When it comes to the quintessential American dream, home ownership is a staple in most people’s plans. In fact, according to a study done by LendingTree, 84% of Americans hope to be a homeowner some day. After all, home ownership provides a sense of stability that allows people to form deeper connections with their communities. However, purchasing a home is rarely a straightforward process and there are a lot of challenges that people might face along the way. The first? Securing the financing. Which leaves many wondering how to get approved for a home loan as a first time buyer. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to tackle this first major hurdle toward home ownership.

Understanding Your Financial Situation

When it comes to how to get approved for a home loan as a first time buyer, assessing your financial situation is a crucial first step. In general, you’ll want to analyze your current financial health, identify areas for improvement, and figure out how much home you can afford.

Checking your credit score and evaluating your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is a good baseline. From there, you’ll want to check your savings, set a budget, and do some quick calculations with your monthly cash flow. This will help you determine whether or not you currently have the positive cash flow you need to cover mortgage payments and other costs associated with home ownership.

How to Get Approved for a Home Loan as a First Time Buyer: Saving for a Down Payment

Next, you’ll want to start building up your savings to cover a down payment. A down payment on a home is one of the most critical things to have in place before you move forward on the path to ownership. The larger your down payment, the more you can reduce the loan amount you’ll need which, in turn, can lower monthly payments. A down payment can also contribute to the initial equity in the home and lower interest costs.

In order to save up for a down payment, it’s important to set realistic goals. Again, this is where you’ll want to have a concrete idea of how much you can afford to spend on a house. Online mortgage calculators can help you with this step. From there, you’ll want to set a firm budget, decide on a timeline, and consider setting up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account.

If you need additional help, there are down payment assistance programs available. Grants and low-interest loans may be available to certain individuals from local, state, or federal organizations. Keep in mind that while grants do not need to be repaid, loans do, and this will contribute to your monthly payments in the future.

Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

With your finances in order, it’s time to apply for pre-approval! Pre-approval signals to sellers and real estate agents that you are a serious and qualified buyer, which will help your credibility during the home buying process. It will also let you know exactly where you stand in terms of what you can afford.

Here’s what you’ll need to have on hand when you apply for pre-approval

• Proof of identity and income
• Employment verification
• Credit history
• Debt information
• And asset information

How to Get Approved for a Home Loan as a First Time Buyer: What Are Your Mortgage Options?

When people wonder how to get approved for a home loan as a first time buyer, they sometimes don’t realize how many options they actually have. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll want to make sure to do some research.

First, research various lenders including banks, credit unions, and online lenders to compare interest rates, loan terms, fees, and customer reviews. Many lenders will offer multiple loan products, which will allow you to choose the one that best fits your financial situation and goals.

Then, you’ll want to look into the multiple options available. One of the first decisions you’ll probably want to make is whether to try to get a fixed-rate or an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM). Both come with significant advantages and risks. Be sure to consider all aspects and consult with a real estate or lending professional for additional guidance.

Within a fixed rate mortgage, you also might have the option of choosing between a 15-year fixed rate or a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Again, it’s important at this stage to consult with a professional who can help you make the right decision.

And finally, there are a few government-funded options for those that qualify, including FHA, VA, and USDA loans.

How to Get Approved for a Home Loan as a First Time Buyer: Building a Strong Application

It’s time to apply! When completing your loan applications, accuracy is key. Make sure that all information you provide is complete and up-to-date. You’ll also want to make sure you fully understand all the related terms and disclose all your existing debts. Similar to the pre-approval application, you’ll need to include documents to verify your income, asset information, employment verification, and an explanation for any large deposits you might have made into your account.

It’s also important at this stage to be proactive about addressing any red flags that might be in your application. Consider writing a letter to explain discrepancies or late payments in your credit report. Employment changes, unusual financial activity, and a high debt-to-income ratio might also merit a more in-depth explanation.

Working with a Real Estate Agent

If you’re still wondering how to get approved for a home loan as a first time buyer, or you just want some additional guidance from an expert, consider working with a real estate agent throughout the process. Real estate agents can provide expert knowledge of local housing markets, neighborhood trends, and market conditions to help you make a more informed decision.

When it comes to applying for a loan, real estate agents can offer invaluable insight on reputable local lenders and mortgage professionals who can assist you in the process. One you’ve applied, real estate agents can also facilitate smooth communication between you and your lender to help ensure a smooth, timely approval.

Trust the Experts at CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate with Your Mortgage Application Process

Applying for a home loan is an extensive process; it’s also only the first step toward home ownership. After approval, you’ll start your home search, which comes with a whole new set of challenges and obstacles. Fortunately, the experts at CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate are here for you every step of the way.

CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate has been serving the needs of home buyers and home sellers in the North Central Ohio area for more than 80 years. We’re a team of passionate professionals that is dedicated to helping you reach your real estate goals. Whether you’re a first time home buyer looking for a trusted guide, a current owner looking to sell, or a seasoned investor that wants to find a reliable partner, we’re here to  help with whatever you need.

Reach out to our team today to get started.

With weather experts forecasting an El Nino winter in 2023, now is a good time to start thinking about how to best prepare the house for winter. Even in locations where winter is usually mild, an El Nino can make things unpredictable. Shoring up your home for colder than average temperatures or heavier precipitation than you’re used to is important for protecting your home and maximizing energy efficiency. But it can also help you maintain curb appeal in case you’ll be looking to sell in the near future.

If you’re an old pro with cold weather, this isn’t news to you. But if you’ve recently relocated from a southern state to a more northern one (like our very own Ohio!) here are some tips for getting your home ready for the coming season.

How to Best Prepare the House for Winter: Shoring up the Exterior

The exterior of your home has a huge impact on its value. Whether you’re looking to sell soon or plan on staying where you are for years to come, maintaining your home’s value is still in the best interest of every homeowner.

The Roof

The first thing you need to take care of is your roof. Damaged and leaky roofs can deter potential buyers, and cause a lot of headaches for homeowners. A visual inspection is a good start, but the best option is to hire a roofing professional to perform an inspection and take care of any minor issues such as missing shingles, flashing issues, or signs of water damage.

Gutters, Doors, and Windows

Another thing you can do to prevent water damage is make sure your gutters have been cleaned and repaired. Be sure to clear your gutters of all debris, like dirt and dried leaves, and check them for any damage or loose connections.

Your windows and doors are next. Energy-efficient homes are extremely attractive to homeowners and potential buyers alike. Check for drafts around windows, seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking, and consider thermal curtains or plastic window film to enhance insulation.

Landscaping

Finally, it is possible to maintain your yard even in the winter. Make sure you prune overgrown trees and shrubs to prevent damage from heavy snow or ice. You can also remove dead leaves and debris to prevent mold growth. And it’s not a bad idea to plant winter-friendly plants to maintain curb appeal.

How to Best Prepare the House for Winter: Heating and Plumbing

With the exterior of your home taken care of, it’s time to turn your attention to the heating, insulation, and plumbing in your home. These are easily overlooked by many homeowners but can significantly impact how well your home handles the winter months.

Furnace, HVAC, and Insulation

To make sure your home will be sufficiently heated for colder temperatures, schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure your heating system is functioning properly. It’s also a good time to replace air filters and consider a duct cleaning service.

Next, check the insulation in your attic, walls, and crawl spaces for any signs of deterioration and add or replace where needed. Don’t forget the windows and doors. Be sure to seal any gaps or cracks with weatherstripping or caulking.

Plumbing

Plumbing is one thing most homeowners don’t think about and the consequences can be drastic. Pipes that freeze and burst can cause significant water damage in nearly every area of your home. Make sure that all pipes are insulated, particularly if they’re in unheated parts of the home. It’s also best practice to keep faucets on a drip during extremely cold nights to keep the water from freezing.

You’ll also want to take care of your water heater with a flush to clear sediments and ensure efficient operation.

How to Best Prepare the House for Winter: Safety, Energy Efficiency, and Property Value

Finally, winterizing your home is important to keeping your house safe, energy efficient, and to making sure you don’t lose property value.

Winter Home Safety

Safety is especially important if your home has a fireplace and chimney. You’ll want to be sure to have your chimney professionally cleaned and to remove creosote buildup and make it safer to use. It’s also a good idea to stock up on seasoned firewood for those times when the power may go out.

There are also some claims that home invasions and burglaries may increase over the holidays. It’s always a good time to either upgrade your security system or run a test to make sure alarms, sensors, cameras, and smart locks are working as intended.

Energy Efficiency and Property Value

The last step in preparing your home for winter is double-checking your energy efficiency and keeping up curb appeal. Alongside shoring up your home’s insulation and sealing any gaps in windows and doors, replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs can help you conserve energy. Since you’ll be using lights more in the winter, when daylight hours are fewer, this can make a big difference to your energy usage (and bills!)

And last but not least, there are a few things you can do to make sure your property value stays intact all year round. We already mentioned winter landscaping. Planting evergreen trees and shrubs can add color and appeal. And including decorations around the entrance, like wreaths and lights, can lend a cozy, homey feel that is very attractive in cold months.

Trust CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate to Help You Find Your Winter-Ready Home

At CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate, we’ve been serving the North Central Ohio area for more than 80 years. Our team of professional real estate agents are passionate about helping our clients find the perfect home, or make the best sale possible. With deep roots in our communities and expert knowledge on the Ohio housing market, we’re ready to be your partners in real estate. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, get in touch with us today to learn more.

No matter the state of the economy, real estate has always been one of the most viable and accessible investments for the average person. It’s relatively easy to get into, more stable than most other options, and provides decent protection against inflation. Not to mention the passive income opportunities. But if you’re a first-time investor or even someone with experience, you might be wondering how to finance an investment property in the current market. To help you get started, we’ve put together our top advice for financing an investment property, as well as some specific insights for first-time investors.

Preparing for Real Estate Investment

Before looking into how to finance an investment property, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared to take action in other ways. A good first step is to set clear investment goals. Knowing what you want to get out of your investment property and the risks you can reasonably afford to take will help you stay focused in your search for the right place.

You should also make sure that your finances are in order in other areas of your life. Reducing other debts can help ensure that you’re ready to take on the additional load of an investment property. It’s a good idea, as well, that you have a healthy emergency savings fund to draw from in case something comes up, either with the property or with your personal life.

And finally, checking in on your credit score is strongly advised. Your credit health has a huge impact on loan eligibility and the mortgage rates you qualify for. An experienced real estate agent can help you navigate this aspect.

How to Finance an Investment Property: The Options

Now that you have a good idea of where you stand with your current finances, it’s time to look at the options available when you’re looking at how to finance an investment property.

Traditional Mortgages

When it comes to mortgages, conventional loans and FHA loans are the standard options for most home buyers. However, it’s important to note that FHA loans typically cannot be used to finance an investment property unless the owner also lives in one of the units. While this can be incredibly limiting, it does mean that an FHA loan might be a good option if you’re looking to purchase and rent out one half of a duplex or if you find a property with an income suite attached.

Outside of that, you’ll likely be looking at a conventional loan. Conventional loans are usually harder to qualify for than FHA loans—they require a higher credit score amongst other things—but they’re much more flexible in terms of how they can be used. If you’re looking to invest in a full rental property, vacation rental, or any other type of venture, a conventional loan is a good place to start.

Non-Traditional Options

Alongside traditional mortgages, there are other options you can look into when you’re trying to figure out how to finance an investment property. Hard-money loans and private lenders are two possibilities.

Hard-money loans are short-term, high-interest loans that are relatively popular with real estate investors. They’re most viable when you’re reasonably certain that you’ll be able to make money quickly, such as with a fix-and-flip property. However, if you’re new to the investment business or are looking at something longer-term, a hard-money loan may not be for you.

In that case, you can try looking into a private lender. As opposed to going through a bank, you’ll seek a loan from a private entity. This could be family, friends, relatives, or people in your professional network. These loans are generally incredibly flexible and have much faster approvals. But, make sure you have a contract in place between you and the lender, complete with interest rates and repayment terms, to avoid any legal complications in the future.

Government-Backed Loans

Finally, government-backed loans are a good option for those who qualify. If you’re a military veteran or active duty, a VA loan is a good choice. With no down payments and no private insurance requirements, VA loans make real estate investment a very accessible possibility for those in the armed services.

Alternatively, you can check to see if you qualify for a USDA loan. Designed for rural and suburban homebuyers, these loans do have limits on your income and property location. And, similar to FHA loans, they are not meant for investment properties. However, if you plan to buy a fixer-upper and live in the property for some time before trying to sell at a higher price, a USDA loan can help you get your foot into the investment door.

4 Tips for First-Time Investors

Tip #1: Start Small: When you’re investing in real estate for the first time, it’s almost always best to start small and stay conservative. Finding a low-risk property can help you gain experience and build confidence without significant personal risk.

Tip #2: Consider a Partnership

Investing in real estate can be exceedingly complicated. Financing your investment property is only the first hurdle of many you’ll need to overcome. For that reason, partnering with a more experienced investor can be incredibly beneficial in the beginning.

Tip #3: Plan for the Unexpected

Anyone who watches HGTV knows that when you buy a home, what you see is not always what you get. Real estate investment properties are notorious for having hidden costs that you can’t see until you’ve already signed the paperwork. Have a realistic budget in place from the beginning and make sure you factor in a decent portion of your money for unforeseen expenses.

Tip #4: Build a Support Network

Real estate investing is much easier when you have a trusted team to back you up. That’s why we highly recommend developing strong relationships with real estate agents, contractors, and property managers whom you can trust. Real estate agents are particularly invaluable resources, as they can help you navigate the loan application and home buying process, find properties that meet your criteria, and offer market-specific and timely advice so you can make sure you’re making the most informed decisions.

Find Your North Central Ohio Investment Opportunity with CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate

CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate has been serving communities in North Central Ohio since 1936. With decades of experience and deep roots in the area, we’re proud to help home buyers, homeowners, and real estate investors navigate the entire real estate transaction process. Our agents are experienced professionals with a passion for the real estate business and a mission to help you reach your real estate goals, whatever they are.

Are you a seasoned or first-time investor looking for a real estate partner in North Central Ohio? Reach out to us today to get things started.

When people are on the buying end of the real estate market, many might find themselves wondering, “Do I need a real estate agent to buy a house?”

The simple answer is, no, you don’t need a real estate agent to buy. If you’re a buyer, it’s possible to do the research, work through the negotiations, make an offer, and sign a contract without the guidance of a real estate professional. However, it’s not a decision that should be made lightly.

While there are valid reasons why some people don’t hire a real estate agent to buy (also called a “buyer’s agent”), real estate agents are invaluable when it comes to advocating for your needs as a buyer and making sure you get a fair deal.

To help you make a fully informed decision, let’s go deeper into the question, “Do I need a real estate agent to buy”, and explore why a buyer’s agent can be a major asset, and when it might make sense to go without.

Why People Choose Not to Work With an Agent

The number one reason people often forgo working with a buyer’s agent is to save money. Buyer’s agents often make anywhere from 2% to 3% of the purchase price and while it’s technically the seller’s responsibility to cover commissions for both seller’s and buyer’s agents, this price is normally wrapped up in the price of the home.

Outside of money, other reasons people have for going without an agent include being an experienced purchaser (think investors), knowing the seller personally, or buying a new build and negotiating directly with the builder.

Do I Need a Real Estate Agent to Buy? 3 Reasons You Should Consider Having One.

Now that we’ve covered some legitimate reasons why some people may prefer to work alone, let’s look at why a buyer’s agent is an asset for most home buyers.

1: Buyer’s Agents Handle All the Negotiations

First, buyer’s agents are skilled and experienced negotiators. Unless you’re dealing with a relative or a home that is for sale by the owner, chances are the home sellers will have a real estate agent on their side who will be trying to get the most for their clients.

As a buyer, it makes sense that you would want the same. Buyer’s agents can take charge of the negotiations once you put in an offer to make sure that you’re getting your new home for a fair price.

On a related note, buyer’s agents are also intimately familiar with the housing market. As volatile as the market can be, it’s usually hard for buyers to keep up with changes that might impact housing prices. Buyer’s agents can handle this for you and assist you in making a competitive but reasonable offer.

2: Finding the Right Home is Easier with a Buyer’s Agent

If you’re looking to buy, you might have noticed that researching towns, neighborhoods, and homes can be a daunting task. With a buyer’s agent, you’re gaining access to someone who is well-versed in the research required. And, as a bonus, they probably already have a working knowledge of the area you’re looking to move to.

As a result, buyer’s agents can make recommendations based on your needs and wants, narrowing down the field so you can find the home that’s right for you. They can also provide you with information that you might not have even thought of.

On top of this, buyer’s agents have full access to home listings, even those that don’t appear on websites like Zillow or RedFin. With this information, a buyer’s agent can help you find a home that meets your needs and is within your budget.

3: Buyer’s Agents Can Help You Navigate the Entire Process

Finally, a buyer’s agent can help you navigate the complexities of the entire real estate purchase process. An experienced agent can ensure that all necessary inspections are performed and can also request and review seller disclosures to identify red flags before you sign any paperwork.

Speaking of contracts, buyer’s agents are also invaluable when it comes to deciphering the legalese. They can help ensure that specific contract clauses and phrasings are in place to protect your interests as a home buyer.

Do I Need a Real Estate Agent to Buy? CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate Can Help Your Decide.

CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate has been serving home buyers and sellers in North Central Ohio for more than 80 years. With deep roots in the area and decades of combined experience, our agents are handpicked for their dedication to client service, communication, and the wider community.

If you’re looking to buy a home in North Central Ohio, we’re here to advocate for you. Connect with us today to get started.

When you’re a family with school-aged children, moving to a new house is about more than the home you choose; it’s also about the area you move into. High on the list of priorities for most families are a safe and quiet neighborhood, good amenities, and convenient shopping. But the quality of schools is usually one of the first concerns. Which begs the question: how to evaluate schools when moving?

Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to make sure you’re happy with your new home and your kids’ new school.

Step 1: Research School Districts

The first step in the guide on how to evaluate schools when moving is deciding which school district you’ll be moving into. The size and offerings of school districts can vary wildly from area to area, so if you don’t have your ideal neighborhood picked out yet, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the possibilities first.

Look at the school district profiles on sites like Niche, Great Schools, or School Digger. These sites rank schools based on public data sets, reviews, and surveys to help you find the district and school that best fits your kids’ needs. You can also look at parent reviews and testimonials outside of these sites, or ask local Facebook groups for input.

Additionally, you can look into options like nearby charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling support groups if you’re interested in alternatives to the public system.

Step 2: Examine the Academic Programs

When you’ve narrowed your options to a handful of schools, it’s time to look into their academic programs. Check out their curriculum standards and educational philosophies to ensure they align with your values and needs. You might also want to consider whether the schools offer advanced courses or specialized programs for interested students.

For older students, schools that partner with local colleges or enrichment programs can be a great way for your kids to get the most out of their time in school. With that in mind, you’ll also want to look at the school’s performance in standardized tests and college admissions.

Step 3: Look into Extracurricular Opportunities and Support Services

Most parents consider extracurricular activities and support services to be as important as academics, and for good reason. Extracurricular activities are an excellent way to make sure your kids have access to a wealth of experiences. Look into the types and variety of clubs, sports teams, arts programs, and music organizations that the school offers.

Beyond that, schools that encourage their students to get involved in community service and leadership development is always a good sign. If the school’s website lacks information about this, you can always reach out to the staff there and ask how the school supports students in their interests and talents.

You’ll also want to look into the school’s support services for special education and assess the availability of counselors, psychologists, and social workers to ensure there are adequate resources for your kids’ mental health and well-being.

Step 4: Visit Schools in Person

At this point, you have your school district and preferred schools down to one or two contenders. Step 4 in our guide for how to evaluate schools when moving is scheduling an in-person visit.

During your tour, you’ll want to observe the school’s atmosphere, cleanliness, and safety measures. Make sure facilities have been updated and that the environment is conducive to learning.

You’ll also want to interact extensively with administrators, teachers, and staff to get a feel for their dedication and approachability. With some coordination between you and school officials, you might even be able to set up some time to sit in on classes or hear feedback from students.

Step 5: Consult With Your Real Estate Agent

Finally, take advantage of your real estate agent and their in-depth knowledge of the area. Real estate agents are one of the most valuable resources for learning about the quality of schools in the area. And, once you choose your ideal school, a real estate agent can help you find a home in a nearby neighborhood.

Real estate agents can also provide insight into transportation options, bus routes, and after-school care programs if needed.

Find Your New Home with CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate

At CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate, we’ve been helping homeowners and aspiring homeowners find their ideal homes in North Central Ohio since 1936. We have deep roots in the area and a passion for helping you find the perfect location for you and your family.

Are you looking to buy or sell in North Central Ohio? Connect with us today. We’re here to help.

If you’ve been thinking about putting your home up for sale in 2023, you likely have a lot on your mind. Between a housing market that seems to shift monthly and uncertainty around interest and mortgage rates, it can be easy to forget the necessity of preparing your house for sale. A successful home-selling experience, however, does require more than a listing. It also requires strategic planning, attention to detail, and a little extra effort if you really want your house to stand out and bring in those high offers. With that in mind, here are 6 tips for getting a house ready to sell in 2023.

Tip 1: Declutter and Depersonalize

Before you put your home on the market and make it available for showings and open houses, you want to make sure your prospective buyers will be able to visualize themselves in the space.

In the current market, people are more hesitant than usual to make a commitment, so this step is particularly important. That’s why decluttering and depersonalizing are first on our list of tips for getting a house ready to sell in 2023.

You can declutter your home by removing unnecessary items like excess furniture, wall hangings, and random items on tables and countertops. You’ll also want to put most personal items, like family photos or other memorabilia, into storage. Remember that your goal is to provide prospective buyers with an image of what it would be like for them to live there.

Tip 2: Deep Clean and Make Necessary Repairs

Second on our list of tips for getting a house ready to sell in 2023: make sure you do a deep clean and take on any minor repairs or upgrades. With house prices expected to remain high for the foreseeable future, most buyers are less likely to buy a home that comes with extra “projects”.

You’ll want to be sure to thoroughly clean your home, including walls, ceilings, and floors. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms.

When it comes to repairs, minor things like leaky faucets, squeaky floors, and misaligned doors can give your home a run-down feel. It’s important to make your home feel as updated and well-maintained as possible.

If you’re on a tight budget, not to worry. A fresh coat of paint on walls and kitchen cabinets can do a lot to refresh the space.

Tip 3: Enhance Curb Appeal

Third on our list is all about making a good first impression. The outside of your home can set the tone for potential buyers when they come for a showing or open house.

Don’t overlook the impact that a well-maintained lawn or freshly painted front door can have on your home’s overall appeal. Similarly, small details like placing potted plants around the entry or updating your house numbers can go a long way.

Tip 4: Stage for Success

Staging your house is vital for helping buyers envision the full potential of each room. It’s a good idea to arrange your furniture in a way that highlights the functionality and flow of the space. Use neutral colors and tasteful decor to create a welcoming atmosphere.

If professional staging isn’t an option, there are plenty of DIY staging tips and resources available online.

Additionally, effective staging can do a lot to highlight the unique selling points of your home and make it more appealing to buyers. For instance, you could create a focal point in a spacious backyard or buy a lamp to brighten up the space and showcase the original crown molding.

Whatever makes your home stand out, you just want to be sure that your potential buyers will take note of it.

Tip 5: Professional Photography and Virtual Tours

Next on our list of tips for getting a home ready to sell in 2023 is to take advantage of the power of photography. Visual marketing is crucial in today’s digital age, and high-quality photos of your home are a great way to attract more attention when people are browsing through listings.

For that reason, hiring a professional who is experienced in capturing the essence of a home is an investment we highly recommend. Alternatively, you can use online tutorials and advanced smartphone image editing to take your own.

You might also want to consider creating a virtual tour of your home for your online listing. Interactive tutorials can increase interest and engagement, and help ensure that buyers who request showings are genuinely interested in making a purchase.

Tip 6: Effective Listings and Open Houses

Finally, you’ll want to take full advantage of the marketing expertise of an experienced real estate agent. Real estate agents are well-versed in everything about home sales, whether it’s crafting compelling listing descriptions, utilizing online platforms for extended reach,  conducting effective showings, or marketing through their own network of contacts.

A real estate agent who is familiar with buyers’ needs and expectations in your area is one of the greatest allies you can have during the home-selling process.

Are You Getting Ready to Sell Your Home?

Now that you’ve read our tips for getting a house ready to sell in 2023, you might be ready to take the next step. If so, CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate is ready to assist.

We’ve been a part of the real estate market in North Central Ohio since 1936. Our team of almost 40 licensed professionals is dedicated to helping our clients achieve their real estate goals, whether they’re looking to buy or sell.

Wherever you want to call home, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started.

America is home to some of the most scenic lakes in the world and the towns surrounding them offer a perfect mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm. From the stunning vistas of the Northeast to the rugged, alpine beauty of the Rockies, there is no shortage of candidates for the best lake towns in America.

But what makes lake town living so appealing?

While not every lake town offers the same experience for its residents, many provide easier access to nature and a strong sense of community that resonates with people who want a quieter, slower pace of life. Living near water also comes with a list of added health benefits.

With that in mind, here are a few of the best lake towns in America as well as some Ohio lake town spotlights.

Lake Tahoe, NV/CA

One of the most iconic lakes in America, Lake Tahoe is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers year-round activities like skiing, hiking, fishing, and boating. The towns around the lake, such as South Lake Tahoe and Incline Village, offer plenty of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Lake Placid, NY

Another big name among lake towns, Lake Placid is located in the heart of the picturesque Adirondack mountain range. Known as the two-time Winter Olympics host city, Lake Placid also offers a range of outdoor activities and festivals throughout the year.

Couer d’Alene, ID

Located on the shores of Lake Couer d’Alene in northern Idaho, this lake town provides a tranquil environment with easy access to the outdoors year-round, with water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the lake in summer, or snowshoeing on the mountain trails throughout the winter. The lively downtown area also offers a range of unique shops and cultural attractions.

Dillon, CO

Not normally thought of for its lakes, Colorado has a number of lake town hidden gems like Dillon. Located on the shores of Lake Dillon, this town also offers a variety of water sports in the summer, and in winter, it features a hand-crafted ice castle that spans an entire acre and includes tunnels, archways, and slides to explore.

Lake Town Living in Northeastern Ohio

Some of the best lake towns in America are located right here in Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie. With affordable housing, easy access to the big city conveniences of Cleveland, and Lake Erie’s reputation for enviable sunsets, northeastern Ohio stands out as a paradise for lake-town living in the U.S.

Marblehead, OH

Marblehead is a small town with a big personality. With attractions like the Marblehead Lighthouse and East Harbor State Park, living in Marblehead offers convenient access to hiking, fishing, boating, and a range of other activities. There is a strong, tight-knit sense of community around events like the Marblehead Lighthouse Festival and the Walleye Festival. Just a short drive from the larger city of Sandusky, Marblehead is the perfect place to settle down.

Sandusky, OH

If you’re looking for a larger population center, Sandusky is a bustling city on the shores of Lake Erie. In Sandusky, you’ll find a range of amenities like world-class shopping and dining, entertainment, and cultural events. Sandusky is also home to the Cedar Point amusement park, as well as various local museums and other cultural attractions. With a welcoming atmosphere and a town that celebrates its local history and traditions, Sandusky is perfect for those looking for a vibrant, diverse community.

Port Clinton, OH

Like Marblehead, Port Clinton is a tranquil lake town that offers a quiet getaway from the bigger cities. Home to the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Port Clinton is a nature lover’s utopia. Port Clinton also participates in the Walleye Festival and hosts the Perch, Peach, Pierogi, and Polka Festival.

Are You Ready to Find Your Ohio Lake Town Home?

CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate has been helping residents of North Central Ohio achieve homeownership since 1936. With deep roots in the area, we combine the expertise of our licensed team and our intimate knowledge of the communities in this area to help you find the ideal home to fit you and your life.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to sell, or an experienced homeowner wanting to relocate, we’re here to help you find the home that’s right for you.

Get in touch today to get started.

Be a Great Neighbor with These Easy Tips

Moving into a new area can be daunting. You’re likely dealing with a major life change: a new family arrangement, job, or another huge milestone. These changes can be stressful on their own; when you add meeting new neighbors to the mix, it can be downright scary! The great news is, there are a few tips you can follow to foster great relationships with your community members. Learn how to be a good neighbor with these pointers from CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate.

Get to Know Your Neighbors

When you move into a new location, make an effort to learn your neighbors’ names and what they do for work. For introverts, that might be easier said than done! However, getting out of your comfort zone and making a quick introduction can help foster a genuine, positive connection.

Prioritize Your Curb Appeal

Even one unkempt home in a community can reduce the property value for the whole neighborhood. The best way to ensure you keep an attractive curb appeal is to keep up your lawn and ensure your exterior paint is in good condition. If you want to go the extra mile, you might install window boxes, regularly pressure wash your driveway, replace your mailbox, or add window shutters.

Know Your Property Lines

When you move into your new home, be sure to find out where your property line ends. Encroaching on your neighbor’s territory can provoke easily avoidable disputes. You can find your property lines by hiring a surveyor, checking your property deed, or reviewing a map from your local planning office.

Be Mindful of Your Pets

Pets can be a wonderful addition to your life, but they can also cause problems between you and your neighbors. When you take your dog for a walk, be sure to keep them on a leash, clean up their messes, and put the bags in your own trash can. Also, do what you can to keep your dog’s barking to a minimum. Your neighbors will surely appreciate it!

Familiarize Yourself with the Community Rules

If you live in a homeowner’s association, be sure to know the community rules before you move in. This can help you quickly acclimate to the new lifestyle, learn how to be a good neighbor, and avoid conflict with your community members. Every association is different, but there will likely be rules about parking, lawn maintenance, and quiet hours. If you don’t live in an association, you’ll want to follow city ordinances to avoid any disputes.

Follow Fence Etiquette

If you’re planning to put up a fence in your yard, it’s best practice to talk with your neighbor beforehand. They’ll want to know what type of fence you’re putting up and when you’ll be doing it. If you’re lucky, you might even come to an agreement to split the cost! Just be sure to discuss who will have the finished side of the fence.

Share Helpful Knowledge

Once you’ve lived in your new neighborhood for a while, you’ll start to learn about the best restaurants, stores, and service providers in the area. When a new person moves into your area, offer them a “need-to-know” checklist. You can give them contact information for great housekeepers, handymen, dry cleaners or offer suggestions about the best grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies.

Keep the Neighborhood Clean

If you see litter while you’re out and about, go the extra mile to pick it up and dispose of it in the proper area. You might even organize a neighborhood cleanup! Spend a couple of hours picking up trash, raking leaves for elderly neighbors, or doing other tasks for your community members.

Get More Tips on How to Be a Good Neighbor from CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate

Still not sure how to be a good neighbor? At CENTURY 21 Bolte Real Estate, we’d love to help you understand the intricacies of keeping community harmony. Our agents are knowledgeable about what it takes to be a good neighbor, and can pass that information onto you.

Since 1936, we’ve been helping people find their dream neighborhood in North Central Ohio. All of our agents are handpicked not only for their ability to achieve our clients’ goals, but also for their level of service, communication, and dedication to our communities. We love to call North Central Ohio our home, and we know you will too.

Start the Journey Towards Your Dream Home Today

Ready to buy or sell a home? Reach out to us for more information.