10/01/2025
Jim's Weekly Real Estate Newsletter
■ Weekly Real Estate News
September 30, 2025
■ Quick Tip for Buyers
Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified. A pre-qualification is just a rough estimate of what youmight be able to borrow, while a pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious and ready to make an offer.It gives you more negotiating power and can help you stand out in a competitive market.
■ Quick Tip for Sellers
Boost Curb Appeal Before Listing. First impressions matter! Simple upgrades like fresh mulch, trimming bushes, or a new front door mat can make your home feel more welcoming. Buyers often decide how they feel about a home within the first 60 seconds of arriving.
■ Real Estate FAQ of the Week
Q: What’s the difference between “contingent” and “pending”?
Contingent means the seller has accepted an offer, but certain conditions (like inspections, financing, or
appraisal) must still be met.
Pending means all contingencies have been cleared and the home is close to closing.
■ Commercial Corner
Cap Rates Explained (and Why They Matter)
If you’re thinking about investing in commercial real estate, you’ll hear the term “cap rate.” A
capitalization rate (cap rate) measures the expected return on an investment property. It’s calculated by dividing the property’s net operating income (NOI) by its purchase price.
High cap rate → Higher potential return, but usually higher risk.
Low cap rate → Lower risk, but typically lower return.
Understanding cap rates can help you compare different investment opportunities and decide whether
a property fits your financial goals.
■ Short Story: “The Power of Staging”
Last month, a small ranch home sat on the market for weeks with little interest. The seller finally
invested in professional staging — adding neutral paint, decluttering, and rearranging furniture to
highlight the space. Within two weeks, the home sold with multiple offers, and the final sale price was
7% above asking.
■ Sometimes it’s not about making big changes, but the right changes that connect with buyers.
■ Contact Information
Jim Freiburger, Realtor
Arthur K. Eggerding Realtor, Inc.
■ 616-292-5843
■ [email protected]