"Discover Your Dream Home in Chattanooga: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Tennessee Living"

Welcome to the scenic and vibrant city of Chattanooga, Tennessee! Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Tennessee Valley, Chattanooga is not just a city; it's a lifestyle. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the finest homes and neighborhoods in Chattanooga, showcasing the diverse real estate options that make this city a haven for both residents and newcomers.

  1. North Shore: Where Community Meets Convenience

    • The North Shore district is a charming blend of historic homes, trendy boutiques, and a thriving community atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a cozy cottage or a modern townhouse, North Shore has it all. With the Tennessee River as your backdrop and the Walnut Street Bridge just a stroll away, North Shore effortlessly combines convenience with a touch of urban sophistication.
  2. Lookout Mountain: Living on the Edge of Nature

    • Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley every day. Lookout Mountain offers a unique blend of upscale living and natural beauty. This residential haven is renowned for its luxurious estates, each designed to capture the essence of mountain living without compromising on modern comforts. It's the perfect choice for those who seek tranquility without sacrificing accessibility.
  3. St. Elmo: Historic Charm and Modern Living

    • Steeped in history, the St. Elmo neighborhood boasts Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. This district effortlessly marries the charm of the past with modern conveniences, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia in their everyday lives.
  4. Downtown Living: Embracing the Urban Lifestyle

    • Chattanooga's downtown area is a thriving hub of activity, with an eclectic mix of condos, lofts, and apartments. Living in the heart of the city means having easy access to renowned restaurants, cultural attractions, and the vibrant Riverfront. Dive into the urban lifestyle while enjoying the close-knit community that downtown Chattanooga offers.
  5. Signal Mountain: Elevated Living at Its Finest

    • For those seeking an elevated lifestyle, both figuratively and literally, Signal Mountain is the pinnacle of refined living. This residential gem offers exclusive properties with panoramic views, top-notch schools, and a strong sense of community. Discover why Signal Mountain is a coveted destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Conclusion: Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a city that effortlessly combines natural beauty, historic charm, and modern living. Whether you're drawn to the urban energy of downtown or the tranquility of Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga has the perfect home for you. Let us be your guide in finding your dream home in this vibrant city, where every neighborhood tells a unique story and every street is a pathway to a life well-lived. Explore the real estate opportunities that await you in Chattanooga, and embark on a journey to a new chapter of your life in the heart of Tennessee.

  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
    Dustin Sherlin | Realty ONE Group Experts | Broker, Owner
Feb. 18, 2024

The Top 3 Reasons to Buy a Home Now

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the decision to buy a home is a significant milestone that requires careful consideration. While the market may seem unpredictable, there are compelling reasons why now might be the ideal time to take the plunge into homeownership. We’ll explore the top three reasons why buying a home now instead of waiting could prove to be a wise investment:

1. Home values will always rise over time. One of the most compelling arguments in favor of buying a home now is the historical trend of home values consistently rising over time. Real estate has proven to be a solid long-term investment, with property values generally appreciating despite short-term fluctuations. By entering the market sooner rather than later, you position yourself to benefit from this upward trajectory.

The principle of supply and demand plays a crucial role in driving home values higher. As populations grow and urbanization expands, the demand for housing increases. Limited land availability and the cost of construction materials contribute to the scarcity of housing, further propelling property values upward. By purchasing a home now, you not only secure a place to call your own but also position yourself to reap the rewards of future appreciation.

2. Interest rates will take a long time to come down and may even rise again. Interest rates are a key factor influencing the affordability of homeownership. Currently, we find ourselves in a relatively high interest rate environment, and rates could stay this way for a while. No one knows exactly what will happen, and economic conditions can change. There’s a general consensus among experts that interest rates are more likely to rise than fall in the foreseeable future.

Waiting for interest rates to drop further may seem like a strategic move, but the reality is that predicting market fluctuations is challenging. Take the initiative and secure a mortgage now. You can look into various aid programs like down payment assistance and 2-1 buydowns. Additionally, you can always refinance late.

3. Start building equity now for a greater return on investment. One of the most significant advantages of homeownership is the opportunity to build equity over time. By purchasing a home now, you initiate the wealth-building process sooner, allowing you to capitalize on the potential for increased property values. As you make mortgage payments, a portion goes towards reducing the principal, further boosting your equity. The longer you own your home, the more equity you accumulate, providing financial stability and the potential for a significant return on investment when it’s time to sell.

While waiting for the “perfect” time to buy a home may seem tempting, the current market conditions present compelling reasons to act now. There’s a strong case for entering the real estate market sooner rather than later. Seize the opportunity and embark on the journey to homeownership—your future self may thank you for it. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by phone or email.

Posted in Buying a Home
Jan. 20, 2024

4 Home Improvements That Will Increase Your Home’s Price

 

Here are four home improvements that you need to consider making when it comes time to sell your home:

1. Ordinary updates. Things like replacing rotted wood, repairing leaks, and putting a fresh coat of paint on the house are cheap to do but will have a big impact. You can’t afford to overlook these things.

2. Remodeling your kitchen. Updating your kitchen is highly recommend for improving the value of your home. However, make sure you don’t go overboard and have enough money to finish the project.

“More and more homebuyers are looking for energy efficiency.”

 3. Improve your outdoor environment. A great outdoor space can make or break a sale. Consider updating your landscaping, building a nice sitting area, or even installing a deck. Each of these projects can make your yard more attractive to buyers and increase your home’s resale value.

 4. Prioritize energy efficiency. More and more homebuyers today are looking for energy efficiency in your home. Consider making updates to your home that can lower energy costs. That includes adding insulation, purchasing replacement windows, or buying Energy Star appliances. These features not only appeal to prospective buyers, but they can also lower your utility bills while you’re in the home.

If you have any questions for me about the topic we covered today or about anything else related to real estate, don’t hesitate to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

 

Share this post:

  •  
  •  
Posted in Selling Your Home
Jan. 20, 2024

What’s going on in the Chattanooga-Cleveland area real estate market?

 

What’s going on in the Chattanooga-Cleveland area real estate market?

Currently, we are definitely in a seller’s market.That means if you’ve been thinking of selling your home, right now is the time to sell. The inventory of homes for sale is low, but a huge number of buyers are still looking to buy.

Here at Sherlin Realty, we offer our sellers a 90-step guide to help you get your home ready to go on the market.We’ll also do a free walkthrough and give you tips on how to get top dollar for your home.

What does being in a seller’s market mean for buyers?

“If you’ve been thinking of selling your home, right now is the time to sell.”

It means that you need to be prepared before you start your home search. How should buyers get prepared so they don’t miss out on that perfect home? Start by getting a good lender; we have a list of great lenders that can help you get to the closing table quickly. Being pre-approved is a must in today’s market, especially when submitting offers.

Next, find an experienced agent who will help you negotiate to get the lowest price and the best terms on your home.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I hope to hear from you soon!

 

     
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
Posted in Real Estate News
Jan. 2, 2024

Happy Holidays From Us

Happy Holidays From Us

 

 

From our team to your family, we want to wish you a happy holiday season.

Happy holidays to you!

The holiday season has officially arrived. We hope you enjoy this wonderful time of year and make some fantastic memories.

We wanted to take a moment to thank you for your continued support. We love helping people make their real estate dreams come true, so thank you for working with us and supporting our business.

This may be a busy time of year, but we are always here to help you and answer any questions you may have. Give us a call or email, we’d love to help you. 

In case we don’t hear from you until 2024, have a happy New Year!

Posted in Community News
Dec. 9, 2023

Get Top Dollar for Your Home: Here’s What Not To Fix Before Selling

Get Top Dollar for Your Home: Here’s What Not To Fix Before Selling

 

 

When preparing to sell your house, you need to make sure it’s appealing to potential buyers. Many homeowners rush to fix every little flaw, thinking it will boost their property’s value, but not every improvement will yield a significant return on investment. To help you avoid the ones that aren’t worthwhile, here are the top three things you should avoid fixing when getting your house ready to sell: 

1. Minor HVAC, electrical, and plumbing issues. While well-maintained and fully functional systems are crucial for any home, addressing minor issues in these areas may not be the best use of your resources. Major problems that could significantly impact the home’s livability and safety should be fixed, but minor issues are usually better left for the buyer to handle.

“When selling a house, it's crucial to prioritize your efforts and investments wisely.”

2. Old appliances and windows. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to believe that installing new appliances and windows will make their homes more appealing to buyers. However, this is not always the case. Homebuyers often have specific preferences, plus these pieces can be expensive. If your existing appliances and windows are still in decent condition, buyers may not see the value in replacing them with newer models, especially if they are already energy-efficient.

3. Partial room upgrades. Giving a room a partial upgrade can lead to an inconsistent look and feel throughout the house. Plus, it might make buyers question the overall quality of the home and create doubts about the other areas that weren’t improved. For example, replacing the kitchen countertops but not the cabinets can create an imbalanced appearance. Similarly, changing the faucet in a bathroom but not the worn-out tiles can make the space look disjointed. Those small changes will just be a waste of time and money. 

When selling a house, it’s crucial to prioritize your efforts and investments wisely. While preparing a home for sale is essential, fixing certain issues might not offer a significant return on investment or could be better handled by the buyer. If in doubt, feel free to reach out to us by phone call or email. We can offer valuable insights and would be honored to help you!

Dec. 9, 2023

3 Tips for Selling Your House Fast and at the Best Price

Selling a house can be a complex and daunting process, but with the right strategies, you can expedite the sale and secure the best price for your property. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time seller, these top three tips will guide you through the process of selling your house quickly and at the optimal price:

1. Hire a trusted and experienced agent. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make when selling your house is choosing the right real estate agent. A professional and experienced agent can make all the difference in how smoothly the selling process goes and how successful you are in getting the best possible price for your property.

Experienced agents have an in-depth understanding of the local real estate market, which means they can accurately assess your property’s value and help you set an appropriate asking price. They also have an extensive network of potential buyers and other agents, which can greatly increase the exposure your property receives. Additionally, agents are skilled negotiators who can advocate for your interests during the negotiation process.

When hiring an agent, make sure to research their track record, read reviews from previous clients, and meet with them in person to gauge their professionalism and communication skills. A trusted agent will guide you through every step of the selling process and ensure that you make informed decisions that benefit you in the long run.

“Selling your house fast and at the best price requires a strategic approach.”

2. Improve indoor and outdoor visual appeal. First impressions matter, especially in the real estate market. Potential buyers are more likely to be drawn to your property if it looks well-maintained and inviting. Enhancing both the indoor and outdoor visual appeal of your house can significantly influence a buyer’s decision. For the inside, consider cleaning, decluttering, and depersonalizing to help buyers envision themselves living in your property. For the outside, focus on how your home looks from the street. Consider landscaping and making minor repairs. 

3. Set a competitive price. Pricing your house competitively is a delicate balance. Setting the right price can attract more buyers and lead to a faster sale, while an overpriced house can deter potential buyers and cause your property to linger on the market.

It’s essential to work closely with your real estate agent to determine an accurate and competitive asking price. Agents have access to recent sales data of similar properties in your area, allowing them to perform a comparative market analysis (CMA) and provide you with a realistic price range. Avoid the temptation to overprice your property, as this can lead to extended time on the market and, ultimately, a lower selling price.

Conversely, underpricing your house might attract attention, but it could lead to you leaving money on the table. A competitive price should reflect the current market conditions, the unique features of your property, and your desired timeframe for selling.

These are three key factors that can greatly influence your success in the real estate market. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and profitable sale. If you have any questions or are ready to sell, don’t hesitate to reach out by phone or email.

Feb. 24, 2023

3 Home Improvements With a High ROI

3 Home Improvements With a High ROI

 

 

When preparing your house for sale, you may be led to believe that the more upgrades you make, the higher the price you can list for. However, not all home upgrades are created equal; some will have you pouring money down the drain, while others will get you immediate resale value. Understanding which projects to take on can help you make thousands of dollars more. So, what home improvements should you do if you want to get a fantastic return on your investment?

To answer this question, we have to take into consideration the changes that happened in the past few years. Our homes were recently put through a massive re-evaluation. In response to the pandemic, there are now certain features in a home that have become much more attractive to buyers. If you can include them in your upgrades, you can increase the value of your house and turn it into a coveted property in the market. In particular, there are three projects you’ll want to take on:

1. Add more usable square footage. According to a 2020 survey by HomeLight, the need for more space was among the top reasons why people move. Projects such as creating a home office space, building an open floor plan, and finishing your basement can give you that additional space that buyers want nowadays. 

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) identifies home offices as one of the new design trend interests in 2022. In addition, the NAHB found that 85% of buyers want an open layout between the kitchen area and the dining room. Lastly, finishing your basement can increase your ROI by 70%.

“Understanding which projects to take on can help you make thousands of dollars more.”

2. Improve your curb appeal. One of the best ways to improve your home’s curb appeal is by focusing on your landscaping. Make your home look more enticing by adding healthy plants and blooming flowers to your yard. To make even more of a statement, slap a fresh coat of paint on your house’s exterior. However, not all changes have to be big and grand. Sometimes small details like updating your mailbox and house number will catch the attention of buyers.

3. Upgrade your outdoor space. Functional outdoor spaces such as a deck, a fireplace, or an outdoor kitchen are now more valued due to the pandemic. If your home has a nice exterior living area, buyers can imagine themselves enjoying the fresh air as they indulge in outdoor activities. If you already have an outdoor oasis, pressure wash or make repairs if necessary for a low-cost way to improve your home’s value.

Home improvements can be expensive, so you want to make sure you’re investing in the right projects. If you’re not sure whether your renovation plans are worth pursuing, feel free to call or email me. I’m happy to give you real estate advice and help you get the best value for your home. 

Posted in Selling Your Home
July 31, 2022

Your 2022 updated Chattanooga home price

Check out my website!
Get the latest market sales price for your Chattanooga home for free

See how much your home’s sales price increased this year
Dear clients and friends,


I’m writing to let you know that I can tell you what your home is worth right now if you’re thinking of selling in 2022. Home prices here in Chattanooga are up around 30% since the start of the pandemic. 

You’ll likely get a high price for your home before the Federal Reserve raises interest rates further. When this happens, prices are likely to stall or fall. We’re already starting to see this now that more buyers are priced out of homes, given that 30-year rates are around 6%.

Just enter your address and a few more details about your home into the tool below, and it will tell you what a buyer may pay for your house today. I pay money for this home value estimate, but it’s free to you.

Enter your home address here to find out what buyers will pay for it

Keep in mind that it’s just an estimate based on your neighbors’ sales. If you want to send me a few photos of your home, I can factor in what the algorithms can’t and give you a more accurate suggested listing price based on your home’s unique features.

The bottom line is if you’re thinking of selling this year, I’m here. Ask me anything; I talk to buyers all day and know exactly what they want and what they are willing to pay. Call me on my cell phone at (423) 896-6000, or you can reply to this email. 
Stay in touch,

Dustin Sherlin
423-896-6000
Posted in Community News
April 22, 2020

Coronavirus In The News This Week

 

Greetings, I hope you and your loved ones continue to stay safe and healthy. The coronavirus continues to dominate every aspect of our lives, both here in the United States and across the globe, and even though it can be hard to stay up to date with the latest changes, it is my goal to keep you informed.

Here are a few updates about how COVID-19 continues to impact the economy and the housing market:

  • According to MarketWatch, requests for mortgage forbearance increased 1,896% nationwide from March 16 to March 30. The CARES Act requires servicers to provide forbearance to homeowners with federally-backed mortgages, while all other homeowners may seek forbearance at the discretion of their servicer. Experts advise all homeowners to know the difference between deferment, forbearance, and forgiveness.
  • Millennials, the largest demographic of U.S. homebuyers, will have now faced back-to-back economic crises since their entry into the workforce; how will their response shape the housing market for years to come?
  • Though Realtor.com’s Director of Economic Research Javier Vivas cautioned it will take another month to truly understand the effects of COVID-19 on supply and demand, the site’s monthly list of top-performing markets for March highlights the potential for an increase in the popularity of less-dense cities like Colorado Springs, Fort Wayne, and Spokane as the result of the health crisis.
  • Federal Reserve Vice Chairman Richard Clarida offers assurance that the central bank “has the tools [it needs]” to keep the U.S. out of a deflationary trap. “We’re going to keep rates where they are, which is basically very close to zero, until the economy is on track to achieve maximum employment and price stability,” he said. Learn more about the indirect relationship between Fed funds rates and mortgage interest rates here.
  • CDC reports 70 coronavirus vaccinations are under development across the globe, and three have entered human trials.
  • Saudi Arabia and Russia struck a deal with other oil-producing countries to dramatically slash production in an effort to rectify the oil market, though analysts agree the impact of such agreements can only go so far in combating the global lack of demand.

As best it can, the real estate industry will continue to operate during these trying times. Agents the nation over are taking precautions to keep themselves and their clients safe as they navigate transactions, interacting with clients remotely when possible, limiting the number of people who come to a home’s showings, and/or leveraging virtual home tours to replace in-person contact as much as possible.

If you have questions for me or if I can assist you in any way, don’t hesitate to reach out via phone or email today. I’m here to help.

Sincerely,

Dustin Sherlin

423-896-6000

Sales@SherlinTeam.com

SherlinTeam.com

Home Value Report

Search Homes

Posted in Community News
March 17, 2020

The Coronavirus Impact on Real Estate

Friends and Clients —

As the world nervously watches the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the pandemic has begun prompting responses from every industry, and nearly every level of organization in the country. Perhaps a much anticipated social gathering or recreational league you or a family member enjoy has just been canceled or postponed indefinitely. Professional sporting events, concerts, and even political campaigning have been impacted. How then, has COVID-19 affected the real estate market, especially as we enter what was primed to be an especially hot spring?
Lawrence Yu, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, had anticipated about 5.5 million sales of previously owned homes this year (an increase from 2019 and 2018).
That's because borrowing costs have plunged to lows never before seen (e.g., an average interest rate of 3.29% on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage) and the job market is strong. Obviously, though, no one could have foreseen a virus disrupting market conditions at the start of 2020.
But just how disruptive is it? In the hardest-hit counties in the nation, such as King County, Washington, Realtors are reporting that homes are still being bought and sold like normal. Though there has been the occasional seller canceling an open house or removing a listing entirely, the fact remains that properties are still moving; buyers and sellers understand this market has something to offer for everyone.
Yes, experts are tampering their expectations for the spring market slightly. The most significant impact is the fact that sellers may be less likely to list their homes right now, which could dampen hopes that significantly more inventory would hit the market come spring and alleviate the supply stress. Conditions that make for a fantastic market for both buyers and sellers still exist—crazy low rates and rising home values.
Ultimately, you have to determine what’s right for you as a homebuyer or home seller. My job isn’t to push you into a decision you’re not comfortable with, but rather to provide hyperlocal context that may be lost in the national media coverage. Our market is still thriving.
Of course, the degree and nature of the COVID-19 outbreak may change, and that's why I will continue to provide you with the most up-to-date information possible. The simple fact is that I’m a Realtor, not an epidemiologist.
It's important that we listen to the medical professionals who are bearing the brunt of this, working hard to treat the infected, and developing a vaccine. We must all do our part to slow the progression. Hopefully, by now, you've heard these protocols, but it never hurts to reiterate them:
  • Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after having been in a public space or after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
  • If COVID-19 is active in your area, put distance between yourself and other people. Avoid public areas unless absolutely necessary, especially if you are at a higher risk of getting sick.
  • Stay at home if you’re sick.
  • Wear a mask if you’re sick.
So what can you do if you have your good hygiene habits down but still aren’t sure if it’s right to begin the home selling or home buying process?
If you're practicing social distancing, I'd be happy to offer you a virtual consultation. There's no need to meet in person. We can discuss your specific needs in detail, and I can also provide you with a virtual tour of homes you may be interested in.
Sellers: Setting up a mandatory hand washing station at open houses may be a great call. It communicates to the buyers that you're on their page--doing your civic duty to take COVID-19 seriously, but also determined to take advantage of great spring conditions.
If you have any real estate-related questions or you want more specific stats on how our market is performing, please reach out to me anytime. For COVID-19-related questions, routinely check the Centers for Disease Control website or contact medical professionals.
Have a great day,

 

Dustin Sherlin
423-896-6000
Sales@SherlinTeam.com

SherlinTeam.com

Posted in Community News