Kathy Hyatt's Blog

First Day of Autumn 2009

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:56:51 -0500

First Day of Autumn 2009

Can you believe, three quarters of the year of 2009 is now behind us? September is my favorite month as this is the month that brings the last day of Summer and the first day of Fall.

The September equinox is where the sun rises directly in the east and sets directly in the west. This is also true for both the fall and spring equinoxes. So on two days of the year people will find the exact cardinal directions of East and West by using the sun.

The autumnal equinox for the northern hemisphere is the vernal equinox for the southern hemisphere. Another nifty way to say this is that when fall begins for the northern hemisphere at the same time, spring begins for the southern hemisphere. Keeping this in mind will help you understand why we have seasons. If part of the globe has opposite seasons than the other half, is not because of how close or far away we are from the sun. This is related to the tilt of the Earth on its axis.

As the North Pole begins to tilt away from the sun, cooler weather comes to the northern hemisphere because the sun is no longer giving its direct rays to this part of Earth. In winter when the North Pole is tilted it's farthest away from the sun, we have the least amount of daylight hours and the coldest weather. You can even notice the angle of the sun and how it never gets as high above the horizon.

Here is an interesting fact, while some would believe that we would have even days and nights, however, this is not the case. In the Northern Hemisphere on the fall equinox, daylight hours will still be longer than nighttime by about seven to 10 minutes. A couple days after the equinox, day and night are finally equal. You can check for the exact dates and time visiting the Naval Oceanography Portal.

Kathy Hyatt is a Native South Floridian, give her a call with any questions you may have on Real Estate or visit www.KathyHyatt.com

Awesome South Florida Living

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:22:02 -0600

Awesome South Florida Living

I have been corresponding with a Buyer who lives in Massachusetts and is interested in moving down to South Florida. He has lived in Massachusetts for about 15 years and is tired of the snow. He has even made a list of pro and cons about Florida Living which I have to tell you I found completely humorous.

The one thing that may hold this Buyer back is our High Cost of Living. It is true, Real Estate Taxes and Home Owner's Insurance alone is Real Pricey and before you know the Mortgage Payment has escalated higher than most people's comfort level.

However, you must consider this. South Florida has a much diversified culture attracting people from all around the world. Throw in our Beautiful Weather, Many Shops and Fabulous Amenities and it is easy to see why South Florida is the place to Live.

Educating Buyer and Sellers on Home Facts

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:42:52 -0600

It is important to know your "Values", when determining the replacement of a home's windows, appliances, or roofing. Realtors are wise to educated themselves on knowing approximately how long things will last and that has value to buyers and home owners.

Buyers may want to factor in replacement costs for aging components when they make an offer. Owners can use the information to decide whether to replace a component before a move. Now, a new study by the National Association of Home Builders provides some insight that can help your clients estimate the average useful life of more than 100 household appliances and building materials.

Of course, the true longevity of any household material depends on maintenance, use, quality of installation, as well climate conditions, so use these averages as a general guide. The NAHB report still beats asking handy Old Uncle Fred.

•· APPLIANCES

Exhaust Fan 10 Compactors 6

Dishwashers 9 Disposers, Food Waste 12

Dryers, Electric 13 Dryers, Gas 13

Freezers 11 Microwave Ovens 9

Ranges, Electric 13 Ranges, Gas 15

Range/Oven Hoods 14 Refrigerators, Compact 9

Refrigerators, Standard 13 Washers 10

Water Heaters, Electric 11 Water Heaters, Gas 10

Air-Conditioners, Room 10 Air-Conditioners, Unitary 15

Boilers, Electric 13 Boilers, Gas 21

Dehumidifiers 8 Furnaces, Warm-Air, Electric 15

Furnaces, Warm-Air, Gas 18 Furnaces, Warm-Air, Oil 20

Heat Pumps 16 Humidifiers 8

Note: Life expectancy is based on first-owner use.

•· CABINETRY & STORAGE

Cabinet Lines Bath Cabinets Lifetime

Entertainment Centers/Home Office 10 Garage/Laundry Cabinets 100+

Kitchen Cabinets 50 Medicine Cabinets 20+

Manufacturing Types Modular/Stock 50

Source: Appliance Magazine, Sep 2005 issue, Grainger Source: Wellborn Cabinet, Zaca, Timberlake Cabinet Co., Wellborn Cabinet, Moduline, Canyon Creek Cabinet Co., Easyclosets.com, Wellborn Cabinet

•· CONCRETE & MASONRY

Brick 100+ Veneer Lifetime

Caulking (for sealer) 2-20

•· COUNTERTOPS

Cultured Marble 20 Natural Stone Lifetime

Tile Lifetime Wood Lifetime

•· DECKS

Wood 20 Dry areas last 20-25, South 10-15, North 20-30.

Deck Planks 25

•· DOORS

Exterior Doors Fiberglass Lifetime

Steel, Fire-Rated Lifetime Vinyl 20

Wood Lifetime Interior Doors

French 30 to 50 Closet Lifetime

Screen 40 Pine 20 yrs, Cedar 40 yrs, Mahogany 60 yrs

Source: Fiberframe, Neoporte, Timeline Vinyl Products/Timeline Vinyl Windows, Victoriana East, Coppa Woodworking Inc., Marvin Windows and Doors, Kestrel Source: General Shale Brick, NHACP and NCSG, Sashco Sealants Source: Rynone, Buffalo stone, Architectural Products by Outwater, Formica Corp, Gibco Services, Florida Tile Industries, United States Ceramic Tile Co., National Hardwood Flooring & Moulding Source: Decks.com, Timbertech

•· ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING

Accessories 10+ Lighting Controls 10+

Copper Wiring Bare Copper Lifetime

Copper Clad Aluminum Lifetime

Copper Plated Lifetime If used in a non-corrosive environment.

•· ENGINEERED LUMBER

Engineered Trim 30 Laminated Strand Lumber Lifetime

Laminated Veneer Lumber 30+ Trusses, Floor Lifetime

Trusses, Roof Lifetime

•· FAUCETS & FIXTURES

Accessible/ADA Products Lifetime Faucets, Bar/Hospitality 15

Faucets , Kitchen Sinks 15 Faucets, Lavatory 20+

Faucets, Tub/Shower 20+ Saunas/Steam Rooms 15-20

Shower Doors 20+ Shower Enclosures/Modules 50

Sinks: Kitchen & Others-Enamel Steel 5-10-Modified Acrylic 50- Soapstone 100+

Faucets, Toilets/Bidets 10 Wear issues depending on use, new cartridges or seals.

Whirlpool Tubs 20-50 Lifespan of the rotating engine depends on the use made of the tub.

Source: Lutron Electronics, Lighting Controls Association, Copper Development Assoc. Source: Delta Faucet Co., Grohe, Kohler Co., Moen, Plexicor (part of Karran), Toto USA, Acquinox, Alumax, Alsons, Karran, Green Mountain Soapstone Corp., Saunastore Source: Engineered Wood Association, Georgia Pacific Corp., Georgia Pacific Corp., Lumber Specialties

•· FLOORING

Wooden Floors Lifetime Bamboo Lifetime

Brick Pavers 100+ Carpet 8-10

Concrete 50+ Engineered Wood 50+

Exotic Wood Lifetime Granite 100+

Laminate 15-25 Linoleum 25

Marble 100+ Slate 100

Tile 75-100 Vinyl 50

Other Domestic Wood Lifetime Terrazo 75+

•· FOOTINGS & FOUNDATIONS

Poured Footings and Foundations Lifetime

Concrete Block Lifetime Properly built foundations last indefinitely.

Termite Proofing 12 "Pre-treatment during construction: longevity of treatment depends on disturbance or not of the chemical barriers in place."

Plumbing-Concrete Waste Pipe 100 Plumbing-Cast Iron Waste Pipe 100

•· FRAMING &OTHER STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

Poured-Concrete Systems Lifetime Structural Insulated Panels Lifetime

Source: Dry Up Basement, Unexco, Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute, American Concrete Pipe Association, National Ready Mixed Concrete Assoc, Quikrete Source: ConForm Pacific, NGS Materials, Post & Beam Factory Source:Marble Institute of America, Berg & Berg, Dal-Tile Corp, Floortec, National Wood Flooring Association, General Shale Brick, Masland Carpets, Beaulieu of America, Concrete Designs, Formica Corp, Linoleumstore.com, DePaoli Mosaic, Monarch Ceramic Tile

•· GARAGES

Garage Door Openers 10-15 Light Inserts 20

•· HOME TECHNOLOGY

Audio, Built-in 20 Security Systems 5-10

Home Automation Systems Lifetime Home Networks, Wireless 50+

Heat/Smoke Detectors <10 National Fire Alarm Code requires that detectors be replaced every 10 yrs.

•· HVAC

Air Conditioners 10-15 Air Quality Systems 15

Boilers 13-21 Dehumidifiers 8

Ducting 10 Furnaces 15-20

Heat Pumps 16 Heat Recovery Ventilators 20+

Thermostats 35 Ventilators 7

Water Heaters, Tankless 20+ Electric Radiant Heater 40

Hot Water or Steam Radiant Heater 15+ Diffusers, Grilles, and Registers 25

Induction and Fan-Coil Units 10-15 Dampers 20+

DX, Water, or Steam 20 Electric 15

Burners <10 Oil burners and more maintenance and don't last as long as gas burners.

Source: LiteTouchHome Director, ADT and Slomin's Home Security, Home Director, Home Seer Source: CenterPoint Energy and Trane Residential system Group, Smarter Way Inc., CenterPoint Energy, Air Quality Engineering, CenterPoint Energy and Luxaire Unitary Products Group, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Econar, Lomanco, Honeywell, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, EWC Controls, Fantech, No. American Insulation Manufacturers Assoc.US Dept. of Energy, Radiant Electric Heat, Radiantec, Radiantec, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Power Flame Inc., Appliance Magazine Source: Wayne-Dalton Corp.

•· INSULATION & INFILTRATION BARRIERS

Insulation Material Cellulose 100+

Fiberglass Lifetime Foam Lifetime

Insulation Type Batts/Rolls Lifetime

House Wrap Lifetime Loose Fill Lifetime

•· MOLDING & MILLWORK

Custom Millwork Lifetime Stair Parts Lifetime

Stairs, Circular & Spiral Lifetime Stairs, Prebuilt Lifetime

Stairs, Attic Lifetime

•· PAINTS, CAULKS, & ADHESIVES

Adhesives Roofing 7

Paints & Stains Paint, Exterior 15+

Paint, Interior 15+ Depends on whether or not it is washable paint.

Source: York Spiral StairAzek, Authentic Pine Floors, Century Architectural Specialties, StairWorld, National Hardwood Flooring & Moulding Source: The Sherwin-Williams Co.,Slate Savers, Tamko Roofing Products, Dutch Boy Paints Source: DuPont, National Fiber, Johns Manville, RHH Foam Systems, No. American Insulation Manufacturer Association Source: Putnam Rolling Ladder Co., Genie Industries

•· PANELS

Hardboard 30 Oriented-Strand Board 25-30

Particleboard 60 Plywood 60

Softwood 30 Underlayment, Flooring 25

•· ROOFING

Material Aluminium Roof Coating 3-7

Fiber Cement 25 Asphalt 20

Modified Bitumen 20 Copper Lifetime

Simulated Slate 50 Wood 30

Clay/Concrete Lifetime Slate 50+

Source: Gardner-Gibson, Maxitile, National Roofing Contractors Association, GAF Material Corp., Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer's Association, Johns Manville, Metal Roof Specialties, Nycore, Authentic roof, 208 Shake&Shingle, The Northern Roof Tile Sales Co., Universal Marble & Granite, Slate Savers, Koppers, Northern Elastomeric, EcoStar, Metals USA, GAF Material Corp. Source: Georgia Pacific Corp., NGS Materials, Weyerhaeuser, James Hardie Building Products

•· SIDING & ACCESSORIES

Material Brick Lifetime

Engineered Wood Lifetime Fiber Cement Lifetime

Manufactured Stone Lifetime Stone Lifetime

Stucco 50-100 Vinyl Lifetime

Related Accessories

Soffits/Fascias 50 This time period applies for faccia in fiber-cement only.

Shutters Wood/Exterior 20 Shutters Wood/Interior 15+

Aluminium/Interior 10+ Sun can cause the strings to break.

Gutters and Downspouts Copper 50+

Aluminium 20 Galvanized Steel 20

Downspouts (Aluminum) 30 Downspouts (Copper) 100

•· SITE & LANDSCAPING

Asphalt Driveway 15-20 Polyvinyl Fences Lifetime

Clay Paving Lifetime Underground PVC Piping 25

Valves 20

Sprinklers 20 Usually made obsolete by advances in technology.

Controllers 15 Lifespan given for areas not prone to lighting strikes.

Source: Boral Bricks, APA, GAF Material Corp., James Hardie Building Products, Boulder Creek Stone and Brick, Owens Corning, Genstone Enterprises, El Rey Stucco, Heartland Building Products, Azek, James Hardie Building Products, Blinds.com, Vixen Hill Mfg. Co., Yost Mfg. & Supply, Berger Building Products, Guttersupply.com, (Rain Trade Corp. division)

Swimming pool, General Lifetime

Concrete Shell 25+ Interior Finish/Plaster 10-15

Interior Finish/Pebble-tec 25-35 Interior Finish/Tile 15-25

Cleaning Equipment 7-10 Decking 15

Waterline Tile 10

•· WALLS, CEILINGS, & FINISHES

Accoustical Ceiling Lifetime Moisture or movement can affect lifespan.

Ceiling Suspension Lifetime

Ceramic Tile Lifetime

Change is on the way for RESPA

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:45:06 -0600

The "Stimulus Bill" is not the only Hot Topic now days. The Federal Government has recently finalized some big changes on the Settlement Rules for Residential Sales, but it will be nearly a year before you will see any big changes at the Closing Table.

One of the final Projects the Bush Administration had been working on was the revision of the GFE (Good Faith Estimate) and HUD-1 (Closing Statement). The purpose of this is to make it easier for Consumers to compare costs between the two documents and improve the disclosure of Yield Spread Premium that are paid to Mortgage Brokers, which should eliminate the long going problem that Consumers face when going to the closing table.

There have been some minor changes in this Reform that did take effect on January 16^th, 2009. However the Date that is most important for Real Estate Practitioners to remember will be January 1^st, 2010. That is when Lenders will be required to use a complete revamped new three page Good Faith Estimate along with a revised HUD-1 Closing Statement.

These new forms will require Lenders to calculate the yield spread premiums as part of their origination fee. Of course the National Association of Mortgage Brokers has said it will challenge this in Court.

Home Builders are also angry that there will be a provision that will prohibit that from using an incentive to channel consumers into one of their affiliated services such as their Mortgage Lenders and Title Companies. Many Home Builders have indicated they may challenge this provision as well.

Another significant change with the new forms will be no longer allowing Lenders to change certain costs that are stated on the Good Faith Estimate disclosure. Some costs that cannot be changed will be the Origination Fees and Transfer Taxes. Some 3rd Party Costs such as Title Searches & Inspections can change; however this will be limited to no more than a 10% adjustment. If the difference is greater than 10% the Transaction can still close, however the cost Discrepancy will have to be worked within 30 days.

While all these changes will help many consumers, we will need to watch and see how many of these reforms translate into real-life situations. For more information, visit the National Association of Realtors Website.

Just When You Thought You Saw It ALL!!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:22:55 -0600

Just When You Thought You Saw It All!

So I am wondering, this is a pretty interesting sign to have on your front lawn. Now I think, ok this Seller obviously is motivated to the Seller and at the same time the Neighbor is going to be motivated to derail the Sale. So what is a Real Estate Professional to Do?

So who is Game to call on this For Sale by Owner Seller?

Really Funny ~ Office Policy

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:05:20 -0600

OUTRAGEOUS 2009 NEW OFFICE POLICY

Dress Code: You are advised to come to work dressed according to your
salary.

•· If we see you wearing Prada shoes and carrying a Gucci bag, we will assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not need a raise.

•· If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so
that you may buy nicer clothes, and therefore you do not need a raise.

•· If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore
you do not need a raise.

Sick Days:

•· We will no longer accept a doctor's statement as proof of sickness. If you
are able to go to the doctor, you are able to come to work.

Personal Days:

•· Each employee will receive 104 personal days a year. They are called
Saturdays & Sundays.

Bereavement Leave:

•· This is no excuse for missing work. There is nothing you can do for dead friends, relatives or co-workers. Every effort should be made to have non-employees attend the funeral arrangements in your place.

•· In rare cases where employee involvement is necessary, the funeral should be scheduled in the late afternoon. We will be glad to allow you to work through your lunch hour and subsequently leave one hour early.

Bathroom Breaks:

Entirely too much time is being spent in the toilet. There is now a strict three-minute time limit in the stalls. At the end of three minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet paper roll will retract, the stall door will open, and a picture will be taken. After your second offense, your picture will be posted on the company bulletin board under the 'Chronic Offenders' category.

Anyone caught smiling in the picture will be sectioned under the company's mental health policy.

Lunch Break:

•· Skinny people get 30 minutes for lunch, as they need to eat more, so that
they can look healthy.

•· Normal size people get 15 minutes for lunch to get a balanced meal to
maintain their average figure.

•· Chubby people get 5 minutes for lunch, because that's all the time needed
to drink a Slim-Fast.

Thank you for your loyalty to our company. We are here to provide a positive employment experience. Therefore, all questions, comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggravations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations, consternation and input should be directed elsewhere.

The Management

Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport is Expanding!!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 22:13:53 -0600

After Years of Town Hall Discussions and Intense Home-Owner's Meetings, the Federal Aviation Administration announced its decision, that the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has approved the proposal by Broward County to extend the airport's south runway (9R/27L).

After years of studying the potential environmental impacts of increasing the airport's capacity to meet the demand of air traffic and reduce flight delays, the FAA has determined that extending the airport's south runway (9R/27L) to a length of 8,000 feet is the federally preferred option (Option B1B) and offers the surrounding communities the least impact.

The decision by the FAA to extend the south runway is the same physical runway layout which was approved by the Broward County Board of County Commissioner's in June 2007 and is consistent with the federally approved Airport Layout Plan.

Cities affected are Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and all the communities of the Greater Fort Lauderdale area. For more details visit: Broward.org/Airport. Kathy Hyatt, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

FHA to the Rescue for Many Homeowners

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:54:25 -0600

With the Federal Government's re-emphasis on "FHA" as the key vehicle for resuscitating the real estate market, now is a good time to review the FHA Mortgage in more detail. Let's start with the basics.

First off, the "FHA" insures loans that approved Lenders make--it does not purchase them as Fannie and Freddie do. If an FHA insured home goes into bankruptcy, FHA pays off the mortgage to the lender, takes ownership of the home and then proceeds to sell it (a HUD home).

FHA loans are available for 1 to 4 units, owner occupied home. There are a number of FHA programs that cover the Gamut of Real Estate offerings from your "Vanilla" FHA loan to condos to REO's to reverse mortgages to rehab to veteran loans and more.

Over the last few months, the FHA began implementing some changes to its programs. In addition, the 2008 Housing & Economic Recovery Act placed additional changes on FHA practices, some of which modified FHA proposed changes. Here are some of those changes:

Converting Existing Homes to Rentals

FHA has changed its underwriting rules to limit the ability of a home-owner to use rental income from a previous residence that it converted to a rental property when applying for a new mortgage on a second property. Under the new rule, the homeowner must prove sufficient income to make both mortgage payments without the rental income or have an equity position in the rental property that it will not likely result in defaulting on that mortgage. (Exception to this rule is for employment relocations.) No Surprise, as this change mirrors the announcement by Fannie Mae in August. Apparently, homeowners--in increasing numbers--are choosing to vacate their existing principal residence and purchase a new residence. They are then providing misleading information on the rental income of the property being vacated to justify the new mortgage. These changes effectively end the "bail and buy" loans.

Down Payment Requirements

The 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act also called for an increase in down payment required to 3.5%. That change went into effect January 1, 2009. Seller concessions of 6% are still allowed; however, down payment assistance programs have been eliminated effective October 1, 2008.

As with any Loan Program, there are a number of stipulations that must be met to gain approval. That is why it is important to choose the right FHA approved lender. Not all FHA approved lenders service all FHA loan programs. Not all programs are right for you. Contact your lender for the most up-to-date information.

Kathy Hyatt, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Hyatt Extreme Christmas in South Florida

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:10:18 -0600

Hyatt Extreme Christmas

My husband and I have been spreading "Joy" to Kids Big and Small for almost 20 years now and this Year we are even Bigger and Brighter.

With well over 100,000 lights
A mulitudes of Blowmolds and Inflatables
A 18' Lighted Moving Ferris Wheel
A 30' Green Lighted Christmas Tree
3 Windmills complete with Tulips, inspired from "Small World" in Disney

We are proud to to provide everyone this Video Clip of what we refer to as

"Hyatt Extreme Christmas" Enjoy

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Foreclosed Properties

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:44:25 -0600

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Foreclosed Properties

Everywhere you look Americans are reminded of the number of increasing Foreclosed Properties. But for many Real Estate Investors, one person's tragedy can be another person's good fortune. With so many foreclosures on the Market, this can be a Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity for many People. Still, the purchase of foreclosed property remains a complex and involved process where plenty of would-be buyers can make costly mistakes.     Here are my Top 5

1. Searching without a Realtor:     While seasoned Real Estate Investors can certainly get away with going through the traditional home buying process without a Realtor, foreclosed real estate is another matter. These transactions can be complex and require the expertise of not just any real estate agent but one with a background in buying and selling foreclosed homes. Do some research and find a Realtor with foreclosure experience in your market.

2. Searching too broadly:     With so much Inventory and even more coming onto the market, it's easy for buyers to become overwhelmed. Buyers should target a specific Neighborhood and contact a Local Realtor. Buyers should be specific with their Realtor as to the Preferred Location and Property type they want. Your Realtor can also set up "Automatic Searches" that meet your requirements once a property becomes available.

3. Thinking short term:     Since many foreclosed properties may decline further in value in the upcoming months, it is important that Buyers approach the purchase of Foreclosed Real Estate with a long Term Goal in mind. If you are just trying to cash in on a quick flip, don't buy a foreclosure. Only Seasoned Investors with the resources or Buyers who can afford a fully amortized fixed-rate mortgage should consider buying foreclosed property.

4. Seeing only the Sale Price:     While the Sales Price of many Foreclosed Properties are priced significantly less from what they were a few years ago, Buyers need to also be aware of Maintenance and Repair costs to these Properties. It is recommended that Buyers set aside anywhere from 10% to 15% of the Sales Price when considering this type of a purchase and also keep this in mind when they are negotiating.

5. Not familiar with the Law:     Many Buyers are surprised to learn and find out that "Foreclosures" are indeed heavily regulated with each state having its own unique set of laws. Buyers also need to be aware that Realtors are not Lawyers; therefore serious Buyers should always review the Foreclosure Laws in their State and obtain qualified Legal advice from a Local Attorney.

While many Buyers can certainly get good deals on foreclosed properties, it's a mistake to assume that banks will accept any and all offers. Banks have little desire to sell houses, so they typically outsource their Properties to Realtors. While Realtors do want to get the properties sold off quickly, they also want to get a good price so that the bank will give them additional business. A lot of people just assume that because this property is bank-owned they will just take half off and that's just not true.

So, my best advice would be to hire a Realtor and start building a team of knowledgeable Professionals that can help you and make sure that they represent YOU... not the bank.

How does everyone like the New Supra Key?

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 22:43:22 -0500

How does everyone like the New Supra Key?

So I have been using my new Supra Key for a few months now and I still miss the old model.   Embracing change has always been somewhat of a challenge for me; however I do the Best I can.

This is a list of my Hot Spots with the new Key:

•·       The old Supra Key was small and easily fit in my purse or pockets; this new Key is much bigger, about the size of my wallet.

•·       I could update the old Key at any time. Now I have to remember to charge this. (Yeah, I should have purchased that Lighter Plug)

•·       I have to remember to take this out of my car. Didn't have to worry about that with the old key.

I can admit that I really do like the little flash light especially with Day Light Savings Time starting tomorrow and I am sure I will learn to like the new Supra Key as much as my old Key. It is just frustrating, the other day when I could not remove my Supra Lock Box because my Key was not charged. Aaargh!

So tell me Active Rain, what do you think of the new Supra Key?

Recent Changes Made to Escrow Rules

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 22:14:44 -0500

Recent Changes Made to Escrow Rules     *Be in the Know

The Florida Real Estate Commission amended its Rule regarding escrow deposits that apply to sale and purchase contracts where the Attorney or Title Company is the escrow agent. Rule 61J2-14.008 of the Florida Administrative Code now requires Licensees, who prepare or present an offer to indicate the Name, Address and Telephone number of the Attorney or Title Company that will serve as Escrow Agent. The most recent versions of the FAR and FAR/BAR contract forms provide the space needed to write the necessary information.

Within three business days after a deposit is due--either an initial deposit or an additional one--the licensee's broker must make a written request to the escrow agent for a written verification that the deposit has been made. Within 10 business days after making the request for written verification, the licensee's broker must provide the seller's broker--or the seller directly if the seller has no broker--with a copy of the written verification provided by the escrow agent, or written notice that the licensee's broker did not receive verification from the escrow agent.

All communication must be in writing.

Kathy Hyatt   Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

5571 Lakeside Drive, unit 201, Margate, Florida

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 21:43:37 -0500

5571 Lakeside Drive, unit 201, Margate, Florida





$98,900.00 2/2 Lakefront Gated Condo in Margate

Premium End Unit with Double Windows in both Bedrooms

Roomy Eat In Kitchen with lots of Cabinets

Meticulously Maintained Common Areas~ Beautiful Clubhouse

First Time Homebuyers are Eligible for a Tax Credit up to $7,500.00 on the purchase of this Home. Call Kathy Hyatt at 954-347-0244 for Details or email Kathy at: kathy@kathyhyatt.com

This is Margate's Best Kept Secret!
Best Priced 2/2 in an Awesome Upscale Gated Lake Front Community of "Viewpointe". This Wonderful Community welcomes People of all Ages and your Small Pets too.!

This Home is a Premium End Unit which means that Lots of Light streams in through the Double Windows in both Bedrooms. The Kitchen is spacious with it's own Breakfast area and Buyers will love enjoying their coffee on their screened in Patio. Buyers will also enjoy having the convenience of a Washer and Dryer inside their Home.

This Home is Freshly Painted in Neutral Colors and is Move In Ready. Buyers will love the
Peaceful & Quiet Neighborhood ~ Beautiful Clubhouse & Heated Pool. This Community is Well Managed and the Common Areas are Meticulously Maintained.

The Association requires Buyers to invest a 5% Down Payment in order to purchase in this Great Community. Special Financing has been provided for all Types of Buyers. For Complete details call Mark Hyatt with Platinum Home Mortgage at 954-658-7893 or email Mark at mhyatt@ephmc.com

YES, You can own this Great Home!

7420 S.W. 16 Street, Plantation, Florida

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 19:32:10 -0500



7420 S.W. 16 Street, Plantation, Florida 33317

$449,900.00 4/3 Waterfront Pool Home in Plantation

Beautiful Remodel Home with over 2500 square feet under air

Bedrooms and Living Area have Wood Floors

Custom Pool has Double Waterfalls and a Waterslide

First Time Homebuyers are Eligible for a Tax Credit up to $7,500.00 on the purchase of this Home. Call Kathy Hyatt at 954-347-0244 for Details or email Kathy at: kathy@kathyhyatt.com

Pride of Ownership Lives Here! Buyers will Fall in Love with this Fabulous 4 Bedroom Waterfront Pool Home complete with a Fabulous Tropical Back Yard Setting.

This Home sits on a Huge Fully Fenced-in Lot that is Beautifully Landscaped with a Custom 30x15 Pool with Flagstone, Double Waterfalls and a Water Slide that everyone will enjoy. Buyers will also love the Fruit Trees and Huge 6-8 person Jacuzzi Spa overlooking a very peaceful canal and you will agree that this is South Florida Living at its BEST!!

Inside Buyers will find Beautiful Ceramic Tile and Warm and Inviting Laminate Flooring throughout. The Living Room is Open and Spacious and features Recessed Lighting, Double French Doors that open up to the 34x15 Covered Patio.

Dinner Parties Large and Small will be enjoyed in the Formal Dining Room that has a Lovely Chandelier, Custom Mirrors and Large Front Window just next to the Kitchen. The Kitchen has Beautiful Granite Countertops & Recessed Lighting, and A Roomy Eat-in Breakfast Area. The Family Room that is Light and Bright and features Beam Ceilings, a half Bathroom and Double French Doors that also lead to the Patio.

This Home has a Fabulous Master Bedroom with Double French Doors and huge Walk-In Closet. The Master Bathroom has a Marble Top Vanity with lots of Drawers and a Large Walk-in Shower with a Cabana Door to the Patio.

Buyers will love the Indoor Laundry Room and the many closets throughout the home for all of your storage needs. The Home is kept Cool with a new 5 Ton Central A/C Unit and also has Hurricane Shutters and a State of the Art Alarm System.

Special Financing has been provided for all Types of Buyers. For Complete details call Mark Hyatt with Platinum Home Mortgage at 954-658-7893 or email Mark at mhyatt@ephmc .

Doing What it Takes!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:14:27 -0500

Doing What it Takes!

Let me tell you that every time I hear someone tell me that it is not that hard to be a Realtor I just want to Back-Slap them! Ok, it is mostly from Consumers that I hear that from but I don't think they have a clue of how dedicated or determined we Realtors actually are.

I had a listing where the Seller made it difficult to show the property because of a dog. Unless the Owner was home Buyers could not see the property. Not to turn anyone away, I agreed to Show and cringed every time when I met the barking dog at the door, but with my tasty dog treats in hand we did get the property sold and fortunately I never got bit.

Another difficult listing was a property that had Owners who smoked Marijuana (This is South Florida, what can you do) so anyway, after getting feedback from an agent and learning more about this situation, I would now have to go to the property prior to and make sure that all Illegal Substances were hidden and put away.

And Of course I just love when you call for Showing Instructions and are told the property is on "Supra" and then when you get there it is a Combination Lock Box. But that won't stop me, I just go around the back and check all openings, and most often I am in like Flynn!

This is the latest of my Realtor Adventures. I have this half million dollar listing that I am pretty proud of. The home is professionally staged and vacant. I have a scheduled showing on this and I go prior to and turn on the lights and find a HUGE Flood on the back patio. I am horrified to see a break in the Gutters where the water just poured out. I panic; I have roughly 15-20 minutes before the Buyers arrive. I go to the Laundry Room and get the biggest broom I can find and start pushing the water into the pool. Those Buyers never bought that house but I was sure to let the Seller know that I am doing what it Takes!

So Active Rain share with me your Experiences on what it takes.

Oh No You Don't, My Buyer is not Paying!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:32:58 -0500

Oh No You Don't, My Buyer is not Paying!

Here in South Florida we have more than our fair share of "Foreclosures" and "Short Sales". We have such an abundance that our MLS System recently had to setup a Field where you have to answer either a Yes or No.

Since the Banks are paying the Real Estate Commission, they often times pay only a reduced percentage of 5.0% instead of the normal 6.0%, so already I am unhappy.

The Bank will also not pay the "Transaction Fee" and I am seeing more and more Property Listings where it states that the Buyer has to pay the Listing Broker's "Transaction Fee" when purchasing this property.

When speaking with my Broker, he told me that this is a Violation of MLS Rules and they cannot force my Buyer to pay!

It is hard enough to get my Buyers to pay my "Transaction Fee" let alone have them pay both sides! So I am waiting for Acceptance by the Bank of my Contract of which I will be then be breaking the news to the Listing Agent, that~ On No You Don't, My Buyer is not Paying your Transaction Fee!

Mr. Seller, the Letters are no Longer Warm and Fuzzy.

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:58:41 -0500

Not long ago, when multiple bidders were all purchasing in Frenzy, the truly Desperate Buyers resorted to writing love letters to the Sellers.  We all saw their hand written letters of being a First-Time Buyer chasing the American dream or of Families needing more space.

Today's Real Estate Market, however, calls for a different kind of letter, no more Warm & Fuzzy Letters but more like a cold splash of water.   So Active Rain, do you think letters like this will help Sellers to stop "Living The Dream "

Dear Seller:

I'm writing to let you know that I would like to make a bid on your property.   I love the area and am committed to buying a house nearby. And your home fits my needs. But given that my offer is well below your asking price, I also feel I owe you an explanation.

First, consider the big picture. Nationwide, home prices in the first quarter of 2008 fell 14.1 percent compared to only a year ago, according to the Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index. That's the biggest decline in the 20-year history. And just in case you're wondering, during the housing downturn of the early 1990s, the decline was never worse than 2.8 percent.

Not only that, earlier this month, the National Association of Realtors pointed to the huge number of existing homes on the market. As of the end of April, the total number was well over 4 million. At that rate we have an 11 month supply of properties currently on the market. So buyers have options right now. A lot of them.

I'm no different. Your home is great, but it isn't unique. Few homes are. I know this may be hard to hear, since you've spent years creating memories here. But you may be waiting a long time if you hope to find a Buyer with the same emotional connections that you have.

We all read the headlines.   It will be tempting to view my low bid as an insult. Please don't make that mistake. Your home is genuinely appealing, and I wouldn't have written this note unless I was serious about buying it. Oh, and one more thing. You presumably need someplace to move. My guess is that you'll find these same points compelling when it's your turn to buy. You just might succeed in buying for a better price, too.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours Truly,

Today's Buyer in 2008

Help my Camera is Seeing Spots!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 10:54:51 -0500

Help my Camera is Seeing Spots!

I have invested in my Real Estate Career by purchasing a Camera that I now use specifically on my Listings. I purchased the Sony Cybershot Camera with 8.1 Mega Pixels. One of my qualifying decisions was that I must be able to attach the "Wide Angle Lens" to the camera.



So I am just a Happy Realtor when using my Camera until I take pictures with "Low Light" in Doors. Now mind you I do bring my own Lighting (Something else I invested in) from an article I read in the Florida Realtor Magazine,   But every time the Flash is used in the Camera I get a Huge Spot basically right in the middle of the picture. This only happens when I attach the Wide Angle Lens and using the Flash at the same time.

So Active Rain, HELP What cameras do you use. If I have to purchase another Camera I don't want to have this problem again.

ERA Real Estate continues to be first in Technology

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 09:19:09 -0500

ERA Real Estate continues to be first in Technology

As we all know, cell phones have become the most common form of technology in our daily lives today. More recently, text messaging has become the preferred form of communication. This technology allows people to give and receive information instantly and on their terms.

ERA Real Estate has developed "TXT ERA" to help promote your listings using cell phones. TXT ERA capitalizes on the text messaging trend by delivering valuable property information directly to a prospect's cell phone via text message. Consumers simply send a text message to TXT ERA (898372) with the express listing number they see on the yard sign, and in an instant they will receive a return text message with the basic property information.

This popular "TXT ERA" program now includes the option to follow up with potential buyers who have inquired about your listing via text message. After a text message is sent requesting information on your listing, you will receive an email alerting you of this action - with the Buyer's phone number included. Since the consumer chose to obtain information via text message, why not send a text message back thanking them for their interest? This will prove that you are quick and eager to help your Customer in an instant!

The ERA® network can provide both Buyers and Sellers with valuable real estate information at the touch of a button, no matter where they may be. Take advantage of this cutting edge technology and you will indeed position yourself as the local leader in Technology and Service. For more information simply contact an ERA Realtor today!

ERA together with MDA hosting "Summer Camps"

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 08:41:44 -0500

ERA Real Estate together with the MDA   will be hosting weeklong "Summer Camps" to give children and young-adults, ages 6-21, suffering with neuromuscular diseases the chance to have fun and forget about the daily challenges they face every day.

Ever since 1955, MDA has proudly built bridges and knocked down barriers for children with neuromuscular diseases by providing an unforgettable week at MDA summer camp. Campers say the week they spend at MDA camp is "the best week of the year."

Each year MDA proudly supports nearly 90 summer camps across the Country. MDA Camp is a magical place where year-round skills are developed and where a child with a disability can just be a kid.

There's plenty of fun. At MDA Camp! Each Camp provides a wide range of activities especially designed for young people who have limited mobility or use wheelchairs. Accessible activities range from outdoor sports such as swimming, boating, baseball, football and horseback riding, to less physically demanding programs like arts and crafts and talent shows. For most of these children this is the only time they are able to enjoy such activities.

You can help make a child's summer by becoming a sponsor or volunteer or simply by providing needed support.

Mr. Seller you have to Go Away!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 09:16:47 -0500

Mr. Seller you have to Go Away!

Recently I was researching properties to take out a Prospective Buyer. When obtaining "Showing Instructions" I most often try to speak with the Agent to get more information about the property and more importantly to make sure that if the Seller is home for him to "step out" upon my arrival in order for the Buyers to talk more freely.

I once had a Buyer absolutely love this Townhome which was located directly on the Golf course. (Nothing like having the Ultimate Back Yard) Well I could not get the Seller to leave the Townhome. (I should have been more Assertive) The Seller keeps following us and interjecting into my conversation with the Buyers. Just when the Buyer gets outside I take a Deep Breath only to look behind me and there is the Seller following us like a lost puppy dog.

Outside the Buyer notices that the whole Complex was being painted and getting new roofs and comments to me on how nice everything looks. Then to my horror the Seller says "Well they had to do something ever since all those Mobile Home across the Golf Course blew over from the Hurricane and hit our Building"

Well that was it, It wouldn't have mattered if the Townhome had "Imported Marble" from Italy the Buyer was no longer interested.

So, Active Rain share with me if you ever had a Seller ruin one of your Showings with your Buyer.

Think this can not happend to you?

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 22:36:06 -0500

Think you'll never be sued because you do everything by the book? These frivolous and baseless lawsuits could happen to you.

Rain, Rain Go Away:    It hadn't rained in a long time, but after the closing on a home, there was a heavy rain, and the new Owners' back yard flooded. They sued the Sellers and the Sales Associate, says Joe Boyd, a board-certified real estate attorney with Boyd, Lindsey & Sliger PA in Tallahassee. "At the trial, the judge went out to look at the property and ruled in favor of the sellers," says Boyd. "The judge noted that the yard was the lowest point in the neighborhood, and said, ‘Everybody knows water runs downhill; where did you think the water would go?' But by that Time, everybody had spent at least $20,000 in defending themselves."

Flight Check:    An agent sold a property located on [the] west side of Palm Beach International Airport in a community where the property lined up to the back of a runway," says Gary Nagle, a Juno Beach attorney. "But, when the buyers purchased the property, the runway was undergoing expansion, so it wasn't obvious for maybe a year that they bought in a flight path for the airport." The buyers sued because of the noise, but right after they admitted under oath that they'd grown up in West Palm Beach and knew exactly where the airport was, the lawsuit was dismissed, says Nagle.

Bugged:    Buyers brought suit against their agent and broker because after closing, they found their house was filled with termites, says David R. Carter, an attorney in Spring Hill and New Port Richey. "The sellers [had] disclosed that there'd been termites at one time and that the property had been treated, and the agent gave the buyers that report. Then the house was inspected by a home inspector and a termite inspector, and termites weren't found," he says. "What more could the agent have done?"    View more lawsuits like these at Florida Realtor.

Best Practices- Don't Get Sued!

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 22:01:58 -0500

Best Practices- Don't Get Sued!

Even when you think you've followed all the rules, you can still find yourself facing a lawsuit. Most often, experts say, Sales Associates have made a mistake that falls into one of five basic categories:

1) Stick with what you know.    Associates can easily make a mistake when they attempt to work outside their normal area of expertise.

2) Don't assume anything. The most common cause of complaints, experts say, is a misunderstanding about some material matter related to the property-- allowed uses, the age of a home, the character of the surrounding neighborhood--especially taxes & insurance.

3) Pay attention to details.    Even if you're inheriting a listing that's already in the MLS, double check the information in the listing and have the Seller sign the MLS data sheet.

4) Know how to handle money.    The regulations about how escrow funds can be handled are very strict - make sure you know the rules.

5) Don't pretend to be a lawyer.    Attorneys recommend that associates do no more than fill in blanks in forms and contracts --if amendments are needed, get a lawyer to draft the language to ensure that it's will mean what you intend it to mean if it's challenged in court.

How Energy-Efficient is Your Home? Find Out for Free.

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 21:41:17 -0500

How Energy-Efficient is Your Home? Find Out for Free.

Would you like to determine more ways that you can save energy on your home? Get a free, customized, home energy saving audit by going to the Home Energy Saver website.

The Home Energy Saver is designed to help consumers identify the best ways to save energy in their homes, and find the resources to make the savings happen.

It is Free and Easy to do, so come one everyone let's go Green!!!

How Green Remodeling Can Help Sell Your House

Kathy Hyatt (Keyes Real Estate) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 20:48:56 -0500

It's a tough time to sell a house. But what if you really need to sell your home... right now?

What if you can't afford to wait until the market improves?

The good news is you can have the advantage among other Sellers simply by making Smart and Quick Eco-Renovations. Here are some green remodeling ideas that can help you slash your monthly energy bills, reduce your water usage, clean up your indoor air quality, and leave the planet a better place. And especially make your home stand out from the competition. Here are ways to make your house stand out from the rest by going green.

Wow Your Buyers with Energy Efficiency   Home utility bills have seen double-digit growth in the past few years, spurred by record high oil and gas prices and water shortages. "That means if you can show lowered utility bills to potential buyers, it makes a big difference in today's market," explains Kerry Mitchell, the president and founder of Green Real Estate Education.

The key is to make improvements to your home's energy efficiency, and document how the monthly bills. Highlight the savings to any potential buyers, and provide comparisons for similar-sized houses in your region. For details visit the Dept. of Energy.

Small Steps Do Add Up    So, how do you get started? The first thing you should do is to replace as many light bulbs as you can with CFLs (compact fluorescents). CFLs use a quarter of the electricity as regular bulbs, and lighting accounts for 20% of home energy use.

Upgrade Your "Energy Hog" Appliances   The next step is to upgrade old or questionable appliances with new Energy Star-certified models. The EPA's blue and white label indicates models must be 10% to 50% more efficient than standard offerings..

Insulation can be a Strong Selling Point    Make sure cracks are tightly caulked and leaks are sealed. Just doing that can drop your annual heating bill by $100, according to Department of Energy figures. Also consider if your insulation might need beefing up.

Going Healthy Sells   Another potentially untapped market is to capitalize on making your home as healthy a space as possible. There are many people with allergies, asthma, and so on who consider top indoor air quality a necessity.

So tell me, has anyone in Active Rain marketed or Sold a Green Home?