Gary & Melynda 's Blog

Just Listed 1350 Robins Rd, Hiawatha - Spacious Ranch on Corner Lot With Mature Trees

2008-08-05T10:32:59Z

This inviting home has had many updates in the past 11 years. Charming and a rare find, you will be impressed with what this home has to offer.

The updates include: New Pergot kitchen floor, lighting fixtures, new paint throughout, new windows, newer roof, steel siding with lifetime guarantee, refurbished hardwoods in living room/hallway (original and in great condition), textured walls that are immaculate, 3-seasons room that adds 300 sq ft off the back of the home, large storage shed (16 ft x 16 ft) that matches the home, 2 car garage with extra cement pad for RV/boat. Beautiful landscaping and sugar maple trees in front yard.

Close to I-380, shopping, and employers.

Call the Wolter Team for more information 319-350-7901. For pictures go to www.garywolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter, of Skogman Realty, are Cedar Rapids Realtors serving buyers and sellers in the Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha, areas. Call them to find out how they can sell your home at Top Dollar and in less time (42 days average days on the market). They defend your equity and can help you save thousands on your next home purchase. They average 98% of the asking price for all sellers. Call today to see how they can help you!

303 E Preston St., Stanwood, Iowa - New Listing! $75,000 - Cedar County Real Estate

2008-07-06T19:37:22Z

This 2 story home offers 2,012 square feet on a larger corner lot. With 3 bedrooms on the main level and 3 upstairs, this home a lot of room to spread out and enjoy a simpler life. With 3 porches (1 enclosed), 3 full bathrooms, 2 kitchens, and a 1 car detached garage, you will enjoy the country living.

Offers a newer roof, newer carpet, some oak floors and all oak door trim, window trim and baseboards, 6 new double pane thermal windows on the North and West sides, oval bevel glass door windows, sliding oak pocket doors, and more.

There is a living privacy fence around the majority of the double lot. Flowering trees and shrubs include mock orange, red twig dogwood, yellow twig dogwood, Barberry (gorgeous in autumn), four colors of lilacs, azaleas, rhododendrons, crabapples, peaches, apples, grape vines, beautiful mature sugar maple, white pine, white spruce, hydrangeas,

Located just 30 minutes from Cedar Rapids, this home has not had problems with flooding or water.

Call Gary & Melynda Wolter, Skogman Realty, at 319-350-7901 or e-mail them at wolterteam@aol.com

www.GaryWolter.com or http://303eprestonst.garywolter.com for pictures.

Just Listed! 1005 Bridgit Ct. SE #11, Main Level Condo Under $63,000

2008-07-06T19:11:19Z

This Cedar Rapids, IA, condo is close to it all. Located at 1005 Bridgit Ct. SE #11, Cedar Rapids, IA, it is within the Marion School District. With Thomas Park & trails right behind your 1 car detached garage, you will enjoy the wooded atmosphere and all that this condo has to offer. There is shopping, area employers, a large gym, and several restaurants within walking distance. Save your gas money and make good use of this convenient 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo!

This ground level unit with a walk-out sliding door includes all appliances and offers newer carpet.

Call Gary & Melynda Wolter at 319-350-7901 for a private showing. See photos at www.GaryWolter.com

Or e-mail them at wolterteam@aol.com.

The Wolter Team - "Reputation for Results" - Licensed since 2001 - Skogman Realty, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Largest house in Marion, IA for $165,000!

2008-05-01T18:57:49Z

Please don't miss this awesome opportunity at a home with over 2200 sq ft., built in 2000. This home is in great condition and has 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths. You and your family will enjoy the large yard with a privacy fence.

See all 16 photos at http://149048thst.garywolter.com

See all the Cedar Rapids area listings at www.garywolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Wolterteam@aol.com

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Large home in Marion, IA under 175K open Sunday 3/30

2008-03-28T16:05:57Z

1490 48th St. in Marion, IA will be open 2-4PM Sunday 3/30/08. Please stop by and see this wide open floor plan with over 2200 sq. ft of living area! Four bedrooms and 3 full baths along with large family room and close to new elementary school and shopping.

Please visit http://149048thst.garywolter.com and see multiple photos of this property that offers immediate possession.

To see other great Marion and Cedar Rapids real estate listings please go to www.garywolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Price reduced $5000 to $229,899! Two Hunter's Ridge new ranches!

2008-03-28T15:58:27Z

1360 and 1380 Valentine Circle in Marion, IA are now priced at $229,990 and $229,899! Both of these fabulous ranches have 3 car garages and energy star efficient with fireplaces and complete with landscaping. Over 1600 sq. ft!

Immediate possession!

See over 40 photos of these beautiful Hunter's Ridge homes at http://1360valentinecircle.garywolter.com

and http://1380valentinecircle.garywolter.com

See other Marion and Cedar Rapids real estate listings at www.garywolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty (Cedar Rapids Largest)

319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Iowa ranks 33rd in foreclosures in 2007

2008-03-24T13:07:10Z

In 2007, Iowa had 7,404 filings and 4,103 properties foreclosed on in 2007. This ranked the Hawkeye state as #33. Here are the top 3 states with the highest rate of foreclosures:

Number of foreclosures Percentage of households affected Percentage of change from '06

Nevada- 34,417 3.4% 215%

Florida 165,291 2.0% 124%

Michigan 87,210 1.9% 68%

This is a great time to buy a home no matter where you are! Rates are low and the selection of homes is at an all time high. Even if you are having to sell, you should net a lot more than in a "normal" market. For instance, if you have to sell your house for 2% less than you anticipated you can easily find a new home for 4-5% less than normal.

E-mail us for a FREE special report, "8 secrets to saving thousands when finding and financing your next home."

www.GaryWolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter-Skogman Realty

319-350-7901 wolterteam@aol,com

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Attention Cedar Rapids Home Sellers: How to get the best first impression from Buyers

2008-03-06T14:28:21Z

Overall, buyers are looking for a home that looks clean, neat and well maintained. By taking care of issues on the exterior, you will be giving your buyers a positive first impression.

Let's take a look first impression items:

1. Next time you drive up to your house look at it like a buyer. Notice what your first impression is? Is the landscaping look good? How does the garage door, driveway and curbs look? Do the bushes and trees block the view of the home? Is the roof in good condition?

2. Paint your front door and mailbox.

3. Wash the exterior of your house. You can get a pressure washer or hire it done. Pressure washing can remove dirt, grime, peeling paint and mildew.

4. Mow your lawn and plant some new fresh flowers.

5. Clean the gutters.

6. Clean oil stains from your garage floor and driveway.

7. Read our blog about home odors at www.GaryWolter.com (push "my blog)

Happy selling! If you are looking for competent advice to get top dollar, please call us at 319-350-7901

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

More great ideas at www.garywolter.com

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Home Odors and how to Eliminate Them

2008-03-06T14:07:16Z

You may be desensitized to your homes odor, especially if you smoke or have a pet.You may have smells that you are unaware of and that keep your house from selling because your visits from potential buyers is cut short because of them be uncomfortable being in the house.

By asking your Realtor, you can get an honest answer and help to eliminate this problem. We want our listings nto to smell like anything. Sellers who want to bake bread or have candles burning probably are trying to cover something else up some buyers think.

One product that we use in our own home is a ozone air purifier from Ecoquest International. These units even kill dust mites! We offer all of our clients the use of one if need be. For more information, go to www.ecoquest.com

Have a fresh spring!

Cedar Rapids Realtors:Gary & Melynda Wolter WolterTeam@aol.com

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

www.GaryWolter.com

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Direct link to listings with multiple photos

2008-02-18T18:40:27Z

Below is just a sample of some very good real estate deals in the Cedar Rapids area.

$119,999 1175 Lindale Dr. Marion go to http://1175lindaledr.garywolter.com (huge deck and family room)

$274,950 1590 Conestoga Dr. Swisher go to http://1590conestogatrail.garywolter.com (custom built on wooded lot and 3 car garage)

$154,877 3270 28th Ave. Marion go to http://327028thave.garywolter.com (stunning solid maple kitchen & 3 seasons room.)

$229,877 1430 48th St. Marion go to http://143048thst.garywolter.com (upgrades galore with pool)

These are the newest listings found at www.garywolter.com your source for Cedar Rapids/Marion real estate!

If you are relocating to our area, please send us an e-mail at wolterteam@aol.com and we can send you a free complete relocation package.

Working for you,

The Wolter Team

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty 319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Cedar Rapids Real Estate Information and surrounding towns

2008-02-18T17:06:40Z

Please visit www.GaryWolter.com simply the best service for Cedar Rapids Real Estate. View all the newest listings. Our Team provides a full relocation service!

We have helped families relocate to the Cedar Rapids/Marion area for over 7 years and work for Skogman Realty, this area's largest company. We can e-mail you our free report, "How to save thousands when financing and buying your next home."

We have a complete buyer kit and references for you.

wolterteam@aol.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter-MSP Realtors

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Newest, best way to market your house to sell for top dollar!

2008-02-18T16:47:16Z

In the Cedar Rapids real estate market many for sale by owners and even discount broderages find that marketing a house and getting the largest possilbe exposure is getting more and more difficult. Now more than ever it is taking longer to find a buyer for your house.

One way the Wolter Real Estate Team is marketing it's new listings is by giving each of it's houses its own URL!

An example currently is a listing at http://1590conestogatrail.garywolter.com

This is a direct link that not only gives the seller more exposure exclusively to their house, but the seller can actually monitor the website activities with their own password!

Imagine being able to log on and see all 20+ photos that we will take of the property and then see what potoential buyers are looking at, how many and what search engine they used to find you.

We are Cedar Rapids finest e-marketing team and pride ourselves at being on top of the latest internet trends and marketing ideas!

Our numbers don't lie....we average 98.7% of the asking price in around 45 days! We believe that we can get an additional 10-20 potential buyers into your home than other Realtors using this system, and get you the top dollar for your house.

We also have a 28 Step Marketing Plan that we would like to e-mail you. Just e-mail us at Wolterteam@aol.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter-Skogman Realty

www.garywolter.com

319-350-7901

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Custom built home on wooded acre

2008-02-18T16:02:34Z

This 1993 4 bedroom, 3 bath ranch is meticulously maintained and has a 3 car garage and 0ver 2500 sq ft, of living area! Fedral reserve land is in back, so you will vever have neighbors. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac and only 15 minutes from downtown Cedar Rapids. See 20 pictures of this rare property at http://1590Contestogatrail.garywolter.com

www.GaryWolter.com 1590 Conestoga Trail NE Swisher, Iowa

Gary Wolter

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Cedar Rapids real estate outlook for 2008 looks positive

2008-01-23T08:35:24Z

Between 1995 and 2005 housing prices increased by more than 45% in parts of California and New England. The bubble that broke around many parts of the country is rapidly shrinking. The lastest housing stats show prices nationwide falling at an annual rate of almost 7 percent.

Here in the Cedar Rapids real estate market we have 3 key reasons to be optimistic.

1.Since we have not had the rapid appreciation in home prices as seen in other parts of the country, expect your equity to increase this year. In Iowa, housing prices increased about 4.3% per year from 2001 to 2006.

2.Iowa homes are still very affordable as Cedar Rapids average home sale is around 145K.

3. Our strong agricultural sector, diversified financial and manufacturing sectors should help us Iowans through a mild recession with little stress.

Gary & Melynda Wolter

www.garywolter.com

319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Top 5 things that buyer's want and need:

2007-12-12T11:54:43Z

When it comes to the bare neccessities, buyers are looking for these basics when purchasing a home. As a Cedar Rapids Realtor, I advise sellers to check to see if you have the "basics" to insure a quick sale for top dollar.

What buyers need:

1. Central air conditioning

2. An oversized garage

3. Walk in closet off the master

4. Technology access: cable, satelitte, internet.

5,Energy effiecient

*NAR 2007

To learn more about how to make your house more sellable, go to www.GaryWolter.com

Cedar Rapids Realtor-Gary Wolter

Skogman Reallty

319-350-7901

Cedar Rapids real estate: Selling your house during the winter months.

2007-12-12T10:52:45Z

Many people really believe that you have to sell your house in the spring to get the best price in the Cedar Rapids real estate market. After all it's when everything "comes alive" in Iowa, so why not wait until it's nice out for your potential buyers to look at your house, right?

We have been Cedar Rapids Realtors for 7 winters now and have seen many of our clients get full price offers as sellers. The fact is that people who are looking for Cedar Rapids real estate Nov. -Feb are very serious and motivated. Inventory is low during the winter so you will have less competition.

Don't fall into the emotional trap of focusing on what your home was worth two years ago and how much you have sunk into it. Sometimes sellers do have to bring a check to closing and aren't left with any equity. This is mostly due to not putting enough money down at the time of purchase and not staying in the house long enough.

Our advice is to bury your emotional hangups and unload your property now. If you really want to sell your house, the price and condition have to be the best in your neighborhood. How many houses have sold since you have had yours on the market in your price range? Why did they sell before yours? How many are currently on the market. Pretend that you are the buyer looking on your side of town. Which one is next in the pecking order? By taking the emotion out of the situation you can clearly see which house will probably sell next just by looking at the price per sq. ft.

Suppose your house is on the market for 6 months. Figure out how much it will cost you to still own the property for that long. Don't forget the utilities, taxes and of course the mortgage payments. If it costs $8000 to keep your house on the market for 6 months, you may consider lowering your price by $8000 from the start.

A recent report in the Wall Street Journal stated that the "best scenerio is that prices fall through the spring and then stabilize." They went on to say that the more pessimistic view is that that won't happen and that sellers should give every effort to sell now.

Another important factor in getting your house sold in a reasonable amount of time depends on your Realtor and their marketing efforts.

Please visit our website and get more useful ideas on how to get top dollar for your house!

www.GaryWolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Realtors in Iowa since 2001

319-350-7901

Cedar Rapids Realtor has ideas of what to do in December for fun!

2007-12-12T10:22:13Z

Got a bad case of "cabin fever" already? Do you have relatives coming for the holidays and are wondering how you are going to handle it, trying to entertain them?

Here are some ideas of coming events to the Cedar Rapids area for fun and entertainment:

FOR KIDS:

Children's Story Hour: Every Thursday 9:30-10AM Cornell College Mt. Vernon

Hiawatha Public Library Story Time Every Wed, 10:30-11AM 150 W. Willman St.

Wed. Dec. 26th, Film Program "Akeelah and the Bee" 1:30PM Cedar Rapids Library (1st St. SE)

Friday, Dec. 28th Film Program: Clifford:"Doghouse Adventures" Cedar Rapids Library

ENTERTAINMENT:

Wed. Dec. 12-"My Fair Lady" 7:30PM Hancher Auditorium (Iowa City)

Friday Dec. 14-Christmas at L:ars 8PM Liars Theatre ,Marion

Sat. Dec. 15th Holidays Pops Extravaganza Sat. & Sun. 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM Paramount Theatre

Sat. Dec. 15th "My Fair Lady" 2PM Hancher Auditorium

Wed. Dec. 26th Harlem Globetrotters 7PM US Cellular Center

Check out our website at www.GaryWolter.com for more helpful information on Cedar Rapids Real Estate!

Cedar Rapids Real Estate Mortgage rates lowest in years (Dec. 1, 2007)

2007-11-30T19:49:16Z

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that home mortgage rates have hit a new low when compared to the last few years. As a Cedar Rapids Realtor at Skogman Realty, (Cedar Rapids largest real estate company) we have higher inventories than last December and combined with these low mortgage rates it seems this is a great time to purchase real estate!

Cedar Rapids real estate mortgages are at 6.1% for a 30 year conventional loan. For a 15 year conventional rates can be found in the mid to low 5% range.

We have been helping people buy Cedar Rapids real estate for over 6 years and continue to excel in finding our clients the best mortgage for their situation. Call us at 319-350-7901 or go to www.GaryWolter.com for more useful information.

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Cedar Rapids Real Estate- NE side seller says "Sell it!" Great value at $99,750

2007-11-23T20:12:54Z

This affordable 1.5 story home located just off of C. Ave NE (39th St. NE) is updated with new paint and includes all appliances. Move in now as everything is done. Huge backyard with sturdy wooden park-like swingset. Over 1170 square feet and beautiful hardwood floors in living room.

More photos at www.GaryWolter.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Keep your Cedar Rapids home affordable! Slash your Energy Costs this winter!

2007-11-09T10:45:40Z

Everyone needs to feel comfortable in their home. The reality is that winter can really cost you. Here is some helpful ideas on how to keep your energy costs down:

1. Think about your "comfort zone" for your home. Every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer it will save you 3% on your monthly bill. This is not the case for heating, but by keeping your temp around 68 degrees you'll see a nice savings as opposed to a few degrees higher.

2. Have all of your windows either treated and or caulked. Have your attic checked for proper insulation.

3. Watch those appliances. Running a dishwasher everyday costs about $11 a month. Doing 20 loads of laundry per month cost $10-$16 per month.

4. Open your shades in the morning and get solar heat into your house.

Keep warm this winter! For more great money saving tips visit www.GaryWolter.com

Cedar Rapids Real Estate-Home Inspection BEFORE you sell?

2007-11-09T09:11:04Z

Before you put your house on the market, consider a professional home inspection. Getting your house checked out by a professional seems strange at first, but once you understand how it can benefit you, the seller, it turns out to be a sound decision. Here's why:

Home inspections cost around $250-$275 which is a great investment that will eliminate any "surprises" that can delay or even kill the deal. They also help the seller negotiate better.

Getting your home inspected before going on the market actually allows you to understand the true value of your house. It will help you price it better. The sooner you know the weaknesses of your house the better before the buyer knows and uses as leverage while the deal is in escgrow to get a large check from you at closing.

Call or e-mail us regarding this subject. No obligation. We have closed hundreds of house transactions in the Cedar Rapids real estate market. We would enjoy talking to you about your move.

Gary & Melynda Wolter wolterteam@aol.com www.GaryWolter.com

Skogman Realty

350-7901

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

Cedar Rapids Real Estate- Selling? Realize their are only 4 types of buyers.

2007-11-07T18:48:35Z

The biggest challenge for the For Sale By Owner is that there are only 4 types of buyers. By understanding what kind of "fish" there are in the lake, you will have a better chance at baiting the hook with the right bait.

FOUR TYPES OF BUYERS:

1. First Time Home Buyer-Do not typically trust a FSBO. Wants 3rd party help. Large majority of first time home buyers don't feel comfortable without the free services of a buyer's agent.

2. Local House Changer- Waiting for their house to sell (Frozen Equity) Separating the lookers from the buyers is tough. Are they qualified?

3. Investor- Not emotional about your house. Bottom line is profitability. Don't sell your house at a wholesale cost!

4. Relocating-All use Realtors to help them with understanding their new city, neighborhood and market. They want full service.

Remember, people who buy for sale by owners want a deal! They already know that you are not paying commission. Ask yourself how much am I paying myself to do all the work myself? I had one gentleman brag that he saved $5000 by selling his home himself. It took him 8 months! We both figured out he made about $9 and hour!

Want real full service? Call the Wolter Team! www.garywolter.com wolterteam@aol.com

Gary & Melynda Wolter

Skogman Realty

319-350-7901

Cedar Rapids Real Estate- How NOT to sell your house in 60 days.

2007-10-31T21:41:11Z

Here in the Cedar Rapids real estate market your house will sell in less than 60 days. (33% sell this fast!) or it will take more than 4 months. (32% take this long) In other words, roughly 65% of all houses will sell either in the first 60 days or not until after 4 months!

After being a Cedar Rapids Realtor going into our 7th year, my wife and I know how a seller can NOT sell their house in 60 days or less!

If you dont want to sell your house until after four months of it being on the market, here is your recipe:

1. Set your price it too high. In other words don't listen to your Realtor.

2. Don't clean very well. You're too busy right?

3. Don't make minor repairs. They cost too much right?

4. Give your Realtor a short term listing agreement.

5. Try selling it yourself. It's easy to sell a house right?

6. Don't let potential buyers in the house on short notice.

7. Hire a Realtor who isn't internet marketing savvy.

8. Don't do open houses.

9. Don't replace worn out carpet or paint old walls.

10. Don't have your Realtor take multiple photos for internet marketing (Ex. Realtor.com)

Gary & Melynda Wolter www.GaryWolter.com

Wolterteam@aol.com

319-350-7901 (24 hours)

Licensed in Iowa since 2001

What's you favorite breed of dogs?

2007-10-28T21:14:12Z

We are big dog lovers and love the Maltese breed. We have had our first litter. Four in all with 2 males and 2 females. Take a peek. Cute! We think they are the best indoor dogs on the planet. They always choose someone as their follow around master. They just want to be a part of the action and hang out with you. They need haircuts 2-3 times a year. Best of all the don't nip and bark! No shedding either.Also they don't leave big piles everywhere like larger dogs. Very soft and cuddly. We have met so many people because of our dogs.

So how can you become more optimistic?

2007-10-19T15:14:42Z

1. Set Specific Goals. Write them down and look at them everyday. Remember that a true goal has got to be measurable.

2. Project a Cheerfull Voice. Look in the mirror and smile too!

3. Use Positive Language. Focus on the glass being half full.

4. Practice Good Posture. Sitting and walking.

5. Focus on Solutions. Ask yourself what steps do I need to take?

6. Be a Role Model Remember that someone is always watching you.

Just by Applying these six steps to your life, you can chance your thinking, reduce your risk of physical illness and live a longer more fulfulling life.