Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 5 of 6 Personalization

Today I want to dive into one of my favorite topics as a real estate enthusiast—why owning a home beats renting, especially when it comes to personalization. As a homeowner myself, I’ve experienced firsthand the freedom that comes with making a space truly mine. When you own a home, you can tweak, remodel, and upgrade to your heart’s content. Want new countertops in the kitchen? Go for it. Dreaming of hardwood floors or a custom deck out back? It’s your call! The only limits might come if you’re in a homeowners association (HOA), where rules might dictate your front door color or exterior changes. Even then, inside your single-family home, the possibilities are endless—no landlord telling you “no” or HOA committee slowing you down (well, mostly!).

Now, let’s talk about the practical side of personalization. If you’re in an HOA-controlled condo or townhome, you might need committee approval for big interior changes, especially if it’s attached to another unit. They’ll want permits and pros involved to ensure your remodel doesn’t mess with the neighbors—fair enough! But with a standalone home, it’s a different story. I’ve seen friends pour money into fixing up rentals—new flooring, fancy appliances—only to leave it all behind when the landlord sells. That’s heartbreaking! When I invest in my own home, whether it’s upgrading the bathroom or adding sleek appliances, that money stays with me. It’s not just about making my space cozy; it’s an investment that pays off when I sell.

And here’s the kicker: personalization isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a financial win too. Most home improvement projects, like remodeling a kitchen or finishing a basement, boost your property’s value. Buyers go wild for updated kitchens and bathrooms—they’ll pay a premium for it. I once helped a client finish their basement, adding 1,000 square feet of living space, and it translated to real dollars when they sold. Quicker sales, higher offers—it’s a no-brainer! Sure, owning a home means regular maintenance like roofing or siding updates, but I’m talking about the fun stuff here: creating a space that screams you. A deck for summer BBQs, a bathroom with that rainfall showerhead you’ve always wanted—those are the changes that make a house a home.

Renting? You’re stuck. You might beg your landlord for permission to paint a wall, but even if they say yes, your hard work benefits them when you move out. I’ve lived that life, and it’s frustrating to pour energy into a place only to leave it behind. Owning a home gives me peace of mind—every upgrade, from new flooring to a built-in bookshelf, is for me and my family to enjoy. Plus, when it’s time to sell, those improvements often come back to me with interest. It’s not just about money, though—it’s freedom. The freedom to live life my way, to build a space that fits my dreams, not someone else’s rules.

So, if you’re weighing homeownership versus renting, think about this: personalization is an investment in yourself. Whether it’s adding value with a finished basement or just enjoying a kitchen you’ve made your own, owning a home lets you live bigger and bolder. Ready to ditch the rental grind and start building your dream space? Reach out to me at tomsommersrealestate.com—I’d love to help you get started on your homeownership journey!

#Homeownership, #RealEstateTips, #OwnVsRent, #PersonalizeYourHome, #HomeImprovement, #RealEstateInvestment, #DreamHome, #PropertyValue, #HomeBuying, #LivingMyWay

Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 6 of 6 Community

Hi there! I’m Tom Sommers, and as a real estate expert with Coldwell Banker, I’ve seen firsthand how owning a home offers so much more than just a place to live—it’s about finding your perfect community. This is the sixth and final part of my series on the benefits of homeownership versus renting, and today, I’m diving into what “community” really means when you buy a home. For me, it’s personal. I’ve worked with countless home buyers, and I’ve learned that community looks different for everyone. Let’s explore why owning a home ties you into a community in ways renting never can, and how it can fit your lifestyle like a glove.

For some of my clients, community starts with schools. As a parent myself, I get it—finding the right school district is a game-changer when you’re raising kids. Whether you’ve got a child with special needs or one who shines in math or music, owning a home lets you plant roots in a spot with the perfect education options. I always tell my home buyers to dig deep—check school ratings online, sure, but also pick up the phone and call the principal. I’ve never heard of anyone being turned away, and that conversation can tell you so much more than a website ever could. Renting? You’re stuck with whatever’s nearby, and moving every lease term doesn’t offer that stability.

Then there’s walkability—another big piece of community I hear about all the time. When I help clients search for homes, some light up at the idea of strolling to a cozy coffee shop, grabbing dinner at a local restaurant, or popping into a boutique for some shopping. Owning a home in a walkable neighborhood means you’re not just renting a space—you’re investing in a lifestyle. I’ve seen how much joy it brings people to ditch the car and enjoy their surroundings on foot or by bike. Renters might get lucky with a good location, but homeowners get to choose it and make it theirs for the long haul.

Nature lovers, I’ve got you covered too! Biking trails, walking paths, and green spaces are huge perks of homeownership. I’ve had clients who couldn’t wait to tell me how they can hop on their bike right from their driveway and be on a trail in minutes, winding through parks and forests for miles. That connection to nature isn’t just a bonus—it’s a daily dose of peace. When you own, you can pick a home near trails that suit your vibe, whether it’s a quick jog or a full-day adventure. Renting often means settling for whatever’s closest, and that’s if you’re lucky.

And let’s not forget the folks who love getting hands-on with their community. I’ve worked with home buyers who jump right into local events, join the Chamber of Commerce, or even dip their toes into local politics. Owning a home gives you a literal stake in the game—you’re not just passing through, you’re part of the fabric. I’ve seen people volunteer, host block parties, and build real friendships because they’re invested in where they live. Renters can participate, sure, but there’s something about owning that makes you feel truly rooted.

To me, community is the heartbeat of homeownership. It’s not one-size-fits-all—schools, walkability, trails, involvement—they’re all pieces of the puzzle, and the best communities have a mix of everything. When I help clients buy a home, we don’t just look at the house; we explore the whole area. In today’s world, convenience is king because time is precious. Owning a home lets you research and choose a spot that checks all your boxes, from great schools to nearby coffee shops. I’ve guided clients through this process countless times, and with so much info online, it’s easier than ever to find answers fast. Most of my home buyers look at multiple communities before deciding, and I encourage that—it’s that important.

So, why does owning beat renting when it comes to community? It’s simple: ownership gives you control, stability, and a sense of belonging that renting can’t match. Whether it’s the school your kids thrive in, the trails you escape to, or the neighbors you connect with, buying a home lets you build a life tailored to you. Ready to find your perfect community? Reach out to me, Tom Sommers, at Coldwell Banker, and let’s get started today!

#HomeownershipBenefits, #RentingVsOwning, #CommunityLiving, #RealEstateTips, #HomeBuyingGuide, #SchoolDistricts, #WalkableNeighborhoods, #NatureTrails, #GetInvolved, #TomSommersRealEstate

What is PMI? And Why You Shouldn’t Be Scared of It, as a home buyer

Hi, I’m Tom Sommers, and I’m here to talk about something that freaks out a lot of first-time homebuyers: PMI, or private mortgage insurance. When I bought my first home, I remember hearing “PMI” and feeling my stomach drop—another cost?! But let me break it down for you in a way that’s easy to digest, because I promise, it’s not as scary as it sounds. PMI is just a monthly fee lenders charge when you’re buying a home with less than 20% down. It’s their safety net, protecting them if you default on your mortgage loan. It doesn’t cover your equity—it’s all about their investment. So, why shouldn’t you be scared of PMI? Stick with me, and I’ll show you how it’s manageable, temporary, and shouldn’t stop you from chasing your dream home.

Let’s rewind to 2009. After the housing market crashed, PMI costs skyrocketed. For years, homeowners were shelling out $200 a month or more just for this insurance. I’ve seen friends panic over those numbers, thinking homeownership was out of reach. But here’s the good news: times have changed. Over the last five years, with foreclosures at historic lows, PMI rates have dropped—way down. Today, on many loans, you’re looking at $20 to $30 a month. That’s it! Compare that to a decade ago, and it’s a steal. I’ve worked with clients who were shocked at how affordable PMI has become, and it’s opened doors to homeownership they thought were locked shut.

Now, here’s where it gets even better: PMI isn’t forever. Once you hit 20% equity in your home, you can petition your lender to drop it. I’ve done this myself—made extra principal payments to speed things up—and it feels amazing to ditch that extra cost. One catch: if you’ve got an FHA loan, you’ll need to refinance to ditch PMI, which isn’t a big deal if rates have dropped. I’ve seen homeowners refinance, kill their PMI, and lower their monthly payment all at once. Genius, right? The more you put down upfront, the cheaper PMI is anyway, but even with a small down payment, it’s not a dealbreaker. You can make extra mortgage payments—one or two a year—to build equity faster and wave goodbye to PMI sooner.

I get it—PMI sounds like a boogeyman in the homebuying process. But I’m here to bust that myth wide open. It’s just a small, temporary hurdle, not a brick wall. I’ve sat down with loan officers and watched clients’ jaws drop when they realize what they can actually afford. Don’t let PMI scare you off from owning a home. Grab a coffee, chat with a mortgage pro, and see for yourself—I bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Homeownership is closer than you think, and I’d hate for something like PMI to keep you from it.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to me, Tom Sommers, at Coldwell Banker, and let’s get you started on your homebuying journey. Visit www.tomsommersrealestate.com/blog or drop me a line—I’m here to help!

#PMIExplained, #PrivateMortgageInsurance, #HomebuyingTips, #RealEstateMyths, #MortgageBasics, #FirstTimeHomebuyer, #EquityBuilding, #AffordableHomeownership, #TomSommersRealEstate, #ColdwellBanker

Are Interest Rates for Home Loans Dropping?

I’ve got some exciting news for anyone dreaming of buying a home—yes, interest rates for home loans are dropping! Just think about this: less than two years ago, rates soared past 8%, making homeownership feel out of reach for so many. But right now, as of March 2025, they’re hovering around 6.5%. Even better, I recently worked with a loan officer who locked in 5.8% for one of my home buyers through a special program. To me, that’s a clear sign that mortgage rates are trending downward, and it might just be the perfect time to start thinking about jumping into the housing market.

I get it—especially if you’re a first-time home buyer or a young person, the idea of hidden costs and the extra work of owning a single-family home can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: there aren’t any hidden surprises. When you buy a home, you’ll know exactly what your monthly payment covers—principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI). No guesswork, no shocks. I just wrapped up a six-part series on why owning a home beats renting every time, so if you’re still on the fence about whether dropping interest rates are enough to convince you, check out those videos or my blog posts at tomsommersrealestate.com/blog. Trust me, they’re worth a quick look.

Here’s the big question I hear all the time: when’s the market going to shift? What I mean is, when will mortgage rates drop low enough—like into the 5% range—that everyone who’s been waiting rushes in to buy? I’m betting 5.9% could be the tipping point. Why does this matter? Because affordability is key. Higher interest rates mean higher monthly payments, which can make it tougher to qualify for a loan or afford your dream home. Fun fact: did you know the 50-year average for home loan interest rates is around 7%? Back in the 1980s, they spiked to 18%! During COVID, I saw 30-year fixed rates dip as low as 3.25%, but that was a fleeting moment. Typically, they hung out between 3.5% and 4%. So, 6.5% today? That’s a solid deal.

But here’s the catch: when rates drop further and hit that magic 5-something percent, everyone’s going to want in. Sure, your interest rate might save you some cash on your monthly payment, but here’s the flipside—home prices could shoot up. I’ve seen it before: multiple offers on a house drive the price up by $20,000 or more. So, that home you could buy today at 6.5% might cost you way more when rates hit 5.9%, wiping out some of those savings. It’s like trying to time the stock market—people want the edge, the perfect moment. Well, I’m serving it up to you right now: this could be your chance to buy a home before the market explodes.

I’m not saying you can’t buy a home if rates drop to 5%—you absolutely can! But that same house will likely cost you more, and your monthly payment might not drop as much as you’d hope. Don’t let interest rates scare you off from homeownership. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be. I’ve been in real estate long enough to see the trends, and I’m here to help you navigate them. Just the other day, I was chatting with a young couple who thought they’d never qualify—turns out, they could, and now they’re thrilled homeowners. Knowledge is power, folks.

So, what’s next? Don’t give up on your homeownership dreams! Take a few minutes to give me a call or schedule a Zoom chat with me. I’ll connect you with a top-notch loan officer who can break down your options—interest rates, mortgage programs, monthly payments, everything—and answer all your questions. I’m passionate about helping you make this happen, but I can’t want it more than you do. Let’s get started today—reach out to me at Tom Sommers, Coldwell Banker, or click the button below to set up a call. Your dream home is waiting!

#HomeLoanRates, #InterestRatesDropping, #BuyAHomeNow, #MortgageTips, #RealEstateTrends, #HomeownershipGoals, #FirstTimeHomeBuyer, #HousingMarket2025, #TomSommersRealEstate, #ColdwellBanker

How to Not Lose Your Option for a Home Inspection

Hey everyone, I’m Tom Sommers, and I’ve been guiding home buyers through the real estate maze for over 20 years. One thing I want to set straight right off the bat: you never have to surrender your right to a home inspection. It’s a key contingency in a traditional purchase agreement, alongside financing, that gives you an escape hatch if the inspection uncovers unexpected, costly surprises—like a busted sewer line or a shaky foundation—that you just don’t want to tackle. I get it, the home-buying process can feel overwhelming, especially now with interest rates dropping in March 2025, sparking more competition. But trust me, protecting yourself with a home inspection is non-negotiable, and I’m here to share why and how you can keep it in your arsenal, even in a hot market.

Let’s talk about what’s happening out there. As interest rates dip, more buyers are jumping into the fray, creating urgency and, in some cases, multiple-offer situations. I’ve seen desperate home buyers waive their home inspection to sweeten their offer and beat the competition. For a newer home—say, one that’s 10 years old with a solid history—or a condo where the association handles most maintenance, skipping it might not be the end of the world. I still wouldn’t recommend it, but it’s less risky. However, with an older home? That’s a different story. You don’t know what’s lurking behind those walls—think outdated electrical, hidden water damage, or a crumbling sewer line. Sellers aren’t always hiding things; sometimes they’re just as clueless. I’ve told every client I’ve ever had: don’t give up your home inspection. If another buyer swoops in, skips it, and wins the house, you’re not really losing—you’re dodging a potential money pit.

I know what you’re thinking: “Tom, I love this house, and I don’t want to miss out!” I’ve been there with clients, and it’s tough. But after two decades in this business, I can promise you this: every home I’ve sold has ended up being a place my clients adore. If a seller picks a no-inspection offer over yours, there’s another dream home waiting. Now, if you’re set on staying competitive while keeping your home inspection, I’ve got your back. We can tweak your offer with specific language that keeps you protected. I often add a paragraph saying the inspection is to confirm the home matches your expectations—satisfactory, you buy; unsatisfactory, you walk with your earnest money intact. It’s a win-win: you get peace of mind, and sellers don’t freak out because most believe their home’s in great shape anyway.

Here’s where it gets real. Sellers aren’t usually scared of inspections—they’re confident in their property. But I’ve saved my clients about $250,000 over the years by insisting on thorough checks, especially scoping sewer lines in older homes. Why? Because a collapsed sewer line can hit you with a $10,000 to $20,000 repair bill—digging trenches, tearing up streets, the works. That’s not pocket change! A home inspection isn’t just a formality; it’s your shield against nasty surprises. And don’t mix it up with a TISH (Time of Sale Inspection) some cities require—those focus on code violations, not the big-ticket issues buyers care about, like HVAC or structural integrity. My pro tip? Pay for your own inspector. It’s worth every penny to know exactly what you’re signing up for.

In my book, a home inspection is too crucial to ditch. If another buyer wants to overpay and skip it, let them roll the dice. You’re smarter than that. A good inspection clarifies everything—roof condition, plumbing, electrical, you name it—and puts you in control. I’ve walked away from deals with clients, and yeah, it stings at first, but they always thank me later when they find “the one” without a $15,000 repair hanging over their head. So, stick to your guns, keep that home inspection contingency, and let’s find you a home you’ll love without the headaches. Ready to dive into your home-buying journey the right way? Reach out to me at Tom Sommers Coldwell Banker, and let’s get started!

#HomeInspection, #RealEstateTips, #HomeBuying, #FirstTimeHomeBuyer, #RealEstateAdvice, #ProtectYourInvestment, #HomeBuyerGuide, #HouseHunting, #RealEstateMarket, #TomSommersRealEstate

What Is Appraisal Gap Coverage in a Home Offer?

Picture this: I’m sitting across from a hopeful homebuyer, coffee in hand, explaining the wild world of real estate offers in today’s market. Lately, I’ve noticed a trend that’s been picking up steam over the past few years—appraisal gap coverage. It’s become the go-to strategy for buyers and agents like me who are scrambling to outsmart the competition in a multiple-offer showdown. We’re all trying to craft that perfect offer to get across the finish line, and trust me, it’s not as simple as just throwing in a high bid. There are clever clauses—like appraisal gap coverage—that can make or break your shot at landing your dream home. But here’s the catch: you’ve got to write them with precision, or you’re leaving yourself wide open to trouble.

When I first started dabbling with these clauses, I learned quickly that there’s a tightrope to walk. Spell everything out too much, and you might box yourself in; leave it too vague, and you’re flirting with disaster. That’s why I always tell my clients—don’t hesitate to chat with a real estate attorney if you’re unsure about the legal side of things. I’ve tested different versions of appraisal gap coverage over the years, tweaking it through trial and error as the market flipped and flopped. In a hot market, depending on the home’s location or type, you might not even get a seat at the table without tossing this clause into your offer. But it’s not just about tossing it in—it’s about finesse, clarity, and protecting yourself from a messy situation.

So, what exactly is appraisal gap coverage? It’s a promise I help my buyers make: they’ll cover the difference in cash if the home’s appraised value comes in lower than the agreed-upon sales price. Sounds straightforward, right? Not quite. The magic lies in how it’s worded. One slip-up—like forgetting to cap the dollar amount you’re willing to cover—could leave you on the hook for thousands more than you planned if the appraisal tanks. I’ve seen agents make that mistake, and it’s a gut punch for buyers. That’s why I insist on working with an experienced agent who knows the ropes. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all trick either—some houses call for it, others don’t. Every deal, every seller, every location—it’s a unique puzzle to solve.

I’ve had my fair share of wins and flops with this strategy, and it’s taught me one thing: education is everything. When I sit down with my buyers for the first time, before we even peek at listings, I walk them through the market chaos—multiple offers, bidding wars, and yes, appraisal gap coverage. I want them to feel confident, not blindsided. It’s not just about slapping a clause in the contract; it’s about understanding what you’re signing up for. Sure, I can guide you as a licensed real estate agent, but I’m not a lawyer—any legal questions, and I’m pointing you to the pros. The more you know about these tactics, the better you’ll navigate this crazy home-buying journey.

At the end of the day, appraisal gap coverage is a tool—a powerful one if wielded right. It’s about showing sellers you’re serious while keeping your finances safe. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, every situation demands a tailored plan. That’s where I come in—I’ve been around the block, and I’ve got the playbook ready. Want to dive deeper into making your offer stand out? Reach out to me at Tom Sommers Coldwell Banker, and let’s get started on landing your next home!

#AppraisalGap, #HomeBuyingTips, #RealEstateAdvice, #MultipleOfferStrategy, #HomeOfferClauses, #RealEstateMarket, #BuyerStrategies, #HousingMarket2025, #TomSommersRealEstate, #ColdwellBanker

If You Are Divorced, Can You Be Considered a First-Time Home Buyer?

Today I’m discussing a question I get asked a lot: If you’re divorced, can you still be considered a first-time home buyer? The short answer is yes, but it really depends on your unique situation. As someone who’s been through life’s ups and downs myself, I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate homeownership after a divorce. So, let’s break it down together—because I want to help you figure out if you qualify as a first-time home buyer and how to make the most of it.

Picture this: you’re newly divorced, and the house you once shared with your spouse now belongs to them. If your name is off the mortgage and the title, many lenders will look at you as a first-time home buyer again. That’s huge! It opens doors to special loan programs, better interest rates, and even neighborhood-specific assistance that could put cash back in your pocket. I’ve seen this happen for clients time and time again—folks who thought homeownership was out of reach post-divorce suddenly realizing they’ve got options.

But here’s the catch: you’ve got to make sure everything from your divorce is squared away. When I was helping a client last year, we hit a snag because their name was still on the old mortgage, even though the divorce decree said otherwise. It delayed their new home purchase by months! So, take it from me—work with your attorney to ensure your name is removed from both the mortgage and the title of your former home. If that final filing doesn’t happen, it can haunt you when you’re ready to buy again.

Now, let’s talk about what “first-time home buyer” really means. It’s not about your age or whether you’ve ever owned a home before—it’s about your current situation. To get the full scoop, sit down with a loan officer who knows their stuff. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people light up when they discover they qualify for lower down payments or grants they didn’t even know existed. Some programs are tied to specific areas, so if you’re eyeing a certain neighborhood, there might be extra help waiting for you.

The key? Work with someone who gets it—a loan officer who can dig into first-time home buyer programs and match them to your needs. I’ve been in real estate long enough to know that’s the difference between just buying a house and buying the right house with the best deal. Divorce can feel like a reset button, and this is your chance to start fresh with a home that’s all yours.

One thing I can’t stress enough: make sure your divorce is 100% finalized. I’ve met too many people who signed the papers, walked away, and assumed it was done—only to find out the county still had loose ends. Double-check that all documents are filed properly. Trust me, it’s a headache you don’t want when you’re trying to close on your dream home. In Minnesota, here’s a little nugget to remember: it’s “one to buy, two to sell.” That means you can buy a home solo while married, but selling it requires your spouse’s sign-off unless the divorce is complete. If you’re mid-divorce and buying, get it in writing in the decree to avoid surprises later.

So, if you’re divorced and dreaming of homeownership, you might just be a first-time home buyer in the eyes of lenders. It’s a chance to reclaim your space and build something new. Ready to explore your options? Reach out to me at Tom Sommers Coldwell Banker—I’d love to help you get started on this exciting journey!

#FirstTimeHomeBuyer, #DivorceAndHomeBuying, #HomeOwnership, #RealEstateTips, #DivorceRealEstate, #MinnesotaRealEstate, #BuyAHome, #MortgageAdvice, #NewBeginnings, #TomSommersRealEstate

What Is a Marital Lien in a Divorce and How Does It Affect a Home?

I’m Tom Sommers, and I’ve been knee-deep in the real estate world long enough to know that divorce can turn a home into a maze of complications. Selling a house during a split is no picnic, and today I want to talk about something that trips up a lot of people: the marital lien. Before I dive in, let me say this loud and clear—always get legal advice from a licensed attorney. I’m not here to play lawyer; I’m just sharing what I’ve learned from helping folks navigate divorce and home sales, so you can avoid some common pitfalls.

So, what’s a marital lien? In simple terms, it’s a legal claim your spouse might have on a property, even if their name isn’t on the paperwork. Here in Minnesota, we’ve got this quirky rule: “one to buy, two to sell.” That means I could go out and buy a lake cabin tomorrow without my spouse signing off—legally, that’s fine, though I wouldn’t recommend skipping the conversation! But if we’re getting divorced, my spouse has marital rights to that cabin, and those rights can become a marital lien. It’s their stake in the property, ensuring they’re not left out in the cold during the divorce settlement. This applies to the family home too, not just vacation spots.

How does this affect your home in a divorce? Well, it depends on what you decide to do—keep it or sell it. If one of you wants to stay in the house, you’ve got to make sure the other’s name is off both the mortgage and the title. I’ve seen too many cases where the divorce papers are signed, the champagne’s popped, and then—oops—the ex’s name is still on the title because someone forgot to file the quitclaim deed at the county. A marital lien can linger like a bad guest, blocking you from selling or refinancing later. The fix? Work with a solid divorce attorney and double-check everything. I always tell clients to ask their lawyer upfront: “How do we ensure the title’s clean after this?”

Here’s a curveball I’ve noticed: sometimes that lien isn’t just about the home’s value—it can tie into other assets. Research shows that in community property states (unlike Minnesota, which follows equitable distribution), a marital lien might secure a spouse’s share of the marital estate, not just the house itself. Either way, it’s a headache if not handled right. I once helped a couple where the husband kept the house, but years later, when he tried to sell, the ex-wife’s unresolved lien popped up. They had to renegotiate—talk about reopening old wounds! That’s why I often see selling the home as the cleaner option. Split the proceeds fairly, and you both walk away with cash instead of legal baggage.

From what I’ve experienced, selling during the divorce usually feels less messy than fighting to keep a home you might not afford solo. Picture this: you’re newly single, juggling bills, and then realize the mortgage is too much—or worse, that lien rears its head when you try to move on. In Minnesota, both spouses have to agree to sell marital property, thanks to those marital rights, so it forces a conversation. I’ve found that couples who sell upfront avoid the drama of “who gets what” dragging on. Plus, with home prices fluctuating, cashing out now might beat waiting for a market dip.

Divorce, marital liens, and home sales don’t have to keep you up at night. Whether you’re in Minnesota or elsewhere (rules vary state by state!), understanding how a marital lien works can save you time, money, and stress. Need help figuring out your next move? I’m Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker, and I’d love to guide you through selling your home or sorting out the title mess. Reach out to me at tomsommersrealestate.com or book a Zoom chat here: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/AcZssZ035YGdWIJfr-0Xcdl6z7-Nfax9ASehs2-EZg4=?gv=true. Let’s get started on your fresh start!

#DivorceRealEstate, #MaritalLien, #SellingHomeDivorce, #DivorceProperty, #MinnesotaDivorce, #RealEstateTips, #DivorceHomeSale, #PropertyRights, #DivorceSettlement, #TomSommersRealEstate

How to Choose the Right Realtor When Divorcing

Hey there, folks! I’m Tom Sommers, and over my years as a real estate agent, I’ve seen just about everything—especially when it comes to selling a home during a divorce. Let me tell you, choosing the right realtor when you’re navigating a divorce isn’t just about finding someone to slap a “For Sale” sign in your yard. It’s a whole different ballgame. Selling a home is stressful enough, but toss in the emotional rollercoaster of a divorce, and you’ve got a situation that needs a real estate agent who’s not only skilled but also sensitive to what you’re going through. Here’s my take on how to pick the perfect realtor to help you sell your home during this tricky time.

Divorce changes everything—they say you never divorce the same person you married, and I’ve found that to be true in my experience helping couples. The anxiety, anger, and heartbreak can make even the simplest decisions feel overwhelming. That’s why the number one thing I tell folks to look for in a realtor is impartiality paired with top-notch communication. You need someone who can represent both you and your ex fairly, without taking sides, and who keeps everyone in the loop. When I work with divorcing couples, I make it a rule: if one of you calls or texts me with a question, my answer goes to both of you via email. No secrets, no surprises—just clear, open communication. It’s the only way to avoid misunderstandings that could derail the sale.

Now, don’t get me wrong—marketing your home, negotiating offers, and guiding you through the process are all critical too. A great realtor will handle photography, staging, open houses, and follow-ups like a pro. But if the communication isn’t there, none of that matters. I’ve seen deals fall apart because an agent didn’t keep both parties informed, and trust me, that’s the last thing you need when you’re already dealing with divorce stress. So, when you’re interviewing realtors, ask them point-blank: “How will you keep us both updated?” Push on that. If they hesitate or dodge the question, move on. You deserve someone who’s transparent and proactive—someone who protects your interests by keeping the lines open.

Emotions can run high during a divorce, and I get it. I’ve had clients who couldn’t even be in the same room together. That’s where a realtor’s people skills come in. A good agent isn’t just a salesperson—they’re a mediator, a hand-holder, and sometimes even a buffer between you and your ex. Look for someone with experience in divorce sales; they’ll know how to navigate the tension and keep things moving forward. And here’s a pro tip: check their reviews or ask for references from past clients. If they’ve successfully sold homes for other divorcing couples, that’s a green flag. You want a realtor who’s been in the trenches and come out with a sold sign.

One more thing—don’t skip the legal stuff. I’m not a lawyer, and no realtor should be giving you legal advice. Consult a real estate attorney and a divorce attorney for the nitty-gritty details, like how to split the proceeds or handle the title. My job is to get your home sold for the best price, as smoothly as possible. But I can’t stress this enough: the better the communication, the easier this whole process will be. A realtor who keeps you informed and works impartially is your best shot at avoiding extra headaches. So, if you’re ready to take the next step and sell your home during a divorce, reach out to me at tomsommersrealestate.com. Let’s get started on making this as painless as possible for you.

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Non-Refundable Earnest Money: Is That a Good Strategy?

Picture this: I’m standing in the middle of a bustling real estate market in 2025, watching two very different stories unfold. On one side, there are pristine, updated homes sparking bidding wars and cash offers left and right. On the other, I see clean but outdated properties sitting quietly, gathering dust with no takers. It’s a classic tale of the haves and have-nots in today’s housing market. This got me thinking about a question I’ve been hearing a lot lately: Is offering non-refundable earnest money a smart strategy to win a home? As a licensed real estate agent with years of experience, I’ve seen this tactic pop up more often, especially in multiple-offer situations. But let me tell you—it’s a risky move, and I’m here to break it down for you.

So, what’s the deal with non-refundable earnest money? In a nutshell, it’s when a buyer puts down a deposit with their offer and agrees it won’t come back to them, even if the deal falls through. I’ve noticed some agents pushing this as a way to stand out in a crowded field of offers. Sellers love it because it shows serious commitment—like a buyer saying, “I’m all in!” But here’s where I pause. Sure, most home sales close eventually, but delays and hiccups are part of the game. Inspections go sideways, financing falls apart, or appraisals don’t match the offer price. If any of that happens and your earnest money is non-refundable, you could be out thousands of dollars. That’s a gut punch I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

Now, I get it—when you’re head over heels for a house, it’s tempting to pull out all the stops. I’ve had clients who’d do anything to snag their dream home, and I feel that passion right alongside them. But here’s the thing I always remind them: there are safer ways to sweeten an offer. Think escalation clauses, flexible closing dates, or even covering some seller costs. These can make your bid shine without putting your hard-earned cash in jeopardy. Non-refundable earnest money? It’s like playing poker with your life savings on the table. I’ve seen buyers lose out on one house only to find an even better one later—happens more often than you’d think. So why gamble when you don’t have to?

Before you even consider this strategy, I urge you to ask yourself: “Do I love this house that much?” For most folks, I’d say it’s not worth the risk. Picture this scenario—I had a client once who was ready to go all-in with a non-refundable deposit. We sat down, crunched the numbers, and talked it through. They decided to pass, and guess what? Two weeks later, they found a home they loved even more, with no crazy risks attached. That’s why I always say: think long and hard about the “what ifs.” Better yet, chat with a real estate attorney to get the full scoop on what you’re signing up for. Uncle Bob’s advice from his one home sale seven years ago? Skip it. Who you hire to guide you matters, and I’m here to help you avoid the pitfalls.

At the end of the day, buying a home is emotional, exciting, and sometimes nerve-wracking. My job is to keep you grounded and protected. Non-refundable earnest money might sound like a golden ticket, but it’s a high-stakes move that could leave you burned. There are smarter ways to win a seller’s heart without rolling the dice on your deposit. Want to talk strategy for your next offer? Reach out to me at Tom Sommers Coldwell Banker—let’s get started on finding your perfect home the safe, smart way.

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