Shawna Woodward

Residential Real Estate

Real Talk Real Estate: Top 10 Affordable Gift Ideas for Homeowners, or Anyone Really!

Christmas is quickly approaching and finding the right gifts for our favorite people can feel like a burden. Today, I thought I would share some of the best gift ideas for anyone you know who just moved into a home. Buying a home is a big milestone; finding the right gift to celebrate doesn’t have to break the bank. Practical, thoughtful, and affordable gifts can make a new space feel like home while helping new homeowners settle in. Here are my favorite gift ideas for young or first-time home buyers—all

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Residential Real Estate

Real Talk Real Estate: Will Homes Finally Become Affordable in 2025?

The question on everyone’s mind is whether 2025 will bring relief to homebuyers struggling with affordability. While recent fluctuations in mortgage rates have added uncertainty, many industry experts predict a gradual decline in rates next year. However, don’t expect rates to plummet too quickly. The powers that be, believe a sudden drop could trigger a wave of buyer demand that might erase inventory gains, potentially driving prices back up. I am awaiting, hopefully, a drop to the 5.5% range so I can refinance my own mortgage. In 2023, I got

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Consumer Stories

Best of Real Talk Real Estate: Refinancing Your Home Mortgage: The Comedy of Rates, Points, and Perpetual Uncertainty

If you’ve been keeping tabs on the real estate market recently, you may have noticed something strange — it’s been a bit like trying to read the stock market while blindfolded…on a roller coaster…with a squirrel in your lap. In other words, it’s wild, unpredictable, and slightly ridiculous. But, whether you’re looking to buy your dream home, refinance your mortgage, or simply get a handle on the market, there are some essential things to know. So, let’s look into the essentials of refinancing your mortgage in today’s bonkers real estate

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Residential Real Estate

Real Talk Real Estate: CSRA Real Estate Market Update: What’s Happening in Augusta and Surrounding Areas?

If you’re following the real estate market in Augusta, GA, you know it’s been an eventful year. From shifting demand to fluctuating interest rates, buyers and sellers alike are navigating a changing landscape. Here’s a snapshot of the latest trends, insights, and what I expect to see as we move toward the end of 2024. Unfortunately, interest rates have continued to rise over the past year, putting a bit of a squeeze on affordability. Nonetheless, our area remains attractive to both local buyers and newcomers, thanks to the area’s quality

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Shawna Woodward

Best of Real Talk Real Estate: Choosing the optimal closing date

When purchasing a home, one crucial question you’ll face is, “What day do you want to close?” While this may seem straightforward, selecting the best closing date requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind, particularly for those using traditional mortgage options. The Importance of a Firm Closing Date The closing date in your contract is intended to be a firm commitment for all parties involved. It sets the timeline for everyone to work towards and signifies your agreement to strive to meet this deadline. Popular

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Residential Real Estate

Real Talk Real Estate: Buying or Selling in the Next 6 Months? Here’s the Necessary Advice You Need!

So, you’ve decided to either buy or sell a home in the next six months. Congratulations! Or should I say, welcome to the jungle? The housing market can be a wild ride, full of ups, downs, and a few plot twists. Whether you’re scouring Zillow at 3 a.m. or putting out freshly baked cookies for prospective buyers, navigating the market can feel like a full-time job. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some essential advice to keep your sanity intact. Dear Buyers, be ready to fall in love. First

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Shawna Woodward

Best of Real Talk Real Estate: Understanding Traditional Mortgage Loan Options in Georgia

Editor’s Note: Following the devastation from Hurricane Helene, perhaps you are thinking about leaving the mess behind and moving. If that’s your case, Shawna Woodward has some timely advice on mortgage loan options. Understanding the world of mortgage loans can be daunting, especially with the variety of options available to homebuyers in Georgia and the “advertised” interest rates promoted online. Understanding the different traditional mortgage loan types will help you make an informed decision that best suits your financial situation and homeownership goals. The first place to start if you

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Shawna Woodward

Real Talk Real Estate: Next Steps After Storm Damage: How to Restore or Sell with Help from Homeowners Insurance

As I sit here today, overwhelmed with the sound of chainsaws still whirring in the distance and a second storm hitting Florida, thoughts of what will come next burst into my emotions. Many of us are dealing with storm damage to our homes. This can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with the daunting task of excessive repairs or even the possibility of totaling your property. The emotional and financial toll will be significant. However, homeowners’ insurance should be there to help shoulder the burden and guide you through the

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Shawna Woodward

Real Talk Real Estate: Homeowners Insurance Woes

Editor’s note: In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s damage across the CSRA, homeowners and renters have many questions about what their insurance covers and how FEMA might help with disaster assistance. For more information: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App, or call 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. In the Best of Real Talk Real Estate, Shawna Woodward offers more practical advice for homeowner and renter insurance. In recent months, I’ve noticed some concerning trends affecting homeowners across the country. You may have

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Shawna Woodward

Real Talk Real Estate: Sweaters, Swimsuits, and Gutters: Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Home Prep in Augusta

It’s here! Thanks to September 22, it’s officially fall in Augusta. Even though it was a nice breezy 89 degrees and a hurricane is landing, fall is a beautiful time of year that comes with home maintenance challenges. Taking a few proactive steps now can save you time, money, and stress later. So, grab a cozy sweater, or in our case, your swimsuit, and pour yourself a pumpkin spice latte, and let’s discuss the top five things you should do to prepare and maintain your home for fall. 1. Clean

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