If you need assistance, please call 818-248-8668

Home Prices | The Markarian Realty Guide Blog

Thursday, February 6, 2025   /   by Vic Markarian

The Perks of Buying a Fixer-Upper

There’s no denying affordability is tough right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans to buy a home on the back burner.
If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves (or hire someone who will), buying a house that needs some work could open the door to homeownership. Here’s everything you need to know so you can decide if this is the right move for you.
What’s a Fixer-Upper?
A fixer-upper is a home that’s livable but requires some renovations. Think cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring or more extensive repairs like replacing a roof or updating plumbing.
While fixer-uppers need a little TLC, here’s why they may be worth considering, especially right now:
They Usually Have a Lower Price Point. Because of the repairs involved, these homes are usually less expensive up front than move-in-ready options. According to a survey from StorageCafe, fixer-uppers come with price tags that ...

  home buyer, home buying process, home prices, home buying, buyer's market, homeownership, los angeles, glendale, buying a home, real estate advice for 2025, real estate tips 2025, real estate trends 2025, buyer tips 2025, homebuying, top realtor, the perks of buying a fixer-upper

Thursday, January 30, 2025   /   by Vic Markarian

The Secret To Selling? Using an Agent To Get Your House Noticed

In a recent survey, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked sellers what they want most from a real estate agent. The number one answer was to help market their house.
It makes sense. The way your agent markets your house can be the difference between whether or not it stands out and gets attention from buyers. That’s why it’s so important to work with an expert local agent that knows what they're doing.
According to that same report from NAR, here are some of the most common methods real estate agents use to market homes, and how you benefit when your agent uses them effectively (see graph below):

Listing on the MLS – Real estate agents have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database. And that’s great for you because having your house on the MLS helps it get more visibility from other agents and buyers. And the more people who see it, the more likely it is to sell.
Using a Yard Sign & ...

  home seller, home buying process, home prices, selling homes, for sellers, real estate advice for 2025, real estate tips 2025, real estate trends 2025, real estate market trends 2025, seller tips 2025, the secret to selling using an agent to get your house noticed

Thursday, January 9, 2025   /   by Vic Markarian

What To Save for When Buying a Home

Knowing what to budget for when buying a home may feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the costs you may encounter upfront, you can take control of the process.
Here are just a few things experts say you should be thinking about as you plan ahead.
1. Down Payment
Saving for your down payment is likely top of mind. But how much do you really need? A common misconception is that you have to put down 20% of the purchase price. But that’s not necessarily the case. Unless it’s specified by your loan type or lender, you don’t have to. There are some home loan options that require as little as 3.5% or even 0% down. An article from The Mortgage Reports explains:
"The amount you need to put down will depend on a variety of factors, including the loan type and your financial goals. If you don’t have a large down payment saved up, don’t worry—there are plenty of options available . . ."
k ...

  real estate tips, home buying process, home prices, home buying, buyer's market, for buyers, buying a home, real estate tips 2025, real estate advice for 2025, real estate trends 2025, buyer tips 2025, realtor in glendale, first-time homebuyer, top realtor in granada hills, top realtors in granada hills, what to save for when buying a home

Thursday, January 9, 2025   /   by Vic Markarian

Mortgage Forbearance: A Helpful Option for Homeowners Facing Challenges

Let’s face it – life can throw some curveballs. Whether it’s a job loss, unexpected bills, or a natural disaster, financial struggles can happen to anyone. But here’s the good news. If you’re a homeowner feeling the squeeze, there’s a lifeline that many people don’t realize is still available: mortgage forbearance.
What Is Mortgage Forbearance?
As Bankrate explains:
“Mortgage forbearance is an option that allows borrowers to pause or lower their mortgage payments while dealing with a short-term crisis, such as a job loss, illness or other financial setback . . . When you can’t afford to pay your mortgage, forbearance gives you a chance to sort out your finances and get back on track.”
A common misconception is that forbearance was only accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic. While it did play a significant role in helping homeowners through that crisis, what many people don’t know is that ...

  home buying process, home prices, mortgage, real estate tips 2025, real estate advice for 2025, real estate trends 2025, 2025 housing market, glendale real estate agent, buyer tips 2025, homebuying, how to price your home, first-time homebuyer, top realtor, real estate market trends 2025, mortgage tips for buyers, mortgage update 2025, mortgage assistance options, mortgage lender tips, mortgage rate impact on buying power, mortgage forbearance, a helpful option for homeowners facing challenges

Thursday, December 19, 2024   /   by Vic Markarian

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here’s why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too – and that works in your favor.
You Likely Won’t Feel as Rushed
Homes tend to take a little longer to sell during this time of year. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the average time a house sits on the market jumps up during the winter months (see the green bars in the graph below):
This is partly because fewer buyers are active at this time of year – and that decrease in buyer competition means the houses that are on the market aren’t going to be snatched up as quickly. So, if you decide to buy a home in the next couple of months, you’ll likely have more time to consider your options and negotiate a deal without feeling as pressured.
Sellers May k ...

  home buyer, home buying process, home prices, homeownership, buying a home, buyer tips 2024, real estate market 2024, homeowner tips 2024, home equity 2024, real estate tips 2025, real estate advice for 2025, real estate trends 2025, 2025 housing market, buyer tips 2025, real estate market trends 2025, the biggest perks of buying a home this winter

Markarian Realty Group
3237 N. Verdugo Rd.
Glendale,, CA 91208
818-248-8668
DRE# CalBRE# 01059771

Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of February 10, 2025. This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.
This site powered by CINC: www.cincpro.com