Irving Texas Real Estate Trends

How Not to Purchase A Short Sale

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 15:47:15 -0800

There's no doubt that Short Sales have become common language these days. To the point that investors are not the only ones interested in them, but owner occupants are too. What's the attraction about buying Short Sales? Especially when considering all the negative media and remarks we hear about Short Sales, one could hardly find them attractive. Still today Short Sales are not completely understood by many in the industry. Consumers are left to arrive at their own opinion... and bad information or lack thereof only adds to the negativity about Short Sales.

Quite different from a bank foreclosure (REO), where the concept to "buy low & sell high" rings strong, Short Sale properties are still occupied and being maintained by the homeowner. Although we label it as "distressed property", it's really the homeowner that's distressed due to some form of financial hardship. Many of these homeowners would love to stay in their homes, but are simply unable to do so financially.

While a Short Sale property may be purchased at a discounted price, it's important to remember just that... "at a discounted price". These homes start off competing at fair market value. The sales price is then adjusted accordingly to stay ahead of the competing homes. most times their condition can justify that, other times not so much. However, if a home is drastically reduced or if a buyer submits a "lowball" offer, more likely than not it will be rejected by the lender. Why? Because they often still have a higher value, and the banks know this through BPO's or other recent sales records they have at their disposal.

Even so, I still see many buyers making lowball offers thinking they can "haggle" a little more and unknowingly set themselves up for rejection. This many times is because the Buyer's agent themselves aren't any more knowledgeable than them. These are not foreclosures (yet). It's important to know exactly what's involved in purchasing a Short Sale. From what to offer to how long it may take to close. A well assembled SS package can be approved and closed between 45-90 days. The more missing items, the longer it takes. Ask the listing agent specific questions will help you determine if you should pursue a particular property. Here are just a few:

Ø Do you have an approval yet? (Generally only happens when an offer is already on the table)

Ø Where in the process are you? (Have they assembled the complete the SS pkg and submitted for approval?)

Ø How many lien holders are there? Have you contacted them all?

Ø Are they responding? (Sign of trouble is when they aren't communicating with the agent)

Ø Do you have multiple offers? Are they "back-up" offers? (The strength of your offer determines where in line you fall)

More and more agents are accepting the fact that Short Sales are here to stay. And now that the big banks have reached a settlement with respects to the "Robo-Signing" suit, pending foreclosures will move at a much faster rate after March 1st 2012. More on this subject later... for more info on how to purchase a Short Sale contact your local real estate professional. Here in Irving Tx I can be reached at 1-877-846-2612 ext 7

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Conventional Rates in Irving TX drop below 4%

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 23:31:18 -0700

Interest rates for a Conventional 30yr-fixed drops below 4% for the first time in history! This is great news for First Time Home Buyers looking for Irving TX Real Estate, who maybe doesn’t want to go through the stricter guidelines of an FHA loan.

Even the 15yr-fixed loans, popular among existing homeowners wanting to refinance fell to an all time low according to GSE’s market analysis. Freddy Mac’s chief economist, Frank Nothaft said the decline in fixed mortgage rates was due to the sharp drop in 10-yr Treasuries.

Lower rates and lenient guidelines… what could be better? Looking for a great deal? Consider an Irving TX Short Sale! Read the article here…

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

The Sky Is Falling!

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 19:36:02 -0700

NASA has a decommissioned satellite that is heading towards earth and scheduled to land somewhere in the USA. The exact time and location is still undetermined. According to NASA, this satellite will begin it’s decent on Friday (9/23/11) or early Saturday (9/24/11), EDT. I just hope it doesn’t land in Irving Texas. This thing is the size of a bus, weighing in at around 6-tons! So heads up everyone!!!

Satellites aren’t the only thing dropping these days. Interest rates are still at an all-time low. Consider the latest announcement from the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC), an interest rate of 4.00% and a 3% grant to help with downpayment and closing costs. This new rate is effective on the Home Sweet Texas, Professional Educators, and Homes for Texas Heroes Home Loan Programs. Three different programs, all beneficial for helping homeowners purchase their first home.

One thing that up in Irving TX is the number of home sales we had in August 2011. Of the 655 SFR for sale during that month, a total of 123 closed. That’s a 10.8% increase of the month of July 2011, with 111 closed sales! Contact me for a more detailed analysis of the home sales in Irving Texas.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Back to School in Irving TX

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:10:03 -0700

It’s back to school for students in Irving TX as well as most of the DFW area. So, a word of caution please be watchful for our young ones, walking and crossing the streets. Take some adult responsibility and leave a little earlier; school zones and crosswalks will slow us down a bit. Preparing for these “slow” will help us reach our destination safe and on time.

Here’s a couple of don’ts to remember… Don’t talk on your cell phone while driving through a school zone, unless you have the appropriate hands-free accessories. The fine could be as high as $500. That’s not the way to get the school year off.

Don’t speed through a school zone; remember that it’s 20mph. The fine is around $312. Some of the students will be driving themselves to school, certainly an exciting time; but safety should always, always come first.

The Irving ISD has been preparing diligently so that our young ones can enjoy a successful school year. So as responsible parents and advocates of our communities, let’s do our part to help make this a safe a happy school year!

Brought to you by Irving TX Short Sale Specialist:

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Helping Those You Love and Care About...

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 13:04:08 -0700

Here’s a short video I hope helps to educate homeowners around the country to seek the help they need, if they find themselves or someone they know in difficult times, struggling to make their mortgage. (Click image)

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

The Lesser of Two Evils – Short Sales

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:19:01 -0700

In this case, I refer to the lesser of two evils as a short sale. Not only in Irving TX, but all across this nation banks and homeowners are at the ends of this dilemma. The first "evil" being that a homeowner is no longer able to continue making their mortgage payments. Sadly, 1-2 out of every 10 homeowners is completely unable to make his/her mortgage payments, and is already in foreclosure proceedings. While, 3 out of 10 are struggling to keep up with their payments, and just a matter of time before they also face foreclosure. This average continues to grow at a phenomenal rate. Unemployment, sickness & health issues, divorce, and death are all major contributors to this crisis.

The second is that banks are forced to foreclose on certain homeowners. All across the nation, the number of foreclosures that continue to happen is staggering. These financial institutions have a responsibility to their investors… They have to “try” and recoup as much of their investment as possible, even if it’s the property itself. The last thing banks want to do is add to the “homeless” population. This only declines the dignity and values in the family circle. Great communities are built from strong family ties with “pride of ownership”, children do better in school, and this in turn causes growth.

The solution to this crisis is the Short Sale. If a homeowner is helped to “see” that selling the property may be the only solution to actually help their situation, they will be more inclined to do so. Homeowners still need to be educated on this, banks already know this. The 4 major banking institutions (BofA, Citi, and Wells & Chase) are already seeking the assistance of trained, experienced real estate agents that know how to do short sales successfully. The banks are all too familiar with the costs of doing a foreclosure. While they are willing to “take a hit” financially, all is not lost when they agree to do a Short Sale. They would much rather get something, than pay attorneys and get almost nothing.

The Short Sale Process is complex, and not recommended for every agent selling real estate. Each lender and loan type has a different set of requirements. The commitment and dedication has to be there or you could be adding to the crisis by shattering the hopes of others.

Are you ready to “step up to bat”?

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

No Children Allowed - Restaurants, Airlines, & Business Meetings?

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:13:17 -0700

I saw a news segment this morning discussing the issue of children barred from restaurants, some movie matinee, and from flying in first class airlines. Although this would be a very bold move on the part of business owners, many suggest it's the right move. Realizing that some business would be loss, these business owners felt that the short fall could be made up with new "childless" business. I know that all of us at one time or another have face a similar situation where you've gone to your favorite restaurant or pub for a good meal and relaxation after a hard day or to celebrate a successful deal, only to have it interupted by someone's uncontrolled child, right? I'm not trying to pick on parents with linient standards, rather I'm bringing light to a society that's fast becomming fed-up. This was said to have started in Singapore and European countries. Now the movement is trickling into the States.

I've personally have attempted a listing presentation where both homeowner parents were present, only not at the same time. I managed to get through about 1/4 of my presentation, but between the yelling and crying and other interuptions, I doubt they could remember my name. Needless to say, I politely told them that this was obviously not a good time. They insisted I stay, and that the kids would soon "tire out". I held my ground and explained that listing their home was not a matter I took lightly. That several thousands of dollars are at stake and that for it to be a successful understanding of the process, I needed to have their undivided attention. I agreed to return when they could arrange to give me at least 1 hour of their time. Sadly they never called again.

Was I wrong? Were the other business owners wrong? Personally, I don't think so. I choose to do business one way... professionally. Although at times it may be a bit relaxed, it's still in a professional manner. I simply refuse to compete for the homeowner's or homebuyer's attention...

By-the way, yes... I have 3 children of my own. They're all grown now, the youngest 20, the eldest 30. The old priciple that "children should be seen, not heard" worked well in raising me, and I taught my kids the same principle of manners. I can't help but feel that moral ethics and respect has to start at home with responsible parenting. Well, that's my rant from the news segment this morning. Any thoughts?

Watch TODAY video here

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Male Sensitivity Even in Irving TX

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:24:56 -0700

I recieved this today and just had to share it... for the humor in us.

Male Sensitivity

The room was full of pregnant women with their partners. The class was in full swing. The instructor was teaching the women how to breathe and was telling the men how to give the necessary help and assurance to their partners at this stage of the pregnancy.

She said, "Ladies, remember that exercise is good for you. Walking is especially beneficial. It strengthens the pelvic muscles and will make delivery that much easier. Just pace yourself, make plenty of stops and try to stay on a soft surface like grass or a path."

She looked at the men in the room, "Gentlemen, remember -- you're in this together. It wouldn't hurt you to go walking with her. In fact, that shared experience would be good for you both."

The room suddenly got very quiet as the men absorbed this information.

After a few moments, a man named Rod at the back of the room slowly raised his hand.

"Yes," said the Instructor.
"I was just wondering, would it be all right if she carries a golf bag while we walk?"

This kind of sensitivity just can't be taught.

Sent to me by Charlie Braun

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Irving TX Short Sales - What's Involved In a Short Sale?

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 16:59:53 -0700

What’s Involved in a Short Sale? If it’s been established that a homeowner needs to sell to avoid a foreclosure, a Short Sale may be the best choice over other options. So what exactly is involved in a Short Sale?

1. Lender Request – most lenders now have an assembled package (forms) of what documents they need to see, before they decide if the homeowner qualifies for a Short Sale. This can be requested by contacting the lenders Loss Mitigation dept. Some professional Realtors also carry acceptable forms of these documents.
2. Letter of Authorization – before any profession assistance can be had, the lender will required the homeowner to provide authorization or “permission” to the lender before discussing matters pertaining to the mortgage. A Listing Agreement that shows that the property is “actively” competing in the real estate market; may also be required by the lender.
3. Documents – to the Short Sale Package include, but not limited to a hardship letter, a financial worksheet, current pay-stubs, bank statements, federal tax statements, P&L Sheets (if applicable), contribution letters (if applicable), CMA, etc. Some of these documents will require updates every so often at the lenders discretion.
4. Time Frame – of the Short Sale is where a lot of homeowners give up. Once the Short Sale Package has been received by the lender, a follow up to determine the status should be done once or twice a week. Lenders are bombarded with requests; patience and persistence are very much needed in this instance, and extremely hard to apply together.
5. Marketing & Maintenance – I mention these together because they have to work hand-in-hand. A history that the property has been marketed at competitive fair market value needs to be established. Price adjustments may be required accordingly (based on the local market). Maintaining the property in good marketable condition can be deflating, especially if there’s no interest being shown, but very necessary.
6. Short Sale Approval – is what everyone is working towards. A HUD-1 (preliminary settlement) should be used in justifying either a “List Price” or “Buyer’s Offer”. The lender will require this to compare to the BPO provided by a 3rd party. Many variable go into attaining a lender’s approval. An “approval” can be had from as quick as 10-days to as long as 24-months.

Generally, when an approval is given by the lender, it only applies to the offer on the table. There are instances where properties have been marketed with an “approved price”. However, most Approval Letters indicate the name and price of the accepted offer, and cannot be used with any other buyer.

For more information on how Shorts Sales contact Diego Marin.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Irving, TX Short Sales - What Is a Short Sale?

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:50:31 -0700

Irving Tx Short Sales - What Is A Short-Sale?

Short Sale Specialist - Diego Marin, Realtor®
"Straight Talk.... Real Results"
Irving, Texas

Well, let’s first discuss why someone would need a Short Sale. Let’s say that things are going just peachy for you, you’re employed and although it takes two incomes, you’re able to cover your financial responsibilities and still have a little bit to put away. Suddenly one of the “financial” providers loses their job, or gets a life changing illness, making them unable to work. These are considered to be a life changing “hardships” in an otherwise normal situation. It often leaves one wondering; what happened?

Many homeowners in situations like this, overwhelmingly try to make “ends meet” on a single income, where before it took two. Friends …this is called “Pride & Denial”. After all, what would our family and friends say & think of us… right? Falling behind on the mortgage, bill collectors calling, threatening letters in the mail, and now facing the real possibility of Foreclosure is a crisis.

Millions of homeowners are in this very situation today. The possibility of losing one’s home, becoming “homeless”, has affected many families around the nation. While one may not want to sell their home, the inability of making the mortgage makes it almost a necessity. However, trying to sell a house in a “down market” is hard enough for professional Realtors, how much harder for someone doing it alone? So, what is a Short Sale and what does it have to do with me, right? Due to the current housing market, home values have plummeted. So trying to sell in today’s market would most certainly mean taking a loss. Lender are well aware of this, therefore they will consider allowing the homeowner to “sell short” of what is actually owed on the note. This is known as the Short Sale. For example, if you have a mortgage where you owe $100,000; but home values have dropped to $75,000; and someone offers to purchase your home for $70,000; if the Lender accepts the offer and it goes to closing, this is considered a Short Sale.

There are many variables that go into a Short Sale, like Do you have to be behind on your mortgage? Do I Owe the Difference of the Shortfall?. To gain a better understanding of Short Sales, be sure to also read my posts on Do I Qualify for a Short Sale? and What’s Involved In a Short Sale? Perhaps you may be able to help a friend or family member out of a national crisis.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Are Your Rentals Protected?

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:11:10 -0700

The following is a contribution by a good friend & mentor, Joe Davila:

Dwelling Policy for Rental Property

The idea of owning rental property appear to be gaining popularity as investors tire of the see-saw affect of the stock market. For those who are able to invest in real estate have been and perhaps been able to make money until the unfortunate happens and suffer a loss.

With any investment, you would want to protect it. That's where Dwelling insurance or what some would call it, Landlord insurance comes in. It is very important to read your declarations page of your policy or schedule a time to go over the coverage with an agent.

You may be surprised with what your policy may or may not cover; it can be costly to find out after a loss has occurred.

What's covered under a typical dwelling policy:

Fire and Lightning
Sudden and Accidental damage from Smoke
Windstorm, Hurricane and Hail
Explosion
Aircraft and Vehicles
Riot and Civil Commotion, or
Vandalism and Malicious Mischief

With some insurance carriers there is an endorsement that many real estate investors may not be aware, "Fair Rental Value". If a loss does occur which makes the dwelling location wholly or partially untenantable, the endorsement coverage will cover fair rental value. According to BusinessDictionary.com the definition of fair rental value is: probable amount the owner of a property could reasonable except to receive from a stranger for lodging. In other words, if your tenant has to move out because of a loss that has occurred, the endorsement will cover your rental income that as been loss.

In addition, depending who the insurance carrier is the deductible clause does not apply to fair rental value coverage.

In the world of real estate investing can be very frustrating if you did not have the proper coverage in your investment. One can not overly emphasize the importance of reviewing your current policy and periodically sit down with a professional insurance agent that cares about your investment as much as you do.

Joe A. Davila

CPIA

One Source Insurance Agency

(Click here) if you'd like to know more about the different types of insuance coverage for investment properties.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Extra Thought Can Mean Better Sales Price, Less Time on Market

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:33:39 -0800

A little paint here and there, shampoo on the carpets, some spackle and voilà! Your house is ready to go on the market, right?

Even if you've kept your home in mint condition over the years, a little extra thought can mean thousands more in your sales price. It can also mean the difference between a week and a couple of months on the market.

Here are some projects to take care of before your home goes on the market.

Deep cleaning of the bathrooms and kitchen, which includes replacing old toilet seats and other worn-out fixtures;
Locate and replace rotted wood; clear overgrowth in the yard;

Clean windows and replace carpeting, if necessary;
If a roof is in obvious need of help, such as leaks or visible damage, make necessary repairs.

By postponing roof, wood rot or other necessary repairs, a seller can lose twice - first in a lower sales price and later when a lender requires repairs for closing. Request your FREE TIPS to sell your home, click here.

Need help with your project? I'd be happy to assist you with information on selling your home. click here

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

FORECLOSURES - Avoidable?

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:29:41 -0800

So you have a two family household income. You have two kids in school and life is good. You come to work, notice a memorandum in your inbox and it states "due to the fact' then mentions something about "cutbacks"... no doubt you start to think about your situation with the company... will you be effected? Emotions run high, and you can't concentrate on your work... and then the saga begins.

Aside from making your mortgage payments, what are your options? We all know payments have to be paid, but if a "wrench' like a layoff comes into the picture, what do we do? It's normal to want to try and handle the problem on our own... after all, we're not sure we really have a problem right?

The truth is... we really DO have a problem. Most Realtors can be an advocate to you in this situation. Although I work primarily the Irving TX Real Estatearea, I have associate Realtors than can assist in the areas where you live. Foreclosure is a term to define a situation that has developed. Is there a way out? Maybe... Alot depends on you, the Homeowner. For most of us , pride & ego will get in the way and we'll try and take care of the problem on our own. Sadly the the results will be that we lost our home and have now tarnished our credit, restricted now to only renting, depression becomes our closest friend.

This doesn't have to be your story... If you've come across a dilemma like this, help is available. The key factor in this story is TIME. The TIME you take to realize you need to talk to someone who can help is an important factor in this situation.

If you've missed one, two and in certain situations even three payments of your mortgage, help may still be available. This situation is happening more than you may realize. For more information on the options available, (click here), if you'd like a private consultation (click here)

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Buyer Tips-Ensure a Smooth Real Estate Closing, by Diego Marin

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:22:31 -0800

The best way buyers can avoid unnecessary stress and frustration when buying Irving TX Real Estate, is to be prepared. A Realtor can guide you through the steps, forming a type of "presentation' package. After discussingwith your Realtor about the things you need & want in a home, comes the gathering of absolute necessary documents. The better prepared the paper work is, the easier it will be to go through the transaction of buying your home. Here are some of the things you'll need & points to keep in mind:

GET PRE-Qualified - Nothing is more frustrating than viewing homes that are just out of your price range. A Lender will help you understand, based on your earnings and debts, how mush "house" you can afford without getting in unnecessary debt. Also saves on lots of wasted time. Be sure to get informed about money that you will need to have and pay upfront, before any down-payment and closing costs.
DOCUMENTS - Different from the pre-qualification, is the actual "Approval". This is possible through verification of your information. The Lender takes your loan application and provides you with a list of documents you'll need to start assembling together (pay-stubs, bank stmts, tax returns, VOE, VOR, list of creditors & debts, etc.).
CONTRACT OFFER- After discussing your options with your Realtor, be resolved to what type of home you're interested in owning (Single Detached, Condo, Loft, etc.). When a property is selected, prepare to make the "offer". Based on what supporting the "comps" show for that market, set your price. Your Realtor can help with that.
ESCROW - Here's where the money part starts. Earnest money is a type of deposit that a 3rd neutral party will hold, better known as a Title Company. They will check vital information like does the seller have authority to sell, and are there any liens against the property.
INSPECTIONS - I can't stress enough how important a home inspection is. Your Realtor may know an inspector who may have developed a great professional relationship (sphere-of-influence) with him/her. You could also ask family & friends who they used when buying their home. It's your choice who you use, and it's definitely in your best interest.
PROPERTY CONDITION - One thing that is often misunderstood is that unless the Lender requires a repair(s) to be made, the property is to be sold/bought in it's present condition. Additional repairs can be negotiated between buyer & seller. Make sure EVERYTHING is in writing. If there are no concerns to the Lender, they'll pursue on to have the property appraised, to be sure it's worth what you're wanting to borrow.
CLOSING - After all Lender conditions and requirements have been met, a time and date is scheduled to "close" the deal by signing the papers. This is typically done at the Title Co. by the Escrow Agent. When the funds have been "transfered and funded" from the buyers lender to the sellers bank, you officially become the new owner.
UTILITIES - Have in mind which utility services you will be using, have the accounts switched over to your name the day of, or after the closing.

Your Real Estate experience doesn't have to be frustrating and stressful. To get started, let me know what you're looking for (click here).

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

You Can Still Sell Your Irving Texas Fast and For Top Dollar

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:38:15 -0800

The advantages to selling your house immediately are numerous. It will lower your stress level, since having the question of whether your home will sell while it's on the market hanging over your head can be quite unpleasant and stressful. Your property is going to appear to be worth less the more time it spends on the market. Ultimately, quick sales are much preferable to slow ones. We will review how to sell your house in a quick and profitable manner.

You can increase your house's value by keeping you house in great condition. If you want to get the highest price and generate that spur-of-the-moment "I want this house" reaction from potential buyers, you need to have your house in the best condition you can get it. Focus first and foremost on the kitchen and bathrooms. Be sure that the floor is sparkling clean everywhere. No grime or dirt whatsoever. The metal should show no signs of rust. Damaged fixtures definitely need to be replaced. It is mandatory to keep the shower heads and toilets clean If they are unable to be cleaned appropriately for any reason, it's less expensive to replace them than allow them to adversely impact the selling price. WD-40 can always be counted on for the hinges around your house suffering from a bit of squeaking. Repair holes in the wall and/or floor.

You should have things that stand out. If you have a central focal point when showing off to potential buyers, it can help tremendously in the sale. Things such as an amazing backyard, mahogany cabinets or a great fireplace can be focal points. Buyers both rationalize logically and fall in love emotionally. If you have something really good about your house, it will surely make them fall in love

Choose A Trusted Professional. This brings us to the final and most important point: work with someone who knows their stuff. The best way to sell your property (i.e. at the highest price) is to employ a real estate agent who has spent years being educated on the best ways to manage the selling process.

If you are looking for the highest sale price and shortest listing time, paying six or seven percent to a real estate agent is the way to go. Generally, it works out to be more economical in the long run to work together with a Realtor.

Talk with an experienced professional about selling your house quickly, they can teach you a lot. To obtain a consultation at no charge, feel free to contact me by phone or email (click here).

Diego Marin, your Irving TX Real Estate professional.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Who's On My Side?... 4 Things to Consider

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:24:10 -0800

There's a very subtle misconception that exist among first time homebuyers about Realtors & Lenders in the Irving TX Real Estate area. The misconception that BOTH the Realtor & the Lender have the homebuyer's best interest in mind. There exists a responsibility & duty among these professionals, known as "fiduciary". This fiduciary relationship is created when a customer signs an agreement to represented, for instance by a realtor. This requires that the realtor exhibit trust, honesty and good business judgment. How does this work? Well, in short, when this relationship is created, a realtor has to (1.) follow and obey all legal instructions given by the principle, (2.) loyalty to the principle (buyer or seller) by fully informing of information that affect the sale of the property, and to promote and protect the client's interests. (3.) Protecting the client's interests basically involves knowing what to say, when to say it, and who to say it to. (4.) a realtor must also provide reasonable care, which would imply competence and expertise on the part of the broker. It's also the broker's responsibility to disclose all knowledge and material facts concerning a property.

Now as for the Lender..., I haven't forgotten. The lender also has similar responsibilities, but to the investors, not the borrower. This commentary is not meant to be a bashing towards lenders. realtors and lenders work shoulder to shoulder in helping homebuyers reach their goals, and I have many lenders who are great friends of mine. I simply want to give you, the first time homebuyer some insight on buying property in the Irving TX Real Estate area. Both the realtor and the lender give fair and honest information to 'customers', but only the realtor will give you, the home buyer/borrower, a fiduciary relationship through a representation agreement. Kind of makes you wonder who really "has your back'".

If you would like to know more about buying or selling properties in the Irving TX Real Estate area, click here.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7

Five of the Biggest Mistakes Sellers in Irving Texas Make in Regards to Aesthetics; By Experienced Real Estate Guru, Diego Marin

Diego Marin - Irving TX Short Sales (Champions Real Estate Group) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 21:30:54 -0700

The success of selling a house is largely dependent upon the house's appearance. It seems that a large portion of the buying decision is influenced my emotion. Aesthetics, or the beauty of things around can affect your emotions. In this article, we'll go over some of the top aesthetic mistakes sellers in the Irving Texas Use this so you can avoid making these mistakes and get a higher price when you sell your house.

A common mistake which makes your home less attractive is the type of lighting that a buyer will see it in. Bright and inviting, a naturaly lit house with bright light seems to draw you in. Houses that are dark seem to be much more gloomy.

Pull back all the curtains after opening all the windows. You should consider adding additional lighting in your house if the present lighting is inadequate.

The subtle taste of how your house smells has a big impact on the buyer.

Mistake #2 - Lack of Attention to Scent Although it's pleasant to subtly lend fragrance to the home, at all costs avoid strong overpowering smells.

Aroma's that remind the buyer of the current occupant are not welcome. Before showing the house,it could go a long way to use some soft air fresheners.

3rd Error - Poor Exterior First Impression,

Your home's interior isn't the sole location that should be of concern. On the exterior, both the paint and yard play an important factor in the buyer's decision making process.

Your buyer will get a first impression from viewing the exterior of your home.

Perhaps you have a teenager who's painted his walls orange.

Mistake #4 - Strange Colors Pink may be your forte and it may look good with the paintings you own. However, for the buyer the colors may or may not suit them.

Why assume the chance? Don't forget to paint your walls a neutral color, before you show your home.

Make sure you attend to any needed repairs, such as, applying WD-40 to noisy hinges. If you are having issues with major utilities be sure to have those problems resolved first. In the event that kitchen cupboards or counters are marred or outdated, replacing them is likely to be needed.

Tiles need to be completely cleaned of grime and dirt. Often times it could even pay to replace old windows.

You can acquire a lot of information regarding buying, selling and investing in Irving Texas, all at no cost. Irving Texas real estate. I will be more than glad to answer your questions and please feel free to contact me with any of your real estate or mortgage related questions. Phone me at my cellular number, You can also reach me at my email address diegojmarin@msn.com is the best way to contact your real estate agent via email.

J. "Diego" Marin

Real Estate Solutions

Irving, Texas 75061

(877) 846-2612 x7