Resources Authored by Shelly Herron

Resources for home buyers and sellers

Real estate tips and market insights from Shelly Herron. Whether you’re a first time buyer or preparing to sell your current home—stay informed and make confident decisions with our comprehensive resources. Ready to take the next step?
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About the Author

Shelly Herron is a writer and editor, originally from the Midwest and now in sunny Austin, TX. She has over 10 years of editorial experience in real estate, travel, and fitness and holds a degree in marketing and journalism from Iowa State University. When not working, you'll find her doing crossword puzzles, baking, and snuggling with her dog.

Topics:

Ways to Enhance Your Home's Curb Appeal

Your home's curb appeal is the first impression that guests and potential buyers will have of your property. Improving your home's curb appeal can not only increase its value, but also make it more attractive and welcoming. Here are some of the best ways to improve your home's curb appeal: A Fresh Coat of Paint: A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home's exterior. Choose a color that...

Apr 20, 2023 Buyer Seller Staging Curb Appeal

Your Moving Day Checklist

Moving day can be both exciting and overwhelming. It's essential to have a plan in place and a checklist of items you need to have on hand to ensure a smooth move. Here is a list of some important items to have on (and leading up to) moving day: Packing Supplies: Several weeks before the move, purchase the packing supplies you will need, including boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing...

Apr 20, 2023 Buyer Seller Moving

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

A home inspection is an essential step in the home buying process that can provide valuable information about the condition of the property. It is typically performed by a licensed home inspector who evaluates the home's systems and components and provides a report of their findings. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what a home inspection involves and what you can expect. What is a...

Apr 11, 2023 Home Inspection Buyer

The Benefits of Buying vs. Renting

Buying a home vs. renting is a decision that many people face at some point in their lives. While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, there are several benefits to buying a home that make it a more attractive choice for many people. One of the primary benefits of buying a home is that it is often considered a good long-term investment. Unlike renting, where your monthly...

Apr 11, 2023 Buyer Homeownership Renting

Couple touring a home with a real estate agent.

The Best Options for First-Time Homebuyers

If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’re likely balancing several factors. Because both mortgage rates and home prices have risen this year, it costs more to buy a home than it did even just a few months ago. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans on hold. If you partner with a trusted real estate agent and hone your strategy, you can navigate today’s market and find the home...

Jun 10, 2022 Buyer

Why Pre-Approval is an Important Step for Today's Buyers

Being intentional and competitive are musts when buying a home this season. That’s why pre-approval is so important today. Pre-approval from a lender is the only way to know your true price range and how much money you can borrow for your loan. Peter Warden, Editor of The Mortgage Reports, explains:“The lender will check out your personal finances and issue you a letter confirming the amount...

May 16, 2022 Buyer Preapproval

The Dream of Homeownership is Worth the Effort

If you’re in the market to buy a home this season, stick with it. Home buyers face challenges in any market, and today’s is no exception. But if you persevere, your decision to purchase a home will be worth the effort in the end. In fact, a recent survey from Bankrate shows homeownership is so powerful that:“Nearly three in four homeowners say they would still buy their current home if they had...

May 16, 2022 Buyer Homeowner

Two women reviewing home pricing strategies on a tablet.

Why It’s Critical To Price Your House Right

When you make a move, you want to sell your house for the highest price possible. That might be why many homeowners are eager to list in today’s sellers’ market. After all, with record-low inventory and high buyer demand, many homes are selling for more than asking price.  But even in a market like we have now, working with an agent to set the right asking price is critical, as pricing it...

Apr 19, 2022 Seller

Real estate professional shaking hands with a client.

Why a Real Estate Professional Is Key When Selling Your House

With today’s real estate market moving as fast as it is, working with a real estate professional is more essential than ever. They have the skills, experience, and expertise it takes to navigate the highly detailed and involved process of selling a home. Here are five reasons why selling with a real estate professional makes more sense, especially in a hot market:  1. They Know What...

Apr 19, 2022 Seller

Group of friends enjoying a meal together in their backyard.

The Many Benefits of Homeownership

The past two years have taught us the true value of homeownership, especially the stability and the feeling of accomplishment it can provide. But homeownership has so much more to offer. Here’s a look at a few of the non-financial and financial benefits of owning a home. If you’re looking to buy a home today, think about all the ways homeownership can impact your life.Homeownership Has...

Apr 19, 2022 Buyer Homeownership Investing

Key Things to Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage

Once you’ve found your dream home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. It’s exciting to start thinking about moving in and decorating your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, be sure to consult your lender – someone who’s qualified to explain how your financial decisions...

Mar 29, 2022 Buyer Preapproval Mortgage

Don’t Tackle Selling Your Home on Your Own – an Agent Can Help!

If you’re looking to maximize your sale and minimize your effort, you need to work with a real estate professional. In a sellers’ market like today’s, it can be tempting to list your house on your own – known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO). But the truth is, a real estate professional can save you time and money by managing every step of the process, from pricing your home to reviewing documents...

Dec 13, 2021 Seller