Tag: Lake Life

Coffee Talk | Your Home Equity

Posted on by Liza Muhl
buyer home protection

Your Home Equity: Is it Enough to Move?

If you’ve owned your home for a few years, chances are you’ve built up some equity — and that equity might be the key to unlocking your next move.

What Is Home Equity?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. As home values have increased in recent years, many homeowners are sitting on more equity than they realize. According to CoreLogic’s Q4 2024 Homeowner Equity Report, the average U.S. homeowner with a mortgage had approximately $303,000 in home equity at the end of 2024 .MBA Newslink

This figure represents a slight decrease from the previous quarter, where the average equity was reported at $311,000. Despite this modest decline, homeowners continue to maintain substantial equity, providing a strong financial foundation for potential moves or other financial decisions.

Can You Use It to Move?

Absolutely. Here are a few ways homeowners are using their equity today:

  • As a down payment on a new home — Selling your current home and using the equity can significantly reduce the mortgage on your next purchase.

  • To pay off debt or improve cash flow — Equity can be used to pay down other obligations, potentially freeing up your budget for a move.

  • To make strategic renovations before listing — Sometimes, a small investment can boost your home’s value even more before you sell.

Key Questions to Ask

Before you decide to move, consider:

  • How much equity do you actually have?
    A local real estate professional can provide a comparative market analysis to estimate your current home’s value.

  • What are your goals for the move?
    Are you looking for more space, a different location, or to downsize and reduce costs?

  • Will your equity cover your next home’s down payment and moving costs?
    It’s important to factor in closing costs, agent commissions, and moving expenses.

The Bottom Line

Your home equity could be your biggest asset — and understanding how to use it is the first step toward achieving your next real estate goal. If you’re curious about your equity, let’s run the numbers together. Whether you’re dreaming of more space, less maintenance, or a whole new view, I’ll help you explore your options.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Sources: Cotality (formerly CoreLogic)

Coffee Talk | Real Estate Contingencies

Posted on by Liza Muhl
buyer home protection

Real Estate Contingencies: Your Winter Survival Plan

Real estate contingencies and winter conditions both serve as protective measures—whether in a home purchase or an outdoor adventure.

Investigation Contingency = Checking the Weather Forecast

Just like you wouldn’t head into a snowstorm without knowing what’s coming, an inspection contingency lets buyers assess a home’s condition before fully committing.

Appraisal Contingency = Ensuring Safe Road Conditions

If the roads are too icy, you might rethink your travel plans. Similarly, if a home appraises for less than the purchase price, this contingency lets the buyer reassess financing or renegotiate to avoid overpaying.

Financing Contingency = Packing the Right Gear

Just like you need the right winter gear to handle freezing temps, securing financing is essential to ensure the contract goes through. If a buyer’s loan falls through, this contingency acts as a safeguard.

Final Thoughts

Each contingency, like winter preparedness, helps prevent being caught in a tough spot. If removed too soon—just like venturing into the backcountry without the right equipment—you might face challenges that could have been avoided.

📩 Buying a home? We’re here to guide you with expert knowledge, ensuring your contract has the right protection for a smooth transaction.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Coffee Talk | Maximize Your Home’s Value with Backyard Curb Appeal

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Make Your Tahoe Home Stand Out

If you’re selling your home in Lake Tahoe, you already have one major advantage—breathtaking natural surroundings! But even in a scenic destination, backyard curb appeal plays a huge role in attracting buyers and increasing your home’s value.

Buyers in Tahoe are looking for outdoor living spaces that embrace the mountain lifestyle, whether it’s for year-round enjoyment or a dreamy vacation retreat. Here’s how to enhance your Tahoe backyard and make it a major selling point!

Why Backyard Curb Appeal Matters in Tahoe

  1. Outdoor Lifestyle Appeal – Buyers want a space where they can relax, entertain, and take in the views.
  2. Boosts Home Value – A well-designed backyard can increase perceived value and attract higher offers.
  3. Standout Listings – Homes with inviting outdoor spaces photograph better and generate more interest.

Embrace the Natural Beauty

Tahoe buyers love homes that blend seamlessly with nature. Showcase your outdoor space by:

  1. Keeping landscaping natural with native plants like lupine, manzanita, or Jeffrey pines.
  2. Adding rock features, wood accents, or a rustic fire pit to enhance the mountain aesthetic.
  3. Maintaining a clear, unobstructed view of the lake, forest, or mountains if possible.

Create Cozy Gathering Spaces

Buyers in Tahoe love outdoor entertaining areas, especially ones designed for all-season use.

  1. Arrange Adirondack chairs, rustic benches, or outdoor sofas with weather-resistant cushions.
  2. Add a covered patio or pergola to extend usability through different seasons.
  3. Use string lights, lanterns, and cozy blankets for a warm and inviting ambiance.

Maximize Seasonal Appeal

Tahoe is a four-season destination, and buyers want an outdoor space they can use year-round.

In Winter:

  • Keep paths & decks shoveled and safe to show accessibility.
  • Highlight heated patios, hot tubs, or ski storage areas.

In Summer:

  • Stage a BBQ area, hammock, or outdoor dining table for warm-weather fun.
  • Show off nearby hiking or lake access to emphasize outdoor adventure potential.

Final Thoughts

A well-presented Tahoe backyard isn’t just an outdoor space—it’s an extension of the home’s lifestyle appeal. Whether you’re selling a luxury lakefront estate or a cozy mountain cabin, these small but impactful changes can make a big difference in buyer interest and final sale price.

📩 Thinking about selling? Let’s talk! We’ll help you maximize your Tahoe home’s outdoor appeal and get top dollar.

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group

Coffee Talk | Seasonal Home Maintenance Tips

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Winterizing Your Home for Comfort, Safety, and Value

We are well into the winter season here in Lake Tahoe, but it’s not too late to take steps to prepare your home for the colder months. Winterizing isn’t just about staying cozy—it’s also about protecting your property and adding value. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or have just purchased one, winterizing is a smart move that benefits both buyers and sellers.

What Does Winterizing Mean?

Winterizing involves preparing your home to handle the challenges of cold weather, such as freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. It includes tasks like sealing drafts, protecting pipes, and ensuring your heating system is in top shape.

Top Winterizing Tips for Every Homeowner

Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or homeowner preparing for the season, here are essential tips to winterize your property:

  1. Protect Pipes from Freezing: Insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor hoses.
  2. Inspect Heating Systems: Clean or replace furnace filters and schedule a professional inspection.
  3. Seal Gaps and Drafts: Use weatherstripping or caulking around windows and doors.
  4. Clean Gutters and Check Your Roof: Clear debris to prevent ice dams and repair damaged shingles.
  5. Prepare Outdoor Spaces: Cover patio furniture, drain irrigation systems, and stock up on de-icers.

Final Thoughts

For sellers, it’s a chance to showcase a well-maintained property that’s ready for its next owner. For buyers, it provides peace of mind and a head start on maintaining your new home.

If you’d like more tips or guidance on preparing your home for the winter market, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you make the most of your property this season!

Contact Amie Quirarte with The Q Group