Jeff Wilmoth's Blog

USDA Funding Update - October 20, 2011

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:10:51 -0700

ATTENTION HOMEBUYERS: USDA (GRH) FUNDING UPDATE

FISCAL YEAR 2012 FUNDS AVAILABLE UNDER

CONTINUING RESOLUTION!

Fiscal Year 2012 funds have been made available for purchase transactions for the USDA Rural Development Loan Program under a Continuing Resolution which expires on November 18, 2011.

At this time we can only provide funding information through the expiration of the current Continuing Resolution (November 18, 2011), however, we will advise of any changes in funding as soon as they become available.

Georgia's #1 USDA Rural Development Lender

Jeff Wilmoth | Homestar Financial Corporation
848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501
Direct: (404) 597-5662 | Jeff@JeffWilmoth.com

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS ID: 206798 | Homestar Financial Corporation 770 503-0380, a Georgia Corporation, NMLSR# 70864, holds the following licenses: Nationally Approved USDA lender USDA GRH program, HUD Mortgagee ID #1897400009, VA Lender ID #64103600000, Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee # 17368

USDA (GRH) FUNDING UPDATE

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:54:17 -0700

ATTENTION HOMEBUYERS: USDA (GRH) FUNDING UPDATE

In recent years, funding shortages due to overwhelming volume and program demand may have prohibited some homebuyers from utilizing the USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Program. Fiscal year 2011 is different and Congress has responded to lender requests for more funding by delivering $24 billion for the current fiscal year (through September 30, 2011)!

As of May 26, 2011 Over $15 BILLION REMAINS TO SERVE USDA GRH RURAL HOMEBUYERS!

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!
Future Guaranteed Loan Funding Updates will continue to be released in order to keep our customers informed of available funding levels.

Jeff Wilmoth | Homestar Financial Corporation
848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501
Direct: (404) 597-5662 | Jeff@JeffWilmoth.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS ID: 206798 | Homestar Financial Corporation 770 503-0380, a Georgia Corporation, NMLSR# 70864, holds the following licenses: Nationally Approved USDA lender USDA GRH program, HUD Mortgagee ID #1897400009, VA Lender ID #64103600000, Georgia Residential Mortg # 17368

Why Tons of Buyers Are Screwing Up

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:20:15 -0800

Excellent post by NY Realtor J. Philip Faranda about the importance of understanding that there is more to buying a home than just the price. Pay attention folks! Price & Terms RULE!!!

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip R.E. LLC) Westchester County NY:

Price and Terms.

Price. Terms.

I will bet you a 6-pack of Old Milwaukee that if you ask first-time buyers what the term "terms" is that a bunch of them would screw it up, maybe because their buyer agent is a glorified door unlocker who is a payment behind on his car. But that's another post.

Right now, thousands of buyers across our great land are poisoning their prospective home purchase over an appliance, a repair to an electrical panel, or less than 1% of the price of the home. Because, after all, it is a buyer's market. What is a buyer's market? Well, to a carrier pigeon buyer agent who won't properly advise their client out of fear of losing them, it is whatever the buyer wants. And typically, the uninitiated buyer will subjugate the seller to their will to get a great deal. And why shouldn't they? Sellers were making buyers waive inspections, come up with extra cash with under appraised homes and equally insane things 5 short years ago. Point conceded. And if buying a home is a tit-for-tat event for you, read no further. But if you want to buy intelligently, read on.

We got off track in the earlier part of this decade by calling homes great investments. Everyone bought that. Later in the decade, homes became bad investments, and almost nobody bought. So I don't begrudge anyone for taking a wait and see attitude. Yet homes are like insurance. They can behave like investments, but they serve a greater utility- while you hope to never actually use life insurance, you do use your home as a place to live. It isn't a cold asset. You derive utility from it. Live within your means and you are OK, as many prior generations will attest.

Any honest perusal of my blog will attest to the fact that I have never had a mantra of "Now is the time to buy!" I am rethinking that.

About a year ago, some guy was featured on Active Rain advising people not to buy a short sale because they were going to miss some narrow window of opportunity for historically low rates. Those rates were higher than they are today. With current rates so low they are starting to resemble Mariano Rivera's earned run average, too many people are missing the train because they want a window seat. They have to dominate the seller or no deal. And that's a shame. Right now, the monthly payment on a 15 year mortgage is just a tad higher than the payment on a 30-year mortgage 3 short years ago. If you throw an extra payment or two in annually, you could pay your house off in 10 years.

I have witnessed buyers lose fantastic deals on homes that have everything they wanted over a $5000 difference on a $600,000 home. The seller had the temerity to attempt to negotiate. Bad seller. No sweat off my back; I have a home and if my company were going to go under it would have a long time ago. There is no one buyer I need. But these people need a home. They can't justify the move until they have subjugated the seller to their absolute will, and if the seller won't submit, they are banished. The buyer keeps hunting. Here's why that's crazy: the town crier won't announce when the market bottoms out. Nor will he let us know when rates will rise again.

A 3/8 percent rise in rate over the period of the loan will dwarf that $5000 buyers still want from the seller after rounds of offers and counter offers. The riding mower or the chandelier won't pay that extra money, but many of today's buyers aren't thinking of that- they feel a societal-driven compulsion to chew sellers down ever more. I don't blame them for being this way. I blame their agents for not educating them about local conditions. I blame the NAR for running bland commercials that sound like 1970's era Amway commercials that build trademark recognition and little else. It is only a good deal if the seller actually agrees. If you are making offers on your 3rd or 4th house, wake up- if your agent won't say it, I will. Sellers have never been this motivated. They just dislike being your gimp. Smart business people don't have their trading partner humiliated. Magnanimity is not weakness.

I would advise buyers to get on the train. With the terms available now, you are in the best position any of us have ever seen. Be happy you have a job and a down payment, don't kvetch about not riding in the conductor's car, and rejoice that you are one of the fortunate few when you arrive.

We Are Westchester County & Hudson Valley NY Real Estate. Reach Phil at (914) 723-8900.

J. Philip Faranda, Broker-owner, J. Philip Real Estate, LLC. Vice President, Empire Access Multiple Listing Service.

I am one of New York's premier short sale REALTORS, serving Westchester & the Hudson Valley.

J. Philip Serves Briarcliff Manor, Ossining, Croton, the River Towns, Westchester County, and the bedroom counties of New York City.

Free MLS Search! Register for a Free Listingbook account and search the MLS like an agent.

I am hiring agents. We offer outstanding support, marketing resources, and pasta.

All content/images, unless noted, are the property of J. Philip Faranda & may not be used without permission

How can I get the most money for my house?

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:53:39 -0700

Excellent blog post by Realtor Tish Lloyd from Wrightsville Beach, NC about how to sell your home for the most money...

"Curb Appeal, Staging and PRICING IT RIGHT!"

Via Tish Lloyd Real Estate Agent Wrightsville Beach, NC (Prudential Laney Real Estate 910.547.1446):

I was recently asked, "How can I get the most money for my house?" Now, this is not a new question for REALTORS® and frankly, the answer is not a new one either. "Curb Appeal, Staging and PRICING IT RIGHT!"   Not the "magic potion" this Seller was hoping for. Seems Sellers want to do less work and still over-price their homes. Not sure why anyone thinks this will work in today's market, but the truth is, I hope they like living in that home. Because if they don't get smart about today's market and what they need to do to sell their home, they're going to be living in it for a long time!

Here's the truth:

Buyers today are going to start their look online. You need to have pictures which show your home in it's best light. We're not talking Glamour Shots here, the pictures should be representative of your home. This means you need to get the exterior and interior in top shape before you put it on the market.

If you don't capture a buyer's attention the minute they pull up to your house, forget it. They're looking to be wowed, you have to do anything in your power to make that happen.

You MUST be priced right! Reasonably priced listings are more likely to get reasonable offers from reasonable buyers.

The longer your house is on the market, the more money you're losing every month. Your property becomes stagnant and by the time you finally decide to lower your price, it's not being shown. This is not the time to "test" the market!

Overpriced listings do not get as many showings. Fewer showings = fewer offers. Buyers are more educated about real estate than ever, they know if you're overpriced, and are probably going to wait until you"get real" about the pricing. Why give them a reason to wait? PRICE IT RIGHT, and you'll be moving in no time!

Nothing screams desperation quite like, price reduction! Let's just avoid looking like the wallflower, and be the belle of the ball! Let's get that yard looking spiffy, clean up the porches, paint the trim, de-clutter the interior (don't forget the garage!), set the home up to show off it's best features and PRICE IT RIGHT! You'll have buyers begging to get their names on your dance card.

When you're ready to sell your Wrightsville Beach, NC home, give me a call. I've got the resources we need to get your home at the forefront of the local market.

***********************************

Tish Lloyd, REALTOR®

Broker Associate

NC Real Estate Lic. 269076

Prudential Laney Real Estate

527 Causeway Drive

Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

910.547.1446

Search Local Listings

Sharing Our Bounty

Everything's better at the beach . . .

Fiscal Year 2011 Funding for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing Program

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:43:09 -0700

Fiscal Year 2011 Funding for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing Program

October 1^st, 2010 marked the beginning of Fiscal Year 2011 for USDA Rural Development. Traditionally, when a new fiscal year begins there is a brief delay in available funding. Such is the case this year, as USDA Rural Development awaits confirmation of funding. During this time, USDA will continue to accept and review new loan applications for purchase transactions and issue modified loan approvals referencing that the approval are "subject to the availability of congressionally appropriated funds".

HomeStar Financial Corporation is the largest producer of USDA Guaranteed Rural Development loans in Georgia. Just as in previous years, HomeStar Financial Corporation will continue closing USDA Guaranteed Rural Development loans with these modified loan approvals. Therefore, by choosing to work with HomeStar Financial Corporation there will be no interruptions of service to any USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing applicants as we begin Fiscal Year 2011.

Jeff Wilmoth | HomeStar Financial Corporation...Serving all of Georgia!

848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

Direct 404.597.5662 | EFax 678.623.0444
jeff@jeffwilmoth.com | Apply online: www.JeffWilmoth.com

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS ID: 206798; HomeStar Financial Corporation NMLS ID: 70864; Georgia Residential Mortgagee Licensee #17368; Nationally Approved USDA lender USDA GRH program; FHA Lender ID - 897400009; VA - 64103600000

Why Do I Need A Realtor

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 15:33:35 -0700

I always like the "why I need a realtor" blog posts. It just common sense. Plus Realtors have the time and resources to find the "good'uns"!

Via David Welch (Remax 200 Realty):

Real estate is not rocket science, in fact in some respects selling real estate is simple. There is however a big difference between simple and easy. Someone once told me many years ago that bull riding is simple. You keep the bull between you and the ground. It is simple, but it is not easy. Ultimately, a good Realtor's® greatest value comes from being able to guide you safely through the sale or purchase process. The average home owner may only purchase and sell three or four houses in a lifetime. In the 13 years I have been in real estate, I have personally sold around 300 homes representing buyers and sellers. Every sale has held valuable lessons that I use to help guide my home owners and home buyers.

David Gallup, a very well respected Realtor® at Remax 200 Realty compares our job to that of an airline pilot. Our job is to get you where you want to be safely. It is not always a smooth flight, but an experienced pilot knows how to chart a safe course and when to turn on the fasten safety belts sign. Today's real estate market has a lot of turbulence, whether you are selling or buying. For homeowners who need to sell, your Realtor® can help you understand values in your area, and can offer marketing suggestions to make your home stand out in a crowded market. We are still in a very strong buyers market in many segments, but that does not mean there are not pitfalls. A good Realtor® can help home buyers and investors get the most for their money.

You would never think to try and pilot the jet on your next trip, because there is too much at risk if you make a mistake. The pilot has logged hundreds or even thousands of hours in the cockpit and probably made the same trip many times before. Selling or buying, you should have a Realtor® that you have confidence in representing you and your interests. There is too much at risk, not to.

David Welch Real Estate Optimist, Orlando Real Estate

David W. Welch, MBA
REALTOR
Remax 200 Realty
www.DavidWelch.com
www.RealEstateOptimist.com
@RealtyOptimist

Georgia USDA Rural Development Funding Restored

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 13:16:37 -0700

On September 8, 2010, funding for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Development Program was restored nationwide.

As a result, Georgia Rural Development Field Offices will be completing the funding process for loans which received "Subject to" Conditional Commitments. This process will take priority over new file submissions. There are over 500+ "Subject to" files for the Georgia Rural Development Field Offices to process.

New loans will be held until all "Subject to" obligations have been completed. We have been advised that it will take the State of GA approximately 1 ½ to 2 weeks to complete the backlog of all files.

Many USDA RD files in processing with HomeStar were targeted to close approximately 2 weeks prior to the contractual dates. As of September 9, 2010, we expect all files to close according to the terms of the contract.

Jeff Wilmoth | HomeStar Financial Corporation...Serving all of Georgia!

848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

Direct 404.597.5662 | EFax 678.623.0444
jeff@jeffwilmoth.com | Apply online: www.JeffWilmoth.com

More Ways to Save a Little Green by Going "Green" . . .

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:34:29 -0700

More thought provoking ways to save money on energy costs! Very important with the expected increase in energy costs in the near future. Thanks to Connecticut Realtor Chris Canfield!

Via Chris Canfield, ABR, CRS, e-PRO, GREEN, SRES (RE/MAX Professionals - Central Connecticut Real Estate):

I thought you might enjoy some more ways to save money by going green that I have come across (these are good anywhere--not just Connecticut!):

15 Green Projects for Under $500 - I have already insullated my hot water pipes (years ago); now I had better run down and clean my refrigerator coils!

10 Ways to Shrink Your Energy Bills - Although I have done most of these items personally, I would have to say that #5 on this list was probably one of the biggest returns on the dollar - "make your attic more cush." I simply purchased rolls of insullation at my "local home-improvement store," rolled them in the opposite direction of the existing insulation in the attic, and watched the savings mount up over the past nine years! One way that you can tell who has really good insulation in their attic is to look at roofs after a snowstorm. If the snow melts off quickly, it is because of heat loss.

How Eight Homeowners Saved Over $12,275 on Energy - The first story here is about homeowners who installed a pellet stove. I did this about five years ago, so I can tell you first hand, Storing all those pellets someplace dry can be a challenge! I have three cars parked in my two-car garage, plus currently four pallets of pellets. When fuel was at its highest a few years ago, I actually had 14 pallets stored around the house (yes, I was able to keep them dry).

Funding Restored for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Development Program

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:51:20 -0700

Funding Restored for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Development Program

Effective September 8, 2010, USDA Rural Development has announced that the Agency has completed all system enhancements to support the newly legislated guarantee fee of 3.5% and that funding for the USDA Guaranteed Rural Housing (GRH) Program has been fully restored.

If you would like further information about the USDA Rural Development Program, then your first step should be to call a HomeStar Financial Corporation Mortgage Professional at 404-597-5662. HomeStar Financial Corporation, a Nationally Approved USDA lender is the #1 USDA Lender in Georgia!

Jeff Wilmoth | HomeStar Financial Corporation...Serving all of Georgia!

848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

Direct 404.597.5662 | EFax 678.623.0444
jeff@jeffwilmoth.com | Apply online: www.JeffWilmoth.com

A Very Sad Last Tweet

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:25:47 -0700

Don't text and drive reminder

Via Holly Kirby Weatherwax--Your Realtor® in Reston,VA (Momentum Realty,LLC):

If you are a news scanner, like I am, you probably saw that Dr. Frank Ryan (Plastic Surgeon to the stars) was killed on Monday, August 16, 2010 when his car drove over a cliff near his home in Los Angeles. At the time of the first report, the article I read said that Dr. Ryan did not drink or use drugs. It turns out now, however, that he was Tweeting about his dog at the time of the crash (Heidi Montag Plastic Surgeon Frank Ryan Texting Before Fatal Crash).

It is really hard to know what will get people to change this behavior. While it is very sad that this man died while texting/Tweeting, I hope that the cause of his death will get a lot of publicity. Especially for teens, and even busy executives, who are tied to their Blackberries, iPhones and Droids, the need to be in constant contact is virtually addictive.

The lure of the vibrating phone is one that is hard for all of us to turn away from, but it is critical that we continue to talk about the threat to personal and public safety caused by texting, emailing and tweeting while driving.

As the new school year begins, make a vow (if you haven't already done so) to put down the phone when you drive. If you don't have the will power to at least wait until the next stop light to check it, put it somewhere beyond your reach and make it impossible to check while driving.

This sad story shows that a person can make other wise health choices and still end up dead because the lure of the instant communication is too great.

Please remember this story the next time you 'just want to see who that email is from.'

Holly Weatherwax, Associate Broker

EcoBroker,Graduate of Realtors Institute,Accredited Buyers Representative,e-pro

If I can assist you with the purchase or sale of property in Northern Virginia, please visit my website: www.greatexperience.net , my blog Real Estate and Reston or email me at hollyweatherwax@mris.com. My direct number is 571-643-4902.

I believe buying or selling real estate should be a GREAT EXPERIENCE!

Newest Discrimination: PREGNANCY and Your Mortgage App

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:44:55 -0700

This scenario is an ECOA violation!!! IT IS NOT LEGAL! Keep in mind, that Loan officers who work for banks and their subsidiaries are not currently required to be licensed. Be wise and choose to work with licensed professionals.

Via Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate:

I closed on a house today where the buyer was asked by BANK OF AMERICA about their future child plans! Not if the wife was pregnant now, but FUTURE plans.

This is a young couple moving from their first to second home. At the last minute, the underwriter (of course) requested several more forms and more information. Okay, normal.

But one question they asked the husband was "Do you plan on having more children?"

WHOA.

Lani Rosales wrote about this recently on AgentGenius about this topic and her point was she was SHOCKED by the question. She didn't understand why more realtors were not outraged when this was pointed out in a Realtor Magazine article. It generated very little interest.

Well this buyer was insulted and not pleased. They have one gorgeous little girl now. They qualify for the new home on the husband's income alone. It is nobody's business if the wife is pregnant (she's not) or if they ever plan on having more children.

Why aren't more agents upset by this?

I am a full time worker and a mother of 2. I worked throughout 2 pregnancies. I understand if I had quit work our income would have dropped and perhaps we would have not been able to afford our house. I get that.

But in this case, the wife is a full time mother and her income would not "drop" if she got pregnant. How in the world does it matter?

Isn't this violating Fair Housing somehow? Discrimination?

In the past month other bloggers have posted about this being a lie (another mortgage blogger posted that lenders only ask this in case to see if the buyer will quit later, after getting pregnant). This is NOT THE CASE here and this is not hypothetical or third hand info.

This happened TODAY to a buyer client of mine and the lender was Bank of America.

Flickr photo courtesy CarbonNYC

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA. If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006. Serving all of Schuylkill County ... Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn, Pine Grove, Frackville, Minersville, Ashland, Shenandoah, Port Carbon, Palo Alto, St. Clair, Barnesville real estate. Click on the link above to search Pottsville PA homes for sale or any Schuylkill County homes for sale. We have all properties listed for sale in the Schuylkill MLS on our website -- free search! No registration is required!

We also run Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs in the area. If you need an appraisal, we are your Schuylkill County appraisal source.

5 Reasons Why You Should NOT Try to Sell Your Home By Yourself

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:17:45 -0700

Another great post by Realtor Erica Ramus Pottsville, PA. We strongly encourage using a Realtor on any transaction. If you are in need of a suggestion or referral of a highly skilled Realtor, just give us a call. We keep our toolbox full!

Via Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate:

Are you thinking of selling your Schuylkill County Home FSBO -- by yourself?

Marketing a home in 2010 is NOT the same as marketing it 10 years ago. Even if you did this before, you have to do so much more than plant a sign on the yard and place a classified ad.

5. Advertising is more complicated. When is the last time you read the newspaper or searched the classifieds. Years ago you'd buy the paper to see what homes were for sale or rent. A single classified ad run several times a week might get you enough calls to sell the house. Now it's so much more complicated! Most agents and brokers don't advertise anymore in newspapers because THEY DON'T WORK and also because they are very expensive considering the lack of results.

4. Are you internet savvy? What does work is the internet. Buyer start their searches online now, months before they are ready to buy. A real estate broker will put your property on the MLS to advertise to all agents, plus many other internet sites. In our office, we put your property on 3 MLS systems covering all of Schuylkill, Lebanon/Lancaster MLS, and TREND MLS which stretches into Reading and Philadelphia. We then use Postlets and ListHub to feed out into over 38 sites via RSS feed. So you're on Trulia, Zillow, Craigslist, Homes.com, and so many more sites. Can you do that?

3. Are you ready to pre-qualify buyers who call on the phone? Before you let someone cross the threshhold, are you ready to ask them personal questions about their finances, or are you going to just open the door? How do you know a buyer really has the ability to buy? Because he says so? Really? Not in today's market. And once you agree to show your home to someone, you need to make yourself available to all buyers, at their request, when they want to see the home on their own time, not yours. Is it an inconvenient time? Sorry. Make yourself available for them.

2. What about all the paperwork? If you do go FSBO, call a lawyer. You will need someone to write up the contracts and get you to settlement. You should not just go online or to Staples to find generic documents. This is complicated and dangerous to try to do on your own. You need an attorney to help you once you find a buyer. The work is not finished. It is just starting, unfortunately. You have contracts, then inspections, the appraisal, and financing details to make it thru now.

1. Can you negotiate like a pro? Seriously. If a buyer walks in and asks "Can you go lower" or "Why are you selling" or "What is your bottom line?" How will you answer? This is not a business deal cut and dry. This is your house. Will you waffle a bit and tell them there is room to negotiate? Will you tell them that you need to be moved in 30 days because you got a new job? Will you hurt your negotiating power by giving away too many details about why you are moving and/or how much you will really take? Having an agent in the middle can take a step away from this, giving a bit of distance to you in negotiating. Perhaps if you do not want to pay an agent, you should hire that lawyer to negotiate for you. Don't try this yourself if you even think you're going to tell buyers too much personal information or cave when they say your home is overpriced or they can only afford X.

Real estate agents -- good ones -- will put YOUR Interests above theirs. They will negotiate fiercely to get you the highest and best price for your house. They will take care of all the little details you otherwise have to handle on your own. The best agents are worth every penny you will pay, in getting you a higher price for your home with less hassles.

Are you thinking of selling your Schuylkill County Home FSBO -- by yourself? Think again, please.

If you're going FSBO because you think you cannot afford one, it may just be that you cannot afford NOT to have an agent. Not all firms charge the same fees. All fees are negotiable. Interview a few agents and ask each one to explain what they do for their fees, and how their fees are structured. You just might be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Flickr image courtesy MiK

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006. Serving all of Schuylkill County ... Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn, Pine Grove, Frackville, Minersville, Ashland, Shenandoah, Port Carbon, Palo Alto, St. Clair, Barnesville real estate. Click on the link above to search Pottsville PA homes for sale or any Schuylkill County homes for sale. We have all properties listed for sale in the Schuylkill MLS on our website -- free search!

Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs: Schuylkill County appraiser.

FHA Proposed Rule Changes - ACT NOW!

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:43:56 -0700

Will you take action?

FHA has recently requested public opinions and comments regarding proposed rule changes to the FHA home loan program.

Basically, FHA is proposing to change the following:

1. Update the combination of credit and down payment requirements for new borrowers

2. Reduce allowable seller concessions from six to three percent.

3. Tighten underwriting standards for manually underwritten loans

Please understand that these rules have only been proposed and have not been made final.

Now is your opportunity to make a difference and voice your opinions on these matters. Hopefully we can all make a difference and change the minds over at FHA before they stall the housing market.

The following link is where you may voice your opinions concerning the proposed rules:

http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#documentDetail?R=0900006480b1ebdc

Take Action Now!

Jeff Wilmoth | HomeStar Financial Corporation...Serving all of Georgia!

848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

Cell 404.597.5662 | EFax 678.623.0444
jeff@jeffwilmoth.com

Apply online: www.jeffwilmoth.com

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS ID: 206798; HomeStar Financial Corporation, NMLS ID: 70864; Georgia Residential Mortgagee Licensee #17368; Nationally Approved USDA lender USDA GRH program; FHA Lender ID - 897400009; VA - 64103600000

Possible First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extension

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:47:36 -0700

Tuesday June 29^th, the U.S. House of representatives passed a bill to extend the homebuyer tax credit by a vote of 409-5. Currently in the Senate, the homebuyer tax credit extension exists under the "Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009". The Senate version of this bill would allow borrowers who have gone under contract by April 30^th, 2010 to be able to utilize the homebuyer tax credit as long as they close by October 1, 2010.

Most of us in the industry have already closed or sold to those who have gone under contract by the April 30th deadline. Aside from those purchasing short-sales or those who were caught in the crossfire of the USDA funding issues, there will likely be very few who will benefit from the extension.

Could this measure yield more corruption and fraud from the system?

I find it amazing what many are willing to do for money. Just like daddy always said, "People get funny bout' money".

Lately we have run into several purchase applicants who have been advised by (non-licensed) tax preparers to "state" to the IRS that they have purchased a home in order to benefit from the tax credit. When in fact, they don't qualify for a home purchase and the tax refund has already been spent. Pretty scary!!!

Please visit our website or

Jeff Wilmoth | HomeStar Financial Corporation...Serving all of Georgia!

848 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

Cell 404.597.5662 | EFax 678.623.0444
jeff@jeffwilmoth.com

Apply online: www.jeffwilmoth.com

The First Impression Can Make A Difference When Selling Your Home

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:21:16 -0700

More great tips for sellers from Tampa, FL Realtor Sherry Laursen of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. Thanks for sharing Sherry!

Via Sherry Laursen (Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate):

                         THE FIRST IMPRESSION CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME

Did you know that statistics show that within the first 15 seconds of seeing your home, a buyer has already developed some sort of an opinion.

That's why the FIRST IMPRESSION is so critical. These are a few suggestions to make sure the outside of your home passes that First Impression test.

* Make sure the street and sidewalk area in front of your home is free of litter & debris and remove any    weeds growing between cracks in the sidewalk, sweep the area, if needed. (Week old newspaper and an old phone book in the yard is a no-mo).

* If your mailbox looks old and worn out, maybe its time to replace or paint it. It lets the buyer know that you care about even minor details.

* Check your outdoor lights/lamps, if they appear to be rusted, new ones may be needed.

* How's your driveway look? If its stained/dirty, consider a power wash.

* Make sure your windows are clean on the inside and outside. ( That great view doesn't look so nice out of a dirty window).

* The roof is a very important aspect of your home. Make sure you replace any missing or broken shingles or tiles. Paint eaves and fascia boards. If the roof is old and needs replaced, consider replacing it before putting your home on the market.

* One of the first things a buyer sees when they pull up to your home is your lawn. Be sure to keep your lawn watered (of course adhere to local water restrictions) and mowed and sod if needed. Neatly trimmed shrubs are also essential. Its also always nice to see a added touch with flowers or greenery as long as its not overboard.

* Since everyone will definitely be seeing your doorway, make sure the door is clean and painted if necessary. Replace the hardware if its old or tarnished. And make sure the lock works. ( I don't know how many times I've went to open the door and the key gets stuck or jammed or you have to pull the door this way or that way to get it to work).

   The First Impression is critical and can make a huge difference in whether you get an offer or even a showing on your home and what price that offer may be. Even the minor details can show that you take care of your home. Take the time to stand back and really look at how the outside of your home may look to a potential buyer. Or have a friend that's not afraid to look at your home and give you their honest opinion.

To Buy and/or Sell a Home in the Tampa and surrounding area's, specializing in New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, call Sherry Laursen, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, 19026 Bruce B Downs Blvd. Tampa FL 33647. Email or contact me at (813) 368-5893 Direct or (813) 977-3500 Office

To search for your next home with an agent who will make your real estate needs a priority search here

This Month in Real Estate - June 2010 National Report

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 11:18:57 -0700

Excellent info video about Short Sales vs. Traditional Sales.

Via Mark Hall Vancouver Washington Real Estate (Elite Realty NW - Keller Williams, Vancouver Washington):

Here is the national real estate report for June, 2010. Our Keller Williams International office produces this awesome video each month and I post it here for my clients, friends and family. Although this is a national report and does not take into account some of the nuances that you may be experiencing in your area, the information is still timely and useful for anyone who is considering buying or selling a home. Would you like the local report for the Vancouver Washington Real Estate Market? Please call us any time.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark Countyand we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service.

Another Tax Credit Extension???

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 10:14:25 -0700

On Thursday, June 10^th, Congress introduced new legislation which, if passed, could extend the deadline to close loans in order for potential homebuyers to receive the homebuyer tax credit. The extension could increase the required close by date from June 30 to September 30, 2010. The legislation doesn't affect who may qualify for the tax credit. To qualify, you still must have signed a contract by April 30, but it will relieve some of the pressure to close by June 30. Buyers who did not expect to close by June 30 may now be able to qualify and or have sufficient time to shop for the best mortgage options, especially with rates dropping in the most recent weeks.

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Orange You Glad You Staged Your Home?

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:25:29 -0700

A Series of Home Staging Articles by Kate Hart. EXCELLENT!!! Kate really takes the time to write these articles with really nice photography!!

Via Kate Hart (Hart & Associates Staging and Design):

When I stage a property I always like to use a pop of the same color in each room to unify spaces and add more flow to the home. I also use a pop of color to direct the buyer's eye to which selling features I want them to notice- the great fireplace, the kitchen counters, the cozy sitting area in the master bedroom. Perhaps it is the season but lately I have been loving orange and how it adds warmth and sizzle to the spaces we stage. Take a peek and try it out in your own home. Add some perky pumpkin, mellow mandarin or calming homcantaloupe to give your rooms a kick that you can enjoy all year round.

Home Staging Transforms a Turquoise Challenge!

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:23:17 -0700

Via Kate Hart (Hart & Associates Staging and Design):

Turquoise is one of my favorite colors to wear however when it comes to selling a home it is not typically my go to color of choice. Last week I visited a property in Wayne Pennsylvania owned by a real estate investor that I work with and was surprised to discover that one of the units we were getting ready to sell had some really lovely teal wallpaper in the hall bathroom. Normally, this client does what ever we ask him to do to get his homes ready to sell- he replaces light fixtures, installs new carpet, regrouts the floors and stages the rooms. When I mentioned the wall paper to him he was not interested in replacing it. He had already invested a lot of money and he thought it was not really that bad... but was it?

That wallpaper gave me nightmares. My tranquil, transitional vision for this townhome was not in tune with those teal walls. Night after night I plotted how I could make those walls go away until I had an amazing idea. Instead of fighting the turquoise walls, I decided to make them work as part of the design for the home. As home staging professionals we can recommend what our clients need to do to properly present their home for sale, but no matter how persuasive we are, getting them to actually do the work is another task entirely. Suddenly I felt empowered again. This client would not change the walls, but I could change the way those walls felt. To make it all tie together I would use that teal color in all the rooms we were staging so it would not seem like such an island of color in this otherwise neutral home. We would make it look like it was supposed to be that color all along!

Below are some photos from the staging we did. The results look even better in person. From the teal front entrance door to the master bedroom spa-bath the touches of turquoise carry the buyer's eye through the space. The home seller was beyond thrilled. He even loved how the flowers in the wallpaper matched the floral art we selected. And in case you did not know, turquoise is one of the Pantone colors for 2010. It is trendy and here to stay.

Brown got you down? Home Staging adds color and purpose to this sunny space.

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:22:53 -0700

Via Kate Hart (Hart & Associates Staging and Design):

Every now and then I have a staging challenge that I just cannot figure out. Most homes are easy to plan- first I determine the best purpose for the space, next I come up with the design scheme and then I sort out what furniture and accessories work best for the image we are trying to convey. Sometimes however I come upon a space that puzzles me. If I cannot figure it out, how can the buyer?

Such was the case with one of my most recent staging projects in Chester County Pennsylvania:

First there was an entry hall that had been added between the home and the garage. It was both the front and the back entrance to the home so it was the first thing buyers noticed when they came in. It had a tile floor and brick walls making it instantly feel cold.

Next was the living room. It was open on one side to the entrance hall, the other side to the kitchen and the other side to the sun room. The fourth wall had the fireplace and built-in bookcases. Upon first glance the only obvious place to put the sofa was on the wall near the entry hall but this would make the seating area absurdly far from the fireplace.

The kitchen was lovely but since it was open to the dining area buyers needed to see how this space would work for them.

Finally there was the sun room. It was a gorgeous bright space overlooking lovely farmland. It had been added onto the house and it was the largest room in the home. By calling it a "sun room" buyers instantly felt like they could not enjoy it all the time and were relegated to the smaller living room or the basement.

My solution was to give more definition to the spaces in this open floor plan:

The foyer became a mudroom and a command center for busy families.

The living room featured a gathering place adjacent to the gourmet kitchen and a separate home office niche.

The kitchen and dining room were made into one cohesive space by using the same color palate as the adjoining spaces.

The sunroom was transformed into a spacious family room that was an extension of the other living areas.

Since this home was bright and sunny I felt the typical staging neutrals (beige, brown and grey) just would not do. My vision was to infuse the home with color so that the buyer would remember how cheerful this space felt. The result? A charming and whimsical country retreat!

Split Personalities: A Tale of Two Clients, Two Homes and Two Rooms

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:21:48 -0700

Via Kate Hart (Hart & Associates Staging and Design):

In addition to providing home staging services for our clients in the Philadelphia region we also design spaces for our clients in their new homes. A recent client however was not selling her home, rather she was moving in with her fiancee and needed some help making his home into their home. I had known this client for years and was really touched when she contacted me to work on this special project. Sure, she could have moved her things in and then figured out what went where, but this busy professional knew that #1 she did not have the time, #2 she wanted to be able to entertain for the holidays and #3 she did not want to be the one to tell her fiancee what items needed to go! Sometimes we have to act as the "home therapist" and make decisions for clients!

With only 2 weeks to complete the project we approached this methodically. First we visited her home to view her furniture, next we visited his home to see the existing decor and his things, and then we interviewed them to find out what they were looking for. He wanted comfort, she wanted glam. Our solution? Create two rooms that they can use for entertaining. One room was the large living room that was centrally located, the other room was on the third floor and had access to the roof deck. This space also needed to serve as her dressing room when they were not entertaining since space was tight in this city home.

To create the luxurious living/dining room in our short time frame, we kept the existing wall color and dining room furniture. We balanced the space by adding a blue sofa to the white wall. We removed cluttered bookcases and added her piano to the dining area so they could play when entertaining. We added a new seating area to the living room and some lively pops of lime green to contrast with the dark blue walls.

The vacant third floor had a total transformation. Along one wall we constructed a closet to store her clothes and added mirrored doors to add more light to the space. Maximizing every inch of space we added a bar under the stairs to the roof deck. This space will also house a flat screen tv so they can enjoy using this room as a cozy den. Working with the existing color pallate we then purchased new seating for this space and incorporated some of her antiques and accent furniture from her home. To give it a glam look we added fabrics with sparkle and sheen and a gorgeous gilded floor lamp.

The results were stunning! Now this couple had a home that reflected both their styles and 2 new spaces to entertain. Even the dog loves it!

10 Money Saving Ideas to Makeover your Home in 2010!

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:20:00 -0700

Money Saving Home Makeover Ideas

Via Kate Hart (Hart & Associates Staging and Design):

Are you looking for money saving design ideas to use in your decorating or home staging projects? If so, check out my latest tips for easy, budget friendly ways you can give your home a new look this year.

DECORATING SENSE FOR A NEW DECADE:

10 TRENDS & MONEY-SAVING DESIGN TIPS TO GET THE DESIGNER LOOK FOR LESS



CHARLOTTE, NC (January 2010)- Staying up on trends can be expensive, but with some affordable finds and budget décor tips you can get the latest looks for your home for less. Expert home stager and designer Kate Hartgives us her top ten trends for 2010 - and tips to affordably update your home for a whole new decade.

  "Many of the trends in 2010 reflect the mood of today's consumers," says Hart. "Homeowners are looking to brighten their space and their mind set, stretch their decorating dollars and make the most of the home they have."

Here's what Kate highlights as trends and tips to take us through the new year in style:

•1.       REFURBISHED FURNISHINGS - Reclaim and restore what is old and make new again. Tip: Reduce, reuse and recycle are décor terms today so reupholster that old chair, add a MirrorMate® frame to your bare mirror instead of replacing it and repaint a flea market-find dresser as opposed to buying new.

•2.       CALMING, UPLIFTING COLORS - Create a cheery retreat with cool colors & lighter wood tones. Tip: Use turquoise, the Pantone color of 2010, as a bold accent when paired with neutrals like black and white or use it with gray or mint green for a more subtle effect. Replace or refinish dark woods with lighter shades of honey or a driftwood-inspired finish for a brighter, more up-to-date look.

•3.       MIRRORS & METALS - Brighten, lighten and add pop to a room with the shimmer and shine of mirrors and metals . Tip: Group three or more Pizzazz MirrorSquares (less than $20 each!) in Charlotte Silver Leaf behind a couch or along a wall, add a mirrored chest to a room or silver candlesticks to a mantle. Shiny silver, brushed nickel, antique or oil-rubbed bronze remain popular metal finishes.

•4.       MULTI-PURPOSE SPACES -Turn unused spaces into something new and useful. Tip: The space at the top of the stairs, the living room you never sit in, or guest room used twice a year, can do double duty as a home office, den or playroom by adding an armoire-style desk, pull out sofa bed or toy storage.

•5.       BOLD, GRAPHIC PATTERNS - Replace timid designs with large scale patterns in one or two colors. Tip: To perk up your living room consider recovering a chair in a new, fun print or simply add some toss pillows to a neutral sofa in exotic patterns like bamboo or natural motifs such as asters or birds.

•6.       MIX & MATCH PIECES - Mix it up by breaking up matching sets of furniture, adding in new and unexpected pieces. Tip: Instead of buying a new dining room set, add new chairs to the table you already have or consider hosting a furniture swap with your friends to exchange unwanted piece. You'll get a whole new look -for free!

•7.       NATURAL ELEMENTS -Bring the outside in and "green" your home with eco-friendly materials like bamboo and cork. Tip: A sisal or jute area rug is an affordable way to embrace this look without adding new flooring to your room. Add some recycled glass candle sticks or organic cotton pillows to complete the space.

•8.       LESS SHABBY, MORE CHIC - Forget the flowers and ruffles, things are looking more tailored in 2010. Tip: Think fitted bed skirts, drapes that don't drag and throws that are neatly placed- not draped.

•9.       HOTEL DÉCOR - Bring the look and feel of the hotel home to enjoy during "staycations" and all year long. Tip: The bathroom and bedroom are the perfect place to start, adding furnishings with clean lines, plush white towels and a spa-like color palate.

•10.   DIY DECORATING - Tackle those do-it-yourself projects and save money in the process. Tip: Pick up the paint brush to refresh your wall color, break out the sewing machine to de-puddle those droopy drapes and resist the urge to spurge on new items like a mirror for your powder room. Reframe the one you have instead with a MirrorMateframe in eco-friendly Pacifica Silver Sheen or Acadia Dove White.

"Trend number 10 is the most inspiring of all because by doing-it-yourself, almost all of these trends and tips can be achieved with little to no expense," concludes Hart. "So many of today's trends allow you to use what you (or your friends) have, simply re-arranging or adding to it with affordable accents."

About Kate Hart

Kate Hart is a pioneer in the home staging field, having helped hundreds of families and realtors prepare homes for sale through her Philadelphia-area company, Hart & Associates Staging & Design. Her design work and expert advice has been featured in numerous books, magazines and broadcast outlets ranging from Fine Living and CNN to Everyday with Rachael Ray and HGTV.com. Hart was recently recognized by the Real Estate Staging Association as "Staging Professional of the Year," the industry's most prestigious award. Kate serves as national spokesperson for the MirrorMate brand and is known for her on-trend, budget-friendly design advice. For more on Kate Hart visit www.hartstaging.com.

Construction on the new Newnan Piedmont Hospital has been resumed.

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:16:03 -0700

Latest information regarding the construction of the new Newnan Piedmont Hospital

Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:

Construction of the new Newnan Piedmont Hospital has been resumed after a long period of inactivity.

The Poplar Road site was a period of heavy activity when the project commenced last year, but was halted due to issues related to the downturn in the Coweta County economy.

Officials are optimistic that the facility will be fully operational by Fall of 2011. The hospital will be one of the largest employers in the county, and is considered to be an integral key to economic recovery in the county!

And that’s good news for all Cowetians!

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Get the latest GA Foreclosure List Updated Daily! We Do HUD bids in Georgia! 770-827-6225

10 Home Staging Tips to Make Your Next Listing Look like a Model Home

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:12:40 -0700

Helpful Home Staging Tips from Chicago Expert Julea Joseph of Reinventing Space

Via Julea Joseph, Interior Stylist (Reinventing Space):

What is it about Model homes that make them so appealing? Is it the freshness of all new; is it the sassy paint colors, the perfectly placed furniture, art and accessories or the beautiful groomed backyard that makes you want to plop right down on that comfy club chair, or light the grill on the patio? Well.... Yes to all the above. A builder hold hosts to an array of skilled professionals to make that Model beautiful. From blue print to drawer pulls that Model home is meticulously planned.

Beyond the nicely placed furniture, Model homes are the current reflection of the home environment needs of the target market of the Builder. They are a turn-key product, designed & packaged for the desires of perfect buyer.

Models homes are lovely because they have the latest and the greatest, are fresh and new and are meticulously detailed. Psychology, more than decorating is applied to makes them look so fabulous. From architecture to floral arrangements, Model homes are planned with "YOU" in mind.

So how can you the Realtor make your next listing as appealing as a Model Home? - Here are 10 ways.

•1.)    Clean. Those nice angled vacuum lines, gleaming windows, and perfectly manicured lawns in Model homes speak to a potential buyer - You don't have to do a thing.   A Realtor can translate that into - A little elbow grease goes a long way. A super clean home says "turn-key" to the potential buyer. Have every inch of the home, blind slats to porch light glass, super clean and perfectly coiffed. According to a national 2009 survey done by Home Gain (www.homegain.com,) a $100-$200 cleaning investment gives an 872% return!

•2.)    Fresh & Smells Good. People buy homes on emotion, and your 5 senses are a direct path to your brain. If a home smells and looks "funky," "doggy," "smoky," or if the stove is coated with cooking gone bad - The home is off their list. Just like you would detail your car to sell, invest in clean and spotless carpets, patched, repaired and freshly painted walls and new appliances if the old have seen better days. Be wary to skip this step and take the low road with room refreshers, candles and stove burner covers - Potential buyers are not fooled.

•3.)    Color. Any advertising executive will tell you color is key to properly packaging a product; and a listed home is just that, a product. Throw away the off-white manta of old school home staging rules - Welcome to the era of HGTV. Using color is a powerful and inexpensive way of making that home stand out from the rest, and with so many decorating TV shows boasting the benefits of color, you better get hip to hues.   From 1^st Web impressions to curb-appeal, color is a strong emotional tug for the potential buyer. Update yourself on the latest color trends in wall color, appliance, fixtures, etc... and apply it to your target buyer. For home staging, use earthy, calm tones for the bigger areas such as wall color and add pops of saturated colors in the details; such front doors, accessories or annuals.

•4.)    Make Space. The joy of a Model home is the acres and acres of unused storage space & beautifully organized closets. Reduce, organize, upscale and edit all the home's spaces when it comes to closets and storage areas. If the home's price point dictates, upscale the closets with custom organizing options.

•5.)    Clear a Path. Consider that many people with be walking through the home. Make sure traffic patterns, entrances and exits are well established. Too much furniture, undefined entrances and awkward walkways confuse and discourage buyers from moving about the property. Follow a Model Home's lead and create a concise walking pattern for potential buyers starting a curbside to back fence.

•6.)    Lovely Layouts. From the landscape to furniture placement, take a clue from Models homes that continuity and flow make for a good mix. Create curb appeal with nicely maintained landscaping, added annuals and perennials, an inviting stoop and well groomed walk and driveways. Inside, make sure each room depicts what its function is, enhances the highlights of the room (i.e. fireplaces or upgrades,) and allows the buyer to envision themselves in the space.

•7.)    Set the Mood. Create ambiance and character in the home with well thought out placement of sensory and lifestyle components. Soft music, lighting on dimmers, candles lit, and fresh floral are all great ideas for Broker or Open houses. If you have concern about candles, battery operated candles that even have timers built in are now readily available. Stage the dining room table tastefully, or set the stage in a back yard with a detailed patio retreat. Offering helpful lifestyle hints has always been in the Model Home arsenal and always a huge hit.

•8.)    K.I.S.S. On the opposite note, don't over accessorize, go over-board with the lifestyle tips or create "store bought theme" rooms (i.e. Chef-with-a-Hat Kitchen or Anniversary Bathtub area complete with Champagne bottle.)

•9.)    Appeal to a Target Buyer. Consider "WHO" the ideal buyer is that will be interested in the property, and market the property accordingly. From advertising photos to furniture, consider who will find this appealing and desirable.

•10.) Market, Market, Market. Model Homes have great marketing incentives inside and out. From clear address markers, great signs, to small exit giveaways, to survey - market that listing to the fullest.

Julea Joseph of Reinventing Space has created her own recipe for success with her signature Interior Stylist Philosophy. Always a few steps ahead, Julea launched her home design business in 1999 when interior redesign & home staging were just in their infancy. Rather than offering just redesign and staging, she developed a menu of blended services that fully embraces and captures the lifestyle of a home - She Celebrates the Soul of a Home.

MONTGOMERY, TEXAS ~ BIRTHPLACE OF THE TEXAS FLAG

Jeff Wilmoth (HomeStar Financial Corporation) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 16:49:12 -0700

I grew up in Conroe...

Via Paula Hamilton (BANDIER REALTY PARTNERS, LLC):

MONTGOMERY, TEXAS ~ BIRTHPLACE OF THE TEXAS FLAG! Montgomery, Texas located due northwest of Houston. Montgomery was once a tiny town that served as a stagecoach line between Huntsville and Houston. Many weary travelers stayed in Montgomery with such noted folks such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston.

Originally, Montgomery was the county seat for Montgomery County and the first courthouse was built in 1838. When the railroad was moved to Conroe which is east of Montgomery, Conroe then became the county seat and still is today.

Dr. Charles B. Stewart drew a free-hand version of what we know as our Texas flag on a piece of linen back in 1838. This original is now kept safely in the Sam Houston Library in Huntsville, Texas. Dr. Stewart lived and worked in Montgomery and is why this tiny little town has been named as the birthplace of the Texas flag.

You know that Texans are proud folks. Those of us who reside here in Montgomery County are mighty proud of the rich history of our flag! If you happen to be in the area, take a quick trip up to the northern part of our county and visit Montgomery. Dotted with antique stores and small cafes, you will have a fun day exploring this history-rich town.

Come on out and enjoy the beautiful drive past Lake Conroe as you make your way to historic Montgomery!

Paula L. Hamilton ~ Broker/Director

Copyright 2010 Paula Hamilton