Jamie McCook

Between the pandemic and the red hot housing market, I see some buyers waiving the home inspection in an attempt to jump ahead of the competition. Which begs the question: Is this ever a smart idea? No, nope, no way, never, not happening, don’t even think about it, ok? Here’s why:... You may think the home is in perfect shape, but some of the costliest problems are difficult to spot: leaks, termite damage, foundation issues, poor ventilation, faulty wiring, and drippy appliances. A home inspection gives you the chance (before you sign on the dotted line) to have a professional inspector see if there are any problems that need to be addressed, replaced, or fixed. When it’s over, you’ll have an accurate assessment of what you’re walking into when you buy so you can avoid shelling out money say, for a new roof cause you didn’t know it was leaky. What are your thoughts? Would you be brave enough to buy without an inspection? See more

Woke up this morning to find out my buyer's offer on this adorable home in the heart of Peachtree City had been accepted. Nothing like being able to deliver good news on a Monday! Congrats to both buyer and seller! ... (listing courtesy of Merry Holley, BHHS) See more

Refresh (v.) to give new strength or energy to; reinvigorate Some of my favorite ways to refresh a space in you home that doesn't cost a ton of money are: fresh paint ... new furniture arrangement deep decluttering change out light fixtures seasonal throw pillows So, how would you finish this sentence? A room in my house that needs a refresh is...

I'm often asked what I expect will happen in the upcoming months in the real estate market. While I don't have a crystal ball, here are a few reasons you can expect 2021 to remain off the charts: 1. Limited inventory. Many areas are experiencing housing shortages. Having more buyers than sellers creates a strong market, and typically offers at or above asking. 2. Under-construction. All around the US, homes are currently being built by MILLIONS. ... 3. Record equity markets and stimulus money. Not only does it make people wealthier, but it also makes them feel richer. Moods often fuel markets as much as money does. 4. High demand! As millennials come of age to buy, demand continues to increase exponentially. 5. The optimism of spring! Spring markets fuel optimism, hope, and renewal. If you're looking to buy or sell, now is the time! Send me a message and let's get the ball rolling. See more

Looking at those worn-out winter walls and wondering what a fresh coat of paint might do for them this spring? If so, here are the most popular shades coming soon to a wall near you: Jewel tones: Think sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple, and citrine yellow. Greens aplenty: Seafoam green, leafy green, emerald green. More time at home means homeowners are doing whatever they can to bring the outdoors in. ... Natural, earth tones: Want an example? Check out Sherwin Williams' 2021 Color of the Year: Urbane Bronze SW 7048. Blush: The soft pink hue isn’t going anywhere anytime soon do expect to see it used often this year as a neutral. Chalky white: Stark whites are out and soft whites with warmer undertones are in. Look for it in matte or textured finishes Paint is one of the easiest, cheapest, and quickest ways to totally transform the look and feel of a space. Don’t be afraid to go bold with on-trend colors this spring. See more

Every real estate agent you know is shouting, "LOW INVENTORY! LOW INVENTORY!" Maybe so much so that you've tuned them out or keep thinking, so what? What's that got to do with me? Truth is if you're a homeowner thinking to sell or home shopper looking to buy, low inventory means EVERYTHING! FOR THE HOMEOWNER LOOKING TO SELL:... The time is NOW! With low inventory (translation: not that many homes are for sale), you're not going to have to compete with as many other homes to attract buyers. Even with low inventory set your asking price at market value. Doing so means you’re likely to attract more buyers and possibly set off a lucrative bidding war. You're going to get a greater return on your investment. Rising prices mean that homes are also gaining value! FOR THE HOME SHOPPER LOOKING TO BUY: Time is of the essence when inventory is low. Do everything you can NOW (gather down payments funds, get pre-approved, have your home ready to sell) so when you find your dream home you. can act, and act fast! Keep your offer as "clean" as possible. Now isn't the time to pack your offer up with contingencies, concessions, closing dates, or repairs. Beware of renegade emotions. Whether it's a competitive bidding war or losing out on another home you just KNEW was the one, fight to keep your emotions in check. Stay patient and stay in the game the right house will come along at just the right time. If you have even the slightest inkling of selling, DON'T PUT IT OFF any longer. At least speak with an agent (me ) who can help you assess the changing market conditions and let you know what you can expect to sell your home for chances are you'll be pleasantly surprised! See more

I’m rounding out this month of luck with the last secret in our 5 Secrets of a Successful Sale secrets that together will help you sell your home without a hint of luck or wishful thinking. Before jumping to Secret #5, a quick review: Secret #1: It’s your kitchen that’ll sell your home.... Secret #2: Declutter, depersonalize, and stage your home. Secret #3: Don't go overboard on upgrades. Secret #4: Find out what your home is worth, then shave 15-20% off the price to spark a bidding war. And last but certainly not least... Secret #5: Work with the right agent. The easiest way to hire the RIGHT agent? Knowing when they’re the WRONG agent. Here are few warning signs: They have few references. They aren’t familiar with your neighborhood. They are new to town. They are hard to reach by phone, email, or text. They pressure you to make decisions before you feel ready. There are a ton of AMAZING agents out there. So don’t settle! Keep looking and asking around until you find an agent you click with getting a successful sale (and maybe that pot o’ gold!) depends on it. See more

We're halfway through the week and it's time to share Secret #3 in my 5 Secrets of a Successful Sale. A quick look back at the past two secrets: Secret #1: It’s your kitchen that’ll sell your home. Secret #2: Declutter, depersonalize, and stage your home. ... And today Secret #3: DON’T go overboard on upgrades. It’s a mistake I’ve seen too many times. In an effort to get top dollar for their home, well-intentioned sellers take on major renovations without consulting a realtor first. Misinformed and assuming they’ll get every dollar back (and then some!), they go overboard on upgrades only to be disappointed at the closing table. And while there are upgrades worth doing prior to selling, they’re often quick fixes, not major renovations. If you’re thinking about selling soon, reach out to a realtor who knows your neighborhood and can give you data on the upgrades that matter most to buyers in your area. Not thinking about selling, but know someone who is? Pass this along and save them from the stress, headache, and expense of unnecessary upgrades. See more