Exploring Common Home Features and Their Origins When we look at homes today, it’s fascinating to see how certain architectural features have evolved over time. Many of these elements were developed in response to the environment, cultural practices, and technological advancements. Understanding the origins of these features can give us a deeper appreciation of the homes we live in and even rethink their usefulness vs aesthetic. Let’s explore some common home features and their historical backgrounds. 1. Steeply Pitched Roofs Steeply pitched roofs are a hallmark of Nordic architecture. These ..read more

Lowering Your Energy Bills: Tips and Free Resources for Homeowners in Southeastern Michigan In southeastern Michigan, homeowners can unlock the potential for significant energy savings. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Snyder & Company, Realtors, we’re not just here to help you buy and sell property, we also strive to assist you in making your home more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Below you’ll find our curated tips and a wealth of free resources. Free Resources: DTE Energy Home Energy Audit: Schedule a free home energy audit with DTE Energy and receive energy-efficient light b ..read more

Your Complete Home Flooring Guide Flooring is the foundation of any home’s aesthetic and practical design. With numerous materials to choose from, each offering different textures, durability, and maintenance levels, selecting the right flooring can be a significant decision. This guide aims to explore the diverse options available to homeowners. 1. Hardwood: Classic and timeless, hardwood floors bring warmth and character to any space. Options range from durable oak and hickory to elegant maple and cherry. Hardwood can be refinished multiple times but requires protection from moisture and sc ..read more

The Homebuyer’s Guide to Purchasing a House with a Swimming Pool Buying a home with a pool is an exciting prospect, offering a private retreat for relaxation and entertainment. However, it’s important to consider various factors, including the type of pool, its condition, maintenance requirements, and more. This guide will provide you with a thorough understanding of what to look for when purchasing a home with a pool. 1. Understanding the Types of Pools: In-ground Pools: These are permanent structures that can be customized in various shapes and sizes. They are typically made from concrete ..read more

Deeded parking refers to a parking space that comes with a legal deed, granting the owner exclusive ownership rights to that specific parking spot. This concept is commonly found in condominiums, apartment complexes, or mixed-use developments. Here’s how it generally works: Ownership: When you purchase a property that comes with deeded parking, you own the parking space outright, just as you do your home or condo unit. This means you have the legal right to use, rent, or sell the parking space independently of your residential unit. Deed and Title: The parking space is typically identified b ..read more

The trend in home sizes has seen a significant shift over the decades. Back in 1973, the average home being built was around 1,700 square feet. By 2015, that size had grown to about 2,700 square feet. In Ann Arbor and throughout Southeastern Michigan, this increase reflects a national trend. But the big question remains – what size home suits your needs? Just as cars have evolved with high-tech features, homes too have seen upgrades. Today’s houses often come with smart technology, spacious closets, and modern bathrooms. In Ann Arbor, the demand for homes with more bedrooms is rising, as peop ..read more

Lack of supply in the resale market is favorably impacting new home sales. In September 2023, the pace of new home sales was up 33.9% year over year to a seasonally-adjusted rate of 759,00 units. The median new home sale price in September was $418,800, down 12.3% compared to a year ago, largely due to builder incentives and a shift toward building slightly smaller homes. Meanwhile, existing, or pre-owned home sales sank 15.4% from the previous year, yet existing home prices rose slightly to $394,300. New home construction is typically more expensive than existing homes of similar size, condi ..read more

Navigating the 2024 Housing Market In the new year, homebuyers and sellers will still be facing the same challenges as they did in 2023—high interest rates, sky-high home prices, and an inadequate supply of homes. As affordability issues slow housing sales volume, low supplies are keeping home prices high. Bankrate.com experts say that mortgage interest rates reached 8.01% in October, the highest level since 2000, but since then rates have come down. There’s no likelihood of a housing market turndown as long as lending standards remain strict, and there aren’t enough homes to meet demand. Gold ..read more

photo courtesy of cottonbro studio Thanksgiving is right around the corner! Whether you’re looking to order your own Thanksgiving meal to-go, treat someone else, or even just pick up some delectable side dishes, we have you covered with Thanksgiving to-go offerings from Ann Arbor area restaurants. 4 Separate Zingerman’s Businesses: Zingerman’s Deli https://www.zingermanscatering.com/thanksgiving/ This quintessential Ann Arbor institution is offering everything from complete meals, individual plates, appetizers, side dishes, soups, turkeys (raw, cooked, or cooked and carved), bread loaves, roll ..read more

Homebuyers today predominantly lean towards homes that are ready for move-in, with all necessary repairs and updates already made. The Wall Street Journal highlights that the appeal for fixer-uppers has waned, largely attributed to rising mortgage interest rates and the complexities of construction loans. When a seller lists their home without addressing its repair needs, the ensuing costs of such repairs remain unpredictable. Importantly, mortgage backers like FHA and VA uphold strict safety and home quality standards. If a seller bypasses essential repairs, potential buyers might find their ..read more