If you're aiming to sell your home without including a contingency for selling, there are a number of strategies you can use to secure your new property without the added complication. Here are some possible routes you could take:
1. Sell Your Home Before You Buy
Option: Sell your current home before making an offer on a new one to have cash in hand.
Pros: Strengthens your offer, making it more appealing in a competitive market.
Cons: Requires careful coordination of both your sale and purchase timing.
2. Bridge Loan
Option: Use a short-term bridge loan to leverage equity in your current home for the new purchase.
Pros: Enables quick action without waiting for your home to sell.
Cons: Requires qualifying for both a mortgage and the bridge loan; higher interest rates.
3. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
Option: Use a HELOC to tap into home equity for your new home’s down payment.
Pros: Provides flexible and easy access to funds.
Cons: Increases monthly expenses a! ...

Navigating property taxes can be a daunting task for homeowners, but understanding available exemptions can significantly alleviate this burden. One such benefit is the Homestead Exemption, which offers a reduction in a home's assessed value, leading to potential tax savings. In Georgia, particularly for properties purchased in 2024 across counties like Bryan, Bulloch, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, and Tattnall, it's crucial to file for this exemption promptly. As highlighted by Joel Gerber, a real estate attorney, in his article "Homestead Exemption: Some Things Will Never Change," homeowners should file for the Homestead Exemption to receive a reduction in their home's assessed value. By doing so, homeowners can secure valuable tax benefits and ensure they're not overpaying on their property taxes.
Benefits of Filing for the Homestead Exemption

Reduced Assessed Value: Filing grants a reduction in your home's assessed value, leading to potential property tax savings.
e ...

ATI Exemption: Save on Property Taxes in South Carolina
If you’ve recently purchased property in South Carolina, you might be eligible for the ATI Exemption (Assessable Transfer of Interest). This exemption can significantly lower your property taxes by reducing the taxable value of qualifying properties by up to 25%. For property owners, this is a valuable opportunity to save money—but understanding how it works and the filing requirements is key.
What is the ATI Exemption?
In South Carolina, a property’s taxable value is reassessed at market value when it changes ownership. This often results in higher property taxes for the new owner. The ATI Exemption, introduced in 2007, offers relief by reducing the taxable value of certain properties, helping owners save significantly on their tax bills.
Who Qualifies for the ATI Exemption?
The exemption applies to:

Second Homes – Properties such as vacation homes or seasonal residences that are not used as ...

 
We have a lot of people call us and ask us if we have any “rent to own” properties available. More commonly among Realtors, we say lease/purchase or owner finance properties depending on what the buyer is truly talking about. 
 
Rent-to-own agreements can seem appealing to potential homebuyers who cannot qualify for a traditional mortgage. However, the terms and potential pitfalls of such arrangements warrant careful consideration. Let's explore how rent-to-own agreements typically work and the pros and cons involved.
 
Rent-to-own can be a solution for those who cannot immediately qualify for a mortgage but aspire to homeownership. However, it often involves higher costs and significant risks, mainly benefiting the seller. Thoroughly understand the agreement, consult with a real estate professional, and ensure your financial situation is likely to improve within the specified term before committing.
 

1. Down Payment and Purchase Pri ...

In today’s age of digital information and seemingly endless DIY tutorials, it’s tempting to consider handling your real estate transactions solo, without the assistance of a professional Realtor. However, while it might seem like a cost-saving measure at first, the decision to forego a Realtor can lead to various pitfalls and headaches down the road that can cost you both time and money. We interviewed the team at License Classroom, a GREC approved real estate education provider, to bring you the top reasons why hiring a Realtor is not just advisable but essential when navigating the complexities of real estate transactions.

1. MARKET KNOWLEDGE
Realtors are experts in their local markets. They have access to up-to-date information about property values, neighborhood trends, and market conditions that can significantly influence your buying or selling decisions. With their knowledge and insights, Realtors can help you make informed choices that align with your goals a ...