David Recker's Blog

Why Days on Market Matter

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 07:55:55 -0700

As a seller "Days on Market" are important. Not only do you want to sell your house as quick as possible, you also want the best price. Typically, the quicker you get an offer the better price you will receive.

How do you do this? First, you...

Read Why Days on Market Matter in its entirety.

Visit David C Reckers website, www.NCRealEstateWeb.com, and Blog, www.NCRealEstateWeblog.com for more information about Dave's Professional Services, Service Areas, Homes for Sale, and local information.

The 6 Things That Count Most When Selling Your Home

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 07:19:59 -0700

Price
Price is of course always important. However, in a buyers market it is more important than ever to properly price your house. In a recent article I discussed the various reasons why you should Price It Right on day one. Please take a moment to review this article.

All you can do is ensure the price is reasonable and justifiable. This should ensure that buyers will consider your house. The price is actually decided by what a willing and able buyer will pay.

Read The 6 Things That Count Most When Selling Your Home in its entirety.

Visit David C Reckers website, www.NCRealEstateWeb.com, and my Blog, www.RockyMountRealEstateGuy.com, for more information about Dave's services, service areas, and local information.

Client Story #1 - Sellers needing to sell within 90 days

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:14:24 -0700

Situation
I received a call from a couple needing to sell their home fast. The husband was a Deputy Sheriff in Nash County and had started a new job as a Police Officer in Knighdale, NC.

He had a deadline of when he had to relocate to Knightdale or he would risk losing his job. They had already listed with another Realtor for 6 months and the listing had expired with one showing.

Click Here to read the rest of this article.

Visit David C Reckers website, www.NCRealEstateWeb.com, and Blob www.NCRealEstateWeblog.com for more information about Dave's services, service areas, and local information.

Saving Gas

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 07:10:25 -0700

We all know that gas continues to go up straining our budgets. In the real estate business we put a lot of miles on our vehicles showing buyers around, checking on listings, and delivering paperwork.

I have been spending somewhere between $400 and $600 per month this year on gas and I'm tired of paying that much for gas. The reality is that 90% of the time I'm in the vehicle by myself, not with clients.

Therefore, I have purchased a 2006 KIA to use in my business. I of course still have the huge realtor vehicle for when I need to drive around clients. But for the other 90% of the time I will be consuming a lot less gas.

Click Here to read the entire article

David C Recker, Associate Broker, Realtor ® licensed in North Carolina. Reach David at: 252-442-2687

Copyright © 2008 By David C Recker, All Rights Reserved.. *Saving Gas* Contact David C Recker for all your real estate needs.

Will this be the year you wish you'd bought real estate?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:32:18 -0700

With lower interest rates and plenty of homes to choose from, now may be the right time for you to purchase real estate. Today's lower interest rates may not be around when prices flatten out, so trying to time the market rarely works to your advantage. Another problem with trying to time the market is that it requires a rising market to know just where the bottom was ... hindsight is always 20-20, isn't it?

In many cases, purchasing a home may be cheaper than renting. Click Here to read the entire article.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Classic Realty and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, www.NCRealEstateWeb.com , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Memorial Day - A Day of Remembrance

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Mon, 26 May 2008 06:55:59 -0700

On this day, please join me in remembering our fallen military personnel and reach out to a veteran and thank them for their service to our country.

Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions. I am a retired U.S. Army Infantry Sergeant Major and I WILL NOT forget.

It is in no small part through the sacrifice of our military men and women that we have the freedom to enjoy life's simple pleasures.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Classic Realty and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, www.NCRealEstateWeb.com , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

David Recker is now with RE/MAX Classic

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 07:08:12 -0700

I wanted to provide an exciting update that I have moved offices. I am now with RE/MAX Classic Realty working out of their office at 163 Nashville Commons Drive, Nashville, North Carolina 27856.

All of my contact information remains the same:

Direct phone: 252-442-2687

I look forward to continuing to provide superior real estate services to Nash, Edgecombe, and Wilson counties.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Classic Realty and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Buyers, it's time to get off the fence!

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:08:36 -0700

Despite lower prices and historically low interest rates, existing single family home sales remain weak. Locally, we have plenty of good homes to choose from in all price ranges, and interest rates remain low thanks to the Federal Reserve's rate cuts.

So, why are so many buyers sitting on the fence? It's a fair guess that consumers are waiting for home prices and even interest rates to fall even further.

Click Here to read the rest of this article.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Spring is a good market for Buyers and Sellers in North Carolina

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 06:51:16 -0800

Are you thinking of buying or selling a home but you're not sure if this is the "right time"? Talk with a Realtor for expert advice on your local market.

Real Estate Cycles
Real Estate Cycles are no different than any other cycles that effect consumers. It is subject to the laws of supply and demand. A shortage of homes, also known as a sellers market, generally means that prices will rise. Likewise, a surplus of homes, also known as a buyers market, means that houses stay on the market longer creating downward pressure on prices.

Click Here to read more...

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

For Sale By Owner

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 06:15:46 -0800

Many homeowners believe that to maximize their profit on a home sale they should sell it themselves. At first glance, they feel selling a home is simple and why should they pay a broker fees for something they could do themselves? In fact, close to 9% of all the homes sold last year were sold for sale by owner (FSBO).

However, close to half of the FSBO's said that they would hire a professional next time they sold. Thirty percent said they were unhappy with the results they achieved by choosing FSBO. Why?

Many FSBO's told us that the time, paperwork and everyday responsibilities involved were not worth the amount of money they saved in commissions. For others, the financial savings were even more disappointing. By the time they figured the amount of fees paid to outside consultants, inspectors, appraisers, title lawyers, escrow and loan officers, marketing, advertising... they would have been better off having paid the broker's fee which would have included many of these charges up front.

Before you decide to sell FSBO, consider these questions and weigh the answers of assuming the responsibility versus employing a professional. A little time spent investigating up front will pay off tenfold in the end.

Do I have the time, energy, know-how, and ability to devote a full forced effort to sell my home?

One of the keys to selling your home efficiently and profitably is complete accessibility. Many homes have sat on the market much longer than necessary because the owner was unwilling or unavailable to show the property. Realize that a certain amount of hours each day is necessary to sell your home.

Am I prepared to deal with an onslaught of buyers who perceive FSBO's as targets for low balling?

One of the challenges of selling a home is screening unqualified prospects and dealing with lowballers. It often goes unnoticed... how much time, effort and expertise it requires to spot these people quickly. Settling for a lowball bid is usually worse than paying broker commissions.

Am I offering financing options to the buyer? Am I prepared to answer questions about financing?

One of the keys to selling, whether it's a home, a car... anything, is to have all the necessary information the prospective buyer needs and to offer them options. Think about the last time you purchased something of value, did you make a decision before you had all your ducks in a row? By offering financing options you give the home buyer the ability to work on their terms and open up the possibilities of selling your home quickly and more profitably. A professional real estate agent will have a complete team, from lenders to title reps for you to utilize...they'll be at your disposal.

Do I fully understand the legal ramifications and necessary steps required in selling a home?

Many home sales have been lost due to incomplete paperwork, lack of inspections or not meeting your states disclosure laws. Are you completely informed of all the steps necessary to sell real estate? If not, a professional would be a wise choice.

Do I have the capability of handling the legal contracts, agreements and any disputes with buyers before or after the offer is presented?

Ask yourself if you are well versed in legalese and if you are prepared to handle disputes with buyers. To avoid any disputes it is wise to put all negotiations and agreements in writing. Many home sales have been lost due to misinterpretation of what was negotiated.

Have I contacted the necessary professionals....title, inspector (home and pest), attorney, and escrow company?

Are you familiar with top inspectors and escrow companies? Don't randomly select inspectors, attorneys, and title reps. Like any profession there are inadequate individuals who will slow, delay and possibly even cost you the transaction. For more information visit http://www.m3fsbo.com/

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Are You Thinking of Selling Your Home?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 06:40:57 -0800

If you own real estate in the Greater Rocky Mount Area of North Carolina that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Market Analysis. I can help you decide if now is the best time to sell your home. Selling your home without the right agent can be time consuming, stressful, and costly. Contact me to learn how my strategic marketing plan and my expertise will successfully price, market and sell your home in a way the is convenient, simple and affordable to you!

Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Buy or Rent, a few things to consider

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 07:01:26 -0800

Things being equal it's almost always better to own your home rather than to rent. After all, you build equity and get to write off your mortgage interest. And if you meet the guidelines, when you sell you'll be eligible for one of the best tax breaks around.

There are many issues that influence whether buying or renting is right for you. That said, home ownership has a significant tax advantage. When you sell married couples can earn up to $500,000 in gains on home sales tax-free, while singles get $250,000. The chart below demonstrates the amount of accumulated money renters are paying that could be building equity in their own homes.

WARNING!!!

Renting Is Hazardous To Your Wealth!

LOOK BELOW!

To see how much you are losing every year!

Your Monthly Rent	After 3 Years	After 5 Years
$500.00	$18,000.00	$30,000.00
$750.00	$27,000.00	$45,000.00
$1,000.00	$36,000.00	$60,000.00
$1,200.00	$43,200.00	$72,000.00
$1,500.00	$54,000.00	$90,000.00
$2,000.00	$72,000.00	$120,000.00
$2,500.00	$90,000.00	$150,000.00
$3,000.00	$108,000.00	$180,000.00
$3,500.00	$126,000.00	$210,000.00

Other Factors

Of course, buying a home isn't strictly a financial decision. For most folks, the thought of constantly worrying about losing their security deposit every time they pound a nail or paint a wall isn't particularly appealing. Here are some other things to consider before making your purchase:

This may sound simplistic, but first and foremost you should find a neighborhood and a home that you just plain like. "You're not going to wake up in the middle of the night and say 'Wow! Look at my tax deduction!'" .

Moreover, you should check on the sales price trends of homes in that neighborhood. If it looks like the area is declining in value, then avoid commitment: You may be better off renting.

Finally, don't forget that even with the tax-breaks of home ownership, you will still be incurring out-of-pocket costs that you wouldn't encounter as a renter - from the cost of ripping down wallpaper to repairing a leaky roof. So before you buy, estimate how much those costs will be. After all, you don't want to live hand-to-mouth - even if it is in your own home.

Why Are You Still Renting?

Call me at 252-442-2687 today to receive a FREE Buyers Analysis!!

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Dave Recker Recognized as Contributing Author to Real Estate 2008 Book

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 18:54:06 -0800

Dave Recker Recognized as Contributing Author to Real Estate in 2008 Book of Top Ideas for the Challenging Market of 2008

Dave Recker, one of the premier Realtors in Rocky Mount, NC recently joined hundreds of top agents as a contributing author to Real Estate in 2008.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina - January 31, 2008 - Dave Recker, a top Realtor in Rocky Mount, NC joined with hundreds of top real estate agents around the country to write Real Estate in 2008 in less than a month.

Real Estate in 2008 (http://www.realestatein2008.org/) helps buyers, sellers, and agents succeed in a challenging 2008 market by providing hundreds of ideas from top agents. Chapters include ideas on how to find motivated buyers, how to convince buyers to buy, how to get sellers to price/position their homes and creative ideas from around the country. These are ideas from top real estate agents who collaborated in an industry-wide effort which was launched during the National Association of Realtor's (NAR) conference in November 2007.

Dave provides a number of ideas as to why buyers should buy in 2008 and how sellers can prepare, price and position their homes to be sure they get sold in 2008. "It takes more than a sign in your yard, and an ad in the paper to get a good offer," said Dave.

Click Here to read the entire Press Release

What is the Subprime Mortgage Crisis?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 06:16:26 -0800

Here are many reports and articles about the subprime mortgage crisis. However, many consumers simply don't understand what it's all about. Why? The news media is too busy creating an atmosphere of crisis to slow down and do a simple explanation.

Click Here for the rest of the article.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

How to Get a Quick Sale in a Slow Market

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 07:33:31 -0800

There are many things that determine if and when a house sells. However, three things stand head and shoulders above the rest. They are price, condition, and marketing. Lets take a look at these:

Price - Your home must have a reasonable and justifiable price. A good buyer's agent will look at comparables to determine if your house is priced correctly. Therefore, it must be priced within the range that comparable homes have SOLD for (reasonable) and the condition and/or unique features must justify your specific price.

Price is controlled by the market.

Condition - The condition of the property must support the price. The higher you are within the selling price range the better condition your house should be in.

Condition is controlled by the seller(s).

Marketing - It takes more than a yard sign and an add in the Sunday paper to sell a listing quickly and at top dollar. You need to cast the widest possible net to gain the widest possible exposure.

Marketing is controlled by the Realtor©.

Therefore, it is not surprising that analysis shows that fast sellers in a slow market have three common denominators:

They're priced better than comparable listings.
They show like model homes.
They have a full force of marketing, including enticing Internet photos, behind them.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Wilson, North Carolina Area - Market Statistics for December 2007

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 06:43:58 -0800

The following report is provided as a public service by David C. Recker, Realtor, RE/MAX Point East, Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The following are indicators of the Wilson Area Real Estate Market. These statistics were gathered from data contained in the Wilson MLS system and predominately covers Wilson County in North Carolina.

Active residential listings totaled 783 properties. This is a decrease of 15 properties, or 1.9%, from 798 in November. This decrease is due mainly from a slowing of new listings and is typical during the fall and winter months.

Newly listed properties totaled 125. This is an increase of 16 new listings, or 13%, from 109 last month.

Sold properties totaled 78. This is an increase of 6, or 8%, from last months total of 72 residential properties sold.

Pending sales totaled 56. This is a decrease of 113, or 77%, from last month's total of 169 properties pending settlement.

The Wilson Area currently has a 9 month housing supply based on the previous 12 month absorption rate. This is down from a 10 month supply in November 2007.

Overall the local market is down by 11.7% when compared to the same period in 2006.

What does all this mean? The local housing market is still saturated with available housing. The slight decrease in inventory numbers for this month are typical for this time of year. These indicators show that we are still in a strong "Buyers" market and will be for the foreseeable future. What is a Buyers market? This is when conditions exist that allows buyers to obtain concessions from sellers that they would not receive in a balanced market.

What is considered a "Balanced" or "Normal" market? Typically this is when houses sell between 3 - 4 months.

If you are looking to buy, this market is for you. In this market buyers typically get more for their money and receive seller concessions regularly.

If you are a seller this is not a bad time to sell. You just need to have a realistic expectation of your homes value and need to work with a Realtor that will provide maximum exposure for your property.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Wilson, North Carolina Area - Market Statistics for November 2007

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 08:24:30 -0800

Active residential listings totaled 798 properties. This is a decrease of 21 properties, or 2.6%, from 819 in September. This decrease is due mainly from a slowing of new listings and is typical during the fall and winter months.

Newly listed properties totaled 109. This is a decrease of 71 new listings, or 39.4%, from 180 last month.

Sold properties totaled 72. This is a decrease of 9, or 11%, from last months total of 81 residential properties sold.

Pending sales totaled 169. This is an increase of 81, or 47.9%, from last month's total of 88 properties pending settlement.

The Wilson Area currently has a 10 month housing supply based on the previous 12 month absorption rate. This is down from a 11.1 month supply in October 2007.

Overall the local market is down by 11.7% when compared to the same period in 2006.

What is considered a "Balanced" or "Normal" market? Typically this is when houses sell between 3 - 4 months.

If you are looking to buy, this market is for you. In this market buyers typically get more for their money and receive seller concessions regularly.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

The Perfect Home, Can You Afford It?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:01:53 -0800

Before You Look
It is important that you understand how much you can afford or are willing to pay before you go out and look for a new home. But what do you do before you are ready to speak with a Realtor and/or mortgage professional?

Simply, you can use a mortgage calculator to play with the numbers to get a good idea of affordability based on your specific circumstances.

My website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/, offers a "Calculator" for just this purpose. Feel free to use it as often as you like. You will find it in the navigation bar or you can simply Click Here.

Working With A Realtor
Once you contact a Realtor one of the first things is to get "Pre-Qualified". Pre-qualification ensures, at a minimum level, that you have the capacity to purchase in a certain price range. Pre-qualification is not a guarantee of a loan but, you have at least begun the process with a specific lender. During this initial step the lender has typically checked your credit, income, debt, and employment status.

Pre-qualification is important for many reasons. The most obvious is to ensure your Realtor shows you houses in your price range. Beyond this it is also important to provide a copy of your pre-qualification letter with any offer you write. Pre-qualification shows the seller that you are serious about buying and have begun the financial process.

The Perfect Home, Can You Afford It
Affordability is more than having a down payment and being able to make the monthly payments. In fact, just because a lender tells you can afford hundreds of thousands of dollars doesn't mean you really can.

Buying a home is probably only one of your major financial goals. You still need to save for retirement, send your kids to college, and be able to take a vacation every now and then. Making a loan that commits every last dollar leads to frustration at best, and disaster at worst.

Make sure you will still have some money to set aside for not only the things mentioned above but also home maintenance. Making minor repairs to avoid major problems is a constant expense with home ownership. Also, what if the roof starts leaking, the hot water heater breaks, or the heating and air conditioning system stops working? This is the reality of home ownership.

There are many advantages to owning your own home verses renting. However, there is no advantage in getting in over your head. The key is being honest with yourself.

I Can Help With Financing!
I can help you get pre-approved for a home loan so that you can confidently shop for a home that's not only perfect, but also perfectly affordable. Well-priced and maintained homes still sell quickly in this market.

Call me at 252-442-2687 with any questions you may have. I service the Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina. These counties include Rocky Mount, Nashville, Red Oak, Tarboro, Wilson, Bailey, Spring Hope, Pinetops, and more.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWeblog.

Search Local Homes for Sale

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 07:03:50 -0800

Looking for homes for sale in the greater Wilson, North Carolina area? http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ is the most complete source of homes for sale in Nash, Edgecombe, and Wilson counties.

This site is your online guide for buying a home, selling a house or home, buying a house for investment, or relocating to North Carolina. Search homes for sale on our website and/or search entire local MLS.

Please visit http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ and return as often as you like.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Wilson, North Carolina Area - Market Statistics for October 2007

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 07:09:50 -0800

Active residential listings totaled 819 properties. This is an increase of 39 properties, or 5%, from 780 in August. This increase is due mainly from a slowing in home sales and is typical during the fall and winter months.

Newly listed properties totaled 180. This is an increase of 29 new listings, or 16%, from 151 last month.

Sold properties totaled 80. This is an increase of 8, or 9%, from last months total of 72 residential properties sold.

Pending sales totaled 88. This is an increase of 3, or 3%, from last month's total of 85 properties pending settlement.

The Wilson Area currently has a 10.2 month housing supply based on the October 2007 sales rate. This is down from a 10.8 month supply in September 2007.

Overall the local market is down by 3% when comparing year over year statistics for the same period in 2006.

What does all this mean? The local housing market is still saturated with available housing. The stable inventory numbers for this month are typical for this time of year. These indicators show that we are still in a strong "Buyers" market and will be for the foreseeable future. What is a Buyers market? This is when conditions exist that allows buyers to obtain concessions from sellers that they would not receive in a balanced market.

What is considered a "Balanced" or "Normal" market? Typically this is when houses sell between 3 - 4 months.

If you are looking to buy, this market is for you. In this market buyers typically get more for their money and receive seller concessions regularly.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Homes for the Holidays

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 06:19:41 -0800

The holidays are quickly approaching and sellers always want to know if they should keep their home on the market. In short, YES.

If you search the internet looking for articles about this topic you will overwhelmingly find people who say the opposite. They go on to list many reasons why you should pull your listing until after the holidays.

If you are the one who decorates to excess, and has a house full of family and friends for a couple of weeks than you probably DO want to temporarily take your house off the market for these couple of weeks. However, this is not most people.

Holiday Season
In Wilson, the changing seasons and weather have little effect on buyer demand. The local climate does not change enough to deter those with a real estate need to continue looking and ultimately purchase this time of year.

Buyers this time a year are serious about buying. It is just as inconvenient for them to buy as it for you to sell. Those who need to move want to get it done. Therefore, they negotiate less on price, repairs, closing dates, etc.

I have SOLD many homes during the holiday season. Local homes sell throughout the year so think of the Holidays as only one factor in deciding whether to buy or sell.

The holidays are NOT a bad time to sell. Sellers just need to be realistic in approaching this period and need the guidance and advice of a seasoned Realtor. The upside to listing your house this time of year is that historically inventories (available houses) drop in the winter months. Therefore, you will have less competition for available buyers. Also, may serious buyers will want to purchase before the end of the year to take advantage of the tax breaks in this current year.

So, to all the sellers who are wondering, "Should I keep my home on the market over the holidays?" I answer, yes. If you need to sell your property than you property needs to be "For Sale".

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Should You Sign a Buyers Agency Agreement?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 10:00:16 -0700

When buying real estate, you may find it helpful to have a real estate agent help you. Real estate agents can provide many useful services and work with you in many ways.

When buying real estate, you may have several choices as to how you want a real estate firm and its agents to work with you. For example, you may want them to only represent you (as a buyer's agent). You may be willing for them to represent both you and the seller at the same time (as a dual agent). Or you may agree to let them represent only the seller (seller's agent or subagent). Some agents will offer you a choice.

The following are reasons why you SHOULD sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement:

- A Buyers Agency Agreement is provided for your protection and it is in your best interest to have someone represent you when purchasing real estate.
- A buyer's agent will explain agency to you and define the agency relationship in which you entered.
- A buyer's agent is required to provide you with client-level services, which include obedience to lawful instructions, undivided loyalty, full disclosure, confidentiality, accountability, reasonable skill and care.
- A buyer's agent will listen to your objectives and preferences in property styles, age, floor plans and then develop from this information a target property profile.
- A buyer's agent will be available to you in a timely manner
- A buyer's agent can assist you in obtaining financial pre-approval, which will provide you with more negotiating power. CAUTION- If you get pre-approved today it does not guarantee financing in the future. The market is changing daily.
- A buyer's agent can save you time by searching out, pre-qualifying and pre-screening appropriate properties that meet your criteria.
- A buyer's agent can assist you in viewing and purchasing a home from any brokerage, not just their agency's listings.
- After viewing properties, a buyer's agent can discuss and compare them with the targeted property profile. A buyers agent must point out the negative aspects on each property, not just the positives
- Before preparing an offer to purchase, a Buyer Agent will inform you about any defects or problems he/she has observed or in any way discovered regarding the target property
- A buyers agent can tell you if a listing is overpriced and help you formulate a fair and justifiable offering price
- A buyers agent will discuss with you a negotiating strategy and represent you, his/her client, all the way to the closing table
- A buyers agent will keep you informed about the ever-changing local real estate market
- A buyer's agent will get you the best possible price and terms on the property, you want.
- A buyer's agent will attend inspections, final walk-through and closing.
- A buyers agent will review a settlement statement with you at or before closing

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Thinking of Selling Your Home?

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:45:38 -0700

If you own real estate in North Carolina that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Market Analysis. I can help you decide if now is the best time to sell your home. Selling your home without the right agent can be time consuming, stressful, and costly. Contact me to learn how my strategic marketing plan and my expertise will successfully price, market and sell your home in a way the is convenient, simple and affordable to you!

Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction.

About the Author
David C. Recker is a Top Producing Realtor Licensed in North Carolina. Dave works at RE/MAX Point East and serves Edgecombe, Nash, and Wilson counties in North Carolina.

The towns located in these counties are; Bailey, Battleboro, Castalia, Dortches, Middlesex, Nashville, Red Oak, Rocky Mount, Sharpsburg, Spring Hope, Tarboro, Whitakers & Wilson

Dave's website, http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ , is one of North Carolina's top real estate websites and you can read frequently posted Articles and Blogs by Dave at NCRealEstateWebBlog.

Wilson, North Carolina Area - Market Statistics for September 2007

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 06:24:14 -0700

The following report is provided as a public service by David C. Recker, Realtor, RE/MAX Point East. The following are indicators of the Wilson Area Real Estate Market. These statistics were gathered from data contained in the Wilson MLS system and predominately covers Wilson County in North Carolina.

Active residential listings totaled 780 properties. This is an increase of 21 properties, or 3%, from 759 in August. This increase is due mainly from a slowing in home sales and is typical during the fall and winter months.

Newly listed properties totaled 151. This is a decrease of 51 new listings, or 25%, from 202 last month.

Sold properties totaled 72. This is a decrease of 45, or 39%, from last months total of 117 residential properties sold.

Pending sales totaled 85. This is a decrease of 42, or 32%, from last month's total of 127 properties pending settlement.

The Wilson Area currently has a 10.8 month housing supply based on the September 2007 sales rate. This is up from a 6.5 month supply in August 2007.

Overall the local market is down by 29% when comparing year over year statistics for the same period in 2006.

What is considered a "Balanced" or "Normal" market? Typically this is when houses sell between 3 - 4 months.

If you are looking to buy, this market is for you. In this market buyers typically get more for their money and receive seller concessions regularly.

Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you may have. Also, please visit my website http://www.ncrealestateweb.com/ .

Manufactured Home for Sale in Bailey!

David Recker (Connect Realty) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 07:13:30 -0700

Don't Let This One Get Away... • 2,052 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm manufactured home "Large Doublewide" - MLS® #82780 $89,000 - The Price Is Right! Bailey, Nash County - Country living in a quiet, established community. Large double-wide Read More...