JoAnn Poole:Simi Valley Real Estate,Simi's Blog

DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:55:41 -0600

We all tend to judge a person by how they look. We will also judge by the color of the skin, the tattoos on the arm, the way words are spoken, and a thousand other ways. When will we learn that we really are doing a disservice by judging a book by its cover. If I would have judged in the first year of my career, I would have missed out not only on a business relationship but also a fine friendship now for many years.

The whole family came into the high-priced Simi Valley real estate listing I was holding open. They looked like real schleps! Like they just threw on the clothes and tennies. Hair messed, torn jeans...I figured they were just open housing. Didn't get much chance to talk with them, but I kept in touch, heard about their business out of the garage in the first-time homebuyer tract and how they wanted to buy a high-priced home. How, I couldn't figure out, as they looked like they couldn't afford anything.

Guess what! These folks outgrew their home as their business in the garage needed a commercial property, they wanted to sell their little first-time homebuyer home and purchased a big, beautiful new home that is a Simi Valley luxury home. Who kept in touch with them throughout the years? Who helped them with their purchases when it came time to locate Simi Valley homes for sale? And who would have lost out on a friendship that has lasted all these years?

I didn't lose...I didn't judge a book by its cover.

REPUTATION IS MOST IMPORTANT!

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:28:37 -0500

I have always believed that reputation and integrity are the crux of my being. I always want to give my clients and customers the sense that I am totally loyal, hands on, up front with knowledge and providing them all that I can give.

I love working with first-time Simi Valley home buyers. Mostly, they are so eager to learn and I love giving them what they need to be more informed. Every now and then, I come across an individual who has learned from a friend's uncle's cousin who is a brand-new mortgage broker that the market is not what I have portrayed. The discussion goes something like this...

You knew a person who "used" to be a lender and was going to refer you to his "friend" who was just starting in mortgages. But you also believed your "person" who told you it was a buyers' market, there were lots of homes available and you could pick up a bargain.

After giving you and your husband a dose of reality, your husband said, "I don't believe you. That's not what my friend's friend said. He said interest rates are climbing, there are no multiple offers like you say, and I can get any kind of bargain I want." Now, mind you, we had not even gone out yet to look at property in Simi Valley!!!

After explaining and being forthright in my discussion, I knew we were going nowhere. I told you how important it was to build trust and rapport with you. My reputation was on the line here. You have friends and family who will want to buy or sell and I want you to refer them to me.

Oh, well, you wanted to believe opposite of what I was explaining. Could we continue to work together? Not sure I could work with someone who didn't trust my years of experience. If you wanted your wings to fly somewhere else, that would be okay with me. I want to be professional and my reputation means too much to me.

You are very welcome to give me your opinion, and I do hope you understand!

TO BLOCK OR NOT TO BLOCK!

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:11:15 -0500

Okay, I admit it, I may be behind the times, but hear out this Simi Valley real estate agent..

Several years ago, it was recommended to me by my Wood Ranch REALTOR friend that I needed to put out my cell phone number and EVERYWHERE! Yeeks! Boy, did I resist. Why? Well, I had a private office phone, a very nice private office near all kinds of Simi Valley properties and Wood Ranch real estate and I was carrying a pager...do you remember the pagers? Well, I thought, if anyone needed me, they could reach me on one of those two or come into my office, near the Wood Ranch homes...my cell phone was when I wanted to use it...I didn't want to be called by (goodness, clients and customers!) as I deserved some down time.

Do you know how this has changed in the last several years? If one doesn't have a cell phone, one is tarnished as they are really not "with it." Immediate action needs, emergencies, that client that wants it all and NOW...well, I have come to realize how important cell phone service is. And with the type of market we have been in, people calling for Simi Valley homes for sale...well, I just cannot be without the cell.

If I am calling someone on my cell phone, I want them to know it's me...they can choose to pick up or not...hopefully, they will be so delirious that I've called, they will want to talk with me! And, of course I know my daughter ignores me most of the time (HA, HA)...

BUT, there is one aspect of cell phone usage that really bugs me and here it is. blocked and restricted calls. Not too long ago, I would absolutely not pick up blocked or restricted calls as I believed most of them were solicitations. Now I come to find out that many of my clients and realtor associates block their calls on the cell phone. Why???

I've learned to pick up all the calls...never know if it's that multi-million seller wanting me NOW! or the buyer wanting to write an offer on that Simi Valley luxury home or someone calling me for Simi Valley relocation...

I would love to hear your thoughts on whether to Block or Not to Block!

I have to run...the phone is ringing!

Simi Valley and Wood Ranch Home Prices aren't falling. Don't wait to buy or you will be out of luck!

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:03:36 -0500

If you think home prices are going down...think again!!! Simi Valley properties, including Simi Valley condos, and Simi Valley real estate listings in general are not! I really don't believe they will and I also don't believe the banks are going to send a glut of foreclosure properties into our market. They would be foolish to do that.

Think about it! If they release a few properties at a time, they control prices. If they release a whole slew of them, inventory rises dramatically and it may become a buyers' market. Places like Wood Ranch real estate, which commands higher pricing, doesn't have many foreclosures. Simi Valley REO homes make for a small portion of our inventory right now!

Nope, prices are good for investors, first-time home buyers and move-up buyers. Look at my web site for Simi Valley home searches...you'll see nice properties to see!

You need not wait...tax incentives will expire, first-time home buyer incentives will be gone and you will be out of luck!

The Simi Valley Market is on a High

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:32:28 -0500

I really am feeling like the market is on a high...very low inventory, interest rates for buyers low, multiple offers on all properties in either Wood Ranch homes, Simi Valley real estate, whether it be Simi Valley bank owned, Simi Valley luxury homes or Simi Valley land for sale...as of last night there are only 165 homes for sale in the Simi Valley MLS, 60 for the Wood Ranch real estate and 84 for Moorpark. That's nothing...and you wonder why multiple offers.

As we enter the final month of summer, you need to get started looking or listing. When you are ready, call me and I will help...I am your Simi Valley Realtor and Wood Ranch real estate agent...

When Will The Recession Be Over?

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:35:46 -0500

Okay, folks, I, Jo Ann Poole, Simi Valley Realtor says...I've got news...it is...indicators include when the phone starts ringing more (and people are looking to find out more about Simi Valley real estate), if it's only inquiries (and people are inquiring about Wood Ranch real estate) or more visitors are walking through the doors or coming on to websites (and they aren't looking anymore for Simi Valley bank owned or Simi Valley foreclosures)...these are indicators that the economy is picking up...especially when we are seeing multiple offers on non-distressed properties.

Step up to the plate in today's market, or you will have to wait until the next cycle...

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:43:16 -0500

Hi Everyone

This article came across my desk and it's important enough for you to review, especially the highlighted areas. The Window of Opportunity for low offers and "great" deals has passed. Either you step up to the plate in today's market, or you will have to wait until the next cycle...and who knows when they will be.

Everyone Wants a Lower Price, But What About the Impact of Interest Rates?

When shopping for a home, the natural tendency of any buyer is to want to pay the lowest price possible. It's important to keep in mind, however, that the sales price is not the only factor that determines what the monthly payment will be. In fact, the impact of higher interest rates can easily nullify any benefit of waiting for a lower price.

Why Should I Rush to Buy?
While you may have heard discussions in the media about the decline of property values in many markets, the rate of decline appears to be stabilizing.
That being said, it would not be unreasonable for buyers to want to hold out for an additional decline of 10%, hoping to capture the best possible price. However, as property values have declined in many areas to 2003 levels or lower, waiting longer to pull the trigger could be a mistake. Many markets are reporting that lower property values have been bringing out investors and the result has been multiple offers on many properties. Properties priced correctly are not declining and, in fact, are creating a lot of interest.

Interest Rate Complacency
The problem is that many home buyers have been lulled into a sense of complacency because of extremely low interest rates. Since the Federal Reserve initiated its program of buying mortgage-backed securities, which control the rates people pay for their home loans, rates had been range bound, bouncing between 4.50% to 5.00% for a 30-year fixed-rate loan.

But buyers shouldn't be confused by this. These rates are artificially low! Historically, interest rates have been above 6.00%. And any rate obtained below this number is a great deal, especially on homes with price tags from 2003!

Markets are Unforgiving
The last two weeks of May showed just how unforgiving the markets can be for people who choose to procrastinate. In just five days, interest rates from many lenders increased anywhere from .50% to 1.00% as fixed-income investors demanded more for their money.

For anyone who was waiting for prices to drop even more, a 1.00% increase in interest rate would bring a higher monthly principal and interest payment on a home, even if the price of that same home had fallen an additional 10% in value.

If you are waiting for prices to fall even lower, be aware that while holding out for a lower price may help you win the battle, you could lose the war in terms of monthly payments and overall affordability. With the Federal Reserve scheduled to end its buying of mortgage-backed securities this year, rates only stand to go higher for those that wait. In fact, interest rates are already on the rise and could go higher from here.

Clock is Ticking on Free Money
If you are planning on purchasing their first home this year, be sure to know that you need to take possession before 12/01/2009 to be eligible for a tax credit of up to $8,000. In a survey conducted in March by Move.com, nearly 50% of home buyers are currently unaware that this free money exists in the marketplace. And since over 50% of all buyers are first-timers in today's market, this could impact a lot of you.

VISITS OUR SITE TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU

HOW TO HANDLE STRESS AND STRIFE!

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 11:47:46 -0500

It is so easy for me to assist my clients with their problems. After all, it is my business to place individual and families in a "safe haven." Whether they are first-time home buyers or move-up buyers or relocating, the feeling is one of euphoria when I talk into their new home with them after getting the keys.

Wow, little did I know that when this Simi Valley/Wood Ranch realtor came home several weeks ago that I would find my safe haven, my Wood Ranch home, being filled with water, and not in the bathtub or sink!!! And guess what...I would be considered a Simi Valley relocation!!! Yes, to the near-by hotel to live out the repairs...

Yep, folks, to make a very long story short, leaks under the slab, flooring ruined, walls torn up, personal belongings pushed and shoved away from the potential water flow, grandchildren and their parents being sent to be with Auntie 'cause our home is unlivable!!! So my Simi Valley property sent me to a local hotel with a few personal belongings; and that just doesn't cut it...

HOWEVER, there is a blessing to this mess...not only will my flooring get replaced and my home become a safe haven again with fresh paint but the friends I have met and have encountered during this transition is part of the blessing. I am healthy, my children and grandchildren are too and I am blessed with many friends wanting to invite me for a home-cooked meal. And that I won't turn down!

When you see Wood Ranch real estate or Simi Valley property for sale, know it isn't mine! Instead, let's make what could be a nightmare into a dream -- count your blessings and be sure to include your "safe haven" be it a Wood Ranch home or any type of Simi Valley real estate.

Wood Ranch Real Estate Agent

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:14:28 -0500

With the media continuing to forecast negativity in the real estate sector, we in Simi Valley real estate and Ventura County maintain the positive attitude that real estate here, both Simi Valley property, including Simi Valley townhome, Simi Valley luxury homes, or just plain Simi Valley land for sale as stabilized and we will see a marked improvement here pretty soon.

Sellers who want to sell their Wood Ranch real estate just need to call their REALTOR (hopefully, it's me!!!) and take a few minutes to chat. We are seeking listings desperately as Wood Ranch homes and Simi Valley homes in general are low in inventory. Non-distressed sellers not calling a realtor is getting the tainted view that real estate is bad.

I must stress...it isn't. We are seeing multiple offers on Simi Valley bank owned properties, but the properties that require no fixing are coming in demand.

So, call your Wood Ranch real estate agent...that's me...and let's talk about getting your house SOLD!!!

Simi Valley Realtor, Jo Ann Poole Recommended

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:49:07 -0600

From the Owner of City Auto Body and Automotive
2045 Easy Street
Simi Valley CA 93065
805-581-1671

February 9 2009

To Whom It May Concern

I am writing this letter to potential real estate clients as well as fellow business people. I feel the need to express how pleased my wife and I have been with Jo Ann Poole and her team of professionals. I must say that we have never been catered to as thoughtfully and professionally as we were with Jo Ann. Our recent purchase went smoothly every step of the way, and would not hesitate to enlist her services again or to refer friends or family. I am available for a personal recommendation by phone during business hours.

Sincerely
Gary White, Owner
City Auto Body

---

My thanks to Gary White for the nice testimonial concerning Simi Valley real estate and his recommendation to Jo Ann Poole and The Poole Team. When you are looking for a Simi Valley townhome, Simi Valley foreclosure or are just perusing the Simi Valley MLS, call me so we can guide you through it all. Your Simi Valley home search needs to be friendly, so your Simi Valley realtor, Jo Ann Poole, can help.

See you on the Blog!

"ABOVE AND BEYOND"

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:28:27 -0600

Having known the Halls for over five years and relocating them twice before, it was a another "rung on the ladder" when their Tarzana home needed to lease or sell and Jo Ann became the on-site property manager for well over a year...here Jo Ann is going above and beyond when major repairs on the roof and sun room are needed...your home, same as theirs, would be cared for as if it were Jo Ann's own.

Visit Jo Ann's Simi Valley Real Estate Website

Notice of Default for tenants in a Simi Valley property

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 18:00:55 -0600

Okay, so whaddya do if you're a tenant in a Simi Valley property, Simi Valley condo or Simi Valley townhome or even in a Wood Ranchhome and a Notice of Default is issued??? You can, if everyone agrees, negotiate out of the lease with the landlord. Otherwise, do nothing different, but note the date that you got the Notice of Default.

Four months' time will pass between the Notice of Default and the Sale on the courthouse steps. Once the sale happens, the bank (the new owner) will give the tenant (resident) a written 60-day notice to vacate. This is when the tenant should concentrate on vacating and getting a new home. That is when a Simi Valley realtor can help to do a Simi Valley home search either in all of Simi Valley or in a Wood Ranch gated home community, Simi Valley luxury home, or help you find anything in Simi Valley real estate listings.

The bank (the new owner) isn't in a contracted lease with the resident and most likely won't give a three-day Notice to Pay or Quit, but they will certainly act to evict the tenant if the tenant is still occupying the home at the end of the 60-day notice period.

Banks are generally requesting judgments for possession only; so in theory, the tenant uses their security deposit for the last sixth days of rent and everyone will be even.

Sounds easy, doesn't it? But if in doubt, contact a real estate attorney. An of course, if your needs require a Wood Ranch Realtor or Simi Valley real estate agent to help with Simi Valley relocation, do not hesitate to contact me, your local Simi Valley realtor.

FREE Market Analysis - www.joannpoole.com

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:42:12 -0600

Whew! The Presidential Election is over...and I hope your "team" won.

Now that we have it behind us, you can concentrate on the "TEAM" that will win over your vote with integrity, high-quality service, true professionalism and dedication to accomplish what you, the "constituent" wants! Getting your home SOLD is my goal and I will work endlessly for you!

Inventory is low and your house will stand out NOW! Call today, with no delay, for your FREE Market Analysis.

Remember, too, that we will drop everything to help someone you referred to The Poole Team!

Wood Ranch Homes and Simi Valley Real Estate

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:01:39 -0500

Everyone looking at Simi Valley real estate seems to be running scared of the economy and not knowing if the right time is now to purchase a new home or not...whether it be for investment for living!

Would you rather have your monies in oil, stocks, gold or Simi Valley REAL ESTATE or in prestigious Wood Ranch real estate!!!

Wood Ranch condos and homes and Wood Ranch real estate in general is thriving. We are seeing a marked DECREASE in inventory and significant increases in properties showing as pending in the MLS and properties are receiving multiple offers. Those multiple offers are a direct result of lesser properties on the market and homes priced right.

Sure, there are the REOs and short pays and corporate-owned homes, but it is NEVER a bad time to buy real estate.

Remember, some president way back when said something like, "There is to fear but fear itself." So, the time is now for those of you on the fence. Take the risk, make the move or buy that investment property.

Condolences

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 10:24:30 -0500

Simi Valley real estate, or anything to do with real estate today just doesn't seem like a topic to discuss...the recent tragedy of the Metrolink accident seems to be taking a lot of us off guard.

So, with that, let me just offer a prayer of condolences to families I know personally and those I don't...may the strength of those surrounding you, loving you and holding you up at this time be of comfort to you."

First Time Home Buyers and Investors- Simi Valley Homes, Wood Ranch Real Estate

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:40:29 -0500

Positive thinking about all this financial "stuff" is very important for all consumers, whether first-time homebuyers or investors or those sellers sitting on the sidelines waiting for the prices to rise. Wood Ranch real estate, Simi Valley homes, condos for sale in Simi Valley or any Simi Valley home makes a good investment.

Good news for all of you!

First-time homebuyers have the availability to obtain home ownership with some excellent loan programs and lower interest rates. Bank-owned properties are priced well right now and it makes for that $40,000 to $60,000 income earner to get into a home. Plus FHA provides some excellent programs too! When you're looking for condos and townhomes in Simi Valley, make sure you are getting all pertinent information.

Investors can go into the stock market with extra money and take the risk there, buy gold that has recently seen a decrease in value or buy oil that is now under $100 a barrel...OR, buy a rental property. There are even some homeowners who are taking equity from their present homes to purchase a second home or investment property. Again, Wood Ranch homes, condos for sale in Simi Valley or if you are just looking for information about Wood Ranch or Simi Valley in general, I can help.

So, if you want to learn more about any of the above, please chat with me.. CLICK HERE

CLICK TO VIEW PROPERTY DETAILS

CALIFORNIA'S DISCOUNT FORECLOSURE SALES POINT TO HOUSING BOTTOM

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:11:25 -0500

Recent economic developments indicate that California may be the first state to find the bottom, based on the increase in sales volume in the previous three months. In June, home sales rose for the third consecutive month, following a 30-month decline. Although approximately 40% of the transaction were foreclosure sales, the increase is allowing the market to stabilize by depleting some of the excess inventory. Some experts believe that once a neighborhood median home price declines to 50% from the peak value that the homes in the neighborhood will no longer depreciate.

Making Sense of the Story for Consumers

Although California leads the nation in foreclosures, the state's foreclosure process is more efficient than other states, which likely will lead to a quicker rebound. Foreclosed properties are receiving multiple bids and financial institutions are selling these homes quicker than the market would typically allow.

The Unsold Inventory Index in June decreased to 7.7 months from 10.2 months a year earlier, demonstrating that the market is improving.

Time to Buy - Simi Valley Real Estate

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:46:22 -0500

The realization that the $40,000 to $50,000 wage earner can finally obtain home ownership in a Simi Valley home or more specifically a Wood Ranch home, has hit home with a lot of young people in that group. I am working with six buyers who now fit into that category. It is a great time for these folks, but it is also great for investors and parents who want to help their children.

Anyone who wants info about Wood Ranch, Simi Valley just needs to let me know. As I live and work in Wood Ranch and own Wood Ranch real estate, it is my pleasure to help.

Condos in Simi Valley continue to come on the market and sell to those first-time homebuyers and Simi Valley bank-owned homes are available also. All we ask is patience and tolerance from our Buyers.

Sellers who wish to put their Simi Valley home on the market need to be aware that with the summertime coming to a close, many people are settling in and will wait until after the school starts and/or even for the end-of-the-year holidays to pass.

NO! Now is the time for all Buyers to stand at the edge of the cliff and jump. Sellers who want to get ahead of Simi Valley homes being put on the market need to market their homes now so as to get ahead of the competition.

Never a better time to get involved in real estate...see today's featured home...

CLICK TO VIEW THIS PROPERTY

REO Properties and Bank Owned Homes in Simi Valley

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:24:04 -0500

Confusion as to what is an REO, of bank owned homes in Simi Valley or anywhere? Simply put, they are corporate or bank-owned properties or foreclosures. You need to jump on the bandwagon because these listings, that is, Simi Valley bank owned homes, Wood Ranch homes, condos in Simi Valley and the surrounding areas, are selling fast as the Sellers are aggressively placing them on the market, multiple offers are happening and YOU want to be the first with an offer.

My recent closed transaction is so happy with his new home. When the market rises again, what will his town home be worth!!!

Wood Ranch homes in Simi Valley and Wood Ranch real estate in general is moving quickly a well, as inventory is shrinking, making it affordable for more families than in the past.

Talk to your realtor TODAY, get out there looking and make an offer. And, of course, I can help you find a new home. You need only to CALL NOW...

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS PROPERTY

Calling All Real Estate Investors! Great Deals on Simi Valley Real Estate, REOs, Foreclosures

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:16:59 -0500

Calling all investors! The time is right now...I am amazed at all the good buys out there today. I just closed one at $175,900, a 2+2 bank owned home, Simi Valley, (town home) all dolled up. Other investment properties, Simi Valley homes, and the surrounding areas, have reached a plateau. Now is the time!

Click here to search for Simi Valley Investment Properties and Real Estate Now >>

Simi Valley and Wood Ranch Bank Owned Properties

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:11:54 -0500

I've come to the realization that there are several types of markets out there today.

We have non-distressed sellers. Bank owned homes in Simi Valley are soaring. The Wood Ranch homes continue to go on the market. Condos and townhomes continue to be listed too. And, of course, the short sales.

Non-distressed sellers are being educated that they have to price their homes back to the 2003-2004 levels.

Bank owned homes in Simi Valley are a different animal than the rest. Banks price them (for the most part) to get them sold quickly and there are multiple offers. Wood Ranch homes are being listed all over the place, but for the most part, they are being priced correctly. Condos and townhomes that are bank owned are also receiving multiple offers.

The answer? Price them right and they will sell...this one has just been adjusted to under $1 Million, so we are expecting someone to love the property just like the Sellers and me!

Click here for more details about this property...

Real Estate in Simi Valley CA and Wood Ranch Homes

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:49:51 -0500

Investors are out there looking for good deals. There are lot of them right now...bank owned homes, Simi Valley foreclosures and plain ole' sellers wanting to move. And, for the Buyers just wanting to buy, let's get going...no better time to buy Simi Valley real estate, Wood Ranch homes, condos/townhomes in Simi Valley or we can stretch out to Conejo Valley too! Just look at this beautiful Wood Ranch home at 322D Country Club Drive and in a great golf course community.

Bank-owned homes in Simi Valley

Thu, 29 May 2008 10:52:01 -0500

Okay, so there are several bank-owned homes in Simi Valley. That doesn't mean they are always the best value for the money as so many people believe. And, yes, there are several condos for sale in Simi Valley, but again, that doesn't mean they are the greatest value. Wood Ranch real estate and Simi Valley homes see a smaller inventory, and that means the market ever so slightly has shifted.

As a matter of fact, the homes that are NON-distressed are most likely to be best in care, upgrades and easy for the buyer to breeze through an escrow. Here's one I know you'll like...call me to see it...at 2235 N Hietter Avenue.

CLICK TO VIEW THIS PROPERTY

Simi Valley Bank Owned Homes and REOs

Fri, 16 May 2008 10:26:13 -0500

Definitely a rise in Simi Valley bank owned homes. It is truly unfortunate that consumers are in this position. On the other hand, Wood Ranch homes, the community in Simi Valley bordering Thousand Oaks, has seen fewer "reos." In general, a Simi Valley home in the Wood Ranch real estate market, will be priced higher and if we see many of those houses for sale in Wood Ranch, that will tell us the higher income earner is also losing their Wood Ranch homes. Did I say that all so you understand???

Anyway, if you want to see a magnificent property, click on my Featured Homes and check out 291 Trickling Brook Court...truly a home with peace, quietfulness, serenity, and views to see...call me for a personal tour...til next time!

Simi Valley Properties - Still Waiting to Buy?

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:17:59 -0500

Okay, so I said awhile that Buyers need to get going...well, mostly all my Simi Valley properties that are getting offers are getting multiple offers. That means that those of you sitting on the fence waiting for Simi Valley REO homes or other Simi Valley bank-owned homes to come up need to make the mark and NOW. If you really want to buy anything from a Simi Valley townhome or a Simi Valley luxury home, you need to jump now. Inventory is getting lower; and remember, Simi Valley, Wood Ranch homes for sale and other areas of Simi Valley real estate listings are available. REOS sometimes aren't the best deals out there.