David Joslins (DJs) Rhythm of Real Estate

September Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:15:02 -0500

Wall Street, Main Street, Milton Street who has time to worry about housing, right? Well amidst all of the headlines in our world, some good, some bad and some downright ugly, the housing market gently makes a push upward and has homeowners breathing a slight sigh of relief.

Check out the numbers...

The number of units listed for sale is up 27% over the number of units listed in August '08. September '08 listings are also down 4.2% over the number of homes listed in September 2007.
The Average list price is up just about 20% over August ‘08 and is up 7.8% over the September '07 average list price.
The Average SOLDprice is down 10.1% over August ‘08 which is another rather disruptive to news to homeowners. The consolation prize comes with a nice year over year increase in the SOLD price. This year, September 08 compared to September ‘07 the SOLD Price is up 7.5%.
The Average Days on Market also increased to 75 days, a 15% increase over last months 65 days on market average. September 08 is up 38% over September 2007 days on market average of 54.

So what's it all mean, Buy and Hold. The long term, more than one year, picture is much brighter. Average Sold prices in Delaware County are up 11.3% over Sept 2004 Sold home prices and has not decreased year over year during the same month for the last five years.

Kudos to the National Association of Realtors who has been pushing the positive housing news out nationally so both sides are heard. Our market locally is experience the same growth over the national average, 7.5% increase in home sold prices.

Over the next few monthly we will see a topsy turvy housing market as the banks get their act together, we elect a new administration to guide our nation through this and many Americans hunker down for "a long winters nap". Those who need to buy and sell will do so over the next few months and the buyers will be able to get great homes at good prices not over inflated but good fair market prices. There are some deals out there, but, you need to be willing to put alot of sweat equity into the property and good long term returns, leave the flipping to the pros as the profit margins are minimal and risky for the passive stary eyed investor.

- DJ

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

Now Open For Business in Media Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 09:33:46 -0500

My partners and I are proud to announce that we have opened a brand new independent real estate brokerage in Media PA. Grand Real Estate Services was part a vision of the partners - Gus Nazaridis, David Joslin and Alex Floratos - to become a full service real estate brokerage offering residential resale, investor relations, property management services and the full spectrum of residential and commercial real estate services to our ever growing client base. We are very excited about the new business venture and gaining the ability to offer our clients more of what they have been looking for feels incredible.

Our new office is located at 2 West Baltimore Avenue, Suite 310 in the heart of Media PA. If you would like to learn more about our offerings you can reach us by calling 610-565-9292 or visiting us periodically on the web at www.GrandRES.com as we continuously add features and info to the site. There will be more exciting news and information posted in the near future, but just so everyone knows, We are officially open for business!

August Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:14:48 -0500

OK the heat got to me and I am late on getting this out -sorry. The good news is that there is so much going on right now in our real estate world, some good, some bad and some that we will put off for later discussion.

Let's get right to the nitty-gritty numbers...

The number of units listed for sale is down 20% over the number of units listed in July '08. August '08 listings are also down 25% over the number of homes listed in August 2007.
The Average list price is down just under 5% over July ‘08 and is down 2.5% over the August '07 average list price.
The Average SOLD price is down 3.3% over July ‘08 which is another not so welcome bit of news. The consolation prize comes with a slight increase in the SOLD price this year compared to August ‘07 which is up 2.6%.
The Average Days on Market also increased to 65 days, a 12% decrease over last months 58 days on market average and is up 20% over August 2007 days on market of 54.

Traditionally the market takes a little bit of a slide starting in July until October / November time frame. This July numbers were up but overall the trend is inline with previous years. Sit tight, wind down, and we'll see what the fall market brings.

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

July Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:20:40 -0500

Hazy, hot and humid would be a good way to describe the housing market around here. Wait a minute did I say HOT? Don't look now but the average price of a home in Delaware County, PA is rising?

Yep, RISING! For the fourth straight month the average sold price of a home has risen. Delaware County is bucking the trend that the media has smeared all over the headlines. Listen, I'm not saying we are out of the woods but look at the numbers. For the most part they are up.

As the national media glorifies the big slide in the real estate market our area is still trying its hardest to remain steady and prosper. Let's look at the numbers and see just what's happening...

The number of units listed for sale is down 9.14% over the number of units listed in June '08. July '08 listings are also down about 14.2% over the number of homes listed in July 2007.
The Average list price is also up just under 1% over June ‘08 and is up 11% over the July '07 average list price.
The Average SOLDprice is up 3.4% over June ‘08 a nice surprise for the market and even better news is that the SOLD price this year compared to July of ‘07 is up 5.7%.
The Average Days on Market also decreased 57 days, a 15% decrease over last months 67 days on market average and is up 13% over July 2007 days on market of 51.

So, there are less of homes on the market in Delaware County than in recent months, demanding a reasonable sale price with a higher average sale price and less days on the market. Seems to me that the market is showing some signs of stability overall in our area.

I cannot stress enough that Delaware County is not following the rest of the country. Make sure you look at the big picture to get the true residential resale market statistics; it will help in understanding what type of market we are in. Delaware County seems to be holding its ground in this topsy-turvy market, know your numbers and you will be armed with the knowledge to make the decision that is right for you!

All the best
DJ

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

June Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:01:32 -0500

Summer time is here so what better time for flip flopping. It seems that Delaware County is giving mixed signals to the real estate market. The residential resale statistics are up and down. Since thee days on market has continued to increase dramatically over last year we really need to look at the big picture in order to see what is happening around Delco. As the national media toughts the big slide in the real estate market our area is still trying its hardest to remain steady. Let's look at the numbers and see whats happening...

The number of units listed for sale is down 2.05% over the number of units listed in May '08. June '08 listings are also down about 23% over the number of homes listed in June 2007.
The Average list price is also down just under 6% over May ‘08 but is up 6% over June '07 average list price.
The Average SOLD price is up 12% over May ‘08 a nice surprise for the market but a slight reality check is that the SOLD price this year compared to June of ‘07 is still down about 1%.
The Average Days on Market increased to 68 days, a 2% increase over last months 66 days on market average and is up 47% over June 2007 days on market of 46, ouch.

Buyers are definitely taking their time in making a decision for the purchase of their new home, which is frustrating to most sellers. Only time will tell but the numbers are indicating that overall sold prices are up 6% over this time last year which in not bad considering many national stories of the steep decline in real estate values. Make sure you look at the big picture to get the true residential resale market statistics; it will help in understanding what type of market we are in. Delaware County seems to be holding its ground in this topsy-turvy market, know your numbers and you will be armed with the knowledge to make the decision that is right for you!

All the best

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

May Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:07:41 -0500

Delaware County has hit a bump in the road as the residential resale statistics do not look to strong. As the slide in the real estate market continues we take a look at the whole picture and see that although the market is trying its hardest to come back you can't fight the numbers. Home sellers may not like the statistics and may need to take a very close look at the market before considering the sale price of their home. The right strategy may just be able to buck the trend and get you a decent sale price in this down market. Here is what the TRENDMLS numbers are telling us about last month...

The number of units listed for sale is down 12.5% over the number of units listed in April '08. More staggering is that listings are down about 26% over the number of homes listed in May 2007.

The Average list price is also down about 2% over April ‘08 but up 8.6% over May '07 overall it may seem to be a nice annual increase showing some strength in pricing however the SOLD price over last year is sobering.

The Average SOLD price is down a blip at .003% over April 2008 and even more so discouraging is that the SOLD price from last year was down 16% over May '07.

The Average Days on Market decreased to 66 days, a 16% decrease. However, 66 days on market average is up 15.2% over May 2007 days on market of 56.

Not much of summary on this one other than the dog days of summer seem to have taken a bite out of the market early this year and consumer confidence is still sitting a bit low. With vacations and relaxation looming for most would be home buyers the outlook over the next few months is going to favor the buyers as inventory builds and selection is vast. Buyers get your shopping hats on, the inventory is high and according to the statistics the prices seem to be in your favor, happy house hunting.

See Ya!
DJ

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

Active Rain Blogging. What is it really about?

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 12 May 2008 09:25:48 -0500

By loose definition, blogging is the keeping of online diary that is representative of ones personal thoughts, feelings, points of view, ideas, knowledge, etc, compiled and published on a web log a.k.a. blog.

For most independent business owners it is a means to highlight their offerings, whether products or services, in a more personalized approach to help them stand out from the competition. Your blog is supposed to be a reflection of you or who you are striving to be, some are extravagant displays with swooshing graphics, video, audio snip its and tightly woven design. Others are more get to the point, here is what I have to say plain blogs. Both are productive and just as effective because the audience out there is different.

So why blogging? It is just another medium used in today's society for individuals to express themselves. A blog allows you to share ideas, promote yourself, post pictures, video, write your opinion, share feelings and thoughts on any given subject. Regardless of whether or not people read it, and you hope people do, your blog is out there for all to read. Write what you feel and stand by what you write.

In the Active Rain community Real Estate professionals are encouraged to contribute to the content of the site by writing blog posts, making comments, posting pictures, promoting Active Rain through links and inviting others to join. If the blogger participates by contributing in some way to the site the blogger is rewarded with points. They are virtual points, not for the purchase of goods or services and not to be redeemed for any other prize. They are given to encourage active participation in a professional community that helps both those in the real estate business and consumers looking for professional input and advice.

Now yes, points are not always rewarded for posts and there are monitoring systems put in place to help regulate the content but overall if someone wants to send a Happy Mothers Day Message to the community, they can. They may not get points for it, but the blogger is entitled to post what they want. Is it about the points? NO. The points are just an incentive to actively participate. Consider them marketing "blog dollars", the more you contribute the better position your marketing blog dollars gets you on the site and even better is the possibility that your exposure to the internet search engines is increased. Small personal notes are always good to send and receive and always appreciated. Whether you are preparing a post to promote a listing, short article or a short note it still takes effort and discipline to actually sit down and do it, you need to make an effort to write it and submit it. So maybe points should be rewarded for a note but overall the points are the bonus. The active participation is what helps you the blogger build a better business practice by remaining active in the community.

The Active Rain community allows the real estate professionals to connect to each other somewhat anonymously and help each other in their quest to better themselves and their business practices in any way they choose. I am not sure how many other professional organizations have capitalized on building a community blogosphere such as Active Rain but I am sure it would be beneficial.

Kudos Active Rain and to all who help build this incredible real estate community!

all the best

this blog was inspired by a recent post by Leander McClain on "Is It Really About the Points"

April Housing Statistics for Delaware County Pennsylvania

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Tue, 06 May 2008 21:48:11 -0500

Overall the month to month statistics are beginning to rebound and patience may be the hottest commodity on the market this year. Delaware County has hit a slide over last year but your need to look at the whole picture to see that the market is trying its hardest to come back. Home sellers may not like the stats right now but sit tight. Here is what the TRENDMLS numbers are telling us about last month...

The number of units listed for sale is up, just over 12% over the number of units listed in March '08. However listings are down about 9% over the number of homes listed in April 2007.
The Average list price is up about 11% over March ‘08 and down 7.7% over April '07 a little troubling on the year-to-year sales but a nice month-to-month increase in pricing
The Average SOLD price is up 11.7% over March 2008 and still discouraging is that the SOLD price from last year was down 2.5% over April '07.
The Average Days on Market decreased to 76 days, a 2.6% decrease. However, 76 days on market average is up 33.9% over April 2007 days on market of 57.

This is the home buying and selling season and despite the low consumer confidence there were still more homes listed in April than in March so the home buyer inventory is out there. The numbers may still not be favorable for sellers and the market buyers will dictate what the home is worth and sellers need to be faced with the reality of having to accept a lower than expected sale price in this type of market. Patience is going to be needed by all involved in the real estate market as the fast and furious pace of years past is just that the past!

See Ya!

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

The secret to real estate success

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:31:15 -0500

Are you getting flooded with how you can "conquer the market in your town", "list 10 homes this week" or "I have a buyer for you" emails? I'm not sure about how the rest of you out there feel, but we sure have a target on us right now. The "get rich quick" marketing message that I see on a day to day basis drive me crazy. I have yet to see one sustainable solution that would help me increase my business that actually made sense. How much would you pay for the secrets to real estate success, I don't really know.

I'm always looking for new ways to market my business and ways to increase my business. But these marketing messages and get rich programs targeting real estate agents in the a down market is predatory. Sound familiar?

What I would like to know is if anyone out there has used any of these training gurus that actually worked. Do you have a particular program that you highly recommend? I would love to hear about the success stories and the systems that you have used to increase your business.

All the best

Dave

Delaware County Pennsylvania housing trend update, or should I say downdate.

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 08:42:59 -0500

March Housing Market Update for Delaware County Pennsylvania

Consumer confidence is at an all time low. Job losses in March were the highest is years, topping 80,000. And this means is that the housing market is also feeling the lack of confidence as home buying in Delaware County Pennsylvania is feeling the crunch. Since last month Delaware County has taken a slide and home sellers may not like the stats. Here is what the TRENDMLS numbers are telling us about last month...

The number of units listed for sale is up, just under 11% over the number of units listed in February '08. However listings are down about 13% over the number of homes listed in March 2007.
The Average list price is down about 11% over February ‘08 and down 8.9% over March '07, a nice increase in pricing
The Average SOLD price however is down 12.5% over February 2007 and the discouraging news is that the SOLD price from last year was down 7.6% over March '07.
The Average Days on Market decreased to 78 days, a 2.5% decrease. However, the 78 days on market average is up 16.4% over March 2007 days on market of 67, so properties are sitting out there longer.

Until consumers gain confidence, the numbers may not be favorable for sellers. As we always proclaim the home is worth what the buyers are willing to pay. Not good news for the home sellers as they may need to have a greater amount of patience. The three big items for home owners to remember is price, location and condition. If they are all in line with the market competition you may need to sit tight and wait for the right buyer.

Happy Buying and Selling

See Ya!

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

Home Buyers - understand who is working for you and why!

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:28:07 -0500

In Pennsylvania agents are required by law to present, explain and have their potential clients sign a Consumer Notice which fully explains relationships between the agent and their client. It is very clear as who is representing who in a real estate transaction.

But has your real estate agent really done their job? Do you understand the consumer notice that you signed? It is somewhat confusing when dual agency, designated agency and transaction licensee come into play but your agent needs to be sure that you are fully aware of who is representing who before you begin your search.

Everyone is entitled to exclusive representation and it is extremely important that everyone involved in the transaction understands who they are working with. Why? It helps avoid any awkward representation issues when other agents suddenly enter the picture.

A buyers agent should among many other things...
1. Provide you, the buyer, with a list of possible homes in your price range and area.
2. Help you with your financing options
3. Coordinate and Schedule all appointments for you
4. Be your exclusive representative
5. Educate you on the market place, procedures and contracts that you will need to sign.
6. Help put together the offer to purchase a home
7. Negotiate on your behalf and full represent you in the transaction
8. Most importantly be your one point of contact, your guiding light through the process.

Your agent will do the best they can in helping you find the home of your dreams. Yes, along the way you may find a home on your own outside of the area you identified as your target area. Let your agent know that you found a home you would like to see and they will be happy to make all of the arrangements to preview the home and the should also adjust your search criteria. I think that you will find greater success if you work closely with one agent rather than calling all of the houses you like yourself and scheduling appointments with all those agents, let your agent do the leg work for you.

Stay in constant communication with your agent and they will make your home buying process much more enjoyable.

Happy Buying

TechTalk Thursday catch the fever

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 08:10:53 -0500

You know when you start something new, you just don't know how its gonna work out. Well, I have to say that this TechTalk Thursday forum has seemed to dig it's heels into the ground and ignited the blogger in more than a few people in my office.

I went onto the Delaware County PA page to check and see if there were any new faces and boy was I surprised to find that seven of the top 25 were people in our office and most of those joined after attending or because of our TechTalk Thursday conversations on Active Rain.

Congrats to Deb Greto, John Estheimer, Barbara Berue, Dyan Nelson Blass, Pamela Cloud, Anne Marie and Megan Kerezsi, Gay Murray, Kelli Harris, Tom Feely and John Herried who have all joined the AR community and to all those who are continuing to participate, contribute and build such a great forum. Makes me proud!

What is TechTalk Thursday...
TechTalk Thursdayis and informal session/conversation held once a month on the third Thursday. It is not marked as a class or training session, that may scare the technophobes off from attending. We want to keep it informal and open. Agents are encouraged to bring topics, questions, recommendations and their lunch to sit and chat. And we do just that, talk about whatever is on the minds of the attendees. Once the session is complete I compile a TechTalk REwind newsletter outlining the sessions topics and distribute to the entire office in hopes of peaking future interest.

It has been a very successful session with great feedback and participation. I love it and I would encourage you to introduce this type of forum in your office, if you are in the area I'll even come by your office and help you start your own group regardless of any affiliations, I want Realtors to embrace technology!

People will learn, although it is not a training session, and people will actively participate. For each of the sessions, have a few bullet points to talk about, such as what is the best phone for Realtors, website providers, what is a blog, to get the conversations rolling and sit back and have fun with it. The conversations will vary and need to be monitored as to not go too technical for the bunch. Balance it out the conversations for all attending, put it in print and follow up with the next month. It serves as a great learning tool and will help build relationships, tech knowledge, marketing efforts and most of all comfort levels with technology.

Give the session a try and let me know how it works for your office! Oh yeah, don't forget to mention at your first meeting, that the reason you are there was because Active Rain , a technology tool, and its members are helping you increase your business everyday! Would love to hear from your sessions.

All the best

David Joslin

Media PA - Everyone's Hometown

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:35:22 -0500

A great place to live, work or visit, Media PA has so much to offer. From the Summer time festivals, shopping, restuarants, music, arts scene and the year round activities, it is a place that has something for everyone, That's why they call it Everybody's Hometown!

Take a look at a video I put together...

All the best

TechTalk - don't be afraid of it embrace it - it works!

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 09:01:03 -0500

A while back, while serving as the Technology committee chairperson at our Keller Williams office in Media PA, our small committee of 4 was brainstorming about how to help agents in our office have a better understanding about using todays technology in their real estate practice. It was immediately apparent to all of us sitting around the table that the best way to understand what the agents were looking for was to simply ask them. But what would be the best way to do that? An informal open discussion over lunch? Ding! It was a pretty simple concept. When would we have it? Well since we offer a KW Cares lunch, a fundraisng lunch program where the food is donated by an agent and then the lunch is offered to those in the office for a charitable donation of $5, every Thursday lets target that day so we can also possibly increase traffic to the lunch as well. Ding! Ding! Finally the name just rolled out after only a few minutes, TechTalk Thursday was to be held the Third Thursday of every month at Twelve Thirty - enough T's? Ding! Ding! Ding! @3 have a winner.

These sessions are not marked as a class or training session, that may scare the technophobes off from attending. We want to keep it informal and open. Agents are encouraged to bring topics, questions, recommendations and their lunch to sit and chat. And we do just that, talk about whatever is on the minds of the attendees. Rarely does anyone get up and leave and most of the time the sessions fly by. Once the session is complete I compile a TechTalk REwind newsletter outline the sessions topics and post it in the office. It has been a very successful session with great feedback and participation.

I love it and I would encourage you to introduce this type of forum in your office. People will learn, although it is not a training session, and people will actively participate. For each of the sessions, have a few bullet points to talk about, such as what is the best phone for Realtors, website providers, what is a blog, to get the conversations rolling and sit back and have fun with it. The conversations will vary and need to be monitored as to noto go too technical for the bunch so you will need to balance it out but if the information is discussed, put in print and then followed up with the next month it serves as a great learning tool and will help build office relationships, tech knowledge, marketing efforts and most of all comfort levels with technology.

So why have I waited months to share this concept with the AR community? Well we're creating blogging monsters, especially that Deb Greto! Yesterday out of the hour long forum, we spent about 45 minutes on Active Rain and blogging. We started the blogging conversation in our February forum and then at least 4 Real Estate related publications covered the topic in their March issues so the topic arose again this month and we really had a great discussion.

All the best

4 Yr Old, 4000+ Sq Ft, 4 BR / 2.5 BA, West Conshohocken PA Home For Sale

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 01:00:19 -0500

Welcome to this amazing West Conshohocken PA executive carriage home. Only four years young the home still looks brand new. It has been meticulously maintained and upgraded to accommodate all of the desired amenities of today's new construction. Conshohocken PA is a highly desirable location, just outside Center City Philadelphia PA, which grants you easy access to all of the areas main roadways, schools, shopping and transportation. As you travel through the home you will discover the numerous amenities that make this home a true stand out.

Some Highlights and Features include...
- 4000 + Square Foot of Living Space
- Kitchen w/ 42" Cherry Cabinets and Granite Counters
- 3 or 4 Spacious Bedrooms
- 2 Full / 1 Half Bath
- Oak Staircase and Hardwood Flooring
- Open Main Floor Design
- Sliders to Slate Patio and Rear yard
- Finished Basement w/ Separate Pub
- Private Master Bedroom Deck
- Third Floor Theatre / Media Room
- Two Car Garage plus much more...

for more photos, a virtual tour and more info visit www.DavidJoslin.com

This home is being offered for sale by
David Joslin and Gus Nazaridis
Keller Williams Real Estate, Media PA 610-565-1995

List price $599,900.00

Working With Investors

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:46:58 -0500

I love this market!

Yep you heard me right, I love it. Philadelphia area investors are chomping at the bit to sink their teeth into more and more properties. As properties hit the market, the good ones are always gone quickly - right price, right location, right condition and SOLD!

The beauty of this market is that the investors are constantly asking for more and more properties and that forces our team to create opportunities for the investor. We currently have a laundry list of investors who are buying all types of properties. No matter what the fed is saying, no matter what the national press says about the declining market, the investors are buying, buying and buying. And guess what, they don't just buy one and done. They are going to buy more and more because they have a plan to strike while the iron is hot. A market where supply outweighs the demand, a market where a homeowner with equity in the house is going to sell for 20% less than market value because they want or need to sell. These are the deals that are out there and it is knowing the specifics about that one property so you understand the sellers position and are able to make the offer for what your buyer is looking to spend. I‘m not saying low ball offers all day, every day but I am saying that you need to understand the situation for that particular property and make the recommendation that your client may be able to get a good deal, we also have to have the gumption to tell investor it is not a good fit and move on. Remember we are their eyes and ears on the market conditions, we are the professionals that are doing this everyday and we can make the clients very happy as long as we understand how to make it happen so that all parties are happy.

Understanding the big picture, to do that it is imperative that you know exactly what the investor's goal is before you bring them any properties to analyze. I know that sounds like a very basic fundamental rule but I mean you really need to fully understand the ultimate goal. I'm not talking about buying 10 properties, at 15% below market value this year and rent them out to tenants. What you truly need to understand is why. Obviously they have an ultimate goal. Maybe it's to buy the dream beach house or amass 1 million dollars in real estate each year for the next 5 years and use that portfolio and income as their retirement fund. When you start to have those conversations that is when you begin to truly understand what your investor wants.

Everyone has a very different vision of what their real estate investments are going to allow them to do in the future and we, their certified real estate specialists (CRS) have the distinct opportunity to help deliver their dream to them. Wow that is powerful.

All the best

Just a special thank you to all who serve the public

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 17:35:07 -0500

On March 5, 2008, Lower Chichester firefighter Nicolas Picozzi (35) was killed fighting a fire in Upper Chichester, PA. I think this is the second firefighter in just 6 months in Delaware County. Michael Reagan, Jr. (19) of Sharon Hill, PA lost his life during a garage fire in September 2007. It is a sad and solemn occasion when these tragedies occur, unexpected deaths for those serving their communities.

I was visiting my grandmother earlier this week to drop off some papers and see her new home, she just downsized into a more manageable space and loves it. Well, as I was leaving her home I arrived at the intersection just one block from the Lower Chichester fire company. While I was at the stop light the police motorcycle escorts stopped traffic and the Lower Chichester Engine 39 slowly followed with the casket of Lieutenant Picozzi riding high atop the rear of the truck, a sobering moment, yet such a dignified tribute as his fellow firefighters processed to a viewing for this fallen hero.

I would just like to extend my deepest appreciation to all who serve us on a daily basis to protect and serve the communities needs, especially those who volunteer to do it for the love of the job and the community. Many of my relatives and friends have served or are actively serving as volunteer firefighters, paramedics or emts and I can't thank them enough for what they have done and what they are continuing to do for the communities every time that pager goes off or that whistle blows, no matter what time of day they respond, they are there for us.

Take a moment to acknowledge these public officers and give a nod, a wave, a thank you or even a hand shake or hug to these everyday heroes. Let them know that what they do for us is appreciated every day.

Thank You all for your service.

February 2008 Housing Statistics for Delaware County PA

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 10:29:36 -0600

Delaware County's housing trend update.

The national media is still killing buyer and seller perception of the market conditions in our area but at least we received a recent boost from the Philadelphia Inquirer stating that of all places in our area, Media PA was one of the best markets right now. So here is what TRENDMLS statistics are telling us about last month

The number of units listed for sale is down, just under 6% over the number of units listed in January '08. However listings are up about 5% than the number of homes listed in February 2007.
The Average list price is up about 8% over January ‘07 and up 12.5% over February '07, another increase in pricing
The Average SOLD price however is down 3% over January 2007 but the somewhat good news again is that the SOLD price was up almost 3 % over February '07 sold prices.
The Average Days on Market increased to 80 days, a 21% increase, ouch. That is also about the same increase over last years February 2007 days on market of 67, so properties are sitting out there a bit longer.

Activity has been on the rise this month already and the market is looking for a nice boost with Springtime right around the corner. Happy Buying and Selling.

See Ya!

*statistics derived from TrendMLS provider of multiple listing services to the real estate community of Delaware County and many other surrounding counties

Is It Starting To Warm Up Around Here?

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 23:03:51 -0600

Can you feel it?

Not sure if buyers and sellers alike are starting to recognize it yet but I can tell you the market is starting to wake up. Activity on listings is starting to pick up as showings have increased over the past week and a half and dare I say it. I even heard talk of bidding wars on some recently listed homes! If this the same black cloud market the national press is talking about, not here, not now. The Philadelphia Inquirer did a story on the Delco market and touched bidding wars and hot open houses right here in Media.

Don't get me wrong Mr./Mrs. Seller, Home Buyers still have the upper hand as the inventory will need time to even out but do realize this the market is not going to bear over priced homes even in the best condition. If you feel your home is the "best on the block" you need to do is price your home right at or even below recent home sales and then list your property and see what happens. If the buyers agree you may just find yourself in the middle of a bidding war for your home and if the buyers don't show you may need to think about the price, condition, and location and see if it is priced right.

Buyers are out there and they all want a deal. The combination of the right price, condition and location for a buyer may just be right for a great deal.

Happy Buying and Selling

All the best

David Joslin Recently Recogized As A "Top Producer"

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 21:39:56 -0600

Media, PA, David F. Joslin, Jr., a Media based Realtor® for Keller Williams Real Estate was recently awarded the Bronze Medal for sales production during the year 2007, placing him as one of the top producing agents in the Keller Williams Real Estate Media Market Center. Recently the awards were presented to a select few agents who showed excellent sales performance during the inaugural year of the office and despite being caught up in one of the toughest real estate markets in history the agents continued to be successful in their business.

"2006 was a tough year as we planned for the opening of the brand new Media Office, but once the doors were open and the dust settled it was time to get back to business in 2007." states Realtor Joslin, "I am just lucky to have such a great sphere of family, friends, clients and team members, especially my business partner Gus Nazaridis, all of them keep our success moving forward. We pride ourselves on integrity, honesty, passion and hard work and we are glad that our clients recognize that with continued support, referrals and repeat business; that is why we succeed."

David F. Joslin, Jr. is an award winning sales associate with Keller Williams Real Estate in Media, PA. He is a member of the Suburban West Realtors Association, the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (PAR) and the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). To contact David Joslin, Jr. please call his main office at 610-565-1995, try him direct at 610-517-8249 or visit his website www.DavidJoslin.com.

The Keller Williams Media Market Center opened its' doors for business December 1, 2006 and has been growing ever since. With over 70 agents now on the roster, Team Leader Emma Payne expects the office to hit the 100 agent mark in the near future.

Building Business, Relationships and a Network of Reliability - Join Me!

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:23:24 -0600

Building a referral network starts with sharing information. I have made it one of my goals for 2008 to enhance my referral network and resources to my Family, Friends, Neighbors and current and future Clients.

How does it work? This referral network is going to be made up of trades and services offered by you. If you have a business, service, craft or hobby that you would like to promote for FREE, simply let me know and I will add you to my list of professionals as long as it does not compete with my own real estate business.

Now why would I do this? Quite frankly I want to expand my business and my contacts. One of the ways to do that is build a reliable network. This network will showcase your business to my current and future clients as well as other real estate professionals like me.

What's the catch? A possible referral here and there: or a chance to win your business when you need a real estate professional. The ultimate goal is to build a reliable reciprocal referral network that builds strong business relationships by sharing our services with our clients. By building these relationships I hope that we can all build our businesses.

How much does it cost? Maybe the cost of a stamp: depending on how you want to get your contact information to me.

Take a Minute... Write down your business name, type of business, full time / part time or hobby and any contact information you would like included on the other side of this letter. At a minimum, I would highly recommend an email address and/or website, phone number, company name, contact name and the type of business you are promoting.

Send your information via email, david@davidjoslin.com . I will include you on the service provider section of my website, some promotional material and relevant marketing material.

Note: I do send out a bi monthly magazine to 400+ households that will have a comprehensive listing of all service providers but space is limited to a first come first served basis.

That's it! If you have any questions please fee free to contact me directly or for more information on my business please visit www.DavidJoslin.com .

All the best,
david joslin

Six Simple Things You Can Do To Ensure a Smooth Home Purchase

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:03:49 -0600

Buying a home can be an emotional, time-consuming, and complex process. There are a few things that you can do to help make the process go as smooth as possible:

1.) Check your credit.
Before you apply for a home loan, regardless of your credit, it's a smart idea to obtain a copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus and review the information. If there are errors or things that need to be addressed, it's easier to address them before you have found a house, than after you have found a house and are trying to close your loan.

If you know that there are a few blemishes on your credit, let your lender know what they are, why they are there, and why you are a still good credit risk. Lenders look at your credit to determine how likely you will pay back the loan. If you had extenuating circumstances - like a loss of a job or medical bills - let them know so that they understand that it is not likely to happen again in the future.

2.) Get approved before you buy.
An approval means that a lender has reviewed your credit history, verified your assets and employment, and has approved your loan before you have found a home to purchase. As long as the home appraises for at least the purchase price, the loan should close.

Getting approved also gives you an advantage over other buyers. Your firm approval makes it easier for you to negotiate on the price of a home, than a person who is not approved or is pre-qualified.

While getting pre-qualified may sound official, it is really just getting an idea of what you can afford. Its having a person plug in a few numbers that you give them - your monthly income and your monthly debt - and getting an approximate payment calculated. From the payment, the calculator can approximate the house price range that you can afford. No information is verified. Because your assets, income or credit is not verified, a pre-qualification has little value when purchasing a home.

3.) Find a great buyer's agent.
Traditionally real estate agents represent the sellers in a transaction. When you are not working with a buyer's agent, they are less likely to negotiate the best price or contingencies for you.

A buyer's agent's job and fiduciary responsibility (meaning legal duty) is to you, the buyer. Before working with an agent, establish if they are a buyer's agent or a seller's agent. After spending a lot of time with a Realtor, it's natural to feel like you're a team. But if they are not negotiating for you, then they are not on your team.

4.) Learn about the neighborhood.
Often times the house you find may be in a neighborhood that you're not familiar with, which is ok. It just means that you'll have to do a little more research. If you find a house that you like, ask for a list of the neighborhood properties that sold in the last year. How does your home rank? Is it at the top of the price range? If so, it might be hard to resell. Is it average or on the low end? If so, great - as the other home prices go up in value, they will pull your home's value up as well.

Check out the schools - are they sought after? A good school district means your neighborhood will always be valued by families which is a great reassurance to purchase, not to mention the value-add if you have school-age children.

Next, contact the police station and obtain crime statistics? Are they acceptable to you? Sometimes, if they won't give them to you, it could be a cause for alarm.

Talk to the neighbors. The more people you talk to, the better sense you will get of who makes up the neighborhood and how they will effect your time spent in it.

Check out the location of the shopping, police and fire stations, schools, and air traffic overhead. These are all things that might affect your property value or quality of your life.

5.) Protect Yourself.
Ask your Realtor for a copy of the documents you will be asked to sign if you decide to buy the house. Read them ahead of time so that you'll understand the questions that you will be asked, the things you need to know, and the decisions you will need to make.

6.) Have reasonable expectations.
There is a lot of money at stake. No house is perfect. Understanding and remembering these two statements will help diffuse the negotiation stage, the inspection stage and the closing stage.

Emotions are high for both buyers and sellers. - The seller may have loving memories and years of sweat equity in the house. Maybe they are being relocated and don't want to go. Understanding their motivations for selling will help you appreciate their situation and predicament during these emotional times.

There is a lot of money at stake for all the parties involved (and that includes the realtors) - Just remember that market value (the value of a home) is the price that a willing buyer and a willing seller can agree to. If you can not agree on a price, ask yourself: Is there something you missed? Are there comparables that support the price that they want? Are there motivations that might factor into the price they are demanding? In the end, does it matter? What is the house worth to you today and what do you think you can reasonably sell it for based on the amount of time you plan to spend in it? Think about the answers to those questions before you make your move.

No house is perfect - Always get an inspection. It might be a few hundred dollars, but it's worth it. It's the inspector's job to find any problems with the house that could cost you thousands to repair down the road. Some inspectors have a tendency to over play the importance of their role and the items that they find. Get objective opinions that you trust before making a decision on an inspection report. Likewise, if an inspector says a foundation is cracked but its nothing to worry about - get a second opinion. Ask a handyman for an idea of how much repairs will cost and how complicated they are. The home buying process is an emotional, complex and time-consuming process, but it is worth it. Nothing compares to owning your own home in a neighborhood that you chose.

Happy House Hunting

North Wales Town House For Sale, 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Baths under 300K!

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:53:42 -0600

Keller Williams Real Estate along with David Joslin and Gus Nazaridis present this Gwynedd Pointe Townhouse offering 3 Bedrooms, 2 and a half baths currently listed BELOW MARKET COMPS and being offered at $299,900.00

click on the photo for a virtual tour

Move in condition and on a premier lot in the development, backing up to a wooded area. The home itself features new neutral carpet in all bedrooms and the basement. The home has also been given a fresh coat of neutral paint. The lower level consists of the gar, laundry room and the family room. A new gas fireplace accents the lower level which also has sliders to the rear patio and backyard. The main floor consists of a powder room, LR/DR combo and a full eat in kitchen. The kitchen is nicely finished with tile flooring and corian counter tops and a pass thru window looking in to dining area, this floor is nicely finished with a wood burning fireplace. The upper floor features two nice size BRs with large closets in each, a tiled hall bath, two large hall closets and a linen closet. The home is topped off by the master BR which features vaulted ceiling, full master bath and w/i closet. Ready for your decorating style. Best Value, Priced Below other comparable homes and Ready to Sell.

contact David Joslin 610-517-8249 or Gus Nazaridis 610-212-9257 for more information or simply call the main office number at 610-565-1995

Media PA Ranch Style Home with 3 BR, 2.5 Baths For Sale

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:42:55 -0600

Keller Williams Real Estate along with David Joslin and Gus Nazaridis present
802 Ridge Lane, Media PA currently listed at $429,900.00

click on photo for virtual tour

Wow. This 3 Bedroom, 2 and half bath ranch style home is in absolute move in condition. The home has been lovingly maintained and meticulously upgraded. The home boasts shining hardwood floors throughout the the home, an expanded and upgraded kitchen, newer windows, refinished bathrooms, a finished lower level with brand new Bilco door access, newer central air system and many other upgrades that you will discover on your tour of this home. The outdoor living space is just as spectacular, a new deck off the back off the home was crafted to bring in the light and enjoy the outdoors. This bright and neutral home sits on an oversized a flat corner lot in an established Media neighborhood, don't miss out on this wonderful home.

contact David Joslin 610-517-8249 or Gus Nazaridis 610-212-9257 for more information or simply call the main office number at 610-565-1995

Garnet Valley, Marian Drive Home For Sale 5 BR's, 2 F , 2 H Baths

David F Joslin, Jr (Grand Real Estate Services Media PA) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:22:57 -0600

Keller Williams Real Estate and David Joslin and Gus Nazaridis present
this lovely Marian Drive, TGarnet Valley Single Family home with 5 Bedrooms, 2 Full and 2 half Baths for $549,900.00

click on photo for virtual tour

This Bethel Township Tudor is an absolute gem that will not disappoint. Located in the Woodland Acres subdivision, the home sits nestled back on its mature lot and allows for plenty of indoor and outdoor entertaining space. The highlights & features include a Large Foyer with Closet and P/R, Formal Living Room w/ Floor to Ceiling Windows and Fire Place, Formal Dining Room off the Kitchen, Updated Eat In Kitchen w/ Island, Screened Porch and Large Rear Deck, Two Story Family Room with Fireplace, Oversized Two Car Garage, Laundry Room with Powder Room, Private 1st Floor Den/Office, 2nd Fl Master Bedroom Suite with Vaulted Ceilings, Jacuzzi Style Tub, Separate Shower and Oversized Closet and 3 Add'l BR's, 3rd Fl BR w/ 3 Lg Closets. Plus Hardwood Flooring, Newer Carpet T/O, and Fresh Neutral Paint. Be sure to stop call and schedule your tour for this wonderful home.

For more information contact David Joslin 610-517-8249 or Gus Nazaridis 610-212-9257 or simply call the main office number at 610-565-1995