Blog - Leagan Realty

Leagan Realty

Lisa & Gary Eagan

What to Expect from a Final Walkthrough Before Closing

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The final walkthrough is one of the last steps before closing on your new home. It may feel like a formality, but it serves an important purpose. This is your chance to confirm that everything is in the condition you agreed to and that the home is truly ready for you to move in. Knowing what to expect can help you approach this step with confidence.

Confirming Repairs Were Completed

If the seller agreed to make repairs after the inspection, the walkthrough allows you to verify that the work was done properly. Bring a copy of the repair agreement so you can double-check each item on the list.

Testing Major Systems and Appliances

During the walkthrough, it is important to make sure that heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems are all functioning. Test major appliances like the stove, dishwasher, and washer if they are included in the sale. This helps you avoid unexpected surprises after closing.

Looking for New Issues

Sometimes homes sit vacant between the inspection and closing. Use the walkthrough to look for any new problems, such as leaks, damage, or missing items. Even if everything was fine at inspection, this final check gives you peace of mind.

Verifying the Home Is Move-In Ready

The walkthrough is also your opportunity to confirm that the home is clean, free of belongings from the seller, and ready for your move. Small details like keys, garage openers, and access codes should also be accounted for before closing day.

The final walkthrough ensures that the home you are buying matches the agreement you made. It is an important step in protecting your investment and starting your new chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

Making a Winning Offer Without Overpaying

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In today’s competitive real estate market, making a strong offer on a home can feel like walking a fine line. You want to stand out from other buyers, but you also want to avoid overpaying and stretching your budget too far. With the right strategies and guidance, it is possible to write an offer that is both competitive and smart.

Getting Pre-Approved Early

One of the strongest ways to show sellers you are serious is to have a pre-approval letter from your lender. This document demonstrates that your financing is secure and gives the seller confidence in your ability to close. It also helps you understand exactly what you can afford so you are less tempted to overbid.

Knowing the Market Value

Before making an offer, it is important to look closely at comparable sales in the area. Understanding what similar homes have sold for gives you a realistic sense of value. With this knowledge, you can make an offer that is competitive while staying grounded in facts, not emotions.

Strengthening Terms Beyond Price

An offer is more than just a number. Sellers often look at the entire package, including contingencies, closing timeline, and flexibility. By working with your agent to strengthen areas such as inspection terms or move out dates, you can make your offer more appealing without necessarily increasing the price.

Staying Within Your Comfort Zone

Buying a home should be an exciting milestone, not a financial burden. It is important to set a clear budget and stick to it. While competition may tempt you to stretch beyond your comfort zone, protecting your financial health ensures you enjoy your new home without unnecessary stress.

Making a winning offer without overpaying comes down to preparation, knowledge, and strategy. By working with a trusted agent, you can position yourself as a serious buyer, craft an attractive offer, and still protect your financial future.

Coping with the Stress of Selling Your Home

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Selling a home can be an exciting step toward new beginnings, but it often comes with a level of stress that catches many homeowners off guard. Between preparing for showings, managing offers, and planning a move, the process can feel overwhelming. As your real estate partner, I want to share strategies that can help reduce stress and keep the experience as smooth as possible.

Creating a Showing Routine

Sellers often find it stressful to keep their home constantly ready for buyers.  Setting up a simple routine makes this easier. A quick checklist for tidying up, storing personal items, and making the space inviting can take the pressure off last minute showings.

Managing Multiple Offers with Confidence

When offers start coming in, excitement can quickly turn to stress as you sort through the details. Each offer has more to consider than just price, such as contingencies, timelines, and financing terms. Leaning on a trusted real estate agent to explain your options can help you make confident choices that align with your goals.

Organizing the Moving Process Early

Moving adds another layer of pressure, but planning makes a big difference. Start by decluttering, packing nonessentials, and arranging movers or storage early in the process. This reduces the last-minute scrambling and gives you more time to focus on the sale itself.

Taking Care of Yourself

Selling a home can feel like a full-time job, which is why it is important to take breaks, lean on your support system, and allow your agent to handle as many details as possible. Protecting your peace of mind is just as important as preparing your home for the next owner.

While selling can feel stressful, the right strategies and support can turn it into an organized and rewarding experience. By planning, staying flexible, and working closely with your agent, you can reduce the pressure and focus on the exciting opportunities that come with moving forward.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 15th, 2025

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Both the CPI and PPI came in precisely within expectations. Under the current circumstances, there is now a very high probability that the Federal Reserve will implement a quarter-point rate cut, a view widely shared by industry analysts. There is also a strong possibility of another cut to follow.

Meanwhile, Consumer Sentiment has hit another low in the last 4 months, as many have growing concerns about the state of the job market in addition to inflation continuing to grow. It is unknown how much the rate cuts will impact inflation, but so far the Federal Reserve has managed to maintain a delicate balance.

Consumer Price Index
The cost of living rose again in August at an accelerated pace, but probably not enough to discourage the Federal Reserve from reducing interest rates next week. The latest consumer price index (the main measure of U.S. inflation) could raise questions about how aggressively the Fed cuts rates, however, in the upcoming months. The consumer price index rose 0.4% last month, the government said Thursday. That was one tick above the Wall Street forecast.

Producer Price Index
The producer price index (PPI) dipped 0.1 percent on a month-on-month basis, according to Department of Labor data — when analysts had expected a 0.3-percent increase.

Consumer Sentiment
The University of Michigan’s gauge of consumer sentiment fell to a reading of 55.4 in September, a four-month low. The worsening of sentiment was particularly strong among lower and middle-income respondents.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.10% for this week, with the current rate at 5.50%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.15%, with the current rate at 6.35%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw an increase of 0.05% for this week. Current rates at 6.00%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw an increase of 0.04% for this week. Current rates at 6.01%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 263,000 compared to the expected claims of 236,000. The prior week landed at 237,000.

What’s Ahead
The FOMC Rate Decision will be ahead next week, as well as the usual employment data.

Everything You Need to Know About Home Appraisals

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Your home is likely one of your most valuable investments, which is why understanding home appraisals is essential. Whether youíre buying, selling, or refinancing, knowing what an appraisal involves can help you make informed decisions.

What is a Home Appraisal and Why Does It Matter?
A home appraisal is a professional estimate of your property’s value. It’s often requested by lenders to ensure that a home’s price aligns with its fair market value. Appraisers evaluate factors like the property’s condition, size, age, layout, and features when determining its worth.

It’s important to note that an appraisal is not the same as a home inspection. Inspections focus on the property’s condition and identify any necessary repairs, while appraisals focus on its monetary value.

How Appraisers Determine Your Home’s Value
Appraisers rely on three key factors:

  1. Property Condition and Size – Larger homes typically have higher values, but layout, design, and overall upkeep also matter.
  2. Comparable Sales – Recent sales of similar properties help determine what buyers are willing to pay.
  3. Market Trends – Broader market conditions and demand can influence your homeís appraised value.
    By evaluating these factors together, appraisers arrive at a professional estimate of your homeís worth.

What’s Included in an Appraisal Report?
An appraisal report provides an in-depth look at your homeís value. It usually includes:

  • A description of the property and its features
  • Recent sales of comparable properties
  • Trends that may affect value
  • The appraiser’s professional opinion on the property’s best use

This report is a key tool for buyers, sellers, and lenders in making informed decisions.

Factors That Can Affect Your Appraisal
Several things can influence the outcome of an appraisal:

  • Renovations or Upgrades – Improvements like modernized kitchens or bathrooms can increase value.
  • Property Age and Condition – Older homes or those needing repairs may appraise lower.
  • Market Conditions – Shifts in local demand or a decline in comparable sales can impact value.

How to Boost Your Home’s Appraisal Value
To maximize your homeís appraised value, focus on improvements that make a strong impression:

  • Update key spaces like kitchens and bathrooms
  • Freshen paint and flooring
  • Replace outdated windows or fixtures
  • Maintain landscaping and curb appeal

Small updates can make a noticeable difference in how your home is valued.

Timeline and Costs of an Appraisal
The appraisal process usually takes 2-4 weeks. After visiting the property and reviewing comparable sales, the appraiser provides a written report. Costs typically range between $400 and $1,000, depending on the property’s size and complexity.

Keep in mind that appraised value and market value are not always the same. While the appraisal estimates your homeís worth, the market value reflects what buyers are willing to pay.

Home appraisals are a crucial part of buying, selling, or refinancing. Understanding how they work and what influences value can help you protect one of your most significant investments. By preparing your home and staying informed, you can ensure the process is fair and accurate.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated and What Every Buyer Should Know

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When you are planning to buy a home, there is one number that should never be overlooked: property taxes.

Property taxes can have a big impact on your monthly budget and your long-term costs of ownership.

Whether you are buying your very first home, moving to a new area, or considering an investment property, it is important to understand how these taxes are calculated. Knowing what to expect will help you avoid surprises and give you a clearer picture of what you can comfortably afford.

Property Taxes Explained
At the most basic level, property taxes are based on two things, the assessed value of your home and the tax rate set by local governments. 

The Formula Looks Simple:
Assessed Value multiplied by Local Tax Rate equals Annual Property Tax. The complexity comes from how the assessed value is determined, which can vary depending on where you are buying.

Land Value and Structure Value
In many areas, assessors separate the value of the land from the value of the structure. This means your tax bill reflects both what the land itself is worth and what has been built on it. Sometimes land value increases faster than the home itself. That means even if your house does not change, you could see your property tax rise simply because the location is considered more valuable.

Highest and Best Use
Another factor to be aware of is called highest and best use. This means the property might be assessed not only on what it currently is, but also on what it could potentially become. For example, a small home in a growing area could be assessed as if it were a larger development or commercial property. Even vacant land can be taxed at a higher rate if it has strong development potential.

Why Location Matters
Location is a major driver of property taxes. A home or parcel of land in a highly desirable neighborhood or in an area expected to grow quickly can carry a much higher assessment than a similar property elsewhere. Even if you are buying land with no immediate plans to build, the location and its future possibilities can significantly influence your tax bill.

What Buyers Should Do
If you are in the process of buying, do more than just ask about the current tax bill. Look into how assessments are calculated in that area, how often reassessments take place, and whether exemptions or caps are available for primary residences. Keep in mind that taxes are recalculated regularly, so what you pay this year may not be what you pay a few years from now.

Property taxes are an unavoidable part of homeownership, but with the right preparation, they do not need to be a surprise. By understanding how assessments are determined, considering future growth, and asking the right questions before you buy, you can make a smart and confident decision that fits your budget today and in the future.

Unlocking the Key to a Faster, Stronger Home Sale

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When it comes to selling a home, many people assume that success depends on luck, timing, or even the perfect buyer stumbling across the listing. But the truth is, most successful sellers share one common strategy, and it has little to do with home staging, marketing, or even upgrades. The key? Getting the price right from the very beginning.

Why Price Sets the Tone
Your asking price is more than just a number. It frames how buyers perceive your home, and in today’s market, perception is everything. With mortgage rates shifting and more properties available than last year, buyers are cautious. They are not just shopping, they are comparing.

First Impressions Drive Interest
Price is one of the first details buyers notice. If it seems too high, they may not even click for photos, let alone schedule a tour.

Buyers Have the Tools
With instant alerts and online valuation resources at their fingertips, buyers are quick to identify homes that feel overpriced. They know the competition, and if your property doesn’t line up, it often gets skipped.

Overpricing Can Slow Momentum
Homes that sit too long on the market tend to lose their shine. Even after a price drop, buyers may question what is wrong with the property. Ironically, this can lead to lower offers than if the home had been priced competitively from the start.

The Power of Strategic Pricing
Setting the right price doesnít mean undercutting your homeís value. It means striking a balance where buyers recognize opportunity and urgency. A well-priced home creates buzz, attracts more interest, and can even spark multiple offers, ultimately driving the sale price higher.

This is where local expertise makes a difference. Understanding neighborhood trends, recent sales, and current buyer demand helps shape a pricing strategy that gives your home the best shot at standing out.

If you are preparing to sell, don’t underestimate the role of price in your success. It is not just about finding a buyer, it is about finding the right buyer at the right price, in the right amount of time.

By starting strong, you give yourself the best chance of walking away with both speed and value on your side.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 8th, 2025

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The release of major inflation data has once again arrived with the Consumer Price Index and the Producer Price Index, offering insight into the current state of the economy. Based on recent statements from the Federal Reserve, there is considerable speculation that rate cuts may occur regardless of the trajectory of inflation.

More recent data releases have shown that the economy is still on shaky ground after changes to tariff policies, leading things to be more unstable than anticipated. Trade deficits have also shown to have bounced back significantly from the prior months, while the manufacturing side are still showing impacts from the tariffs. Jobless Claims have also hit the highest levels since June, giving some concern to the broader labor market.

Trade Deficit
The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $78.3 billion in July, up $19.2 billion from $59.1 billion in June, revised.

Manufacturing PMI
The trade wars are slowly dying down. The damage to American manufacturers is not. Industrial production fell in August for the sixth month in a row, according to an index compiled by the Institute for Supply Management. The ISM surveys executives every month about how their businesses are doing.

Job Reports
The number of people who applied for unemployment benefits in the seven days ended Aug. 30 rose by 8,000 to 237,000, the Labor Department said Thursday. It is the highest level since late June. Economists polled by The Wall Street Journal had estimated new claims would rise by 2,000 to 231,000.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.09% for this week, with the current rate at 5.60%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.06%, with the current rate at 6.50%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.11% for this week. Current rates at 5.95%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.11% for this week. Current rates at 5.97%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 237,000 compared to the expected claims of 230,000. The prior week landed at 229,000.

What’s Ahead
Upcoming reports include the CPI and PPI inflation data, along with the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Report, which will close out the week.

How to Spot a Good Investment Property Before Everyone Else Does

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Investing in real estate can be a powerful way to build wealth, but not all properties are created equal. The key to successful investment is identifying opportunities before the competition does. From understanding market trends to analyzing property fundamentals, knowing what to look for can make all the difference between a profitable investment and a costly mistake.

Location, Location, Location

One of the most important factors in identifying a strong investment property is location. Look for areas with growing employment opportunities, good schools, and convenient amenities. Neighborhoods with increasing property values and low crime rates tend to attract long-term tenants and provide higher resale potential. Being aware of emerging areas or up-and-coming neighborhoods can give investors an edge before prices rise.

Assessing the Numbers

A good investment property should make financial sense. This means carefully reviewing rental income potential, operating expenses, property taxes, and insurance costs. Calculating the cash flow and potential return on investment is essential to determine whether the property will generate positive income. Consider both short-term and long-term projections to ensure the investment aligns with your financial goals.

Property Condition and Maintenance

Inspecting the condition of the property is critical. Older homes or buildings may offer lower purchase prices but can come with hidden maintenance costs. Evaluating the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and overall upkeep will help you anticipate repairs and avoid unexpected expenses. A property in good condition can attract better tenants and reduce management headaches.

Market Trends and Timing

Understanding the real estate market is crucial for spotting investment opportunities. Pay attention to trends such as increasing rental demand, low vacancy rates, and new developments in the area. Timing your purchase during a buyer-friendly market or before major growth occurs can maximize your potential profit. Investors who stay informed and act quickly often secure the best properties before they become widely recognized.

Potential for Value-Add

Look for properties with value-add potential. This can include the ability to renovate, add additional units, improve landscaping, or update interiors to increase rental income or resale value. Properties that offer room for improvement can provide significant returns if managed wisely. Understanding local regulations and permitting is essential before making changes that could impact profitability.

Building a Team

A strong support system is invaluable. Work with experienced real estate agents, mortgage professionals, property managers, and contractors who understand investment properties. Their expertise can help identify opportunities, assess risks, and streamline

Pet-Centered House Hunting, Why Fenced Yards and Pet-Friendly HOAs Are Dealmakers

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When buyers walk into a home, their attention is often drawn to one particular space more than any other, the kitchen. It is no coincidence that real estate professionals often call the kitchen the heart of the home. Beyond its practical function, the kitchen carries emotional and psychological weight that can influence a buyer’s decision more than any other room.

The Emotional Connection

The kitchen is where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are created. It represents comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Buyers often imagine themselves cooking Sunday dinners, hosting friends for brunch, or helping children with homework while preparing meals. This emotional connection creates a sense of belonging that can make a house feel like a home immediately.

Open floor plans that integrate the kitchen with living spaces enhance this feeling, allowing buyers to visualize seamless family interactions and entertaining guests. A well-lit, inviting kitchen can spark excitement and desire, making it easier for buyers to emotionally commit to a property.

Function Meets Aesthetics

While beauty is important, functionality is equally critical. Buyers notice how appliances are arranged, the quality of countertops and cabinets, and whether there is enough storage and workspace. Ergonomic layouts and thoughtful design can create a sense of ease and efficiency, signaling that the home is not only beautiful but also practical for daily living.

Investing in modern appliances, durable surfaces, and smart storage solutions can elevate a kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary. Buyers often equate a well-designed kitchen with a home that is well-maintained overall, increasing their confidence in the purchase.

The Power of First Impressions

The kitchen often serves as the focal point during showings. Staging the space effectively can make a strong first impression. Simple touches like fresh flowers, organized countertops, or a bowl of fruit can highlight the room’s potential and create a welcoming atmosphere. Colors, lighting, and finishes all contribute to the mood and can subtly influence how buyers feel about the home.

Kitchens and Resale Value

From a practical standpoint, kitchens are a key driver of resale value. Homes with updated, functional, and attractive kitchens tend to sell faster and often at higher prices. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for a kitchen that meets both their aesthetic preferences and practical needs. Real estate agents know that emphasizing this space in listings and during tours can be a powerful marketing tool.

Understanding the psychological impact of kitchens helps real estate agents guide buyers and sellers effectively. By highlighting design, functionality, and the emotional aspects of this central space, agents can create a narrative that resonates with potential buyers.

The kitchen is more than just a room for cooking, it is a space that evokes emotion, fosters connection, and ultimately influences the decision to buy. For many buyers, falling in love with the kitchen is the first step toward falling in love with the entire home.

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Leagan Realty


12862 East Summit Drive
Scottsdale, Arizona 85259
Phone: 480.766.2115

Email: lisaeagan@leaganrealty.com