Bethe Frazer

Although this is an old post, for anyone new looking, landscaping as far as freshening mulch, and clean up, is low cost and makes the house look so much nicer. A budget of $1000 goes a long way and you get your money back in curb appeal.

A home is a big investment. Doing a home inspection, besides pointing out any major issues, can also make you aware of maintenance and upkeep of a home, and what's important. Highly suggest doing one, and worth every penny.

There are many affordable places to live in the US. I would suggest taking some time and write down what you would like to have around you, also you work remote, but if you didn't you also should consider is where you living does it have a good job center if remote was not an option. Do you want to be by mountains, beach, lakes, parks & recreation, warm climate, cool climate, or both. Rural or metropolitan. Spread sheets work great for this, and then find the states that match up with what you like, and out of those see which is the most affordable. Also, besides sale price, taxes, also consider home owners insurance. For example, homes may be cheaper in Florida, and taxes less, but your home owners insurance could be double what taxes are, versus someplace like NC, where taxes may be higher but home owners insurance is less. Overall, the middle of the country, and southern east coast (SC, NC, GA, FL) are considered reasonable.

In NJ we say appraisal costs around $500 range

In New Jersey, prior to covid pools were pretty neutral on value. I noticed during covid and continuing to now, homes with in-ground pools here, even though we only get 3-4 months use out of them, sell faster and for more. Note, you should choose putting a pool in for enjoyment first, as it's never dollar for dollar, but I think it's definitely a plus for amenities at this time.