Home Inspections vs. Appraisals: What's the Difference?

When buying a home in, two crucial steps often cause confusion: the home inspection and the appraisal. Though both evaluate the property, they serve distinctly different purposes in the homebuying process. Understanding these differences can help you navigate your purchase with confidence. Find our recommended local home inspectors and other valuable resources at:
Advantage Real Estate | Buyer & Seller Resources

Home Inspections: Evaluating Condition

A home inspection is primarily concerned with the property's physical condition. Hired directly by the buyer, a professional home inspector conducts a thorough examination of the property's structural components, systems, and features.

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The New Landscape of Real Estate Representation: What Buyers Need to Know

A Major Shift in Realtor Compensation

The real estate industry is undergoing its most significant transformation in a century. Following a landmark legal victory against the National Association of REALTORS® in 2023, the traditional compensation structure for real estate professionals has been fundamentally altered, with these changes taking full effect as of August 17, 2024.

How Things Worked Before

Previously, the real estate transaction process operated through a relatively straightforward model:

  1. Sellers would hire a listing broker for a percentage or fixed fee
  2. Through the listing contract, the seller's broker could offer to share compensation with buyer's…

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New Listing! By Advantage Real Estate broker Freddy Saxton

Oceanfront Sanctuary | Depoe Bay | Oregon Coast

450 SW Overlook, Depoe Bay, Oregon450 SW Overlook, Depoe Bay, Oregon

Perched on dramatic rock formations along Oregon's stunning coastline, this breathtaking 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom oceanfront retreat commands mesmerizing Pacific Ocean vistas. The interior showcases soaring vaulted ceilings adorned with rich cedar paneling, creating a warm, natural atmosphere that complements Lincoln County's renowned coastal setting.

Relax beside the crackling wood-burning fireplace while wall-to-wall panoramic windows frame the hypnotic dance of waves against the shoreline. Step onto the expansive deck—your personal observatory for spotting majestic whales during migration seasons along…

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Living at The Embarcadero: A Guide to Condo Life

The Embarcadero Resort Hotel and Marina in Newport, Oregon offers a unique living experience for those seeking to combine coastal charm with maritime lifestyle. Nestled along Yaquina Bay, this waterfront development provides an opportunity to own a slice of Oregon's picturesque coastline through its condominium offerings.

Location and Setting

The Embarcadero is strategically positioned on Newport's historic bayfront, offering residents panoramic views of Yaquina Bay, the Newport Bridge, and the active fishing fleet. This prime location places residents within walking distance of the working waterfront, with its mix of fishing vessels, sea lions, and maritime activities that define the…

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Beyond the Sale: Benefits of choosing the right real estate agent

How the Right Agent Adds Value Throughout the Entire Processs

When it comes to selling your home, choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a smooth, profitable transaction. While many homeowners focus solely on commission rates when selecting an agent, the value a truly exceptional agent provides extends far beyond the final sale price. This is especially true when working with local, professional agents who possess intimate knowledge of their market area, such as the brokers at Advantage Real Estate in Newport, Oregon.

Pre-Listing: Setting the Foundation for Success

The selling process begins long before your home hits…

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Waterfront Living in Lincoln County: Embracing Oregon's Nature-Focused Lifestyle

Tidewater, Oregon Riverfront Home

Lincoln County offers some of the most diverse and breathtaking waterfront living opportunities on the Oregon coast. From dramatic oceanfront communities to peaceful riverside settings, each location provides a unique waterfront lifestyle. Let's explore what makes these communities special places to call home.

Depoe Bay: Life Along the "World's Smallest Harbor"

Living in Depoe Bay means embracing the constant drama and beauty of the Pacific Ocean:

  • Whale Watching from Your Living Room: Residents enjoy resident gray whales that can be spotted year-round, often while simply enjoying morning coffee
  • Front-Row Storm Watching: Winter brings spectacular wave…

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Living in Newport, Oregon:

Coastal Charm Meets Small-Town Living

Newport, Oregon offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, maritime heritage, and small-town community spirit that makes it a distinctive place to call home. For those considering relocating to this picturesque coastal city and buying property here, Newport's combination of natural surroundings and practical amenities creates an appealing destination. Nestled on the central Oregon coast, this charming city of approximately 10,000 residents provides a lifestyle that balances natural splendor with practical amenities.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation

Living in Newport means having constant access to some of Oregon's most spectacular coastal scenery. When you purchase a home…

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Yachats: Oregon's Captivating Coastal Haven

Yachats, Oregon sunset shore with seagullsYachats stands as a premier Pacific Oceanfront community nestled along the scenic south end of Lincoln County. This enchanting coastal town offers an impressive variety of real estate opportunities to suit diverse preferences and lifestyles.

Oceanfront Living

The real estate landscape of Yachats features both charming historic cottages and sophisticated modern homes, many boasting breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Pacific Ocean. These properties combine coastal comfort with the natural splendor that defines Oregon's coastline.

Riverside Treasures

The picturesque Yachats River winds gracefully through the heart of town, creating additional waterfront opportunities. Properties…

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New Listing! By Advantage Real Estate broker Nick Dyer

Hidden Garden Retreat: Three Cottages on 1.45 Acres

1885-1887-1889 SE Alsea Hwy Waldport, Oregon

Discover a rare opportunity at 1885, 1887 & 1889 SE Alsea Hwy, Waldport - three charming cottages nestled within 1.45 acres of meticulously landscaped paradise. Created by a master gardener, this property features winding trails through mature trees, offering the perfect balance of privacy and community.

Recently upgraded with a new septic system servicing all three homes (under contract with Lincoln County), this retreat is move-in ready. Each cottage offers its own unique character:

1887 SE Alsea Hwy boasts newer roofing, fresh decking, efficient mini-split A/C, and a luxurious outdoor soaking tub.

1889 SE Alsea Hwy…

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Understanding Your House Payment: A Breakdown of PITI and PMI

When purchasing a home in Lincoln County, Oregon, your monthly mortgage payment typically consists of several components beyond just the loan repayment. Understanding these elements—commonly abbreviated as PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) plus PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) when applicable—can help you budget accurately and avoid surprises. Let's break down each component with specific information for our coastal region.

Principal: Building Your Ownership Stake

What It Is: Principal refers to the portion of your payment that reduces the actual loan balance. This is the amount that goes toward building equity in your home.

Local Considerations:

  • The median home…

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