Monthly Archives: June 2023
Proceed with Caution: Things to Avoid When “Under Contract” on a Home Purchase
Congratulations! You've successfully secured a home and are "under contract." This means you're one step closer to closing the deal and becoming a homeowner. However, it's crucial to navigate this final stage carefully. Certain actions or decisions can potentially jeopardize the home buying process and even lead to complications. In this blog post, we will discuss some common mistakes to avoid when you're "under contract" on a home purchase to ensure a smooth and successful closing. Read More
Investing in Real Estate in Peoria, Illinois: An Opportunity for Growth
When it comes to real estate investment, many investors prefer to focus on larger metropolitan areas. However, hidden gems like Peoria, Illinois, often offer unique opportunities for growth and a high return on investment. With its favorable real estate market conditions, strategic location, and diverse economy, Peoria presents a promising investment landscape for those looking to venture into the world of real estate. Read More
Everyone’s Talking About Home Equity: Here’s What Yours Means in Today’s Market
Homeownership has long been tied to building wealth—and for good reason. Instead of throwing rent money out the window each month, owning a home allows you to build home equity. And over time, equity can turn your mortgage debt into a sizeable asset. You can use it to get a line of credit, a home equity loan, or a refinance. Alternatively, if you’re considering selling your house, that equity you create can be used toward purchasing your next home. But before you can put that nest egg to use, you should understand precisely what equity is in light of today’s record-high home prices. Here’s what the experts have to say on home equity. Read More
The True Cost of Selling Your House on Your Own
Selling your house is no simple task. While some homeowners opt to sell their homes on their own, known as a FSBO (For Sale by Owner), they often encounter various challenges without the guidance of a real estate agent. If you’re currently considering selling your house on your own, here’s what you should know. Read More
5 Best Ways To Experience Summer In Peoria
Whether it’s your first time in the River City or you’re a Peoria pro, make the most of your stay and discover why the Peoria region is unlike any other in Illinois. From our state parks to our favorite food dives, we do summer in Peoria differently. Here are some of the best ways to experience Peoria this summer. Read More
Beat the heat – and high energy bills this summer!
As the temperature rises, here’s a checklist to help you stay cool—and save money—through another scorching Illinois summer. Read More
Furnace, Boiler or Heat Pump? Time for Heating Systems 101
Heating your home accounts for an inordinate portion of your utility bill, so it pays to choose the most efficient heating system possible. This doesn’t necessarily mean you should upgrade to a different type of system, however. Generally speaking, it’s a bad idea to convert from forced air to central heating, or vice versa, since the benefits rarely justify the cost. Instead, upgrade to a more efficient version of your existing furnace or boiler when it’s too expensive to repair — but weigh your options carefully. Here’s a rundown of the most commonly used heating systems, along with their advantages and disadvantages, to help you make the most appropriate choice for your home, climate and wallet. Read More
5 Houseplants You (Probably) Can’t Kill
Live houseplants can make a home more attractive and welcoming and may even provide health benefits. Have you resisted the urge to grow indoor plants because you don't think you're capable? Don’t give up! The solution involves selecting nearly indestructible houseplants. Here are five hardy specimens that can withstand neglect. So pick your favorites, find your green thumb, and improve your interior atmosphere! Read More
Meet Our Newest Buyer Specialist!
Rachel Knight came to the Bryson Smith Team back in November. She started as part of our administrative staff, as a Client Care Coordinator and very quickly established herself as a rockstar in that role. Rachel found that she loved working with clients, and decided to make a lateral move... becoming our newest Buyer Specialist! Read More