Trends from a home show. - 03/26/10 09:30 AM
Trends from a home show.
Last evening, I attended the Greensboro Southern Ideal Home Show preview.  The attendees were mainly builders, real estate agents and show vendors.  I was able to speak to many custom builders and to one production builder.  The general consensus was basically the same.  Under $200,000 was selling, but not much else.  Several of the custom builders have begun doing remodeling as well, to fill in the gaps for now.
Green building was one of the main themes at the show.  From appliances, HVAC and recycled materials to Energy Star and Green homes, all were represented.  This is … (2 comments)

Greensboro Southern Ideal Home Show - 03/24/10 08:26 AM
Southern Ideal Home Show  Greensboro  
Friday March 26 - Sunday March 28 2010
The Greensboro Builder's Association will again sponsor the show at the Greensboro Coliseum.  It's a great event for anyone thinking about buying a home, remodeling or just making home improvements.  There will be 100s of experts in every related field there to answer questions.  below is a list of some of the exhibits and activities.
There is a free preview night Thursday 3/25 from 6:00-8:00, for all members of the Greensboro Regional Realtors association.
SHOWCASE GARDENS AND DESIGNER ROOMSProfessionally landscaped gardens. Designer Rooms created by the Interior Design … (1 comments)

Sales of existing homes fell for a third straight month in February, however... - 03/23/10 11:03 AM
The following news reported today from AP sounds gloomy, but I attribute this decrease to the weather in February.  It seems like there were severe winter storms across the US during February.  It is typically not a busy time for home sales, but coupled with the weather, the figures are not surprising.
From AP today:
Sales of existing homes fell for a third straight month in February, pushing sales down to the lowest level since last July. There is concern the fragile housing rebound is faltering, making it harder for the overall economy to recover.
The National Association of Realtors said … (0 comments)

$150K to $200K holding strong. - 03/23/10 10:16 AM
$150K to $200K holding strong.
After our sales meeting this morning, it seems like the strongest segment in the Greensboro, NC and surrounding area,s is still below $200K, with $175K being the sweet spot.
There is some new activity in the upper end, $400K+, which use to be a strong market for us.  Below $150K is still very strong with first time buyers taking advantage of the $8,000 tax credit, before it goes away.
Investors are still nowhere to be seen.  It also seems as though the $6,500 "move up" tax credit has had virtually no effect on our market.  Jobs … (1 comments)

Debt-To-Income Ratio - 03/22/10 01:23 PM

Via Nakisha Brisco -New Orleans/Slidell Real Estate ( Abek Real Estate):
The debt-to-income ratio is, simply, the way that mortgage lenders decide how much money you can comfortably afford to borrow. It is the percentage of your monthly gross income (before taxes) that is used to pay your monthly debts (not your monthly living expenses). Two calculations are involved, a front ratio and a back ratio, written in ratio form, i.e., 33/38.The first number indicates the percentage of your monthly gross income used to pay housing costs, such as principal, interest, taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance and homeowners' association dues. The second number … (0 comments)

Does tenant need to vacate foreclosed home? - 03/22/10 01:21 PM

Via Megan Izdebska & Hanna Manoufar Chandler, Scottsdale Real Estate Agent (Prudential Arizona Properties):
Does tenant need to vacate foreclosed home?   Does tenant need to vacate foreclosed home? - Apparently not. There are lots of misleading and tricking information out there but the law says the tenants’ rights are protected as long as there is a valid Lease Agreement in place. Majority of times lenders' representatives will try to scare people away with notices, warnings glued t o their front door, etc. Lender legally should allow the tenants to finish the lease under proof of timely monthly payments under the Protecting … (2 comments)

Buy A House Before You Buy A Car - 03/22/10 01:09 PM

Via Bill Burke (Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan):
Bill Burke (Keller Williams Realty) Your NH REALTOR Debt-to-Income Ratios and Car PaymentsYou see, when determining your ability to qualify for a mortgage, a lender looks at what is called your "debt-to-income" ratio. A debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of your gross monthly income (before taxes) that you spend on debt. This will include your monthly housing costs, including principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and homeowner's association fees, if any. It will also include your monthly consumer debt, including credit cards, student loans, installment debt, and.......car payments.How a New Car Payment Reduces Your Purchase PriceFor example, … (1 comments)

10 Staging Tips to Help Your Home Sell - 03/19/10 09:36 AM

Via RE/MAX Preferred Associates:
10 Staging Tips to Help Your Home Sell
By Jean Patteson
RISMEDIA, March 19, 2010-(MCT)-Want to sell your home? Get out the bucket, mop and Mr. Clean. The key to making a positive first impression is simple, said Sandra Rinomato, host of HGTV's popular "Property Virgins" show.
"Get it clean, clean, clean," said Rinomato. "If your house isn't clean, it instantly sends up negative thoughts that the home is not well maintained. If your house is spotless, you're ahead of the game," she said.
But don't stop there, advised Rinomato. To increase your chances of making a sale, … (2 comments)

Great starter home or investment property in Greensboro - 03/18/10 10:41 AM
Great starter home or investment property in Greensboro
$94,900
1014 Idlewood Dr. Greensboro, NC
This 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Bungalow would make a great starter or investment home. The bathroom was updated previously. The vinyl flooring in the kitchen has been replaced as well. There is a full unfinished basement for storage. Great location! Comes with stove, refrigerator, washer, dryer and a home warranty.

… (1 comments)

10 Questions To Ask A Realtor Before Selling Your House - 03/17/10 10:17 AM

Via Bill Burke (Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan):
10 Questions to Ask Your Realtor about Selling a House
Are you a full-time professional real estate agent? How long have you worked full time in real estate? How long have you been representing buyers? What professional designations do you have?Knowing whether or not your agent practices full time can help you determine potential scheduling conflicts and his or her commitment to your transaction. As with any profession, the number of years a person has been in the business does not necessarily reflect the level of service you can expect, but it is a good … (2 comments)

5 homeownership tax myths - 03/16/10 01:20 PM

Via Daniel Guest, CMPS (HUB International):
What had been done with the best parental intention turned out to carry a big price because of this homeownership tax myth.
5. If I take a capital loss when I sell my home, I can write it off. This myth, like No. 2, was probably started by wishful homeowners. Sorry, it's just as wrong.
It is true that real estate, like any other asset, has the potential to go down as well as up in value. But unlike most of those other holdings, you cannot write off any loss you suffer if you must … (1 comments)

Home Pricing Strategy Has Changed - 03/12/10 08:59 AM

Via Century 21 First Realty:
If you have to sell a home, I have an important tip that is crucial for you to understand. The internet has created many changes and opportunities in the real estate market, and home sellers who do not understand the evolution in pricing strategy will find that they are chasing away homebuyers.
One big questions that home sellers always want to ask is how much “negotiating room” should they include in their asking price for a home. I’m sure Google has seen the following more than once!

To Sell A Home – Think About How To … (1 comments)

Take Control - 03/12/10 08:53 AM

Via Lou Ludwig CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, SRES, TRC, e-PRO, (Ludwig & Associates):
 
Motivational Power Quote
 
Take Control
 
"If you don't like something change it.
if you can't change it,
Change your attitude.
Don't complain."
Maya Angelou, poet  
  
As I see it. . . . . . . .
Take control  
When you encounter something that you don't like you have a choice of changing it or accepting it. Take the high road and change it.
If you can't change it find away around it or through it.
What ever you encounter take control of the … (0 comments)

My take on the housing industry - 03/11/10 10:29 AM

Via Adam R. Cohn 561-289-0125 (Freedom Mortgage Corp.):
Dear Fellow Active Rainers,
 
With all the new banking underwriting standards, new laws and legislation being passed, it can make one feel defeated, question if this is the business you want to stay in, with all these new burdens placed on us by people that may have degrees from respected colleges, but are clueless because they are not on the front-line dealing with the mess like we are.  But what keeps me going is the love and passion I have for the business, the ability to help people live the American dream and … (1 comments)

Air Quality in the Home - 03/10/10 10:16 AM

Via John M. Acaron, BSME, CHI, CMI (HOME INSPECTOR USA, LLC):
Indoor air quality is generally worse than most people believe, but there are things you can do about it.   Some Quick Facts:
Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air. Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke, and other sources. Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks. Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers' directions when using appliances and products. Research has shown that the quality of indoor air can be worse than … (0 comments)

TIPS FOR LIVING GREEN - 03/10/10 10:13 AM

Via Nakisha Brisco -New Orleans/Slidell Real Estate ( Abek Real Estate):
TIPS FOR LIVING GREEN
Well, it's official: the new black is green - living green, that is. New companies devoted to helping reduce folks' carbon footprint are springing up all over. Hybrid cars, renewed interest in recycling, eco-friendly business practices - all are devoted to cleaning up the nation's collective teenage bedroom. How can you jump on the eco-bandwagon? Read on to find out.
Fix any plumbing leaks - sinks, tubs, showers and toilets all should be inspected for drips and leaks. The tiniest drip can add up to a … (0 comments)

Attitude and Arrogance, Where did they come from? - 03/10/10 09:22 AM

Via Eric Ristey (Erlandson Realty):
Were we born with it? I don't think so. Growing up the son of a successful businessman, I was taught from a early age that Respect is something that is earned, never is respect just given. When a smile and a handshake in a business transaction meant more than any handwritten and signed contract. When a man was only as good as his word. WHAT HAPPENED? When did the I am better than you all start and begin. I don't know but I thought we all put our pants on the same way? Silly me for thinking … (1 comments)

Nine Leadership Mistakes to Consider As You Rebuild Real Estate - 03/10/10 08:53 AM

Via Paul Stillwaggon, Luxury New & Pre-Owned Homes in Central NJ (Weichert Realtors/ NJ Estates Real Estate Group):
A word of advice for builders, contractors, developers and all other players interested in re-building strength back into the real estate marketplace: only strong, balanced, and experienced leadership at the executive level will pull the industry through to the next upcycle. According to Bill Ferguson, author of the new book "Keepers of the Castle: Real Estate Executives on Leadership and Management" it is time to rid the industry of the greed and egos that helped contribute to the industry's downfall and allow the "great … (0 comments)

What Does The Closing Attorney Do Exactly? - 03/10/10 08:45 AM

Via Richard Vetstein (Vetstein Law Group, P.C.):
A lot more than you might think.
Many buyers and sellers often wonder what a real estate closing attorney does other than conduct the closing. The closing attorney acts as the “quarterback” of the closing process, performing many time consuming tasks preparing a transaction from intake to closing. (Important note: many borrowers don’t realize that they may select their own personal attorney to act as the closing attorney instead of the attorney selected by the bank or lender. The new RESPA rules explicitly allow for borrowers to make this choice. This will most often save … (0 comments)

"The Seller Has a Friend Who Will List it Really Cheap" - 03/08/10 08:45 AM

Via Jennifer Allan, Author of Sell with Soul (Sell with Soul):
Got a question yesterday from an agent who was referred to a potential seller by an acquaintance.  However, the acquaintance warned the agent (let's call him Sam) that the seller has a "friend who will list the house really cheap," so Sam may not have a chance at procuring the listing.
Sam asked me how I would approach the situation - how would I respond if the topic of commission comes up in their initial phone conversation? And how would I go about persuading the seller that I'm worth my "full" … (2 comments)

You're just a window shopper until you get pre-qualified... - 03/08/10 08:40 AM
Good advice for any potential buyers.
Via Norm Werner (Real Estate One):
Getting pre-qualified for a mortgage loan is the single most important step to take before you start seriously looking for a new home. Without being pre-qualified you will not be taken seriously as a buyer by most sellers and even most real estate agents and will be classified as just a window shopper. So, that is the most important first step towards owning you own home.
You should be ready to discuss your current income and expenses with the lender rep, so that they can better understand what you might be … (3 comments)

Avoid plumbing disasters - 03/05/10 08:45 AM

Via Philippe Heller (The San Diego Real Estate Inspection Co.):
Ever since the first indoor plumbing system was installed, homeowners have had to deal with leaks. Early drain lines were made from metal, often by black smiths, out of lead, steel or brass. Little was
Old toilet known about hydrolics, venting, or drainage. But indoor plumbing was seen as such an advancement in sanitation that people put up with the poor functionality.
Fresh water delivery systems were next. After all, we needed some way to bring fresh water into the house to wash away the waste and bathe. This introduction of a … (1 comments)

Where Are Rates Going Now? Important Deadlines on the Horizon - 03/05/10 08:40 AM

Via Karl Peidl - Accredited Loan Consultant (Pleasant Valley Home Mortgage Corp.):
 
© Copyright 2010. All About News, Inc.
… (1 comments)

Nab a real estate deal - while you still can - 03/05/10 08:39 AM

Via Brian Turner (Keller Williams Preferred Properties):
Nab a real estate deal - while you still canBy Beth BravermanIf you've been holding off on a real estate purchase, glimmers of a turnaround in the housing market may have you wondering if it's finally time to make your move.While home prices remain low, they're no longer free-falling in most markets. Mortgages are historically cheap. And the sweet tax credit that was offered to new buyers last year has been extended to April 30 and expanded to include current homeowners too.But for all the motivation to act quickly, buying right now is not a no-brainer. In some areas home prices … (0 comments)

Great weather in NC this weekend...get out in that yard! - 03/05/10 08:30 AM
Great weather in NC this weekend...get out in that yard!
It looks like we will have warmer weather, approaching 60 and sunny skies this weekend in central North Carolina.  It's about time!  We all like snow, but enough is enough.
So, get out in your yard and get it ready for spring.  Here's a list of some things you can do to give your home better curb appeal, whether selling or not.
Rake up the leaves.
Pick up all of the branches that have fallen in the yard.
Trim down decorative grasses.
Pull weeds in plant beds and the lawn.
Put … (0 comments)

36 months & the IRS 1st Time Buyer Tax Credit - 03/04/10 02:13 PM

Via INGRID PIERSON (VITEK Mortgage Group):
Questions, questions, questions... These are questions often asked of me and the answers I found on the IRS web site...
Q. Does previously inheriting a home and living in it automatically disqualify me as a first-time homebuyer if I buy a different home on or before Nov. 6, 2009?
A. Yes, an ownership interest in a prior principal residence would bar you from being considered a first-time homebuyer. As long as you owned and used the prior home as your principal residence, you are not a first-time homebuyer. There is no exception for taxpayers who did not buy their prior residences. (11/19/09) 
Q. If I … (1 comments)

How and can I add my wife's name to the deed of my home? - 03/04/10 09:36 AM

Via Camille Miller (Just Jersey Real Estate.com):
A Quitclaim Deed is used to convey an interest in real estate. A Quitclaim Deed does not include any promise or guarantee by the person making it (i.e. the Grantor) about the nature or quality of that interest, or even if any interest exists at all. This type of deed may be useful in cases where a party is unable to transfer a fee simple estate or make promises about the title. It is a great solution to get a spouse on or off a deed without hassle. You can contact an attorney to draw … (0 comments)

$8,000 Tax Credit Extension Time is Running Out - 03/04/10 09:35 AM

Via Scott Baker, ABR e-Pro Realtor in Cincinnati, Ohio areas 513-403-5323 (Coldwell Banker West Shell):
$8,000 Tax Credit Extension, Time is Running Out. April 30, 2010 is the deadline for the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit. Many have asked will it be extended, according to the NAR (National Association of Realtors), not likely. Some of the qualifcations needed:
Couples earning as much as $225,000 a year and individuals earning up to $125,000 would qualify First Time Homebuyers who sign a contract by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30, 2010 Tax credit not applicable for those buying homes worth more … (1 comments)

How to price to sell and still make a profit - 03/03/10 09:16 AM

Via Pat McQuaid (Keller Williams Realty Greater Worcester):
How to price to sell and still make a profit
The asking price you set for your home significantly affects whether you will profit in the sale, how much you will profit and how long your home will sit on the market. Your real estate agent's knowledge of the overall market and what's selling - or not selling - will be invaluable in helping you determine the price. The objective is to find a price that the market will bear but won't leave money on the table. Here are some points to consider: Time. … (1 comments)

Turning the Housing Market Around - One Buyer at a Time - 03/03/10 08:27 AM

Via Mike Morgan (Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate):
An article appeared in the New York Times that beautifully illustrates the opportunities today’s real estate market offers. A mother working two jobs saved up for a down payment and managed to buy a large home with a pool for $187,000. Three years ago, that same home had sold for $370,000!
While sellers are still feeling pressure, Team Morgan, your Miami-based Coldwell Banker realtors has noticed that buyers with stable incomes and good credit histories are beginning to spread a “feel good” vibe throughout the industry. Conditions have literally never been better for … (3 comments)

Sell the home faster with a Pre-Listing Inspection - 03/03/10 08:26 AM

Via Hans Cramer (Cramer Home Inspection Group, Inc.):
Making the decision to sell a home is a huge step for most homeowners. Once they decide to sell, making the home Marketable should be you number one goal.  Having a Pre-Listing Inspection by Cramer Home Inspection Group can have many benefits.
As we all know, home buyers want a home that is In tip-top shape regardless of the age(or at least know whats wrong with it) Buyers make their decision to buy a home based on emotion.  A buyer can fall out of love with a home just as fast as they fell in love with it. 
… (1 comments)

Is you silence hurting your sales? - 03/03/10 08:20 AM

Via James Dray (Century 21 Exclamation Realty):
Are you in an office where there are agents who wait for someone to call them?  Are you in an office where one or more agents do not pick up the phone and make the cold call or the prospecting call?  How about expired and FSBO'S?  Are there agents in your office who refuse to do any of those types of calls? 
To those agents are you wondering why your business is not taking off or your behind in sales.  If so maybe your silence is hurting your sales.  Why do some agents not pick up … (1 comments)

Clever Tips on Decluttering Your House - 03/01/10 10:43 AM

Via Ki Gray - Austin Real Estate:
If you're plagued with clutter and need some tips on how to get it under control, you've come to the right place. Some of the most common clutter issues involve incoming mail, collections of sentimental items and seasonal decorations. Many also struggle with what to do with clutter in closets, home offices and unused bedrooms. Extra furniture can be a problem, and laundry rooms and attics are clutter magnets. Some clutter involves areas that are sight-unseen, so they are easier to not address.

First, let's deal with incoming mail. Two rules to incorporate are … (0 comments)

5 Tips to Accelerate Your Personal Sales Recovery - 03/01/10 09:55 AM

Via Jerry Rouleau (BuilderRadio.com):
This week we speak with Master Sales Trainer, Roger Fiehn, Roger Fiehn & Associates
Even in the worst housing markets there are individual salespeople who are not only surviving, they are thriving!  Roger Fiehn has spent the last several months finding and interviewing these sales professionals to find out what they do differently to outpace the market get our sales back on track.
“I work in what might be considered the three worst markets in the country – California, Nevada and Florida – and I’m here to tell you that in every one of those markets there … (2 comments)

Make a Difference - 03/01/10 09:53 AM

Via Lou Ludwig CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, SRES, TRC, e-PRO, (Ludwig & Associates):
 
Motivational Power Quote
 
Make a Difference 
 
"It's easy to make a buck.
It's a lot tougher to make a difference."
Tom Brokaw, journalist     
 
As I see it. . . . . . . .
Make a difference  
Don't settle for what's easy make the extra effort to make a difference in the things you do.  
Set your customers expectations and then exceed them and make a difference. 
Look at the horizon not to the past and lead a life of making a difference.  
Make … (1 comments)

Are you ready to build on your land? - 03/01/10 09:52 AM
Are you ready to build on your land?  If, so, I can help.
If you own land anywhere in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina and you are thinking about building your dream home this spring, please give me a call.
I am highly experienced with "on your lot" builders in the area.  I can help with site evaluation, which includes things such as home placement, well and septic issues, utility issues, driveway placement and anything that may affect the building of your home.
I can also recommend builders in the area.  I have a great deal of experience with local … (0 comments)

The 3 best ways to make your home more energy efficient - 03/01/10 09:05 AM

Via Dan Miller (Keller Williams Realty, Madison, Wisconsin):
Lee Schwartz, a home energy efficiency expert from Piping Plover Home Energy Solutions, has contributed some great articles about home energy conservation to our web site.
In this article, Lee covers the 3 home energy improvements that provide the best return on investment. You might be surprised by the results. Installing energy efficient windows did not make the list.
You can find all of Lee's articles on the buying real estate page at DaneCountyMarket.com.
Have a great day,
Dan Miller, Realtor, Certified Distressed Property Expert, Keller Williams Realty and DaneCountyMarket.com
… (0 comments)

 
Jc1 Rainmaker_large

Jeff Craig Greensboro Realtor/Broker /Real Estate Agent CSP/CNRS

Greensboro, NC

More about me…

Allen Tate Realtors/Smith Marketing Inc.

Address: 717 Green Valley Rd., Greensboro, NC, 27408

Office Phone: (336) 510-1860

Cell Phone: (336) 209-0096

Email Me



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