With the Emmys fast approaching, avid TV-watchers will be prone to reflect on all that’s happened in the world of television over the last year. Whether we’re watching Game of Thrones or Making a Murderer, it seems that the creative boundaries and chill factor of TV shows continues to get better with each passing year.
With the growth of television’s capacity for entertainment naturally comes a greater variety of stories, including those related to real estate. This year in television, in particular, had a number of real estate-themed lessons to impart upon viewers. Here are some of the best:
Do your Research Before Moving
Moving to a new area of the country can be an exciting idea, up until the point that you realize you have no idea where to move. Unlike Arya Stark from Game of Thrones, who traveled across the seven kingdoms to meet with some intriguing, faceless man, you’ll want to have a game plan of sorts. Do your research, talk to the locals, and figure out if an area is really right for you before making the move.
Find the Right Real Estate Agent
Modern Family’s Phil Dunphy epitomizes an agent who puts his clients first and takes his job seriously. Be sure to hire a real estate agent who’s committed to helping you find the home that’s right for you, no matter how difficult it is- you’ll thank them later.
Know your Limits
Anyone that kept up with Silicon Valley this season will remember Big Head’s decision to buy a nine-bedroom mansion with his multimillion-dollar severance package, which was then taken away after he violated his nondisclosure agreement. Don’t be (or have a) Big Head- make sure you have a steady income and emergency savings so you can make your mortgage payments without fail.
Consider Bringing on a Tenant
In competitive markets, buying a home and making regular mortgage payments can put a sizeable strain on your finances. One way to offset the cost of your mortgage is to turn your basement into an income property, much like what Lillian did when she rented out her basement to Titus and Kimmy in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.
Respect your Neighbors
Viewers of the wildly popular Netflix show Orange is the New Black learned a great deal about the importance of being kind to neighbors this season. In the show, Piper wasn’t able to bully her new bunkmate, Hapakuka, into submission in her prison gang, which led to Hapakuka turning against Piper and leaving her burned- literally. Be kind to your neighbors, whether they’re across the room or the white picket fence.
Source: Forbes