The Savvy Realtor with Angie Cole

How are recent mortgage rate cuts influencing the housing market in the Triangle? In today’s episode, Angie shares what she’s seen and experienced when it comes to the change in interest rates. With the landscape of real estate constantly shifting, understanding these trends is important for both buyers and sellers alike.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The recent mortgage interest rate change. The potential savings of a refinance. Waiting too long for the perfect rate.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we find ourselves in mid-October, with an election looming and interest rates fluctuating, many buyers and sellers are feeling unsure about their next move. Angie offers her expert insights into the current market conditions and shares her personal experience with refinancing to help listeners navigate these uncertainties.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: When to refinance… and quick! The Triangle market’s continued appreciation. What to consider with the nature of the seasons with real estate.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Effective August 6, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement introduces new regulations that will impact how real estate transactions are conducted. Angie Cole explains that the settlement stems from a lawsuit where a seller claimed they were forced to pay the buying agent's commission. The outcome has led to two major changes: commissions can no longer be listed in the MLS database, and real estate agents must have a signed buyer agency agreement before showing a property. Find out more about how these changes impact you, whether you are looking to buy or sell a house in the near future!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What regulations will be implemented due to the NAR settlement. Media misconceptions regarding the settlement changes. Mailbag: Saving for land purchases? Mailbag: What first-time homebuyers should know about urban areas?     Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

What’s the latest in the real estate market? From summertime home sales in the Triangle to national news headlines, Angie shares her insight on what’s happening and what to expect. Whether you are renting and want to know more about recent rental rate proposals or are looking to sell at the right time, there’s something in this episode for you.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Triangle market update: what to look for this summer and year. Potential rental rate regulations. Timing your home sale alongside school schedules. Mailbag: How reliable are home estimates from mortgage lenders? Mailbag: What to focus on when investing in real estate?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When buying a home, there are a lot of red flags to watch out for, especially if you are unfamiliar with an area. One concern some home buyers have is falling victim to scams. Angie finds that scams are more prevalent in land purchases, where scammers pose as landowners to quickly pocket due diligence money. To prevent this, Angie advises always working with a reputable real estate company and ensuring thorough verification processes are in place. Listen in as she and Walter discuss this and some other real estate scams to be aware of.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How often do people fall for real estate scams? What common real estate scams are there? Mailbag: Where can I live lakefront in NC?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

On today’s podcast, Angie answers listener questions about the real estate market in the Triangle area. Find out how long homes in the Kitts Creek neighborhood in Morrisville typically stay on the market, tips for first-time homebuyers in the competitive under $400,000 range, and what to look out for when buying a home with a $1 million budget. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a luxury property, Angie provides valuable insights to help you navigate the process.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How long do homes in Kitts Creek typically stay on the market? Mailbag: How do first-time homebuyers win homes? Mailbag: What to look out for when you have a $1 million budget for buying a home.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences in life. In a competitive real estate market, it’s crucial to adopt the right habits to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In today’s podcast, Angie shares invaluable tips for homebuyers so you know what to do when the time comes.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Get your finances straight. Do your homework. Get pre-approved. Know what you want. Check expectations. Bid smart. Use experts. Take your time. Keep learning. Stay calm!   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we near the 4th of July and people hit the beach over the summer, you may be wondering what kind of impact that has on selling a house. Angie answers one listener question about this to share what listing a home the first week of July could look like. Regardless of when you list your home, make sure it’s prepped and ready to show potential buyers!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: Should I avoid listing near the 4th of July because of the holiday? Mailbag: Should I wait for interest rates to drop to buy a home?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As we enter the summer season, we check in with Angie to hear what the real estate market in North Carolina's Triangle area is looking like. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding the current trends and unique factors at play can give you a significant advantage.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What are the significant changes in buyer or seller behavior this year? Should buyers and sellers keep their eye on any economic indicators this summer? What has it looked like since the NAR settlement? What impact did the MLS merger have? What has happened with 3D tours? What does Angie recommend for those considering a relocation?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

As you go to sell a house, you want to make sure your house is going to catch the attention of buyers! Dale in Raleigh wants to know how to make his house stand out from others that are similar and also for sale in his neighborhood. Angie suggests how to price, stage, market, and prepare your home for the best-case scenario when you sell.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How do I make my house unique? Mailbag: What’s it like to invest in real estate? Mailbag: How do I know how much home I can afford? Mailbag: How will our renovations impact the resale value of our home?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/  

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make, and it comes with its fair share of excitement and anxiety. The thrill of finding your dream home can sometimes overshadow the practical considerations that ensure you're making the right choice. But what happens when the dust settles and buyer's remorse creeps in?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Three out of four homebuyers have at least one regret about home they purchased. Some homes require too much maintenance. Home size wasn’t right. Wrong location causes regret. Home environment considerations shouldn’t be overlooked.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

If you are getting ready to buy or sell a home, there are a lot of things to think about! Angie answers a few questions from the mailbag as people start to prepare for the process. Bart asks how to make his home more marketable for buyers. How it looks online makes a big difference as that’s the first impression homebuyers get!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How can I increase the marketability of my home? Is the marketability process the same for online vs. in-person showings? Mailbag: What are the important questions I should ask potential realtors?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

With the headlines abuzz about the settlement of real estate commissions, we talk about what the impact will be in the future. Angie outlines what the lawsuit was about and what this means for realtors, buyers, and sellers moving forward. This is a change in how things are practiced, which causes a shift, but not a reason to panic.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What happens with the NAR settlement? Why does the reporting differ from some of the reality? What changes for buyers?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/      

As we near spring, Angie and the rest of the team at A Cole Realty are seeing a busy year. More buyers and sellers are ready to make a move and the potential for interest rates lowering down the line has people excited. They’ve even seen some multiple-offer situations! If you’re in the buying market, be prepared for a low inventory with more buyers in the market, which makes it competitive. After the market update, Angie answers two questions from the mailbag. Ben recently relocated and is looking for where to buy a home and yard big enough for his family, including five kids! Then, Terry asks what the price range is for a luxury buyer and how that process might look.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Angie and her team are at 100 pending contracts for the year 2024 already!  Mailbag: Where can I get a large home and yard in my price range? Mailbag: What price range is a luxury home buyer in?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/    

Some of Angie’s clients are looking for an investment property. Daniel sends in a question to the mailbag to learn what areas are best for long-term value appreciation. Angie talks through this and three other questions from the mailbag in today’s show. For instance, did you know there’s an exciting new development coming in Chatham county called Asteria? A Storyliving by Disney community is in the works! Whether you are looking for a good spot to land in Pittsboro, gearing up for closing costs or looking to get creative to find a home with an office, Angie and her team can help!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: Where are the best areas to invest in a rental property? Mailbag: What kind of closing costs should I expect? Mailbag: Can you help me find a house with a home office? Mailbag: Are there any upcoming developments in Chatham county that could affect home values?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Are the same trends happening in the real estate market happening in our local area? Angie shares what she’s experienced alongside homebuyers and home sellers in the Triangle market. This will give you a good idea of what to expect when you go to buy or sell a home.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: One-third of national real estate sales feature a seller concession. Several new offers are coming through. Existing home sales are lower than ever. Mortgage rates are the biggest worry for agents.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

If you are looking for a home in hopes of finding a bargain, what do you need to know? We look at a slightly older article to see what’s still true in today’s market if you want to find a deal. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference as you bargain shop for your next home. Angie shares her advice so that you don’t accidentally buy something that seems too good to be true and turns out to actually be more money than you planned.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Look for homes that have been on the market longer. Stay away from turnkey homes or fixer uppers. Should you shop for alternatives? Consider less trendy homes in a good location. Are foreclosures still an option?    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

When selling your home, it can feel like there’s a lot to do to get ready! Angie lays out what to do first when wanting to get a good price for your home. How do you know when it’s right to fix it up vs. selling the home as is? How much effort should you put into it to get a return on that investment of time, money, and effort?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How to get the best price for my home. Mailbag: Selling my home as is or fixing it up? Mailbag: What makes Angie Cole’s team stand out? Mailbag: How much home can we afford and where? Mailbag: Are we messing up our home’s value with too many DIY projects?   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

Sometimes people decide to try to do a for sale by owner. Is it worth it or are you likely to face more problems than it’s worth? Angie shares how to be savvy and aware when dealing with a for sale by owner, whether that be on the buyer or the seller side.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Mailbag: How do I navigate the market when buying and selling? Mailbag: Is buying from a "For Sale by Owner" risky? The hidden costs of inexperience with selling for sale by owner. Safety and security concerns are worth considering. The negotiation process can benefit from a professional. The paperwork can be a nightmare. Sorting through the real buyers from the curious onlookers.   Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/

How does Angie and her team help someone moving from out-of-state find the right spot for them? Even if you’re searching from afar, there’s a lot you can do to research the right fit. Listen in as Angie talks through what criteria to think through, what kind of home layout you need, and then outlines how her team works with long-distance clients.   Here are the questions Angie answers on today’s show:   Mailbag: How can you help me find my home from afar? Mailbag: Does my neighborhood hurt my resell value even with a renovation? Mailbag: How can I be sure my realtor is a good negotiator? Mailbag: How does Angie’s team alleviate some of the stress and pressure of the process?    Check out our listings: https://www.acolerealty.com/