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5 Things to Understand About Parcel Boundaries

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You probably haven’t thought much about the boundaries of your land since you bought it, unless you are in a dispute over a fence or an overgrown garden. There are no lines on the ground that show where your property ends and begins your neighbor’s.

The importance of parcel boundaries is not limited to neighborly disputes. They are also important in thousands of business, legal and government decisions made every day. Here are five things you might not know about parcel boundaries.

What is the difference between parcel boundary and parcel data?

A parcel is land that has a parcel boundary. The parcel boundary is a perimeter that determines how the parcel will look.

A parcel can be defined either as a point or a shape. A boundary can be translated onto a map as a polygon. No matter how many angles or curves there are, the shape allows for a complete definition. A parcel can be defined by a point located on a map using latitude andlongitude. Sometimes only one point is defined per parcel. This point can have different levels of precision. It could be the rooftop or centroid (the point in the middle of a parcel), or even a zip code. It is important to keep in mind that no matter how precise the latitude/longitude point, it does not tell the entire boundary story.

Why is it important to have parcel boundaries?

There are many reasons why parcel boundaries matter. Here are just a few of them:

  • Boundaries give perspective, such as distances from landmarks or points-of-interest.
  • Visualizing the geographic data helps the user understand.
  • They allow for more complex analysis to create greater insight.
  • Changes in boundaries can help tell the time.

What are the boundaries used for?

Different industries require parcel boundaries for different reasons.

In land records management parcel maps are used to show the exact location of each parcel boundary. These maps, also known as assessor maps, allow anyone to see the boundaries of their property. These maps are used by county assessors to determine the size of land, which impacts value and tax amounts. They use shape to track the ownership of each piece.

Utility companies like gas and electricity may need to identify properties which could be affected by a power outage, or find the best place to lay new cables, wires, or pipe.

Lenders might want to know which properties in their portfolio have been affected by a disaster. Title companies may also need to calculate the distance from a potential danger, such as a gas station, industrial area, or a landfill.

Evolution from Paper to Digital

Parcels used to be drawn on large-format paper maps. Assessors would write on each parcel a unique identifier (sometimes called an Assessor Parcel Number, or APN), which was used to track the parcels for tax purposes. Most counties now have a Geospatial Information System (GIS) department that uses mapping software instead of paper to create and maintain parcel borders. Digital maps not only make it easier to manage changes but also make them available online.

Coverage, Completeness, & Currency

First American Data & Analytics holds nearly 2.5 million Assessor map in more than 1,100 counties. These maps cover 70% the U.S. populace, but we have 148 million parcel boundaries in almost every county. As with all First American Data & Analytics data from public records, we link these parcel boundaries to taxable areas defined by the Assessor. Some parcels are not taxed. Federal land, state park, tribal land protected forests, bodies water, streets, railways, and government building are some of the types that don’t get taxed.

Parcel boundaries can be updated through sales. This is important for tracking changes in parcel boundaries. It is important to keep track of these changes by having the most recent parcel boundaries. First American Data & Analytics updates parcel boundaries every quarter and is working to implement solutions that will allow this to happen more often. The fact that the county department responsible for recording documents does not maintain the boundaries is one of the challenges in managing a database. It is therefore possible that changes in parcels and owners due to sales are not in sync the actual parcel boundaries found on the county GIS website. First American Data & Analytics corrects the issue by using Public Record Data. This ensures that the correct owner is associated with a shape and points of a parcel.

The First American Difference

First American Data & Analytics simplifies your job by focusing on accuracy and completeness when collecting and curating parcel information. Since decades, we have collected Assessor maps and Public Record Data and have focused on parcel boundaries and specifically linked them to the right properties because we know their importance to our customers. First American Data & Analytics, with its parcel boundaries and public records data linked together, offers a one stop shop for all the best tabular and spatial property data.

Original Blog: https://dna.firstam.com/insights-blog/5-things-to-understand-about-parcel-boundaries

The New Real Estate Trend: What Makes Barndominiums Unique

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People who are in the market to buy a home have specific needs and expectations. The differences in the personalities and decorating preferences of homeowners makes things even more diverse. Real estate is constantly changing due to all of this. Pole barn houses have been making waves in the real estate market and offer a lot to potential homeowners.

What makes pole barn houses stand out?

Pole barn houses are relatively new to the real estate market. They’re also called Barndominiums. Pole barns are converted into living quarters. They can be constructed as homes or combined with other structures and workshops. This makes them a truly unique option for potential homeowners. Check out some of the reasons why pole barn houses are the latest trend in real estate.

Customization Options

Barndominiums are popular because of their many customization options. They are one of the most versatile housing solutions available today. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and their designs can be tailored to suit almost anyone’s needs. They can have an open floor plan or be divided into separate rooms like traditional homes. There are also endless compromises that can be made between the two extremes.

Pole barn houses allow for customizations that go beyond the interior and exterior space. The exterior and surroundings of the house can also be customized. Pole barn houses can be customized with different colors and siding options. Also, they can add wraparound porches and patios. These options can extend to outdoor kitchens, entertainment areas, and other features. The design options for outdoor areas with pole barns are endless.

Cost-Effectiveness

Pole barn houses are also becoming more popular because of their cost-effectiveness. They are much more affordable than traditional houses. They require less resources and don’t require as much site preparation. They can also be built quickly. Barndominiums are cheaper to build because of this, as well as other factors. Pole barn houses are affordable, making it easier for many people to become homeowners.

Sustainability

Pole barn houses are also attractive because of their sustainability. They don’t use as many materials and therefore have a smaller footprint than traditional houses. Many of these materials are more sustainable than the ones used to build traditional houses. Pole barn houses can also incorporate a number of energy efficient and sustainable features, such as solar energy, environmentally friendly materials, and energy saving layouts. These are some of the most sustainable housing options available.

Faster construction

Barndominiums are often built faster than other types of homes. Barndominiums can be built in a few short months, depending on their layout and other factors. After site preparation and other factors are taken into consideration, it can take a long time to build a conventional house. This is a very attractive feature for many potential homebuyers.

A Different Route to Homeownership

Although there are many housing options available, they may not meet everyone’s requirements. Pole barns offer a range of unique features that make them a great solution for potential home owners. Pole barn houses are a viable alternative because they offer a range of customization options, as well as greater affordability and sustainability. Barndominiums are the newest trend in real estate.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/headlines/item/1047566-the-new-real-estate-trend-what-makes-barndominiums-unique?rtmpage=wishes

Explore Our Unique Barndominium Listing: Your Dream Combination of Barn and Home https://www.preferredpropertiestx.com/listings/just-listed-3219-lakeside-drive-in-granbury-tx/

How to Leverage Color Science in Real Estate

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Color can influence the human brain in a number of ways. Pay closer attention to the colors in your marketing and listings.

Most stagers recommend neutral colors such as beige or grey to attract more buyers. This advice isn’t always accurate.

Scientists have proven that color can influence up to 90% of homebuying decision. This has a greater impact than previously thought on people’s moods. The brain organizes and processes color signals in just a fraction of a second. Color is a universal language, and you can help clients use color science to sell their home.

You may have heard, for example, that exterior paint colors are best limited to only two or three options or that warm neutrals are the best choice if you’re looking to make your interiors look larger. This is usually true. Exteriors and interiors that are highly stylized and specific can be off-putting to buyers, especially if they do not match their tastes.

The right colors can be used inside and outside of a home to help buyers make a purchase decision faster. (Spoiler Alert: White does not always give the impression of more space.)

It is scientifically proven that color has a profound impact on our brains. Color science can be used to choose colors that will match desired outcomes. This could make or break sales on the highly competitive real-estate market.

Consider the following scientific findings.

  1. The color green has a calming and soothing effect. However, it can be a bit sickening when used on walls. This is why you shouldn’t use it in medical facilities. Instead, use biophilic design–incorporating greenery from plants–which will support a healthier living environment.
  2. Red stimulates the heart, increases metabolism and creates excitement. Too much red can cause anxiety. This is why it’s used selectively in retail signage and product labels. Consider Coca-Cola and Target. Use red sparingly as an accent.
  3. Blue is a symbol of trust and stability. Women tend to prefer blue over men. Note: Many financial organizations use it as their primary hue, probably because of the subconscious message it sends.
  4. Some lifestyle brands associate black with luxury. Some studies have shown that a black front door may even lead to a higher sale price and listing. ( Get ideas on how to use black.).
  5. A calm hallway can make buyers feel more comfortable. Remember that the type and intensity of lighting can alter the color effects in a space. Warm tones, daylight or LED bulbs will have a huge impact on the color and shading of your space.

Visualize other colors

High tech tools such as virtual reality are able to take this a step further. They allow agents, brokers, and developers to customize properties according to the tastes and imaginative visions of home buyers. You can also use lower-tech versions to visualize the possibilities. You can find these tools by searching online for “paint visualization mobile apps”.

Consider obtaining painting estimates from contractors, or displaying paint chips at listings to allow prospective buyers to visualize how they could personalize the walls according their tastes.

Color can be used to drive sales in a variety of ways. You can help clients understand how they react to certain colors by incorporating a fun quiz into your sales process. This can also help clients see beyond the current colors or wallpaper of a property.

Add Color to Your Personal Brand

Color can be used by real estate professionals in their logos and marketing materials to create trust and excitement with clients and prospects. A signature color will help you stand out amongst a sea other brokers and agents. Ryan Serhant is a reality TV personality and the founder of his brokerage. He even invested in a car painted in “Serhant Blue.”

Try simple touches, such as colorful eyeglasses frames, jewelry or hats in your signature colors. These can be less costly and still memorable.

Color science is applied to multifamily communities, senior and student housing, commercial spaces and schools, as well as other structures. As researchers continue to learn about the functions of the brain, professionals will learn more about color and how it can affect our actions and reactions. This includes when it comes to real-estate.

Original Blog: https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/how-to-leverage-color-science-in-real-estate

Top 10 Places to Buy a Vacation Home

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A new analysis shows that investment properties in beachside communities have the highest potential ROI. Here are the top hotspots for investment this year.

Vacation homes are a great investment for real estate investors. A short-term rental on the beach is a good option. Vacasa, an online vacation rental platform, has recently released its annual list of the top places to purchase a vacation home (link is external) based on capitalization rates or the rate of return.

According to Vacasa, which analyzed home sales and vacation rental data for the past 12 months, Lake Anna, Va. held the top spot in the 2023 rankings of the best places to buy a vacation house. Lake Anna, with a median sale of $405,500 and a cap rate 10.32%, is the highest vacation hotspot on the list.

Here are the top markets on Vacasa’s list of best places to purchase a vacation property in 2023.

1. Lake Anna, Va.
Cap rate: 10.32%
Average gross rental revenue: $64,121
Median sale price: $405,500

2. Okaloosa Island, Fla.
Cap rate: 9.08%
Average gross rental revenue: $53,832
Median sale price: $360,000

3. Sandbridge, Va.
Cap rate: 6.47%
Average gross rental revenue: $88,702
Median sale price: $928,900

4. Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Cap rate: 6.46%
Average gross rental revenue: $58,992
Median sale price: $618,000

5. Navarre, Fla.
Cap rate: 6.42%
Average gross rental revenue: $47,531
Median sale price: $420,000

6. Gulf Shores, Ala.
Cap rate: 6.09%
Average gross rental revenue: $48,169
Median sale price: $475,000

7. Palm Coast, Fla.
Cap rate: 5.69%
Average gross rental revenue: $38,212
Median sale price: $360,000

8. Corolla, N.C.
Cap rate: 5.47%
Average gross rental revenue: $80,423
Median sale price: $927,500

9. Nags Head, N.C.
Cap rate: 5.45%
Average gross rental revenue: $53,939
Median sale price: $615,500

10. Rockaway Beach, Ore.
Cap rate: 5.23%
Average gross rental revenue: $37,030
Median sale price: $340,000

Your dream vacation property is just a call away. Contact Preferred Properties of Texas today and let us help you find the haven you’ve been searching for. It’s time to turn your vacation dreams into cherished memories.

Original Blog: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/top-10-places-to-buy-a-vacation-home?utm_term=23EF8E9A-359A-444F-9FB8-E57C0EFE2ABA&utm_campaign=3BFA9068-DFBC-477B-BC94-C168B9A999F1&nwsltr=navnar&utm_content=7BDD191D-1B14-4B44-BBA7-543582CC5172

It’s a DIY World out There. Are You Game?

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Homeowners are increasingly looking to save money and gain valuable experience by performing their own home repairs and renovations. When do you know whether a project is DIY worthy or DIY crazy?

We look at five of the most popular DIY projects to see if you can do it yourself or if you should leave it to the professionals.

New Floors

The cost of installing new wood floors varies widely and is heavily dependent on the price of the product. HomeAdvisor estimates that installation costs $3-8 per square feet. You can save thousands of dollars by installing the floor yourself, but this can be difficult.

Today’s homeowner said that installing wood (or wood-like floors) can be a DIY project, but it may also require some carpentry skills and finishing.

Installation is a tedious and difficult task that can be exhausting. However, it can also be incredibly rewarding if you succeed. Money reported that flooring is one of most popular home improvement projects. It’s an inexpensive way to change the look and feel without spending a fortune. “We’ve seen this project really take off with the open-plan homes of today.”

Take breaks when needed and invest in quality products, tools, etc. to keep your mind and body in a healthy state.

New Lighting

The right lighting can make all the difference to the look and feel of your home. A sparkling chandelier over the table, or some new pendants above the kitchen island. Changing the lighting can make a room look more vibrant or add personality. We’re not afraid to use anything that could electrocute us, but we do pick out the best. You can install a new sconce if you are confident in your basic wiring skills. This article will give you some useful information.

HomeGuide said that the hourly rate for the rest of us is “$40 to $100 per hour, plus a $75 service fee.” “Small Electrical Projects range from $141 up to $419, with most homeowners spending an average of $280. The hourly rate and project rates are determined by the electrician’s level of experience and the type and size of the work.

New Plumbing Fixtures

We also don’t mess around with plumbing. We’re happy paying a professional to get the job done right. For those who know what they’re doing, the savings can be worth it. A new sink and faucet can transform a kitchen. In the bathroom, changing the shower head and the faucets can give the impression that the space is updated.

HomeAdvisor estimates that plumbers charge “from $175 up to $450 per typical job, with an average hourly cost ranging between $45 and $200”, according to the website.

Replace windows and doors

New windows and door can improve curb appeal, increase energy efficiency, and even provide a pretty good ROI. This is a job best left to professionals. The Spruce said that window replacement is a more difficult task than homeowners might expect. “Window installers replace windows every day; what is difficult for a DIYer is rote to them.”

HomeAdvisor says that “labor costs $150 to $850 per window.” Savings can be significant. You can find some good information here on how to do it. Window E-Store also has a great selection of windows.

Painting your kitchen cabinets

We’ve talked about painting kitchen cabinets a lot, because it’s a popular renovation. Hiring a professional to do the job can be prohibitively expensive. You’re looking at spending several thousand dollars for a good finish. You might save some money by hiring someone who doesn’t have the experience or isn’t willing to do the preparation or skip steps. But you could also end up with cracks, drips, peeling or cracked paint.

Painting your own cabinets can be a huge undertaking. It will test your patience and resolve, maybe even your marriage. Consider this carefully.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1031724-it-s-a-diy-world-out-there-are-you-game?rtmpage=null

Beat the Heat: The Power of Air Conditioning for Ultimate Indoor Comfort

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It’s a hot summer day. The sun radiates an almost unbearable heat. As you enter your home, you are greeted by a blast of cool, refreshing fresh air. The heat suddenly doesn’t seem so intense. This is the power air conditioning has. This article explores the benefits of air conditioners for ultimate indoor comfort. It also explains how to customize the climate in your home and the types of air conditioning available. Let’s beat heat together!

Understanding Heat

Heat can be harmful to our health. If not managed properly, high temperatures can cause dehydration, heatstroke, and other severe conditions. Air conditioning can help. Air conditioning can reduce these health risks by controlling the temperature indoors. This creates a comfortable and safe environment.

Air conditioning for Indoor Comfort

Air conditioning has many benefits beyond temperature control. Air conditioning can improve air quality, reduce allergies, and maintain optimal levels of humidity. All of these factors contribute to a more comfortable environment indoors, improving your overall well-being.

Customizing Indoor Climate Control

Modern air conditioning systems allow you to customize the indoor climate. You can customize your indoor climate with features like programmable thermostats and variable speed fans. This level of control can not only increase comfort, but also lead to significant savings in energy.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

There are many different air conditioning systems, each with its own benefits and disadvantages. Central air conditioning, mini-split ductless systems, and portable air conditioners are the most common types. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best system for your needs.

In our quest to beat the summer heat we are faced with a wide range of air conditioning systems. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore the world of these cooling titans, shall we.

First, there are the central air conditioning systems. These are the big guns and are perfect for cooling large homes or offices. They work by circulating cooled air through a system of supply and return ducts to provide a uniform temperature. They can be expensive, both in terms installation and energy consumption.

We also have ductless mini split systems. These are perfect for cooling small rooms or individual rooms. These are easy to install and energy efficient. They also offer the flexibility to cool specific areas. They may not be as efficient for larger spaces.

Let’s not forget about the portable air conditioners. They are the ultimate in flexibility as you can move them from room to room. These are perfect for those who live in rented housing or on a tight budget. Remember, they are not as powerful as larger models and may struggle with larger spaces or extreme temperatures.

Here is a quick overview of the most popular types of air conditioning system available. Understanding the differences is essential to making a decision that suits your needs. There’s a cooling system for everyone, whether you want the power of central air conditioning, the convenience of mini-split systems, or the portability and mobility of standalone units. Beat the summer heat by using air conditioning.

Conclusion

The importance of air conditioning in providing ultimate indoor comfort is not to be underestimated. It not only provides relief from heat, but also improves the air quality, reduces allergies, and allows for custom climate control. There is an air-conditioning system for every home. Air conditioning can help you beat the heat and create a comfortable indoor environment.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/listings/item/1047366-beat-the-heat-the-power-of-air-conditioning-for-ultimate-indoor-comfort?rtmpage=Alyssa%20Moylan

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