as the event itself. Preparing yourself and others for the event is crucial to showcasing a property and building relationships with neighbors, future buyers, and people who may provide that essential referral. We have outlined some key steps you can take to ensure a successful open house.
TIP: Make a checklist of what must be done and set up alerts on your calendar to remind you to do the tasks on your checklist.
1 week before: Create flyers with date, time, mortgage information, and contact info for the open house. Create a Facebook Event and invite friends, fans, and prospects.
6 days before: Call all your buyers to inform them about the open house. Hang 25 flyers and 25 door-knockers around the neighborhood.
5 days before: Check on the status of the flyers. If you run into people in the neighborhood while you’re there, introduce yourself and tell them about the open house.
2 days before: Be sure you’ve memorized the house and its details and know its floor plan well enough to give effective tours that showcase the property. Create an attractive sign-in sheet featuring your photo and contact info, and offer a line for their contact info (including email address) and space to share where they heard about the open house.
30 minutes before: Make sure the house is clean and smells clean (many home sprays are clean and pleasant; avoid overtly floral or scented scents, as many people are allergic or sensitive to strong scents). Place 4 directional signs with eye-catching accessories like balloons to grab people’s attention and pull traffic from main intersections. Set out light refreshments to create a hospitable atmosphere and leave a positive impression on buyers. Offer non-messy finger foods for guests to munch on while they explore each room in your home. Be sure to have plenty of cold drinks handy; water, lemonade, and iced tea are always popular options!
10 minutes before: Put at least two signs and 4 attention-getters out front, and an “Open” rider on the sign. Play background music, preferably something instrumental and subtle, at low volume.
Within 24-hours after: Follow up with all contacts by phone or email.
Need someone to help you with your open house? Get in touch!
Trent Beaver
(928) 916-1921
Have You Considered Multigenerational Housing?
As families grow and dynamics shift, multigenerational living is becoming more common. Multigenerational housing is where two or more generations live together, such as parents, children, and grandparents. The reasons why families choose multigenerational living are varied, but the most common include the need for child care, elder care, and financial support.
According to Generations United, multigenerational households rose from 42.4 million in 2000 to 64 million in 2016. More families have been making this change in recent years.
Top 5 Benefits of Multigenerational Living
- Shared Expenses: One of the most significant advantages of multigenerational living is financial stability. Living with other family members allows you to share the load for expenses like groceries, housing, utilities, and more. Especially if you’re on a tight budget, multigenerational homes are a great way to save money. It also helps to reduce childcare costs if grandparents or other family members are responsible for looking after the kids.
- Shared Responsibilities: With multiple generations living in the same house, everyone can pitch in and help with household chores and responsibilities. From cooking, cleaning, childcare, or eldercare, responsibilities can be shared when you live in a multigenerational household. Sharing duties can ease the burden on one family member and make life easier for everyone.
- Strengthened Family Bond: Spending more time with family can help to enhance relationships and create lasting memories. “While most families come together on special occasions, multigenerational families have the luxury of seeing each other every day. By living under one roof, these families develop a high level of attachment and closeness.”
- Ensured Family Safety: Living with multiple generations under one roof, someone will be present if a family member has an accident. Additionally, your home will rarely be unoccupied, lowering the chance of burglaries.
- Positive Impact on Mental Health: Research has shown that living in a close-knit community can positively impact mental health, and a multigenerational household is one way to create that sense of community. When family members live under one roof, there are way more opportunities to bond and connect. Children spend more time with their grandparents or aunts and uncles, which can help them develop close relationships. For the older generation, having family members around can reduce loneliness and isolation, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.
With the housing market in Prescott continuing to thrive, many families are looking to make their dreams of owning a home a reality. Prescott’s diversity offers various real estate options, from cozy single-family homes to luxurious estates. It’s the perfect time to start exploring the possibilities and finding your forever home. Contact me today, and let’s make that dream a reality for your family.
Multigenerational living may not be for everyone, but it is an option worth considering. It provides financial stability, emotional support, and shared responsibilities, but it also comes with potential privacy and cultural issues. It is essential to approach the decision to live multigenerationally with care, openly communicate with the family members involved, and set clear boundaries right from the start. Done right, multigenerational living can be a blessing that strengthens the family bond for years to come.
Whether for financial or health-related circumstances or simply because you’ve reached a new phase of life, you might wonder if living with multiple generations under the same roof is a good move for you.
Trent Beaver
928-916-1921
Prescott Valley – A Great Place to Call Home
About Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley, Arizona, is a thriving family-oriented community that sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet and is located 85 miles north of Phoenix and a few minutes east of historic downtown Prescott. Prescott Valley was the seventh fastest-growing place among all cities and towns in Arizona between 1990 and 2000 and has approximately 42,000 people calling it home.
Strong in economic development, the community continues to attract retailers and restaurants such as Kohl’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx, Chick-Fil-A, Sprouts, Hobby Lobby, Culvers, Buffalo Wild Wings, and a host of independent food and shopping choices.
There is no shortage of places to spend leisure time in this active town. Visit Fain Park for a picnic and fishing, enjoy the Mountain Valley Splash Pool, and take in special events such as Prescott Valley Days, Balloon Glow, and the Christmas Valley of Lights.
Many people have chosen to buy homes and relocate to Prescott Valley because of its strong work ethic, solid educational system, family values, and positive outlook under sunny Arizona skies. The mild climate, convenient location, and surrounding lakes, fishing, and hiking trails make this popular community attractive for families and retirees.
[Homes For Sale in Prescott Valley]
Why Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty is 200 agents strong and headquartered in Prescott, Arizona. We serve the Prescott Quad Cities, Phoenix Metro areas, Sedona, and Verde Valley. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty stands apart through our values-driven, collaborative culture.
Giving back is an integral part of our core values and culture. A portion of every dollar earned by the company is donated back to local causes. The brokerage further supports the communities it serves by volunteering at local events to help raise awareness and generate support for education, health, safety, the arts, and other vital causes.
The brokerage attributes its success and market-leading performance to the effective leadership, support and training of its 200 agents and the guiding principles that drive our culture. We remain focused on serving our clients and community and constantly strive to improve!
About Trent Beaver
Trent Beaver grew up in Parker, Arizona; a small-town along the Colorado River. Growing up in the small-town atmosphere, Trent soon learned two key traits growing up, honesty and loyalty. Trent Beaver observed firsthand that for any long-term success, these qualities are a priority. Trent uses these two attributes for the basis of his business as a REALTOR ®.
As a REALTOR ®, Trent puts his client first by being a good listener, communicator and quickly responding to your needs. He upholds his core values and looks to be your lifetime REALTOR ® finding you the best home or property that suits your needs.
In 2006, Trent Beaver moved to Prescott to further his education. He soon graduated from Yavapai College with his Associate of Business and from Old Dominion University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Upon purchasing a house with his wife, Jenni, a 3rd-grade teacher in the Prescott School District, Trent Beaver soon realized his passion for real estate and began to fulfill the requirements to get his real estate license.
When Trent Beaver isn’t working at the BloomTree Realty Office, he enjoys traveling, Off-Road Racing, Golfing, and playing with his dogs: Scout and Piper.
Trent Beaver
928-916-1921
Impressive Coffee Shops in Prescott
If you love a good cup of coffee, Prescott in Arizona is bound to become one of your favorite places! With its traditional charm, Prescott offers a wide variety of independent and small business cafes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you want to cozy up with an Americano or bring some friends for espresso shots, the local coffee shops make this city unique.
Prescott Coffee Shops
Third Shot Coffee
3106 Gateway Blvd Suite 400 · In the Prescott Gateway Mall
https://www.thirdshotcoffee.com/
928.227.3465
Hours:
Sun – Thurs: 8am – 4pm
Fri & Sat : 8am – 6pm
About Third Shot
“Local Coffee + Acai near you serving 100% Organic coffee, made to order breakfast, in house baked goods and NEW Acai Bowls. Our Acai Bowls are made with an Organic Acai Fruit Soft Serve, topped with granola and fresh fruit. Great place to meet with a friend or even a larger group accessing our private meeting rooms available with schedule ahead of time. Dine in at our comfortable indoor and outdoor seating or take it to go with call ahead carryout options. An absolute Star above the Starbucks or anyone claiming to serve Acai. Make the only decision and stop by Third Shot. You will be very pleased you chose to visit our locally owned coffee shop and let our friendly Baristas treat you to the best!”
“Great coffee , baked goods and of course acai bowls. Lovely open space inside , lots of room to do work or homework for college kids. They have a meeting room available to rent. Perfect location outside of the mall.” — Jess P.
Wild Iris Coffee House
124 S Granite St E, Prescott
https://wildiriscoffee.com/
928-778-5155
Hours:
7AM to 6PM DAILY
About Wild Iris Coffee
Wild Iris Coffeehouse is Prescott’s landmark coffeehouse, locally-owned serving amazing coffee & loose leaf tea, lunch fare, desserts and house-made pastries from scratch. We are not only passionate about coffee, but everything else that goes into a full and charming coffeehouse experience. Every day we bake a large variety of delicious pastries and desserts using our own family recipes, as well as recipes from our baker’s and customer’s families. Sandwiches, quiche, bagels and other light fare are served for your morning, noon, and evening cravings.
“Wild Iris is my go-to spot in Prescott. Their staff is so lovely, and they have super delicious drinks. I have been loving their Black Widow Latte (like a latte with blackberry syrup and maybe some cayenne,, I think). The seating is great for studying, getting work down, or meeting with friends. When the weather is nice, they have plenty of outdoor seating. If you get the chance, you should absolutely come check it out! ” — Halle F.
The Porch
226 N Montezuma St (Downtown Prescott, at the intersection of Montezuma and Sheldon)
https://porch.coffee/
(928) 707-3163
Hours:
Monday–Saturday 7am–3pm
Sunday 8am-12pm
+ Tues/Thurs – 6pm -10pm
About The Porch
With the intention of coffee, conversation, and community, The Porch strives to be an extension of your home and respite from daily life.
“Great large coffee shop with plenty of seating for the individual as well as small and large groups. The China Breakfast tea was a refreshing option from the usual english breakfast or earl grey monotony of most places. A number of great pastry options to round out a nice place for a snack and catch up on email or chat with a friend.” Brian D.
Method Coffee
3180 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott
(928) 777-1067
Facebook
About Method Coffee
We are 100% committed to absolutely perfect coffee. Every step or decision we make is motivated by the quest for the best cup of coffee you’ve ever had. From the products and ingredients we use in our drinks, to the policies and procedures we adhere to in the shop, to the preparation, storage, roasting, and selecting of every coffee we serve to our customers, we are driven to excellence. We make coffee as good as it can be made, and we push everyday to make it even better.
Opening in 2008, Method Coffee brought to Prescott a brand new approach to making coffee. Owners Rachelle and Joseph Burton have 34 years combined experience in food and beverage, specializing in coffee since 1994. After both graduating from ASU, and tiring quickly of the corporate world, they returned to Prescott to set up shop. With a deep background and knowledge in every step of of a coffee’s life, from seed to cup, Method Coffee is the result of a pure desire to bring exceptional coffee to Prescott. (all the hard work earned us Pop Rocket’s Best Coffee House in Prescott 2009)
“Great espresso pulls and they will drip it into your own ceramic mugs upon request. Double espresso is almost lungo size with thick crema at a great price $2.50. Fast friendly service two different visits as an out of towner. Has drive thru also. A gem for Prescott area with mostly coffee chains. And they open early 5:30am and close late 10pm! — B. Gilbert
Merchant Coffee
218 N Granite St, Prescott, AZ
https://www.merchantcoffee.cafe/
(928) 541-1556
HOURS
Mon – Fri 6am – 7pm
Sat – Sun 7am – 7pm
About Merchant Coffee
We’ve partnered up with Provision Coffee & Roaster out of Phoenix, AZ, to bring you some of the best specialty-grade coffee beans around today. Provision knows all the hands who help bring this cup of responsibly-sourced coffee to you.
“One of the best parts of our visit to Prescott was this place. The menu board is mesmerizing. Don’t miss the blueberry bran muffins. The large lattes have four shots of espresso!” — Tim L.
I love Prescott! If I can help you relocate or upgrade your current home – give me a call!
928-916-1921
How to Avoid Common Earnest Money Errors
Earnest Money Mistakes
When buying a home, earnest money is an essential factor to consider. What is earnest money? Earnest money is a deposit made by the buyer that shows good faith and indicates their commitment to completing the purchase. This deposit is held in trust until the final closing and is credited toward your down payment or closing costs.
The amount of earnest money depends on the buyer’s situation and market conditions. Generally speaking, the higher the home’s purchase price, the larger the deposit should be. It’s important to remember that your earnest money is typically non-refundable if you decide to back out of the deal for any reason other than contingencies written into the purchase agreement. That’s why it’s essential to find a home you’ll be happy with and understand all contractual provisions before signing.
A deposit demonstrates your commitment to the purchase and your plan to follow through on the contract. But there’s a real risk involved: If you withdraw your offer or change your mind, you might lose your deposit and be out of a chunk of cash.
Here are ways to avoid losing your earnest money when buying a home
- Understand the Contract. The first and most crucial step in protecting your earnest money is understanding the contract. The contract outlines the terms and conditions of the transaction, including the timelines and contingencies. Make sure you read and understand every detail before signing. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask your real estate agent or lawyer. It is imperative to look at closing dates and other dates related to the process leading up to closing. Violating the timeline could also cost you your earnest money
- Work with a Qualified Real Estate Agent. A knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent can guide you through home-buying and help protect your earnest money. They can help you understand the contract and contingencies, perform due diligence, and negotiate on your behalf.
- Don’t sacrifice contract contingencies. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement, but keep your desire for a home from causing you to hastily remove contingencies that are built into contracts to protect buyers. Typical contingencies include loan, title search issues, appraisal, and insurance obstacles. Make sure you consult your realtor before you waive these. You need to fulfill the contingencies outlined in the contract before the deadlines. If you cannot satisfy the contingencies, you may need to cancel the contract and risk losing your earnest money.
- Avoid committing to a home “as is.” If you’re putting earnest money on an offer for a foreclosed home, don’t be too eager to accept any home problem. Take the time to understand the home’s issues before writing the offer.
- Be Prepared for the Worst. Ensure you have recourse to get some or all of your earnest money back. If the sale doesn’t finalize, you and the buyer must sign a document voiding the agreement. It is always a good idea to prepare for the worst-case scenario. If the deal falls through due to circumstances beyond your control, you may need to forfeit your earnest money. However, you can protect yourself by including a contingency that states the earnest money will be refunded if the deal falls through due to specific reasons, such as the seller’s failure to disclose information.
Buying a home is a significant investment, and protecting your earnest money is crucial. By understanding the contract, performing due diligence, fulfilling contingencies, being prepared for the worst, and working with a qualified real estate agent, you can avoid losing your earnest money and ensure a successful home-buying experience. If you have questions or concerns, contact me to help you understand everything in plain language!
Ready to buy? Let me help you find the right home and protect your interests along the way!
Trent Beaver
928-916-1921
Get a final walk-through before closing!
Don’t Skip The Walk-Through
Ready to become a homeowner? Congratulations! Before you have the keys and the deed is in hand, there’s one final step – the walk-through. A final walk-through is a crucial part of your home-buying process, as it assures that the property you are purchasing is in the agreed-upon condition and ensures that everything looks as it should before you take ownership of your new house. Read on to learn why a walk-through before closing is essential and how best to approach this task.
Why Do a Final Walk-Through
Final walk-throughs are not a home inspection or a time for negotiations. Instead, the final walk-through allows us to address common issues such as:
- If the current owner is on schedule to move out
- That the property is in the same condition it was when shown
- That any repairs required have been completed
Vacant Home or Occupied?
For homes that are vacant or still occupied, final walk-throughs are vital.
If the seller has moved out of the home, and it is now vacant, problems may have arisen while the house was vacant. Leaking faucets causing flooding or other plumbing problems could have occurred, and a final walk-through will help catch the problem before closing.
On the other hand, if the sellers still need to move out, make sure the seller is present during the final walk-through. Sellers will be able to explain details about the house that the buyer may need to know, especially tricky pool heaters, access to attics, funny light switches, and sprinkler timers.
Additionally, the final walk-through is a time to compile a list of companies that have previously serviced the house.
I like to schedule final walk-throughs at least 4 – 7 days before closing, as this is often enough time to resolve any outstanding issues before paperwork must be signed. (The walk-through itself may happen within 24 hours of closing.)
Checklist for the Final Walk-Through
- Electrical: Check the home’s electrical system by turning on and off every light switch and checking the electrical outlets. A great way to check the outlets in your home is to bring a phone charger and plug in your phone to ensure the outlet is functioning correctly. Also, check to ensure the garage door, security system, and doorbell are in working order.
- Doors and Windows: To check latches and locks, open windows and doors. Make sure your home is secure.
- Plumbing: Flush toilets, run faucets, and check under sinks for leaks. Ensure the bathrooms are free from water damage and that the sinks and bathtubs drain properly.
- Heating and Air Conditioning: Whether it is freezing or hot outside, test the heating and air conditioning.
- Appliances: Test the oven, dishwasher, open the fridge & freezer, and don’t forget to turn on the washer & dryer.
I’m dedicated to protecting my clients from the beginning through the end of the home-buying experience. If you want to work with someone who pays attention to the details, give me a call today: Trent Beaver (928) 916-1921
