Showing posts with label Search MLS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Search MLS. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
5 Wrong Turns to Avoid When Selling Your Home
5 Wrong Turns to Avoid When Selling Your Home
Sometimes, it’s helpful to learn from your mistakes. Usually, it’s much better to learn from someone else’s, especially when it comes to something as important as selling your home. Here are some common mistakes you really don't want to make:
1. Trying to sell your home yourself
In this DIY era, the urge to try to sell your home yourself to save money can beckon like the smell of oven-fresh cookies at an open house. Resist. Working with a licensed agent helps ensure you’re not leaving money on the table as a result of an off-target listing price or a mistake in the many steps that lead to a final sale. Sell your sofa yourself online. List your home with a professional.
2. Picking the wrong Realtor
Not all agents are equal. Just because your college buddy dabbles in the industry doesn’t mean he’s the best guy to sell your home. You want experience. You want to work with an agent who has a depth of knowledge. Invite your buddy to the housewarming party. Find an agent who can truly guide you.
3. Pricing your home too high
Sometimes it’s good to aim high. But when you’re setting a price for your home, it’s better to be smart than overly eager. Listing your home at a price beyond the true market value and then letting it drop several times can lead to a lower sale price than you’re hoping for. A savvy agent can help you set the best, most competitive price for your home based on other recent sales and local market trends.
4. Sweating the small stuff
Keep things in perspective. You’re in the process of one of the largest business transactions you’ll ever make. It's easy to get distracted by dollars adding up from pre-sale repairs or post-inspection demands, but don’t let the cost of replacing a closet door, servicing the furnace or fixing a stairway banister derail you. After you reach the finish line on your home sale, you'll focus more on the rewarding outcome and quickly forget about the smaller frustrations.
5. Getting emotional
Yes, your children may have learned to walk on that carpet, but a heartfelt story isn’t going to win the hearts of buyers. With so much personal history tied to your home, emotions can cloud judgment. An agent can help you make smart, strategic decisions.
When you’re ready to sell your home the right way, find a local RE/MAX agent to guide you.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Friday, February 28, 2014
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
WINTER IS APPROACHING...IS YOUR HOME READY?
Winter Is Approaching … Is your Home Ready?
Autumn winds blow a chilly reminder that winter is fast approaching. Perform the following maintenance tips each fall to protect your property's value and prevent major repairs.
Roof, Gutters and Downspouts
Rain, ice, snow and wind can all cause damage to your roof and gutters. Now’s the time to trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof. You also should remove debris, such as leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters don’t allow water to properly drain away from the home, which can cause seepage in your ceilings and walls. You can also invest in gutter guards, a screen that prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away from the house and into the ground.
Water Heater
You don’t want to find out that your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most. So use this time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s pressure and temperature relief valve checked. In addition, remove sediment from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallons of water to improve heat transfer and the efficiency of your heater.
Heating and Cooling System
If you have a forced warm-air heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for dirt and dust. Clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor and burner (if you have a gas heater). Vacuum air passages and check and replace, if necessary, fan belts. To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your home, wash out your reusable filter or replace it if it’s disposable.
Doors and Windows
To help control heating costs, make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Now is the time to repair or replace weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs and window frames. Check for loose or missing glazing putty and caulking for deterioration. If you have storm windows, install them.
Water Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy. Before frigid weather hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes. This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape or blanket insulation and duct tape or by encasing the pipes with preformed plastic foam. In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.
Fireplace
Before you light the logs and get ready to settle in front of a cozy fire, make sure that your fireplace is in good working order. Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected and repaired. Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out drafts. Replace the seal if it is loose or damaged.
If you decide to perform the fall maintenance yourself, disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems. In addition, before inspecting, cleaning or making any repairs refer to your owner’s manual for all equipment for proper instructions, which should be the final authority on any maintenance.
Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping
Fall is also a great time to seal your driveways, wood patios and other hardscape surfaces. In addition, prune tree branches away from your home and electrical wires. Plant spring flower bulbs and move sensitive potted plants indoors.
Although this list is merely a guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape and have a winter free of major repairs.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Autumn winds blow a chilly reminder that winter is fast approaching. Perform the following maintenance tips each fall to protect your property's value and prevent major repairs.
Roof, Gutters and Downspouts
Rain, ice, snow and wind can all cause damage to your roof and gutters. Now’s the time to trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof. You also should remove debris, such as leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters don’t allow water to properly drain away from the home, which can cause seepage in your ceilings and walls. You can also invest in gutter guards, a screen that prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away from the house and into the ground.
Water Heater
You don’t want to find out that your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most. So use this time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s pressure and temperature relief valve checked. In addition, remove sediment from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallons of water to improve heat transfer and the efficiency of your heater.
Heating and Cooling System
If you have a forced warm-air heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for dirt and dust. Clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor and burner (if you have a gas heater). Vacuum air passages and check and replace, if necessary, fan belts. To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your home, wash out your reusable filter or replace it if it’s disposable.
Doors and Windows
To help control heating costs, make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Now is the time to repair or replace weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs and window frames. Check for loose or missing glazing putty and caulking for deterioration. If you have storm windows, install them.
Water Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy. Before frigid weather hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes. This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape or blanket insulation and duct tape or by encasing the pipes with preformed plastic foam. In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.
Fireplace
Before you light the logs and get ready to settle in front of a cozy fire, make sure that your fireplace is in good working order. Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected and repaired. Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out drafts. Replace the seal if it is loose or damaged.
If you decide to perform the fall maintenance yourself, disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems. In addition, before inspecting, cleaning or making any repairs refer to your owner’s manual for all equipment for proper instructions, which should be the final authority on any maintenance.
Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping
Fall is also a great time to seal your driveways, wood patios and other hardscape surfaces. In addition, prune tree branches away from your home and electrical wires. Plant spring flower bulbs and move sensitive potted plants indoors.
Although this list is merely a guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape and have a winter free of major repairs.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
IMPROVING YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Improve Your Credit Score
Those about to start house hunting should check their credit score before things get too serious. There is nothing quite as frightening in the mortgage process as learning that your credit report contains a late payment or other blemishes that can prevent you from buying a property.
The higher your credit score, the better your chances are of financing a home. A credit score of at least 620 will give consumers a fighting chance to secure a home loan; 720 should qualify in most cases.
However, a lower credit score doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t finance a home. Credit score repair begins with your credit report. You can request a free copy of your credit report annually from the Federal Trade Commission at AnnualCreditReport.com. Check the report for errors.
Don’t panic if your report contains blemishes. There are steps you can take to fix negative marks, regardless of whether the marks are in error or if you’ve missed a payment or two. The simplest thing to do if you’ve missed a payment is to call the creditor and ask them to erase the negative listing. You can also do this with a well-documented letter. There is no guarantee that a lender will do this, but if you’ve been a good customer through the years, this method has proven to be successful.
If you are one of the many who have defaulted on a student loan you can enter into a “rehab program,” which will get your account back on track after 12 months. This may not be the quick fix you need when buying a home but the sooner you do this the better.
For disputing a negative mark that was not your fault, you can try disputing the account with the credit bureaus as “not mine.”
One quick fix used by borrowers to boost their credit score is to have an older family member with a sound credit rating add you as an authorized user on a credit card. This can help increase your score and you wouldn’t even need the card in your possession.
With more loans requiring higher credit scores today, it’s never too early to start fixing credit challenges.
Prudential Brookfield
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Winter Is Approaching … Is your Home Ready?
Winter Is Approaching … Is your Home Ready?
Autumn winds blow a chilly reminder that winter is fast approaching. Perform the following maintenance tips each fall to protect your property's value and prevent major repairs.
Roof, Gutters and Downspouts
Rain, ice, snow and wind can all cause damage to your roof and gutters. Now’s the time to trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof. You also should remove debris, such as leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters don’t allow water to properly drain away from the home, which can cause seepage in your ceilings and walls. You can also invest in gutter guards, a screen that prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away from the house and into the ground.
Water Heater
You don’t want to find out that your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most. So use this time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s pressure and temperature relief valve checked. In addition, remove sediment from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallons of water to improve heat transfer and the efficiency of your heater.
Heating and Cooling System
If you have a forced warm-air heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for dirt and dust. Clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor and burner (if you have a gas heater). Vacuum air passages and check and replace, if necessary, fan belts. To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your home, wash out your reusable filter or replace it if it’s disposable.
Doors and Windows
To help control heating costs, make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Now is the time to repair or replace weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs and window frames. Check for loose or missing glazing putty and caulking for deterioration. If you have storm windows, install them.
Water Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy. Before frigid weather hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes. This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape or blanket insulation and duct tape or by encasing the pipes with preformed plastic foam. In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.
Fireplace
Before you light the logs and get ready to settle in front of a cozy fire, make sure that your fireplace is in good working order. Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected and repaired. Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out drafts. Replace the seal if it is loose or damaged.
If you decide to perform the fall maintenance yourself, disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems. In addition, before inspecting, cleaning or making any repairs refer to your owner’s manual for all equipment for proper instructions, which should be the final authority on any maintenance.
Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping
Fall is also a great time to seal your driveways, wood patios and other hardscape surfaces. In addition, prune tree branches away from your home and electrical wires. Plant spring flower bulbs and move sensitive potted plants indoors.
Although this list is merely a guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape and have a winter free of major repairs.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Autumn winds blow a chilly reminder that winter is fast approaching. Perform the following maintenance tips each fall to protect your property's value and prevent major repairs.
Roof, Gutters and Downspouts
Rain, ice, snow and wind can all cause damage to your roof and gutters. Now’s the time to trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof. You also should remove debris, such as leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters don’t allow water to properly drain away from the home, which can cause seepage in your ceilings and walls. You can also invest in gutter guards, a screen that prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away from the house and into the ground.
Water Heater
You don’t want to find out that your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most. So use this time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s pressure and temperature relief valve checked. In addition, remove sediment from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallons of water to improve heat transfer and the efficiency of your heater.
Heating and Cooling System
If you have a forced warm-air heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for dirt and dust. Clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor and burner (if you have a gas heater). Vacuum air passages and check and replace, if necessary, fan belts. To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your home, wash out your reusable filter or replace it if it’s disposable.
Doors and Windows
To help control heating costs, make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Now is the time to repair or replace weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs and window frames. Check for loose or missing glazing putty and caulking for deterioration. If you have storm windows, install them.
Water Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy. Before frigid weather hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes. This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape or blanket insulation and duct tape or by encasing the pipes with preformed plastic foam. In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.
Fireplace
Before you light the logs and get ready to settle in front of a cozy fire, make sure that your fireplace is in good working order. Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected and repaired. Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out drafts. Replace the seal if it is loose or damaged.
If you decide to perform the fall maintenance yourself, disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems. In addition, before inspecting, cleaning or making any repairs refer to your owner’s manual for all equipment for proper instructions, which should be the final authority on any maintenance.
Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping
Fall is also a great time to seal your driveways, wood patios and other hardscape surfaces. In addition, prune tree branches away from your home and electrical wires. Plant spring flower bulbs and move sensitive potted plants indoors.
Although this list is merely a guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape and have a winter free of major repairs.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Mortgage Points: To Pay or not to Pay?
Mortgage Points: To Pay or Not to Pay
If William Shakespeare financed a home today he’d probably ask on the subject of mortgage points: “To pay or not to pay? That is the question.”
Homebuyers direct the same question to their real estate agents. Here are some perspectives:
In its simplest definition, a point is an additional loan fee that is paid to the lender in exchange for a lower interest rate. It’s called “buying down,” and it allows you to reduce your rate for the life of the loan.
Let’s say you secured a mortgage loan for $500,000 without points, at 4.6% on a 30-year mortgage, your payment would be approximately $2,560 a month. If you paid two points ($10,000), the interest rate in this example would go down to 4.1% and the monthly payment would decrease to around $2,415, a savings of $145 a month.
In this scenario, it would take you about eight years to recoup the money you paid up front, so if you are planning on staying in your home a while, this will save you money in the long-run.
Home buyers must answer some key questions to determine if paying points is a wise decision. Specifically:
• How long will you keep the home?
• Do you have extra money to pay points?
• Could that money be better used for something else?
Money managers may suggest that a smarter option is to invest that $10,000 because you could do much better than your $140 savings, but you have to weigh the variables.
“Paying points depends on your career, your interests and all the things that predict your future,” said financial advisor Thomas Watkins of Total Mortgage Services in Milford, Conn. “Points are paid up front while your savings will be spread out into the future. Therefore, you get more benefit if you own your home longer, or if you don’t refinance for a long time.”
The rule of thumb when it comes to points is simple: If you plan to stay in the house for less than three years, do not pay points. If you plan to stay in the house for more than five years, pay 1 to 2 points. If you’ll be in the house for three to five years, paying points doesn’t make a significant difference.
Another important aspect to consider: Since points are interest-payment related, they are fully deductible on your taxes in the year that you close. See your tax advisor for details.
Mortgage points can add up to valuable savings over the course of your loan, but the future isn’t always predictable. Even if you “plan” on staying in your home for
20 years, changes in your career or family life could alter the plan.
Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.
If William Shakespeare financed a home today he’d probably ask on the subject of mortgage points: “To pay or not to pay? That is the question.”
Homebuyers direct the same question to their real estate agents. Here are some perspectives:
In its simplest definition, a point is an additional loan fee that is paid to the lender in exchange for a lower interest rate. It’s called “buying down,” and it allows you to reduce your rate for the life of the loan.
Let’s say you secured a mortgage loan for $500,000 without points, at 4.6% on a 30-year mortgage, your payment would be approximately $2,560 a month. If you paid two points ($10,000), the interest rate in this example would go down to 4.1% and the monthly payment would decrease to around $2,415, a savings of $145 a month.
In this scenario, it would take you about eight years to recoup the money you paid up front, so if you are planning on staying in your home a while, this will save you money in the long-run.
Home buyers must answer some key questions to determine if paying points is a wise decision. Specifically:
• How long will you keep the home?
• Do you have extra money to pay points?
• Could that money be better used for something else?
Money managers may suggest that a smarter option is to invest that $10,000 because you could do much better than your $140 savings, but you have to weigh the variables.
“Paying points depends on your career, your interests and all the things that predict your future,” said financial advisor Thomas Watkins of Total Mortgage Services in Milford, Conn. “Points are paid up front while your savings will be spread out into the future. Therefore, you get more benefit if you own your home longer, or if you don’t refinance for a long time.”
The rule of thumb when it comes to points is simple: If you plan to stay in the house for less than three years, do not pay points. If you plan to stay in the house for more than five years, pay 1 to 2 points. If you’ll be in the house for three to five years, paying points doesn’t make a significant difference.
Another important aspect to consider: Since points are interest-payment related, they are fully deductible on your taxes in the year that you close. See your tax advisor for details.
Mortgage points can add up to valuable savings over the course of your loan, but the future isn’t always predictable. Even if you “plan” on staying in your home for
20 years, changes in your career or family life could alter the plan.
Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS FACE THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME!!!!
First-Time Homebuyers Face the Opportunity of a Lifetime
Today’s first-time homebuyers are presented with the opportunity of a lifetime. Mortgage rates in early December stood near lows last seen during the Truman administration while home prices were well off their peaks of previous years. The combination made housing affordability, as measured by the National Association of REALTORS®, the highest since NAR® launched its Affordability Index in 1973. Housing inventory is also abundant in many markets, enabling first-timers to secure good homes and pave the way to their financial futures. Indeed, homes and their long-term virtues of shelter, wealth-building and personal and civic pride are available at bargain-basement prices that won’t, or can’t, last.
Naturally, first-timers have many questions about home buying, starting with costs. With research and the services of a licensed real estate professional, these consumers can demystify the process and place themselves on the fast track to homeownership.
Knowledge is power – Nine out of every 10 home searches today begin on the Internet. With just a few mouse clicks, you can peruse neighborhoods, search countless online listings and take virtual tours packed with detailed photographs. The process gives you working knowledge of home availability and pricing in your local markets so by the time you sit down with your real estate sales professional you’re well on your way.
Also visit informative websites such as www.ginniemae.gov, www.realtor.com and prudential.com, and check the local newspaper for homebuyer seminars.
Affordability – Costs involved in the purchase of a home – mortgage, down payment and closing expenditures – can be overwhelming to first-time homebuyers. By looking at your income and debt ratio, your real estate professional can help you calculate how much you can afford each month in mortgage payments. But before determining your price range, you should also take into consideration other factors that will affect your monthly budget once you are a homeowner, such as property taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance. And if your down payment is less than 20 percent of the cost of the home, you will be responsible for private mortgage insurance.
Mortgage payment – In today’s buyers market, you may face competition for your dream home. To establish your spending limit and gain the ability to move quickly on a home, get pre-approved for a loan before you start looking. The fact that your loan has already been approved is of great value to the seller because it shortens the purchase process, and there is less of a chance that the buyer will back out of the sale. This process will also help you identify any credit challenges you must address prior to your purchase.
If you don’t have a specific mortgage lender in mind, ask your sales professional for a recommendation.
Down payment – The down payment amount varies depending on the value of the home you choose and your mortgage lender. First-time homebuyers may also qualify for down-payment assistance programs and grants available through their states and municipalities. Contact your state housing finance authority, county housing and community development office for an application.
Closing costs must be factored in as well. These include origination fees charged by the lender, title and settlement fees, taxes and prepaid items such as homeowners insurance or homeowner association fees. All told, buyers should spend no more than 28% of their income on housing costs, according to Fannie Mae. Your real estate professional will be able to explain your options.
Making offers – Make sure you visit several different homes to get a feel for the marketplace. Visit the ones you like again to see things you might have missed. Work with your real estate professional to get all of your questions answered before making an offer. And remember there are no silly questions. Make sure you understand and are comfortable with every aspect of the transaction.
Indeed, home ownership remains a sound financial decision for most and a key component of long-term financial planning. First-time buyers who seek homes for all the right reasons – a place to raise a family, build for the future and face life’s opportunities and challenges – can secure their dreams and build for their futures at some of the most attractive values in years.
Prudential Fox & Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Pre-Settlement Walk-Through
Final Walk-Through Tips
There will come a time during your home buying process when you'll need to do a final walk-through of the home before closing.
Around a week before you close, take the time to visit your "new" home again. When you're there, check to be sure that the terms of your contract have been met, and that the condition of the property has not changed significantly since talks began.
As your reference guide, be sure to bring your purchase contract with you for this walk-through. This will help you look for little details, without having to remember each item.
What are things you should be on the lookout for?
1. Major appliances: Be sure that any items that were to remain in the home are still there, and that they are in good working order.
2. Major systems: Do the air conditioning, heat, and plumbing still function?
3. Walls and floors: Has any damage occurred to the floors or walls during the sellers move? Were rugs, artwork, or carpets covering water damage that was not disclosed?
4. Repairs: As part of your purchase contract, the seller may have been required to make specific repairs. Be sure that these have been completed, or that the seller has a written timeline for when the repairs will be done.
5. Screens and Storm Windows: If it is the season for these items to be in storage, be sure they have been left behind and that they are in good shape.
6. Remotes: Garage doors, alarms, sound systems, and the like all use remotes, some of which can be very expensive. If any of these components were part of your agreement, be sure they have been kept with the house.
7. Cleanliness: The home should have been cleaned and all debris removed. You don't want to spend the first week living in your new home cleaning up other people's junk.
8. Landscaping: It may seem ridiculous, but yes, some sellers may try to run off with your shrubs and plants. Refer back to your contract to see what should have stayed. If plants were taken, let your agent handle the situation.
9. Fixtures: Light fixtures, curtains, and other items that were agreed upon should still be in the home. If they are not, let your agent address the conflict.
10. Exterior: Has there been any damage to the home since your inspection or first visit? If there have been storm with high winds or hail, be sure to visually inspect the exterior of the house for damage. Once you have signed on that dotted line, the house is yours. Hail damage and all.
Closing time can be very hectic. Be sure to make time for your final walk-through. It's a smart way to bring to completion a long, but joyous, process.
© Copyright 2010 Realty Times.
There will come a time during your home buying process when you'll need to do a final walk-through of the home before closing.
Around a week before you close, take the time to visit your "new" home again. When you're there, check to be sure that the terms of your contract have been met, and that the condition of the property has not changed significantly since talks began.
As your reference guide, be sure to bring your purchase contract with you for this walk-through. This will help you look for little details, without having to remember each item.
What are things you should be on the lookout for?
1. Major appliances: Be sure that any items that were to remain in the home are still there, and that they are in good working order.
2. Major systems: Do the air conditioning, heat, and plumbing still function?
3. Walls and floors: Has any damage occurred to the floors or walls during the sellers move? Were rugs, artwork, or carpets covering water damage that was not disclosed?
4. Repairs: As part of your purchase contract, the seller may have been required to make specific repairs. Be sure that these have been completed, or that the seller has a written timeline for when the repairs will be done.
5. Screens and Storm Windows: If it is the season for these items to be in storage, be sure they have been left behind and that they are in good shape.
6. Remotes: Garage doors, alarms, sound systems, and the like all use remotes, some of which can be very expensive. If any of these components were part of your agreement, be sure they have been kept with the house.
7. Cleanliness: The home should have been cleaned and all debris removed. You don't want to spend the first week living in your new home cleaning up other people's junk.
8. Landscaping: It may seem ridiculous, but yes, some sellers may try to run off with your shrubs and plants. Refer back to your contract to see what should have stayed. If plants were taken, let your agent handle the situation.
9. Fixtures: Light fixtures, curtains, and other items that were agreed upon should still be in the home. If they are not, let your agent address the conflict.
10. Exterior: Has there been any damage to the home since your inspection or first visit? If there have been storm with high winds or hail, be sure to visually inspect the exterior of the house for damage. Once you have signed on that dotted line, the house is yours. Hail damage and all.
Closing time can be very hectic. Be sure to make time for your final walk-through. It's a smart way to bring to completion a long, but joyous, process.
© Copyright 2010 Realty Times.
Friday, April 16, 2010
TOP TEN TIPS FOR STAGING A HOME
Top 10 Tips for Staging a Home
April 15, 2010 -- Realty Times Feature Article by Broderick Perkins
Provided your home-for-sale has the curb appeal to get potential buyers inside, keeping them inside for a further look requires a staging strategy that sticks the deal.
HGTV's FrontDoor.com offers what it considers the Top 10 tips that can turn a languishing listing to a multiple offer attraction.
• Reclaim the yard. First impressions rule. Spruce up curb appeal by maintaining a clean yard, adding plants for a splash of color and applying a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Let the foyer flourish. The home portal sets the tone for the entire home. Make the space up-to-date, well-maintained and eye catching -- top to bottom.
• Back off beige. Don't let neutral colored walls dominate a room. Splashes of color liven up boring spaces. Throw pillows, artwork and fresh flowers add pops of color and personality.
• Cure kitchen craziness. Consistency pleases. All countertops and cabinets should match. New hardware, a new backsplash and a thorough cleaning can transform a bleak kitchen into one with smiles.
• Denude the dining room. De-cluttering and depersonalizing is the first rule of home staging. Homebuyers can have trouble envisioning themselves living in a home that's full of the seller's personal items.
• Avoid focal point faux-pas. Highlight the great features in a home by positioning furniture to highlight them. Windows, fireplaces and other architectural details will be noticed by a buyer if they are emphasized in the home correctly.
• Perk up the patio. The outdoor space is an extension of the home. Capture a higher selling price by cleaning and adding style to any outdoor space with furniture, lighting and accessories.
• Master the master suite. The best approach to staging is often working with existing accessories. Using what is already in the room and repositioning the furniture will highlight the room's best features.
• Cure bathroom blues. Older vanities and dreadful wallpaper will make any bathroom feel outdated. Apply a fresh coat of neutral-hued paint and new hardware to modernize and brighten.
• Repurpose extra rooms. The value of a space decreases when homebuyers see a room without direction (think part office, part playroom, part home gym). Though almost every homeowner is guilty of having a "junk room," take sure to stage each room with a clear purpose before putting the home on the market.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 15, 2010 -- Realty Times Feature Article by Broderick Perkins
Provided your home-for-sale has the curb appeal to get potential buyers inside, keeping them inside for a further look requires a staging strategy that sticks the deal.
HGTV's FrontDoor.com offers what it considers the Top 10 tips that can turn a languishing listing to a multiple offer attraction.
• Reclaim the yard. First impressions rule. Spruce up curb appeal by maintaining a clean yard, adding plants for a splash of color and applying a fresh coat of paint to the front door.
• Let the foyer flourish. The home portal sets the tone for the entire home. Make the space up-to-date, well-maintained and eye catching -- top to bottom.
• Back off beige. Don't let neutral colored walls dominate a room. Splashes of color liven up boring spaces. Throw pillows, artwork and fresh flowers add pops of color and personality.
• Cure kitchen craziness. Consistency pleases. All countertops and cabinets should match. New hardware, a new backsplash and a thorough cleaning can transform a bleak kitchen into one with smiles.
• Denude the dining room. De-cluttering and depersonalizing is the first rule of home staging. Homebuyers can have trouble envisioning themselves living in a home that's full of the seller's personal items.
• Avoid focal point faux-pas. Highlight the great features in a home by positioning furniture to highlight them. Windows, fireplaces and other architectural details will be noticed by a buyer if they are emphasized in the home correctly.
• Perk up the patio. The outdoor space is an extension of the home. Capture a higher selling price by cleaning and adding style to any outdoor space with furniture, lighting and accessories.
• Master the master suite. The best approach to staging is often working with existing accessories. Using what is already in the room and repositioning the furniture will highlight the room's best features.
• Cure bathroom blues. Older vanities and dreadful wallpaper will make any bathroom feel outdated. Apply a fresh coat of neutral-hued paint and new hardware to modernize and brighten.
• Repurpose extra rooms. The value of a space decreases when homebuyers see a room without direction (think part office, part playroom, part home gym). Though almost every homeowner is guilty of having a "junk room," take sure to stage each room with a clear purpose before putting the home on the market.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
HOW TO CHOOSE A MOVER FOR YOUR LOCAL MOVE
HOW TO CHOOSE A MOVER FOR YOUR LOCAL MOVE
Avoid Extra Charges!
Take extra charges, for example. Internet is full of stories how people were ripped of by unfair moving companies. General rule of thumb: if the price sounds too good to be true, you will end up paying two times more than the original quote, and if you refuse to pay additional charges, chances are you will not see your belongings until you take care of outstanding bill.
I cannot stress this too much: never hire a moving company that has shrink wrap, blanket, overtime and over charges of this kind. This is the fastest way to overpay.
Let's say someone offers you a rate of $80 per hour for a crew of 2 movers and a truck with no extra charges for packing supplies for your furniture. Another company will offer you $70 per hour, but will charge you $5 per item that needs to be shrink wrapped. Guess what!
Although many people will opt for a mover who charges less per hour (sounds like a better value), most likely you will end up paying more than with the first moving company. It's very simple: every piece of your furniture will have to be wrapped with shrink wrap simply to minimize the chances of your belongings to be damaged during transition.
So, if you have just 10 pieces of furniture, it will add up to extra $50 on your bill. If your move takes 3 hours, you will end up paying $70 x 3 + $50 = $260, while if you took the first offer, you would get away with $80 x 3 = $240. And this is just if you have 10 pieces of furniture! (most people have way more than that)
My strong suggestion and general rule of thumb is: always go with a moving company that offers the simplest, uncluttered and most clear pricing structure, even if the hourly rate is a little higher. Do you really want to be counting the pieces that needed to be wrapped? Do you really care? Not only simple pricing structure will save you a headache and make your move more pleasant, 99% of the time it will also save you money at the end of the day.
Ideally, you should choose a moving company that offers hourly charge with no extra or hidden charges (mileage, shrink wrap, blankets and other) as opposed to a company that charges for these items, even if the hourly rate is a little higher. Simplicity and clarity is the key not only to save money, but also to ensure you have a pleasant moving experience!
AA
Avoid Extra Charges!
Take extra charges, for example. Internet is full of stories how people were ripped of by unfair moving companies. General rule of thumb: if the price sounds too good to be true, you will end up paying two times more than the original quote, and if you refuse to pay additional charges, chances are you will not see your belongings until you take care of outstanding bill.
I cannot stress this too much: never hire a moving company that has shrink wrap, blanket, overtime and over charges of this kind. This is the fastest way to overpay.
Let's say someone offers you a rate of $80 per hour for a crew of 2 movers and a truck with no extra charges for packing supplies for your furniture. Another company will offer you $70 per hour, but will charge you $5 per item that needs to be shrink wrapped. Guess what!
Although many people will opt for a mover who charges less per hour (sounds like a better value), most likely you will end up paying more than with the first moving company. It's very simple: every piece of your furniture will have to be wrapped with shrink wrap simply to minimize the chances of your belongings to be damaged during transition.
So, if you have just 10 pieces of furniture, it will add up to extra $50 on your bill. If your move takes 3 hours, you will end up paying $70 x 3 + $50 = $260, while if you took the first offer, you would get away with $80 x 3 = $240. And this is just if you have 10 pieces of furniture! (most people have way more than that)
My strong suggestion and general rule of thumb is: always go with a moving company that offers the simplest, uncluttered and most clear pricing structure, even if the hourly rate is a little higher. Do you really want to be counting the pieces that needed to be wrapped? Do you really care? Not only simple pricing structure will save you a headache and make your move more pleasant, 99% of the time it will also save you money at the end of the day.
Ideally, you should choose a moving company that offers hourly charge with no extra or hidden charges (mileage, shrink wrap, blankets and other) as opposed to a company that charges for these items, even if the hourly rate is a little higher. Simplicity and clarity is the key not only to save money, but also to ensure you have a pleasant moving experience!
AA
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Make Sure Your Home Stands Tall in a Competitive Market
Make Sure Your Home Stands Tall in a Competitive Market
Home sellers today must convince a new era of buyers returning to the market that their homes stand for value and quality.
You only have one chance to make a first impression. Here are several ways to make your property shine, inside and out.
Start with the outside. Do a visual check of the front of the house from across the street. Does your property have curb appeal? It should look inviting, with a trimmed lawn and flowerbed and a freshly painted front door. Polish door handles and knockers and replace worn items such as a rusty doorbell. Consider adding a new doormat and flowering plants at the entrance. Don’t forget to wash your windows and clean any oil or rust spots from the driveway.
Be sure to inspect the side and back yards. Add some flowering plants to the back as well. Clean and rearrange the outdoor furniture to look inviting. Put away gardening tools, and tidy around the grill area.
Now focus on the inside of the home where cleanliness, space, smell and lighting are vital. First get your house in tip-top condition by cleaning and clearing away clutter. Steam clean and vacuum the carpet. Make sure your floors are waxed and shiny. Touch up nicks on walls and make sure the porcelain sinks and tubs and metallic fixtures shine.
Be conscious of any lingering odors such as smoke, pets or strong-smelling foods. You may need to air out your home prior to your open house event. Consider grinding fresh lemons in the garbage disposal. And don’t forget to empty all trash containers.
Look at your countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms and the tops of your bureaus. Do they seem cluttered? Clear away and store as much as possible. You want your home to seem spacious.
Next, set the mood. Let your prospective buyers picture your home as their own. Rearrange the furniture so that rooms look more spacious, or consider removing furniture and accessories.
Lighting is also important to creating a desirable atmosphere. Bright lights provide a cheerful environment and make a small space appear larger. Pull back all the drapes and open the blinds. Turn on all the lights. Make sure all light sockets have fresh bulbs. Use softer lights for rooms in which you want a warm, cozy feeling.
Don’t forget little touches such as fresh flowers, lighted candles in the bathrooms, new logs in the fireplace, or a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter. You may even want to set your dining-room table with color-coordinated table settings.
Home buying is steeped in emotion. Sellers shouldn’t rely on buyers to use their imagination; they must capture buyers’ imagination. Remember that buyers may see seven or eight homes in a single day. The most memorable home will be the one that seemed the brightest, the most spacious and the most cheerful.
Home sellers today must convince a new era of buyers returning to the market that their homes stand for value and quality.
You only have one chance to make a first impression. Here are several ways to make your property shine, inside and out.
Start with the outside. Do a visual check of the front of the house from across the street. Does your property have curb appeal? It should look inviting, with a trimmed lawn and flowerbed and a freshly painted front door. Polish door handles and knockers and replace worn items such as a rusty doorbell. Consider adding a new doormat and flowering plants at the entrance. Don’t forget to wash your windows and clean any oil or rust spots from the driveway.
Be sure to inspect the side and back yards. Add some flowering plants to the back as well. Clean and rearrange the outdoor furniture to look inviting. Put away gardening tools, and tidy around the grill area.
Now focus on the inside of the home where cleanliness, space, smell and lighting are vital. First get your house in tip-top condition by cleaning and clearing away clutter. Steam clean and vacuum the carpet. Make sure your floors are waxed and shiny. Touch up nicks on walls and make sure the porcelain sinks and tubs and metallic fixtures shine.
Be conscious of any lingering odors such as smoke, pets or strong-smelling foods. You may need to air out your home prior to your open house event. Consider grinding fresh lemons in the garbage disposal. And don’t forget to empty all trash containers.
Look at your countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms and the tops of your bureaus. Do they seem cluttered? Clear away and store as much as possible. You want your home to seem spacious.
Next, set the mood. Let your prospective buyers picture your home as their own. Rearrange the furniture so that rooms look more spacious, or consider removing furniture and accessories.
Lighting is also important to creating a desirable atmosphere. Bright lights provide a cheerful environment and make a small space appear larger. Pull back all the drapes and open the blinds. Turn on all the lights. Make sure all light sockets have fresh bulbs. Use softer lights for rooms in which you want a warm, cozy feeling.
Don’t forget little touches such as fresh flowers, lighted candles in the bathrooms, new logs in the fireplace, or a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter. You may even want to set your dining-room table with color-coordinated table settings.
Home buying is steeped in emotion. Sellers shouldn’t rely on buyers to use their imagination; they must capture buyers’ imagination. Remember that buyers may see seven or eight homes in a single day. The most memorable home will be the one that seemed the brightest, the most spacious and the most cheerful.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Get Pre-Approval before Beginning your Home Search
One of the most exciting and highly anticipated events in your venture to real estate is when you go house hunting to finally discover your sought-after dream house. You may have set yourself all geared up for a great home search adventure yet you need to know first the most important component that ought to signal the start of your venture. Loan pre-approval must be on top of your priority list before you go any further in your pursuits for home acquisition. You realize that looking for a prospective house is useless if you have not yet been pre-approved of your mortgage.
This is often a common misconception and error for home seekers resulting to wastage of their time, effort and money. Yes it is a very good ordeal to start looking for a house, yet it is totally of no avail if you are looking in the wrong place at definitely the wrong time. You do not have the full and accurate picture of the things allowable in the home purchase in the first place, so how could you find the perfect property to consider for your investment?
If you have a loan pre-approval, you know the entire scenario and you know exactly what property you can realistically afford, basing on your mortgage loan and what type is granted you by your mortgage provider. Therefore, you can focus your time and efforts in trying to search for a property that is suitable and affordable with the kind of financial allocation you can actually spend. This is much less stressful and efficient compared to searching for random properties which you are not certain about their affordability and your eligibility to purchase. It saves you the disappointment knowing that you cannot realistically pay for it even if you have already fallen in love with the house.
Loan pre-approval is also a necessity if you are going to make the required home purchase offer. Say you have already seen the property of your choice and you are more than willing to make a proposition in initiating your transaction. However, the only problem there is that you do not have the pre-approved loan as evidence of your eligibility to carry on and complete the transaction. Home sellers prefer those who already have a stable and actual source of finances for the home purchase. It also gives them the notion that you are truly serious with your venture if you already have a pre-approved loan to use as their basis of accepting your offer.
Hence, before you embark on a home search endeavor, make sure that you have a loan pre-approval to avoid the hassle and bustle of uncertain offers and intangible sources of financial credibility. Prioritize that your loan be pre-approved by submitting all the requirements such as your employment history, monthly expenses and income, credit standings and scores among others.
Finding a house for the realization of your dreams is a fulfilling pursuit to begin with, however you need to make it as realistic as possible. Do this by securing a pre-approval for your loan and you can then enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime ride of your life.
The Real estate market can be an enjoyable, satisfying and lucrative experience for you.
article alley
This is often a common misconception and error for home seekers resulting to wastage of their time, effort and money. Yes it is a very good ordeal to start looking for a house, yet it is totally of no avail if you are looking in the wrong place at definitely the wrong time. You do not have the full and accurate picture of the things allowable in the home purchase in the first place, so how could you find the perfect property to consider for your investment?
If you have a loan pre-approval, you know the entire scenario and you know exactly what property you can realistically afford, basing on your mortgage loan and what type is granted you by your mortgage provider. Therefore, you can focus your time and efforts in trying to search for a property that is suitable and affordable with the kind of financial allocation you can actually spend. This is much less stressful and efficient compared to searching for random properties which you are not certain about their affordability and your eligibility to purchase. It saves you the disappointment knowing that you cannot realistically pay for it even if you have already fallen in love with the house.
Loan pre-approval is also a necessity if you are going to make the required home purchase offer. Say you have already seen the property of your choice and you are more than willing to make a proposition in initiating your transaction. However, the only problem there is that you do not have the pre-approved loan as evidence of your eligibility to carry on and complete the transaction. Home sellers prefer those who already have a stable and actual source of finances for the home purchase. It also gives them the notion that you are truly serious with your venture if you already have a pre-approved loan to use as their basis of accepting your offer.
Hence, before you embark on a home search endeavor, make sure that you have a loan pre-approval to avoid the hassle and bustle of uncertain offers and intangible sources of financial credibility. Prioritize that your loan be pre-approved by submitting all the requirements such as your employment history, monthly expenses and income, credit standings and scores among others.
Finding a house for the realization of your dreams is a fulfilling pursuit to begin with, however you need to make it as realistic as possible. Do this by securing a pre-approval for your loan and you can then enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime ride of your life.
The Real estate market can be an enjoyable, satisfying and lucrative experience for you.
article alley
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