carol swain: Home Buying Outline - 12/03/08 11:11 AM
Find a Realtor you can Trust
Analyze Your Needs in a Consultation
Obtain Financial Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval
Select Properties
View Properties
Write an Offer to Purchase and Put down Earnest Money Deposit
Negotiate and Counteroffer
Accept Contract
Go through Property Inspections
Remove Contingencies
Complete the Mortgage Application
Secure Underwriting
Obtain … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Home Buying Outline - 12/03/08 10:05 AM
Find a Realtor you can Trust
Analyze Your Needs in a Consultation
Obtain Financial Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval
Select Properties
View Properties
Write an Offer to Purchase and Put down Earnest Money Deposit
Negotiate and Counteroffer
Accept Contract
Go through Property Inspections
Remove Contingencies
Complete the Mortgage Application
Secure Underwriting
Obtain … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Before You Begin to Look for a Home - 12/02/08 02:31 PM
Before You Begin.....
PRE-QUALIFICATION AND PRE-APPROVAL
Many buyers apply for a loan and obtain approval before they find the home they want to buy. Why?
Pre-qualifying will help you in the following ways:
1. Generally, interest rates are locked in for a set period of time. You will know in advance exactly … (2 comments)
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carol swain: Before You Begin to Look for a Home - 12/02/08 02:28 PM
Before You Begin.....
PRE-QUALIFICATION AND PRE-APPROVAL
Many buyers apply for a loan and obtain approval before they find the home they want to buy. Why?
Pre-qualifying will help you in the following ways:
1. Generally, interest rates are locked in for a set period of time. You will know in advance … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Croydon Home For Sale - 139 Belmont Ave, Croydon, Pa - 12/02/08 02:10 PM
… (1 comments)
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carol swain: Understanding Agency - 12/01/08 07:14 AM
Seller Agency (Single Agency)
• Agent will represent the best interests of the seller
• Agent will owe the seller fiduciary duties
• Agent must give the buyer all material facts so that the buyer can make an educated decision
Buyer Agency (Single Agency)
• Agent will represent the best … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Understanding Agency - 12/01/08 07:12 AM
Seller Agency (Single Agency)
• Agent will represent the best interests of the seller
• Agent will owe the seller fiduciary duties
• Agent must give the buyer all material facts so that the buyer can make an educated decision
Buyer Agency (Single Agency)
• Agent will represent the best … (0 comments)
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carol swain: You Have Purchased a Home....Now What? - 11/26/08 07:53 AM
Now that you have decided to buy your home, what happens between now and the time you legally own the home? A Title Company may handle the following items. NOTE: in different parts of the country attorneys, lenders, escrow companies and other persons who are independent of, title companies perform some … (3 comments)
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carol swain: You Have Purchased a Home....Now What? - 11/26/08 07:51 AM
Now that you have decided to buy your home, what happens between now and the time you legally own the home? A Title Company may handle the following items. NOTE: in different parts of the country attorneys, lenders, escrow companies and other persons who are independent of, title companies perform some … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Happy Thanksgiving to All! - 11/26/08 06:48 AM
I want to wish everyone here on active rain a Happy Thanksgiving. I am truly grateful for everything I have this year. What a wild year! I am very thankful that I have my family and my health to start out. Also I am still able to pay my mortgage and have … (7 comments)
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carol swain: What Every Buyer Should Know Before Purchasing - 11/25/08 05:28 AM
1. Property taxes and qualified interest are deductible on an individual's federal income tax return.
2. Often, a home is the largest asset an individual has and is considered one of the most valuable investments available.
3. A portion of each amortized mortgage payment goes to principal which is an investment.
… (1 comments)
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carol swain: What Every Buyer Should Know Before Purchasing - 11/25/08 05:22 AM
1. Property taxes and qualified interest are deductible on an individual's federal income tax return.
2. Often, a home is the largest asset an individual has and is considered one of the most valuable investments available.
3. A portion of each amortized mortgage payment goes to principal which is an … (0 comments)
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carol swain: The Real Estate Closing - Defined - 11/24/08 05:12 AM
What is a Real Estate "Closing"?
A "closing" is where you and I meet with some or all of the following individuals: the Seller, the Seller's agent, a representative from the lending institution and a representative from the title company, in order to transfer the property title to you. The purchase … (0 comments)
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carol swain: The Real Estate Closing - Defined - 11/24/08 05:07 AM
What is a Real Estate "Closing"?
A "closing" is where you and I meet with some or all of the following individuals: the Seller, the Seller's agent, a representative from the lending institution and a representative from the title company, in order to transfer the property title to you. The purchase … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Helping Children Cope with a Move - 11/24/08 04:26 AM
1. Show the children the new home and their new room prior to moving. If this is not possible, pictures or videos will help them visualize where they are going.
2. Assure children that you won't forget their friends.
3. Make a scrapbook of the old home and neighborhood.
4. Throw … (2 comments)
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carol swain: Why You Need a Realtor - 11/21/08 01:19 PM
A licensed real estate professional provides much more than the service of helping you find your ideal home. Realtors are expert negotiators with others agents, seasoned financial advisers with customers, and superb navigators around the local neighborhood. They are members of the National Association of Realtors and must abide by a … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Why You Need a Realtor - 11/21/08 01:17 PM
A licensed real estate professional provides much more than the service of helping you find your ideal home. Realtors are expert negotiators with others agents, seasoned financial advisers with customers, and superb navigators around the local neighborhood. They are members of the National Association of Realtors and must abide by a … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Danger of Overpricing Your Home - 11/19/08 12:35 PM
The Cost of Overpricing in a Shifted Market:
1 - Fair market value declines during market shift.
2- Seller hopes a higher intial price will draw a higher offer.
3 - Market Interest is fragile(with high inventory) and wanes quickly.
4 - Salable Price is impacted by declining market values, … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Danger of Overpricing Your Home - 11/19/08 12:31 PM
The Cost of Overpricing in a Shifted Market:
1 - Fair market value declines during market shift.
2- Seller hopes a higher intial price will draw a higher offer.
3 - Market Interest is fragile(with high inventory) and wanes quickly.
4 - Salable Price is impacted by declining market values, … (0 comments)
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carol swain: West Ferry Rd Residents Speak out Against Traffic - 11/18/08 02:00 PM
West Ferry Road Residents are complaining that there is an excessive amount of traffic on their street for a 49 home community. So the neighborhood has banded together to fight the traffic.
They attended the Lower Makefield Board of Supervisors meeting on 11/5/08. The residents informed the board that their … (0 comments)
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carol swain: How to Achieve a No Stress Move - 11/18/08 01:36 PM
Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful situations that a person can endure, so it is vital that you find ways to make the transition as easy as possible. There are two distinct types of stress that one faces when changing homes. First, there is the … (2 comments)
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carol swain: How to Achieve a No Stress Move - 11/18/08 01:34 PM
Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful situations that a person can endure, so it is vital that you find ways to make the transition as easy as possible. There are two distinct types of stress that one faces when changing homes. First, there is the … (0 comments)
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carol swain: How Much Home Can You Afford? - 11/17/08 08:34 AM
How Much Home Can You Afford?
Use the chart below to determine your monthly principal and interest payments at various interest rates for either a 15 or 30 year term.
Remember: Be sure to add your monthly insurance premuim and your property tax to your principal and interest to determine your … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Selecting a Neighborhood - 11/13/08 06:19 PM
There are many factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood that is right for you. Think about the location in terms of commute time to work, distance from leisure-time activities, and proximity to shopping, schools, or any other places you frequent. You may think of other factors that are important to … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Selecting a Neighborhood - 11/13/08 06:12 PM
There are many factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood that is right for you. Think about the location in terms of commute time to work, distance from leisure-time activities, and proximity to shopping, schools, or any other places you frequent. You may think of other factors that are important to … (0 comments)
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carol swain: The First Step is the Loan Process - 11/12/08 07:39 AM
The first step to buying is the loan process.
The First Step...in the home buying process is to find an experienced lender at the same time as you find a Realtor. You begin the mortgage process at the same time as you begin looking, so you know the value you qualify … (1 comments)
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carol swain: The First Step is the Loan Process - 11/12/08 07:36 AM
The first step to buying is the loan process.
The First Step...in the home buying process is to find an experienced lender at the same time as you find a Realtor. You begin the mortgage process at the same time as you begin looking, so you know the value you qualify … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Not Just A Buyers Market - 11/11/08 07:11 AM
A Buyer's Market is a Trading Up Market! Falling home prices are a great opportunity for a savvy homeowner looking to move up. Eeven though your home sale price may be lower, the smaller loss at the sale can be compensated by greater savings at purchase.
Let's think about it. If … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Not Just A Buyers Market - 11/11/08 07:05 AM
A Buyer's Market is a Trading Up Market! Falling home prices are a great opportunity for a savvy homeowner looking to move up. Eeven though your home sale price may be lower, the smaller loss at the sale can be compensated by greater savings at purchase.
Let's think about it. If … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Veterans Day - We should all be thankful - 11/11/08 06:35 AM
Today is a day to remember all of our beloved veterans. My life has been touched by many veterans over the years and I want to pay tribute to all of them. I can not thank them enough for their courage.
Please remember to thank our Veterans today. They have served … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Nine Great Reasons to Buy a Home - 11/10/08 02:20 PM
1. Quality of Life - a home provides stability and security for you and your loved ones.
2. Pride of Home Ownership - it's your personal haven.
3. Historically low interest rates - around 6.5 percent in the US.
4. Appreciation potential - your home investment can grow in value.
5. Equity … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Nine Great Reasons to Buy a Home - 11/10/08 02:18 PM
1. Quality of Life - a home provides stability and security for you and your loved ones.
2. Pride of Home Ownership - it's your personal haven.
3. Historically low interest rates - around 6.5 percent in the US.
4. Appreciation potential - your home investment can grow in value.
5. Equity … (0 comments)
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carol swain: My eyes are wide open - 11/07/08 05:38 AM
I blogged yesterday and said that I was taking a two business planning course. It was a great course. I learned a lot, and now have my eyes wide open. I need to get myself back on track. The market shift has affected me and my business. I started prospecting more, … (6 comments)
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carol swain: Benefits of Owning Your Own Home - 11/04/08 05:11 AM
There are many financial and personal reasons why you should own your own home rather than rent. The obvious reasons include pride of ownership, building your own equity instead of someone else's, no more landlords, and of course the tax benefits you reap. There are a multitude of other reasons why … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Benefits of Owning Your Own Home - 11/04/08 05:08 AM
There are many financial and personal reasons why you should own your own home rather than rent. The obvious reasons include pride of ownership, building your own equity instead of someone else's, no more landlords, and of course the tax benefits you reap. There are a multitude of other reasons why … (0 comments)
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carol swain: How a Good Realtor Can Maximize Your Profits - 11/03/08 06:44 AM
Most of us are not aware of the trends and fluctuations of the real estate market. Likewise we don't know the steps necessary to maximize profits on the sale of our home. We rely heavily on the real estate agent to lead us down the path of profits. Considering your home … (0 comments)
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carol swain: How a Good Realtor Can Maximize Your Profits - 11/03/08 06:43 AM
Most of us are not aware of the trends and fluctuations of the real estate market. Likewise we don't know the steps necessary to maximize profits on the sale of our home. We rely heavily on the real estate agent to lead us down the path of profits. Considering your home … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (2 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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. … (3 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (1 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Expanded & Remodeled Home - 10/28/08 02:42 PM
… (2 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (3 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (6 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (1 comments)
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carol swain: 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. … (9 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (1 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (4 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (1 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (11 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (8 comments)
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carol swain: 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 … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Advantages to Buyer Agency - 09/30/08 09:21 AM
Your Interests are Professionally Represented:Enlisting the services of a professional Buyer's Agent is similar to using an accountant to help you with your taxes, a doctor to help you with your health care, or a mechanic to help you with your car. So the first advantage is pretty obvious. If you … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Get Your Home Ready to Sell! - 09/29/08 12:04 PM
So if you are thinking about selling there are a few things you should concentrate on when preparing. Buyers tend to want to buy homes that are in move-in condition. Typically, homes that are well maintained and priced right will sell quickly.
Curb AppealYour home maybe totally remodeled on the inside, … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Are You Targeting Your Niche? - 09/29/08 11:02 AM
Let's face it, the market has changed. And with this market change our strategies as Realtors need to change. Buyers and sellers are not as easily found anymore. We need to get back to the basics and aggressively market ourselves.
You need to develop a strategy of who you want to target, … (12 comments)
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carol swain: Keeping It Real... - 09/27/08 09:49 AM
Keep your mindset positive. That is what I have tried to do. And I think I have done that successfully. In this real estate market you need to keep your spirits up. You need to realize that if you are a sound business person with a sound business plan, things will … (8 comments)
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carol swain: Real Estate Humor - 09/26/08 09:47 AM
I have a temporary mortgage. What do you mean temporary? Until they foreclose.
Realtor: first you folks tell me what you can afford, then we'll have a good laugh and go on from there.
The dream of the older generation was to pay off a mortgage. The dream of today's young … (11 comments)
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carol swain: Party...Marketing Idea - 09/26/08 09:02 AM
I heard an idea I have not heard before at a class I was taking. I found it to be interesting and was wondering if anyone has heard about it before or even tried it. Okay here it is:
You sell someone a home and tell them you will throw them … (9 comments)
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carol swain: Is There Enough Time in a Day? - 09/26/08 08:44 AM
How do you do it all? I have been an "active" active rain member for a while now. I have also joined linkedin and twitter, in addition to being on myspace. I have decided that I can not do it all, plus run my business. Computers are very user friendly these days. However, … (6 comments)
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carol swain: Preparing for Fall or Christmas - 09/26/08 08:11 AM
I have been working with a seller that wants to list his home in the upcoming spring. So I have given a list of projects to get his home ready to sell. One of the projects was to get his lawn ready for the spring. I told him to get some … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Ebay - Smart way to save - 09/24/08 02:59 PM
Looking for a great way to cut costs? Shop on e-bay. I personally shop for my office supplies on ebay. Many people think ebay is just to buy personal items, not business. I have a color laser ink printer, and the cartridges are very expensive. So I checked out ebay, and I am buying the … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Fall...Are you Ready? - 09/24/08 02:51 PM
Fall is upon us here is Pa. I love the change in weather. I have my windows open day and night. I don't need to run my air conditioner or heater. It is sad to see summer come to an end, my husband and I enjoy a lot of summer activities. And he loves … (2 comments)
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carol swain: Handsome Brick Colonial - Yardley, Pa - 09/22/08 08:59 AM
Handsome red brick colonial situated on a wooded lot, enter the home through the spacious slate foyer. The foyer leads to the generously sized eat in kitchen with newer appliances, garbage disposal, pantry, built in wine rack, exposed beams, and a bay window overlooking the serene rear yard. The beamed family … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Despite What You Hear... - 09/22/08 08:28 AM
Despite what you hear now is a great time to buy a home. The interest rates are down and so are the prices of homes. This is an ideal market for first time home buyers. You are able to come into the market and purchase a home a low price. You … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Be Positive, You Can Do Business In Any Market! - 09/19/08 09:29 AM
Keep a positive attitude! This can be easier said than done. Yet, I try my best to keep the smile on my face. I run a successful real estate group here in Langhorne, Pa. In fact, we are number one here at our Keller Williams Office! The change of the market … (3 comments)
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carol swain: Expanded & Remodeled in Pennsbury School District - 09/18/08 07:34 PM
EXPANDED & TOTALLY REMODELED! Not a drive by! The home features a freshly remodeled kitchen with wood cabinets, tile backsplash, disposal, microwave, stove and recessed lighting. Laminate wood flooring extends from the kitchen to the dining room. The bathroom too has been completely remodeled with a new vanity, ceramic tile floor, … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Beautify Your Lawn - 09/18/08 07:07 PM
Fall is now upon us. Now the ideal time to rejuvenate your lawn. Especially if you are thinking about selling in the spring market. Studies have shown that homes that are nicely landscaped will sell for more. Your lawn is a big part of the landscaping.
You can start by raking … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Great Langhorne Website - 09/17/08 02:13 PM
Langhorne Alive, http://langhornealive.com/ is a sub site of BucksCountyAlive.com. It is a great resource if you are visiting the area, or if you live in the area. It offers things to do, community resources, quick links, guides, newsletter, and even an up to date gas price locator. The website is an endless wealth … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Great Yardley Website - 09/16/08 04:57 AM
Yardley Alive, http://yardleyalive.com/ is a sub site of BucksCountyAlive.com. It is a great resource if you are visiting the area, or if you live in the area. It offers things to do, community resources, quick links, guides, newsletter, and even an up to date gas price locator. The website is an endless … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Local Food Drive, Langhorne Pa - Bucks County, Pa - 09/12/08 06:17 AM
I have been contacted by the local pantry to organize a Food-Fuel of Life Drive. Given the position of Keller Williams Cultural Chairperson it has been brought to my attention that the local food pantries are in need of food. They are crying out for help restocking the many local pantries. A fellow … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Handsome Brick Colonial - Yardley, Pa - 09/11/08 06:51 PM
Handsome red brick colonial situated on a wooded lot, enter the home through the spacious slate foyer. The foyer leads to the generously sized eat in kitchen with newer appliances, garbage disposal, pantry, built in wine rack, exposed beams, and a bay window overlooking the serene rear yard. The beamed family … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Will you Embrace Change? - 09/11/08 08:02 AM
Technology has advanced in every facet of life. We use technology for everything now. Do you even know anyone who does not have a cell phone? I know more people now that do not have a home phone. And with technology advancements, come home advancement. Homeowners want their home to advance … (1 comments)
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carol swain: Will you Embrace Change? - 09/11/08 08:01 AM
Technology has advanced in every facet of life. We use technology for everything now. Do you even know anyone who does not have a cell phone? I know more people now that do not have a home phone. And with technology advancements, come home advancement. Homeowners want their home to advance … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Have you used it yet? Google Street View - 09/10/08 05:16 PM
We all know and love Google. It seems like you can just about do it all at Google. I know personally, I use Google, when I need to look an address or area up on a map. Google has now come out with Google Street View is now available for our … (0 comments)
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carol swain: When do you hold open houses? - 09/10/08 04:59 PM
With the start of football season, I start to wonder if it is worth it to hold an open house during a game. Here in the Philadelphia area, open houses are poorly attended one Sundays when there is a 1pm game. All of us agents rejoice when there is a Monday … (2 comments)
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carol swain: The Future of Lighting - 09/09/08 12:35 PM
Imagine owning a home with that you can turn all your lights on with a remote. That is right. And the technology is out there, it is called Verve Lighting. You can check it out at www.vervelivingsystems.com .
The Verve Living System eliminates wires and operates on a radio frequency network. The … (0 comments)
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carol swain: Listing and Divorces - 09/09/08 10:50 AM
There is one thing for sure when you have a listing that is a divorce situation, things are tough! I recently just listed a home in a very desirable neighborhood. Homes sell around $500,000. It is a divorce situation, she now lives in a different state while he lives in the … (0 comments)
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