Houses vs cars ... what's the difference?I've been going to ask this question ever since I joined AR in '06. After reading Laurie Mindnich's post on dual agency, I decided to finally ask my question. First let me explain that I follow the Ohio law that says we need to go over the subject (and get the brochure signed) prior to opening doors or discussing financing with the buyer. When I receive a request to view one of my listings, I ask the buyer if they've viewed homes with any other agents. I've found that gets me the answer I'm looking for rather than "are you working or represented by another agent". In their minds, they may not have committed to an agent, so they answer 'No" when asked if they're working with another agent. If they say they've viewed homes with other agents, then I know how to proceed. Back to my question. I've not understood why Realtors® must go through explaining "who we work for". If a buyer calls me to see one of my listings, the buyer already knows I'm working with the seller. Do they really need a pamphlet to tell them the obvious? Consider how insurance agents work. I have my car insurance with State Farm and my agent's name is Al. If someone crashes into the WEENR-mobile, does Al have to have me sign a form explaining that the situation might arise that State Farm would be a dual agency? Or that Al might also represent the stupid person who hit the WEENR-mobile? I haven't had a car accident since getting into the business 10 years ago, so it's possible that insurance agents do have such forms. I'm not sure. Car accidents can get quite pricey, and with medical bills, can easily run into the same dollar value as homes. (We'll have to ask Jay Thompson about that.) Perhaps insurance agents ARE required to do something similar to our Agency Disclosure. But, if they aren't, then why not? I'd like to know that Al is looking out for me more so than his stupid client. I'd also like to know that State Farm will be representing me and paying MY bills rather than favoring their other stupid client who hit me. What if I should decide to take the "hit-ee" to court ... whose side will Al or State Farm be on? Oh, excuse, me ... stupid question ... State Farm would be representing State Farm! DUH! Could/would someone explain to me the difference for Realtors® versus the car insurance companies?
P.S.: I often use car insurance as a way to explain dual agency. For some reason, it helps people understand the issue better. They "get it" with cars ... they don't "get it" with houses. A Captivating 1st Floor MBR Home in Stratford Woods with Private BackyardGet ready to buy your hammock! You're certain to want one to relax in the wooded clearing that this home offers. Or maybe you'll prefer to pass the hours sitting in the wood swing on the deck sipping your iced tea or lemonade. Perhaps, you use gardening for therapy to the soul. There's plenty of perennials to care for, and room to add more if you choose. This one-owner home is in such great condition that you can merely move in and start enjoying all the lifestyle benefits it offers. The vaulted Great Room with its over-sized windows and transoms lets in the view of the mature tress. The over-sized kitchen has plenty of room for helping hands who stop by to enjoy your hospitality. At the end of the day, you can retire to your bedroom suite, conveniently located on the main floor (as is the laundry). With two more bedrooms upstairs, you can invite your guests to "stay over", knowing they won't intrude on your privacy. There's a loft upstairs - with a view of the wooded lot - where you can get some "work" done, or curl up with a good book on a rainy or snowy day. Or, maybe you're in the mood for a game of pool or ping-pong in the finished lower level. With just under 2000 sq ft, this home is sized right for easy living, yet large enough to entertain friends and family. At only $224,900, you'll find it's a great buy for all it offers. Plus, it's conveniently located in the popular Stratford Woods neighborhood for easy access to Polaris, Lewis Center, Powell, Dublin or Worthington.
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Home not selling? Maybe it's NOT dog friendly.Over the years I've found it amusing to learn what "objects" people buy homes "around". For instance, sometimes they have or want-to-have a big TV, so they'll look for a suitable wall and ample space for the sofa or chairs that seem to go with TV viewing. Others might have large dining room sets so the dining room becomes critical. If the seller's home doesn't have space for these things, then they either may not get the showing or the home will be rejected during the showing. The other 'object' that people buy homes "around" is THE DOG! (I'm guilty of this one when I was owned by Dobies. ) This is a "dog people' concern ... not a concern for "cat people". I've had listings NOT sell because they weren't suitable for THE DOG. Mostly the consideration is getting the dog to the back yard and the size of the back yard. THE DOG must have room to run and play you know! THE DOG may also need a fence or the ability to add one. And, of course, they sometimes consider whether the muddy feet will be coming back into the house and walking over carpet. I had one listing where half the showing feedback comments were that there were too many steps down to the ravine below. (think snow & ice on the steps) I think over the years, I've received more feedback comments regarding "not suitable for THE DOG" than I have "not suitable for the kids". Guess Pedigree's slogan DOGS RULE is right on target. I understand completely! Heck I even gave up driving sports cars and switched to a Cherokee 20 years ago when I got my first Dobie who grew - and grew - and grew- and no longer fit in the 2-seater unless I had the T-tops out. Now that I have The Little Murph, do you suppose I could fit For-Sale yard signs in a Mini Cooper??
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Delaware County home prices may be better than you think!As real estate agents, we're often confronted with having to inform sellers that the price their home might sell for now is perhaps less than they paid for it, especially if they haven't owned it very long. Since I live in and primarily work in southern Delaware County, I decided to check average home prices since 1997 when I purchased my home. Delaware County has also gone through substantial developmental growth during that period as well. People moved to the county in droves during those years, buying new homes in all the subdivisions that builders eagerly built to meet the demand. The first chart shows the average price of the homes sold in Delaware County for the period Jan 1 thru May 31 for each of the years 1997 to 2008. In 1997, the average price for the county was $215K. It reached a high in 2007 of $300k. For 2008, the average has declined to $278K (-7.6%), but that also represents an INCREASE of 29% since 1997. So depending on when the seller purchased the home or whether they've added equity loans, they may or may not have difficulty selling and paying closing costs.
The second chart shows the actual NUMBER of homes sold in the county during the same time frame. We tend to think that fewer homes are selling than in past years, but not so says the graph. In 1997, only 525 homes sold during the Jan-May period. For this year, 712 homes have sold ... a 36% INCREASE! The highest number of homes sold in 2005 when 934 sold during this period.
Bottom line is that we're not in as bad a shape as we "feel" like we are. We just need to remember to keep things in perspective.
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law! Hoover Reservoir (near Galena Ohio) provides nearby homes with sounds of Nature.I spent a couple hours yesterday taking exterior photos of my listing east of Hoover Reservoir, near Galena, for the fourth time. This time was to capture some of the Spring flowers AND to take new GREEN photos (vs snow or gray skies) before the trees totally leaf out. Once they do, I won't be able see the home. The grass is now a very beautiful, lush green because the seller is an avid user of Scotts® products (good curb appeal). Many of the flowering trees were in bloom and some of the perennials. Many more plants around this exceptional home are yet to do their thing. You can see the new, pretty outside photos in the slide show I did for the original post on this home. I've updated that slideshow with the new photos. I love going there to do the photography since it's such a pleasant, relaxing environment. I enjoy listening to and watching all the birds. During this last trip I decided to take some video so I could capture the sounds of nature. Actually, most of the sound comes from a bunch of cardinals that live around the home. Some squirrels were chattering at my intrusion on their territory, but they stayed out of view of the camera. Another bird that frequents this home - per the seller - are pileated woodpeckers. They come in force to the suet feeders, but they didn't visit while I was there. These woodpeckers are the Woody Woodpecker variety with the big red top. It was a pretty breezy day, so I apologize for the wind noise over the camera's microphone. So, if you'd like to hear some relaxing bird sounds and view some gorgeous landscape as well as a breath-taking home, click on the video below. And if by chance, you want to BUY this home, give me a call.!
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Stunning 1st Floor MBR Home For Sale in Stratford Woods, Delaware OhioThis is a truly awesome, spacious home at a very affordable price of only $232,900 considering all the upgrades and bells & whistles that it offers. The first thing you'll notice is the outstanding condition and attention to detail for the upgrades. This soft contemporary open plan has a large owner's suite and laundry on the first floor for easy living. It also has a central vac system and step-lighting for further convenience. With the large size (2477 sq ft), there's plenty of space for entertaining family or friends. When guests enter they'll be impressed with the open vaulted ceiling view of the formal dining room into the Great Room. Beautiful open staircases lead to the finished lower level or upstairs to the loft and two bedrooms. It has "WOW" factor! The kitchen is gorgeous with its customized ceramic backsplash and WilsonArt counters. The soffits are covered with the same material as the window coverings in the nearby rooms. Extra lighting is provided by undercounter lights, a half moon window, track lights, plus there are outlets above the soffit area. The first-floor owner's suite is vaulted with a plant ledge that also has outlets for extra lighting. The bath area is quite large and includes a whirlpool tub, walk-in closet with custom shelving system and separate commode area. You'll love the finished lower level with built-in cabinets and entertainment center. There is also a hobby area with table, shelves, extra lighting and a creative awning treatment around the windows. There's even a camera monitor that is wired to a TV (not included) in the kitchen to monitor smaller children (or teens or husbands if you're so inclined). The mechanical area has a built-in workbench. Some of the other extras include: surround sound in the Great Room and deck; sound insulation from the Great Room for the owner's suite and half bath; Levelor cordless blinds in all rooms (ex bsmt); ceiling fans in all bedrooms; 6-panel doors; Home and Gas warranties for the buyer. This home is located in the popular tree-lined Stratford Woods neighborhood south of the city of Delaware, and very convenient to Polaris, Powell, Dublin, Westerville and Worthington. Be sure to check it out if you've been looking for a wonderful 1st floor owner's suite home in a great neighborhood!
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
One-of-a-kind, distinctive home for sale in Galena Ohio near Hoover Reservoir - under $1 million!This new listing is a very distinctive California contemporary home situated on 3 wooded acres east of Hoover Reservoir, near Galena. Custom designed by a CA architect to take full advantage of the spectacular views from all rooms in all 3 levels. Complementing the natural beauty of the land is extensive professional landscaping that will be gorgeous in all seasons. The foyer, on the entry level, treats guests with a view of the sunset patio, the Great Room 2-story window and an alcove. Off the foyer is the Family Room with access to a small patio. Another wing leads to a BR wing with 2 BR's, laundry, study room & bath. The lower level contains the Great Room, kitchen and Florida room. The Great Room features a pit with wood-burning stove, built-in cabinets and mirrors lining the upper railing. The Florida Room offers a view of the flagstone steps and a mini waterfall landscape feature. There is a small flagstone patio off this room for grilling. The eat-in kitchen has many oak cabinets with pull-out shelves, pantries, and Corian counters plus, a planning desk and range top. The third floor has a gathering alcove with access to the sunset deck. The owner's suite wing is off this alcove and contains a spare room, a dressing area, the bath suite with whirlpool tub, and the large bedroom area with nearly 180-degree window view. Also off the alcove is the extremely large office area, designed for a home business with access to the outside driveway. Nearby is a full bath. This portion of the third floor could be used as a nanny or parent suite if needed. If you enjoy being soothed by Nature, then you're sure to love the fabulous views in all rooms. There are many birds that stop by as well as other wildlife. It's a terrific home for relaxing or for entertaining. If this appeals to you, and you've been searching for a home with a huge office, then be sure to consider this home. The home has 5190 sq ft with three levels, 4BR's, 4½ baths and is priced at $824,900
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Classic 4 Bedroom Home For Sale In Stratford Woods, Delaware, OHYou're gonna' love this one! It's in excellent condition ... just move in. It offers you plenty of room to live in or to entertain. There is a formal living room for more intimate conversations with a nearby holiday style formal dining room. But as we all know, the guests will gather where the food is ... around the large center island in the kitchen. As a special note ... there's lots of space around the island so everyone has the required elbow room for chip-dipping. If you have or want a big screen TV, the Family Room has the wall space for it with plenty of space leftover for the big, comfortable furniture. An atrium door leads to a huge deck that has professional landscaping around it. Upstairs are 4 big bedrooms. Wait till you see the awesome closet in the owner's suite. The owner's bath offers a raised 2-sink vanity, soaking tub, corner windows and a shower stall. It has a full basement with a half bath rough-in, in case you want to finish it for a rec room. This home is located in the popular Stratford Woods neighborhood, with meandering tree-lined streets, south of Delaware. It's located conveniently to Polaris, Powell, Dublin, Worthington or Westerville. Priced to sell at only $199,900 for 2120 sq ft.
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Wonderful wooded, cul-de-sac home for sale in Stratford Woods, Delaware, OHUPDATED: Sold in 21 days for 98% of list price. Sold for $220,000. You won't feel cramped in this spacious soft contemorary with a wonderful open floor plan. With its 2-story foyer, vaulted Great Room that's open to the Dining Room, there's plenty of room to spread out. Even the overhead moon window keeps the rooms light 'n' bright. The kitchen is amazingly large with plenty of maple cabinetry and earth-toned counters. Carved molding near the soffit is an extra touch. Plus, all the appliances are staying. Neaby, in the hall, is a laundry for extra convenience. The owner's suite offers you a walk-in closet, a view of the wooded back yard, and a bath area with a 2-sink vanity, shower stall and separate water closet. Go up the open staircase to the extra large loft area which would make a great home office. Upstairs there are also two more bedrooms and a bath. This lovely home is located on a cul-de-sac with a relaxing front porch to view the landscaped island where neighbors often gather to chat. The backyard is quite large and wooded with an entertaining sized deck to watch the antics of the visiting squirrels. This is a wonderful neighborhood, south of Delaware and very convenient to Polaris, Powell, Dublin, Worthington or Westerville. Priced to sell at $224,900.
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
Terrific cul-de-sac home for sale with wooded lot in Stratford Woods, Delaware OhioEDITED: IN-CONTRACT IN 9 DAYS! SOLD FOR 97% OF LIST PRICE FOR $242,900! Here's a new listing that offers so-o-o many benefits to buyers and has a lot of the features that today's buyers want.
If any of these features are important benefits for YOUR next home, then you MUST check out this home. At 2371 sq ft plus the finished basement and large yard, it's offers a great buy at $249,900. Check it out!
This post and photos are the property of Elaine Reese, Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio 43085.All material and photos are considered copyrighted and may not be used, copied or stolen by any other parties. Plagiarism is against the law!
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Elaine Reese, REALTOR® in central Ohio Powell, OH More about me… Real Living HER, Worthington Ohio Office Phone: (614) 825-8860 Email Me Elaine Reese's blog on real estate in central Ohio, including Columbus, Powell, Dublin, Lewis Center, Worthington, Westerville, Galena and Delaware.
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