Learn What is On Your Credit Report - 10/31/08 08:36 AM
Anyone who has ever had a bank account, mortgage, credit card, car loan, or account with a retail store will invariably have a credit rating.  Most information in your credit rating comes from companies you have credit with, as well as from certain public records such as tax liens, bankruptcies, judgments and lawsuits.  It is important to know and understand your credit rating, how the information is compiled, and how it affects your ability to acquire a loan for your new home.
Credit reports are usually divided into five sections:
1. Your credit history.
2. Who has reviewed your credit history.
… (2 comments)

Learn What is On Your Credit Report - 10/31/08 08:33 AM
Anyone who has ever had a bank account, mortgage, credit card, car loan, or account with a retail store will invariably have a credit rating.  Most information in your credit rating comes from companies you have credit with, as well as from certain public records such as tax liens, bankruptcies, judgments and lawsuits.  It is important to know and understand your credit rating, how the information is compiled, and how it affects your ability to acquire a loan for your new home.
Credit reports are usually divided into five sections:
1. Your credit history.
2. Who has reviewed your credit history.
… (0 comments)

Back on Track - 10/30/08 07:28 AM
Finally this morning I am back on track.  Normally, I get on active rain first thing in the morning to blog and comment.  This has been a great morning routine for me for the past several months.  Active Rain has always given me motivation, and it worked well in the morning.  But the past few weeks I have had a routine change.  I started training a new member of my group.  It is great to have new blood in the group.  We found it best to work earlier in the morning because there was no there to interrupt us. 
This week … (3 comments)

Easily Increase the Value of Your Home - 10/30/08 05:44 AM
Whether you just want your house to look better or you are serious about getting your house ready for potential buyers to start viewing your house to purchase,
Here are 38 valuable tips to get you on your way:
 EXTERIOR:
1. Paint the exterior of your home to make it look cleaner and years younger.  If your home has been painted within the last few months, have the trim painted again. The fresh smell of paint to the buyer shows that the seller has put forth effort to prepare the home for sale.
2. Trim shrubs, especially around walkways.
3. Park extra cars down … (0 comments)

Easily Increase the Value of Your Home - 10/30/08 05:41 AM
Whether you just want your house to look better or you are serious about getting your house ready for potential buyers to start viewing your house to purchase,
Here are 38 valuable tips to get you on your way:
 EXTERIOR:
1. Paint the exterior of your home to make it look cleaner and years younger.  If your home has been painted within the last few months, have the trim painted again. The fresh smell of paint to the buyer shows that the seller has put forth effort to prepare the home for sale.
2. Trim shrubs, especially around walkways.
3. Park extra cars down … (0 comments)

KW Fourth Anniversary Bash - 10/30/08 05:29 AM
I was proud and excited last night, not only for the Phillies.  Before the game, our office celebrated our fourth anniversary with a Halloween party.  It was great!  I have been a proud owner/partner at our Keller Williams since the doors opened.  We have made great progress in establishing the office since we opened. 
At the Halloween party last night, we had many agents dress up.  And we gave costume awards: Best Overall, Cutiest, and Spookiest.  We had one agent dress up as Yoda, very good.  No one knew who she was.  We all had guessed, but no one knew for … (1 comments)

The Phantasic Phillies...I got the Phever - 10/30/08 05:01 AM
I normally do not post blogs not related to real estate.  However, this morning I am so excited!  I can't believe it, the PHILLIES WON.  We have had a great team that worked well together this year, and it paid off.  My daughter who is my Marketing Director, has never seen a Philadelphia Championship.  And for those of you who don't know it has been since 1980 before this.  She is ecstatic.
Our area was alive last night.  I am in the suburbs, and you went outside last night and all you heard was honking, yelling, and fireworks.  It is a … (1 comments)

Expanded & Remodeled Home - 10/28/08 02:42 PM
… (2 comments)

Questions to Ask a Realtor When Selling - Part 2 of 2 - 10/23/08 05:33 AM
10 Questions to ask a Realtor  - Part 2 of 2
6. Will you give me names of past clients?Interviewing an agent can be similar to interviewing someone to work in your office. Contacting references can be a reliable way for you to understand how he or she works, and whether or not this style is compatible with your own.7. Do you have a performance guarantee? If I am not satisfied with your performance, can I terminate our listing agreement?In the heavily regulated world of real estate, it can be difficult for an agent to offer a performance guarantee. If your … (0 comments)

Questions to Ask a Realtor When Selling - Part 2 of 2 - 10/23/08 05:28 AM
10 Questions to ask a Realtor  - Part 2 of 2
6. Will you give me names of past clients?Interviewing an agent can be similar to interviewing someone to work in your office. Contacting references can be a reliable way for you to understand how he or she works, and whether or not this style is compatible with your own.7. Do you have a performance guarantee? If I am not satisfied with your performance, can I terminate our listing agreement?In the heavily regulated world of real estate, it can be difficult for an agent to offer a performance guarantee. If your … (0 comments)

Questions to Ask a Realtor When Selling - Part 1 of 2 - 10/22/08 05:37 AM
10 Questions to Ask Your Realtor about Selling a House - Part 1 of 21. Are you a full-time professional real estate agent? How long have you worked full time in real estate? How long have you been representing buyers? What professional designations do you have?Knowing whether or not your agent practices full time can help you determine potential scheduling conflicts and his or her commitment to your transaction. As with any profession, the number of years a person has been in the business does not necessarily reflect the level of service you can expect, but it is a good starting … (0 comments)

Questions to Ask a Realtor When Selling - Part 1 of 2 - 10/22/08 05:33 AM
10 Questions to Ask Your Realtor about Selling a House - Part 1 of 21. Are you a full-time professional real estate agent? How long have you worked full time in real estate? How long have you been representing buyers? What professional designations do you have?Knowing whether or not your agent practices full time can help you determine potential scheduling conflicts and his or her commitment to your transaction. As with any profession, the number of years a person has been in the business does not necessarily reflect the level of service you can expect, but it is a good starting … (0 comments)

Blackberry Storm... - 10/22/08 05:27 AM
The Blackberry Storm is set to come out on November 10th with Verizon.  I have had a blackberry for years now, and could not live without one.  But I am not sure I am ready for the Storm.  The Storm looks like Verizon's answer to AT&T's iphone.
The Storm is a touch screen smartphone , just like any other blackberry.  However, this one is a touch screen and plays videos and you can listen to music.  I went online to check it out, and it is suppose to retail for over $700.  I thought that was a little much.  I am … (14 comments)

After the Contract Is Signed - 10/21/08 08:20 AM

Home warranty plans go a long way to alleviate some risks and concerns.  For a modest price, the buyer can have a one-year warranty covering specified heating, plumbing, electrical, water heater or appliance breakdowns.  Coverage under most plans commences at closing.  In all cases, there are important limitations and exclusions (example:  appliances/systems must be operative at commencement of coverage).
 
InspectionsInspections and potential repairs are the number one reason sales don't close. Typically, buyers have a certain number of days in which to inspect the property and accept or reject the property based upon these mechanical and structural inspections.
How the … (3 comments)

After the Contract Is Signed - 10/21/08 08:16 AM
Here is some information to think about:
Home Warranty Plans
Home warranty plans go a long way to alleviate some risks and concerns.  For a modest price, the buyer can have a one-year warranty covering specified heating, plumbing, electrical, water heater or appliance breakdowns.  Coverage under most plans commences at closing.  In all cases, there are important limitations and exclusions (example:  appliances/systems must be operative at commencement of coverage).
InspectionsInspections and potential repairs are the number one reason sales don't close. Typically, buyers have a certain number of days in which to inspect the property and accept or reject the property … (0 comments)

Linkedin...Get it Going! - 10/21/08 07:47 AM
There are so many benefits to social networking.  But how and where do you start?  That was the question I had a two months ago.  I wanted to get on and into Linkedin.  After I heard about it here, on Active Rain.   So I signed up.  Ok, where are all the people I know?  I starting searching through my area of business professionals, I still could not find anyone. 
So then I joined a few Groups.  One of my ideas in joining was to build up a network for referrals.  That is working out great.  I made a few friends there, … (7 comments)

Real Estate Market Improves - 10/20/08 09:05 AM
Great News!  NAR is reporting that the U.S. is seeing an escalating number of pending homes sales.  Buyers are out there taking advantages of the great deals to be had.  The Pending Homes Sales Index, claims the number contracts signed rose 7.4 percent in August.  NAR then stated the the index is at its highest since June 2007.
 These statistics indicate that the housing market is gaining momentum as consumers cash in on the deals. 
NAR has projected that next year home prices may increase 2 - 3 % next year. 
For the complete story visit: http://www.offplanpropertyexchange.com/news/2008/10/homes-sales-increase-across-us/355
To learn more about … (1 comments)

What A Great Day! - 10/16/08 08:05 AM
Well all my hard work is finally paying off!  I reached 50,000 points.  The points are a sign of my daily dedication to active rain.  I have said it before and I will say it again, active rain is a great website.  I love logging on everyday and learning new things.  I the past few months active rain has helped me make my marketing shift.  I was a little behind in the world of social networking, but boy am I catching up.  Now I like to think I am more on the cutting edge. 
I would like to thank everyone for sharing … (9 comments)

Increase in the Housing Market - 10/16/08 07:22 AM
Great News!  NAR is reporting that the U.S. is seeing an escalating number of pending homes sales.  Buyers are out there taking advantages of the great deals to be had.  The Pending Homes Sales Index, claims the number contracts signed rose 7.4 percent in August.  NAR then stated the the index is at its highest since June 2007.
 These statistics indicate that the housing market is gaining momentum as consumers cash in on the deals. 
NAR has projected that next year home prices may increase 2 - 3 % next year. 
For the complete story visit: http://www.offplanpropertyexchange.com/news/2008/10/homes-sales-increase-across-us/355
To learn more about … (1 comments)

Increase in the Housing Market - 10/15/08 08:05 AM
Great News!  NAR is reporting that the U.S. is seeing an escalating number of pending homes sales.  Buyers are out there taking advantages of the great deals to be had.  The Pending Homes Sales Index, claims the number contracts signed rose 7.4 percent in August.  NAR then stated the the index is at its highest since June 2007.
 These statistics indicate that the housing market is gaining momentum as consumers cash in on the deals. 
NAR has projected that next year home prices may increase 2 - 3 % next year. 
For the complete story visit: http://www.offplanpropertyexchange.com/news/2008/10/homes-sales-increase-across-us/355
 
 

 
… (0 comments)

Home Buying Steps - Part 2 of 2 - 10/15/08 04:48 AM
5.        Make an Offer
Now that you've found your dream home, it's time to make an offer. Your real estate agent will help you determine the offer price by reviewing recent sales of homes that are similar in size, quality, and conveniences and amenities. Your real estate agent will advise you on how to create an offer that will have the best chance of being accepted.After consultation with you, your agent will create a written contract with your offer that meets all the local and national legal requirements. This document details what needs to be done by both parties to execute … (0 comments)

Home Buying Steps - Part 2 of 2 - 10/15/08 04:46 AM
 
 5.        Make an Offer
Now that you've found your dream home, it's time to make an offer. Your real estate agent will help you determine the offer price by reviewing recent sales of homes that are similar in size, quality, and conveniences and amenities. Your real estate agent will advise you on how to create an offer that will have the best chance of being accepted.After consultation with you, your agent will create a written contract with your offer that meets all the local and national legal requirements. This document details what needs to be done by both parties to … (0 comments)

Home Buying Steps - Part 1 of 2 - 10/14/08 08:13 AM
1.Define Needs for your Home.
Your first step toward buying your new home will be to analyze your needs.  Your real estate agent can help you determine exactly what you want your new home to look like and how it should function for you and your family.  First, write down why you are looking for a new home.  Second, establish a time frame for buying your home.
2. Pre-Approval Vs. Pre-Qualfication
There are two ways to go about this: prequalification or pre-approval for a loan. Prequalification is the simpler of the two processes. When you contact a mortgage company, they will … (0 comments)

10 Steps to Buying a Home - Part 1 of 2 - 10/14/08 08:11 AM
1.Define Needs for your Home.
Your first step toward buying your new home will be to analyze your needs.  Your real estate agent can help you determine exactly what you want your new home to look like and how it should function for you and your family.  First, write down why you are looking for a new home.  Second, establish a time frame for buying your home.
2. Pre-Approval Vs. Pre-Qualfication
There are two ways to go about this: prequalification or pre-approval for a loan. Prequalification is the simpler of the two processes. When you contact a mortgage company, they will … (0 comments)

Time? - 10/13/08 10:18 AM
Business has slowed down over the past few months, which I think is good overall.  Home prices need to return to normal and level off.  My business has been steady, so I can not complain.  I feel now that I am more busy than ever.  As an agent to stay in business you need to put yourself out there.  I have been trying to call my database regularly, maintain relationships, do all my networking, and build up my on line presence.  I found this all to be very time consuming, but worth it!  I have been working on my time blocking, and that … (4 comments)

10 Biggest Selling Myths - 10/13/08 09:59 AM
10 Biggest Selling Myths UncoveredSelling a house can be a bit like having a baby -- everyone gives you advice that may or may not be true for you. Here are ten myths uncovered:1. Myth: You should always price your home high and gradually lower it if it doesn't sell.Truth: Pricing too high can be as bad as pricing too low.You may think by listing high you can always accept a lower offer, but if you do, you'll miss the buyers looking in the price range where your home should be. Offers may not even come in, because interested buyers are … (1 comments)

10 Biggest Selling Myths - 10/13/08 09:57 AM
10 Biggest Selling Myths UncoveredSelling a house can be a bit like having a baby -- everyone gives you advice that may or may not be true for you. Here are ten myths uncovered:1. Myth: You should always price your home high and gradually lower it if it doesn't sell.Truth: Pricing too high can be as bad as pricing too low.You may think by listing high you can always accept a lower offer, but if you do, you'll miss the buyers looking in the price range where your home should be. Offers may not even come in, because interested buyers are … (0 comments)

Schweiker Speaks out Against Cyber-Bullying - 10/09/08 06:29 AM
Students at Neshaminy's Oliver Heckman Elementary School were advised of the dangers of cyber bullying by our former Pa Governor, Mark Schweiker. 
"It's got to be an every-moment-thought for you. If something comes across the screen that you feel is not right, you go tell your teacher, principal or parent about what you saw," said Schweiker.  Schwieker is board member of NOVA (Network of Victim Assistance), and actively campaigns against cyber bullying. 
Schweiker was accompanied by David Zellis, Bucks County's First Assistant DA, and Verizon representatives.  They too helped the students understand what they need to know to avoid cyber-bullies.
Verizon … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 3 of 3 - 10/07/08 10:14 PM
Selling Steps cont.
STEP 7 - SELLING SERVICE PROVIDERSOnce you accept an offer to sell your house you will need to make a list of all the things you and your buyer must do before closing. The property may need to be formally appraised, surveyed, inspected or repaired. Depending on the specifics reached during the negotiations, you may pay for all, some or none of these items. If each procedure returns acceptable results as defined by the contract, then the sale may continue. If there are problems with the home, the terms set forth in the contract will dictate your next … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 3 of 3 - 10/07/08 10:12 PM
Selling Steps cont.
STEP 7 - SELLING SERVICE PROVIDERSOnce you accept an offer to sell your house you will need to make a list of all the things you and your buyer must do before closing. The property may need to be formally appraised, surveyed, inspected or repaired. Depending on the specifics reached during the negotiations, you may pay for all, some or none of these items. If each procedure returns acceptable results as defined by the contract, then the sale may continue. If there are problems with the home, the terms set forth in the contract will dictate your next … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 2 of 3 - 10/07/08 05:05 AM
Selling Steps Cont.  Part 2 of 3
STEP 4 - MARKETING STRATEGYNow that your home is ready, it's time to put it up for sale and market it. Establishing a marketing strategy with your real estate agent is a must. Your agent will expose your home to the greatest number of potential buyers possible. He or she will use a marketing plan that will bring not only the most buyers, but also the most qualified buyers to your doorstep.There are many different ways to get the word out that your home is for sale. A yard sign, flyers, and direct marketing … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 2 of 3 - 10/07/08 05:03 AM
Selling Steps Cont.  Part 2 of 3
STEP 4 - MARKETING STRATEGYNow that your home is ready, it's time to put it up for sale and market it. Establishing a marketing strategy with your real estate agent is a must. Your agent will expose your home to the greatest number of potential buyers possible. He or she will use a marketing plan that will bring not only the most buyers, but also the most qualified buyers to your doorstep.There are many different ways to get the word out that your home is for sale. A yard sign, flyers, and direct marketing … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 1 of 3 - 10/06/08 10:02 AM
Selling Steps
  STEP 1 - DEFINE NEEDSWrite down all the reasons for selling your home. Ask yourself, "Why do I want to sell and what do I expect to accomplish with the sale?" For example, reasons for selling include: a growing business that needs more space or a job opportunity that necessitates a move to another city. Things you want to accomplish with the sale may include the time frame in which you'd like to sell or a particular profit margin. Work with your real estate agent to map out the best path to achieve your objectives and set a realistic … (0 comments)

Selling Steps Part 1 of 3 - 10/06/08 10:01 AM
Selling Steps
  STEP 1 - DEFINE NEEDSWrite down all the reasons for selling your home. Ask yourself, "Why do I want to sell and what do I expect to accomplish with the sale?" For example, reasons for selling include: a growing business that needs more space or a job opportunity that necessitates a move to another city. Things you want to accomplish with the sale may include the time frame in which you'd like to sell or a particular profit margin. Work with your real estate agent to map out the best path to achieve your objectives and set a realistic … (0 comments)

Home Selling Services - 10/03/08 11:37 AM
Some Services offered by Carol Swain:
 •        Virtual Tour: We will create a virtual tour of your home.  The virtual tour can be e-mailed to potential buyers, advertised, and listed on various websites including REALTOR.Com as well as www.swainsells.com.
     A Virtual tour makes your home more searchable for a potential homebuyer on the internet.  Buyers are more likely to search through homes with a virtual tour first.  As a result, the virtual tour ensures your property is at the top of all searches.
 •        Talking House: Create a talking home for you.  The talking home gives potential buyers the opportunity … (0 comments)

Home Sold $1.75 on Ebay - 10/02/08 08:42 AM
I just read that a house on ebay sold for one dollar and seventy five cents in Saginaw Mi.  A Chicago woman won the home via auction.  The house is not much to look at, I believe it is abandoned.  There were eight people who bid on this home.  That is sad that with eight people it only made it up to 1.75. 
There is a catch to this deal however.  There was a note on the front door stating that a foreclosure hearing is pending, and there are about $850 in back taxes.  Plus the yard is a mess and … (11 comments)

Home Selling Services - 10/02/08 06:05 AM
Some Services offered by Carol Swain:
 •        Virtual Tour: We will create a virtual tour of your home.  The virtual tour can be e-mailed to potential buyers, advertised, and listed on various websites including REALTOR.Com as well as www.swainsells.com.
     A Virtual tour makes your home more searchable for a potential homebuyer on the internet.  Buyers are more likely to search through homes with a virtual tour first.  As a result, the virtual tour ensures your property is at the top of all searches.
 •        Talking House: Create a talking home for you.  The talking home gives potential buyers the opportunity … (0 comments)

Magnets? Are you using them? - 10/02/08 05:50 AM
I hear a lot of agents talking about sending out magnets. At least I hear it in my office quite often. However, I don't think magnets are effective.  How many times have you gone to show a property and you look at the refrigerator and there are a few Realtor's magnets?  But, none are the listing agent!  I like to take notice of this when I show houses. 
I think magnets are more effective when mailed to your database, people who know you.  Not your random farm.  I do like the business card magnets you can make yourself.  They are cheap and easy.  … (8 comments)

Fall Yardley Attraction - 10/01/08 07:54 AM
Looking for something fun to do this fall?
Visit Shady Brook Farm, a place for family fun.  In addition to our pick-your-own crops, great special events and festivals, their Farm Market stocks all your farm fresh produce, deli, dairy, and gardening needs.   You can visit them on the web at www.shadybrookfarm.com . 
Pumpkin Fest will be open daily starting Oct. 4, 2008 through Nov. 2, 2008.  There will be Hayrides to pick your own pumpkins, themed play areas, straw maze, farm learning center, giant corn maze, and much more. 
Check it out and bring the family. If you are looking for homes in Yardley, … (0 comments)

 
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Carol Swain, Realtor -www.swainsells.com- Bucks County, Pa

Langhorne, PA

More about me…

Keller Williams Real Estate

Office Phone: (215) 757-7257

Cell Phone: (215) 431-8705

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