Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken's! Real Estate Blog for Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Keller Williams Realty Got the Stevie! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 13:47:08 -0600

Hello again! KW continues to soar with its incredible sales organization. Excellence in organizational operations is a key goal for the company, so this is great and big news. While it continues to be the fastest-growing franchise in the US, it is also, once again, recognized as one of the best run. Big benefit for KW clients. Read on why....

Often not distinctly recognized as a benefit by buyers and sellers is the superior team and organizational force which stand behind their agents. This is of extreme importance every step of the sales process. When there are resources one's agent needs, they are readily available for the asking. This enables an extremely professional and smooth transaction as the client engages in one of the most important and financially largest sales they will make in life. Details on the award...

Keller Williams Realty wins Stevie® Award for Real Estate Sales Organization of the Year

Keller Williams Realty was recently honored with a Stevie Award in the Best Run Sales Organization category as the Real Estate Sales Organization of the Year at the second annual Selling Power Sales Excellence Awards in Las Vegas, Nev.

The awards were jointly presented by Selling Powermagazine, the leading sales management publication with 145,000 subscribers in 67 countries, and The Stevie® Awards, which have been hailed as “the business world’s own Oscars” (the New York Post, April 27, 2005).

More than 400 entries from companies of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted for consideration in more than 40 categories this year.

Courtesy, KW, December 16, 2007

So, congratulations, KW! And congratulations to KW's clients! You win!

Ken

Ken Courtade

703.981.4646

KenCourtade@gmail.com

www.KenCourtade.com

Beet Juice on the Winter Weather! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, Va

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 22:36:59 -0600

Going Green (or is it red) on the frozen streets? You bet!

I am fortunate to be doing my civil duty as a court juror. As I was leaving the courthouse today, a county employe and I commented on the fact there must be something other than salt to help with icy sidewalks. Voilla! Tonight, one of our local news stations reported that the DC government will be using beet juice to help with winter street conditions. Excellent!

I believe this is one more confirmation that there is/might always be a means of problem-solving using non-environment-harming products. We can make our lives better without harming our environment - not to mention harming our good shoes! Cudos to the person or persons who thought deeply enough and/or cared enough to come up with this wonderful option! And if we are lucky, perhaps it will be available some day soon for us to use on our homes' driveways and walks! Thoughts?

Enjoy the snow!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Wonderful Westover, in Arlington! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:15:24 -0600

What can one say, Westover is simply wonderful! If you are not familiar, the hub is at McKinley Rd. and Washington Blvd.

Yes, I do live and work in Westover, so I certainly have and in-depth understanding and overwhelming affection for our area. At the same time, when comparing areas along the Orange Line in Northern Virginia, I believe nothing comes close to the coziness and value! Note the following points:

-Ease of every-day living with conveniences at our door step: Post office, grocer, hardware store, several great restaurants - even a consignment store

-Convenience to commuting - a short walk to Metro or catch the bus right in Westover and you are at the Metro in a few minutes, 66, Rt. 50 and the parkway, among others, right nearby for vehicular travel

-Small town atmosphere: You've got it - holiday parades, costume contests, seasonal websites, neighbors who look out for each other's homes and pets when their neighbors are on travel, progressive dinner parties and caring for our older, historic homes

-Lack of congestion -- as Metro is not right in "downtown" Westover!

-Low turnover of homes when compared to other Arlington neighborhoods - so people tend to live and enjoy our area for a long time!

So, come check out our neighborhhood! If you need assistance in checking out the special aspects - do give me a call!

Ken Courtade

Yes I Ken!

Keller Williams, Arlington

KenCourtade@gmail.com

www.KenCourtade.com

703.981.4646

P.S. See this link for more on Westover: http://www.commuterpage.com/art/villages/westover2.htm

Flee Fleas - PLEASE! Green Tip of the Day! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:56:59 -0600

Flee Fleas!

If your furry friend has a case of the fleas, try a less-toxic method of flea control such as ANTidote or Bio Flea Halt. If fleas have already invaded your home, applying Borax to the carpet is a fairly low-risk way to kill them off. (But be careful, Borax can be an eye irritant and should not be ingested in large amounts by your pet.) Or replace the chemical flea dip with this natural recipe from Care2: Cut up four lemons and simmer for about an hour in one quart of water, adding more water if necessary. Cool and strain the mixture before rubbing it into your dog's coat. Be sure to avoid your pet's eyes and exercise appropriate caution -- citrus-peel extract products like this one can be very strong. Ventilate the room properly and do not use this solution if you're asthmatic. And do not use this flea bath on cats!

COURTESY OF: SIERRA CLUB, NOVEMBER 7, 2007

Our homes are our places of solitude from the outside world. Keep the critters off your critters to have a pest-free and cozy abode. Especially as colder weather and the holidays approach, when we are indoors more, keeping our spaces free from unwanted "villains" becomes ever the more important!

Have a flea-free and great day!

Ken

Ken Courtade

Yes I Ken!

Keller Williams Realty, Arlington

703.981.4646

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

What - Green Hair - for Christmas?! Green Tip of the Day! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:07:28 -0500

Yes, it's just two months from today!

"Protect yourself and the environment from harmful toxins by switching to organic hair-care products. Some studies suggestthat Methylisothiazoline (Mit), a chemical found in many name-brand shampoos, may be linked to neurological damage. And this kind of stuff is certainly not great for our groundwater or soil either. Learn more about what's in your shampoo and which brands are safe athttp://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/."

Source: Sierra Club, October 25, 2007

Green hair is in! Look closely at what you use. Also, think about our fellow creatures and buy products which specify that animals/lab animals were not used in the testing of a product. What more could we want than products that safeguard our bodies, animals, our environment and our homes?! Why not buy some for your Christmas gift recipients - the holiday is just two months away!

Ken Courtade

Keller Williams, Arlington

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Green Tip of the Day! Utilizing Your Utilities! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:48:31 -0500

Talk to your Utility Companies

Everyday, more local utility companies are providing customers with options for alternative sources of energy. If your power company isn't doing this, let them know that you would like the choice. Click here to find out if greenpower is available in your area.

Source: Sierra Club, October 11, 2007

As a homeowner, you want the best bang for your buck. And as a concerned conservationist, choosing the best energy source is a means to helping our world. Speak up - and choose!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington

703.981.4646

KenCourtade@gmail.com

www.KenCourtade.com

How to Sell a Home in a Declining Market! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:31:11 -0500

Dealing with an Adjusting/Declining Market

If your geographical area is now considered or perceived as a declining market, you must consider this in your home sale pricing strategy. You must have a STRATEGY (this is where your expert Realtor comes in) to effectively and efficiently win - or to win at all usually! If your market is adjusting, or some might call it declining, here are a few important steps that you can take to not become a "victim" of downward price pull.

1. Don't "Test the Market"

This is a mondo (big) misstep. Many sellers wrongly think that the initial activity on their property will continue throughout the entire listing period. Note true. When you first list your property, there is pent-up demand among current buyers in the marketplace who haven't found the home that fits their requirements. Once this initial surge of possible interest dwindles, showings will decrease to only NEW buyers coming into the marketplace. And this might be a small number, especially considering your seasonal timing. Missing this initial out the door period which generally is a maximum - and often less - of the first 21 days your property is listed, OFTEN results in longer market time (DOM - Days on Market) and a SUBSTANTIALLY lower price. Do not make this COSTLY mistake.

2. Price your home BELOW the comparable sales for a given period

List your home property slightly below comparable sales (Also not at what the current listing prices of active listings are - these are not comparable "SALES" because they have not sold yet.). Today's comparable sales represent what the prices were for whatever period you have considered them within - IN THE PAST. Because you can only pull sales for actual sales - which are always in the past. Keep in mind also that a sale price is set at the contract ratification date - NOT the date it settles/sells. Some adjustments may have occurred, but many homes sell for the original contracted price. The settlement date can be a month to many months later than the date that the buyer and seller agreed on a price! In a market that is adjusting downward and is not static, the homes sold could already be valued at a lower price based on market value when the next comparable homes sell - hopefully yours.

So, simply stated, if the market is adjusting/declining, then your property is actually worth less than what comparable home sales have acquired. So, have your Realtor determine your market's average percentage adjustment and build it into your list price.

3. When you consider a needed price reduction, reduce to win the game - remember the competition next door

When property values are declining and you are mistakenly above the current market value, reducing your home sales price to current market value is not going to "cut" it (HA). You need to be slightly below market value to actually engage a buyer to purchase your home NOW. Beat out the competition before it beats you out and leaves you with no buyers. Only so many buyers are in the game for a LIKE property at any given time. You want to win those buyers over - over the neighbor's home offerring!

So, price and play to win - - and you will - - - in this OR ANY market! Best to you in your home sale! Comment here if you are a home seller or Realtor - let's hear additional input and recommendations!! Thanks!!

Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

703.981.4646

KenCourtade@gmail.com

www.KenCourtade.com

How Does Your Neighborhood Score On Walking? Green Tip of the Day! Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:52:00 -0500

It is not everyday that such a wonderful website and service comes our way. NOW, an incredible website exists for rating your - or any - neighborhood for its walkability!! Here it is:

www.walkscore.com

Take the wesbite for a walk (HA!) now! What did you learn about your neighborhood? How can this be useful in your every day life and for real estate?? Let's hear your creative applications and thoughts!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Green Tip of the Day: Hand Dryers are Better! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 11:12:27 -0500

Think before you act to help save our environment! Think before you dry!

Electric hand dryers in restrooms are twice as energy-efficient as paper towels, even towels made from recycled paper. The production of the electricity that powers electric dryers generates greenhouse gases, but the production of paper towels is twice as energy-intensive and creates more greenhouse gases overall. Additionally, the manufacture of paper towels emits pollutants, and many paper towels are produced from virgin wood - not recycled material.

Source: Sierra Club, October, 1 2007

Start with small things to make a big difference for our world. Start by thinking first - then acting!

Do you have more tips?

Ken Courtade, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA

The True Market is Your Market! Ken Courtade, Keller Williams, Arlington

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 10:38:30 -0500

Please, CNBC - leave the announcement to Realtors - to those out in our markets every day. Let's bring people to the table, not encourage (discourage) them away.

On the Today Show, recently, during a segment covering the national real estate market, CNBC's Jim Kramer stated with strength, "Now is the absolute worst time to buy!"

Homeowners, buyers, Real Estate Professionals - everyone - should be concerned that remarks like these from "experts" might be pushing potential buyers and sellers to the sidelines. In effect, it might have a self-fulfilling prophesy and help stall the market - which drives SO MANY related markets. Just the oppposite of "Build it, and they will come:" "Tear it down and they will leave."

Gary Keller, co-founder and chairman of Keller Williams Realty had this to say about waiting out the current market:

"First, residential real estate is not a national market product - it is a local one. To say from a national position that this is either a good time or a bad time to buy real estate is like saying the national forecast for the U.S. today is 92 degrees - it is a useless and irrelevant perspective. What is happening in your local market is all that matters.

Second, trying to predict when it is a good time to buy, or not, means you're trying to time the market. Staying on the sidelines is the surest way for most people to never time anything correctly.

Last, and maybe most important - there are always two markets in every market. There is the market of properties that are good buys and there is the market of properties that are not good buys. Interestingly enough, this is true in either buyer or seller markets. To categorically say that this is the time to buy or not is absolutely ignoring the fact that every market really has two markets inside it."

Let's keep a broad perspective while maintianing a close look at our individual markets. If you are a consumer, have your Realtor run numbers for your area. A great realtor will be adept at laying out the look of the market for you. Realtors, let's be prepared to give honest and thorough assessments of especially our individual markets. Realtors, what do you do that is especially helpful for your clients?

Ken

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington

Green Tip of the Day! Keller Williams, Arlington, Ken Courtade

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 09:24:55 -0500

When you peel citrus fruits, don't throw away the peels or compost immediately. Instead, place in a decorative dish in your kitchen or bathroom to use as natural, fresh potpourri/air freshener. And compost whenever you can. Handy, handsome kitchen counter "pails" with carbon scent filters in the covers make a great holder for compostable scraps prior to taking to the compost area.

http://www.cleanairgardening.com/pail.html

Enjoy - and have a GREEN day!

Ken

Yes I Ken!

Keller Williams, Arlington

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Commutization, Supersized! Keller Williams, Arlington, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 15:01:32 -0500

Supersize my garage!

"Since the last survey in 2004, oversize garages saw the biggest growth in terms of what recent buyers considered very important in a home, gaining 16 percentage points to 57 percent. Among buyers who purchased homes without this feature, 56 percent of them said they would have paid more for an oversize garage, compared to only 6 percent in the 2004 survey." Source: Realtor.org, August 7, 2007

Especially considering high gas prices, that is a huge jump - why? Perhaps:

1. People are continuing to purchase large vehicles which require more space to park

2. Storage for household and yard items/People have more and more "stuff" to store

3. Less costly to get a larger garage as compared to paying for living space instead - if one is deciding between the two/comparing them

4. The world is going retro - back to when garages where first added to homes, when the suburbanization/"commutization" (my coined term) of America was occuring - more people began commuting to work and thus the deisre to park one's car in a garage. We still love garages today! (This is my top pick.)

Add to this question why there exists people who have garages but do not park vehicles in them - that's an urban wonderment! I know people with two car garages who have two vehicles and do not park their cars in them. But, hey, at least they have them for whatever the use - or non-use? Garages are great - no doubt! I will take one - supersized or not!

Ken

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

What Leona Helmsley Taught Us. Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken! Keller Williams, Arlington

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 13:46:58 -0500

What did Leona teach us? Not the reputed mean part. Doesn't work well in real estate! Service excellence is the answer! Combining the two professions of Hotelier and Real Estate Salesperson (I have a similar combination of backgrounds, coiincidentally), I believe that Leona was able to understand a product - in this case a building and specifically a hotel, and to translate its offerrings into ones that were of exemplary style and substance. Who could ask for more? Ok, forget about her reputation of being a meany. Let's focus on her intense sense of direction in making sure guests/clients were best served by the product they were paying for. How can we translate this into our daily work as real estate consultants to best serve the public? I put forward a four point proposal:

1. Know your public, know your client, know the person you are serving. Ask questions of them to determine what they want and need. Make a plan with those as guiding points.

2. Let them know how you work to get them to their goal. Share your strategy, become a team with them. Win the goal with and for them.

3. Keep the conversation always open and flowing to be able to adjust as time goes by. What a client wants today may change based on your exposing them to new ideas and options in the market, which may be changing as well.

4. Always be available for future input and care on their home, for future real estate purchases, and to serve their family, colleagues and friends in the same manner for them. Serve for life.

So, rest well, Leona. We saw and took note. Excellence in service is one of the highest attributes a Real Estate Consultant can possess!

Ken

KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Real Estate Market Statistics, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 09:03:06 -0500

It's time to know what is going on in your market to prepare for buying and/or selling this fall. In the summer, and particularly after a spring market slower compared to the previous year (not difficult to be slower than that booming market), it seems like sales are so bad. As always, think positively about the market and look for the good. How about the home that had three contracts come in on it last week - with one or more other buyers desirous of giving additional contracts? Yes, right in my prime home buying/selling area.

There will always be a market for a well-priced and well-presented home (It indeed was!) - as this house proves even in the steamy doldrums of summer. So, look at the market stats, and not just what might be in your local paper. Your best source is a well-chosen Realtor. That person can present you with your market and particular neighborhood stats sliced and diced (presented) in many different ways, so you can get a clear view of how you will compete in buying and/or selling a home. Then, if selling, time it, present it well and price it correctly for the CURRENT market. If buying, be on the ready daily for the best home possible for you - your Realtor will be key to this - even knowing about homes before they appear in MLS. Your well-chosen Reator will be the one to lead you to success. If you need an exceptional Realtor in the DC area or anywhere in the country or world, I would be happy to assist personally or to refer you to a great Realtor. The Realtor is the key!

So, know your market - - and know the home you are selling or want to buy in comparison to the market! And congratulations will be just around the corner - as is your next buyer or home!!!!

Comments??

Ken

Yes I Ken!

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Green Tip of the Day!, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 08:41:43 -0500

Here's a great tip - or reminder if you already do it! If you tend to forget to check, keep a tire gauge in your car in full view!!

Ken

If you drive a car, keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure in your owner's manual. Underinflating tires by as little as five pounds can cut your gas mileage by 2 percent.

Source: Sierra Club, August 2, 2007

Ken

Yes I Ken!

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Green Tip of the Day!, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 09:36:39 -0500

Here's a great green tip! If you have not considered letting someone else do the driving, do so. It is good for the environment and can be very relaxing!! So, sit back - and enjoy!

Ken

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Each year, Americans waste 3.5 billion hours and 5.6 billion gallons of fuel while they sit in traffic. Spend your commute reading and relaxing instead of cultivating road rage: Find mass transit near you at publictransportation.org/systems

Source: Sierra Club, July 31, 2007

Ken

Yes I Ken!

KenCourtade@gmail.com

www.KenCourtade.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Have a Good Day and a Smile!, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 09:25:40 -0500

Hello! How are you? Here's a great article I wanted to share with you. It is a wonderful reminder that our interactions with others make a difference in their daily lives. Enjoy! Ken

----------------------------------------------------

How many times a day do you think that phrase is said to someone? Or just how many times has that phrase been said to you in one day? I'm often asked if "Have a nice day" can be said too many times?

The answer: Yes, I guess it could if you're saying it to the same person over and over. That might get annoying.

However, for the average person, hearing a genuine "Have a nice day" can be a good thing to hear - "genuine" being the key word.

Example: The other day I was in a video store (as always, we don't name names) and rented several videos. The person, who was waiting on me, did so in complete silence. Complete silence that is, until she handed me my change. Know what she did? She told the cash register to "Have a nice day." That's right. She spoke directly to the cash register and told "it" to have a nice day. Yea, I thought she was pretty strange too.

And not long before that, I had a young man at another store (yes, I do shop a lot!) tell the floor to have a nice day.

And again, more recently when I was at a fast food chain - the lady who handed me the meal looked off in space...and told someone out there to "Have a nice day."

Now, some can profess that they were doing the right thing. Almost. Sure the words were there, but the meaning and sincerity sure wasn't. If you're telling the cash register and floor to have a nice day, you're really not doing any good. Try looking in the customer's eyes and say it. It'll mean so much more. And oh, by the way, "Have a nice day" doesn't even count, unless you're smiling.

And then there's the phone call that ends with the same phrase. And because it's impossible to say that phrase while looking into the caller's eyes directly, it needs to be said with more conviction. And yes, that good, old smile still needs to be there, too.

And don't forget, there are so many other ways to end a conversation besides "Have a nice day." Here are just a few. (And I'm betting you can think of a batch of your own.)

"Thanks for calling."
"I enjoyed talking with you."
"Good to hear from you."
"Enjoy your day."
"Have a beautiful day."

As I said, you probably can add to those. Remember, there are lots of synonyms for GOOD. You don't need to be stuck on that one word.

People like to do business with people who are nice and more importantly friendly. It's that simple. And the way you can be extra nice is to look people in the eye when you're talking with them. SMILE, and make it meaningful. On the phone, give the caller your full attention. Even though you've heard the problem or the question 800 times, that one person is most probably going through it for the first time.

Enjoy much health & happiness in the New Year. And MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!!!

Courtesy: Broker Agent News, Nancy Friedman, Telephone Doctor, 8/1/7

-----------------------------------------------------------------

I hope you enjoyed this article. Have a great day!!!! : )

Ken

Yes I Ken!

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Green Tip of the Day! Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 11:50:29 -0500

Let's Recycle! As you trade up to that new iPhone or other great phone, recycle!

Americans toss out over 100 million cell phones each year. Help keep the phones' toxic ingredients (including lead, mercury, and arsenic) out of landfills by recycling your old cell phone through CollectiveGood.com.

Source: Sierra Club (7/28/07)

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646 Direct/Hotline

7 Steps to Buying a Home, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 16:16:21 -0500

Seven Steps to Buying a Home

To get focused on your important purchase, it is a very good idea to have a strategy in place. These 7 steps are designed to help you get to your goal!

Define your needs.
Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home! Before you go house hunting, it's a good idea to define what kind of home and neighborhood would best suit your desires and needs and make a wish list. Share this list with your real estate agent. The finer the details, the more effective your home search will be. To further define your needs, you may want to divide your lists into negotiable and non-negotiable items, so your agent can operate with some flexibility when scouting for homes on your behalf.
Get prequalified or preapproved.
Now that you know what you want in a home and neighborhood, you need to find out what you can afford. There are two ways to go about this: prequalification or preapproval for a home loan. Your real estate agent can refer you to a mortgage broker to begin the process. In most markets, preapproved buyers are preferred by sellers over those who are prequalified.
Your preapproved status lets the seller know:
* You have gone through an extensive financial background check * A lender is willing to do business with you * The likelihood of unexpected obstacles regarding financing is minimal
Let the house hunting begin!
Now you are ready to embark on your home search - an endeavor that can prove overwhelming if not approached with some forethought. The most efficient route is to allow your real estate agent do the initial scouting for you. Using your wish list as a guide, he or she will alert you of new and existing listings that have strong potential. If these listings pique your interest, your agent will arrange home tours at your convenience. Many agents send alerts via email - sometimes as often as daily, depending on the available inventory in your market. Let your agent know how you'd like to receive these alerts, whether by phone, email or fax.
You also can do some research on your own. Read local real estate publications, contact your local neighborhood associations, visit the local chamber of commerce, surf the Internet, or drive around your favorite neighborhoods. While these methods certainly can lead to your dream home, it's important to note that 82 percent of home sales are the result of agent connections.* That means it's more likely your agent will find your dream home through being in the real estate business than you driving around on the weekends.
* National Association of REALTORS(r)
Make an offer.
When you're ready to make an offer on a home, your real estate agent will help you determine the offer price by reviewing recent sales of homes similar in size, quality and amenities. With your input, your agent will draft a written contract that outlines what needs to be done by both parties to execute the transaction. If the seller accepts the offer, the document becomes a binding agreement, so it is imperative that you carefully review it with your agent and speak up if anything is not clear to you. It's important to note that if the seller changes any aspect of the offer, it is not a binding agreement until the buyer agrees to the seller's changes.
Strike a deal.
Sometimes, you get lucky and the seller accepts your offer as is. However, in most instances, the seller will make a counteroffer. This is where your real estate agent's experience in negotiations will be invaluable. Keep in mind almost everything is negotiable when you are buying a house. This can give you a great deal of leverage in the buying process - that is, if you have adequate information and you use it in an appropriate manner. Some items you may negotiate:
* Price
* Financing
* Closing costs
* Closing/Move-in date
* Repairs
* Appliances & fixtures
* Landscaping
* Painting
Remain in close contact with your real estate agent so you can quickly review any changes from the seller. Remember: Bargaining is not a winner-take-all deal. It is a business process that involves compromise and mutual respect ALWAYS!
Prepare for the closing.
When an offer becomes a binding agreement, your real estate agent will help you tackle the checklist of action items that you, as the buyer, have agreed to perform prior to closing. Depending on how the responsibilities are divvied up in the agreement, this is typically when you will:
* Conduct a home inspection
* Get an appraisal and finalize your financing
* Secure title insurance
* Shop for a home warranty
Having these procedures done in a timely and professional manner is a must, as any delays could threaten a successful closing. A first-rate real estate agent should be able to serve as your "one-stop shopping" referral source for service providers. Your agent also should serve as your advocate, helping to coordinate activities and making sure the vendors have access to the property to perform their jobs.
Close the deal.
Congratulations! The moment you've been anticipating has arrived. The closing is where home ownership is legally transferred from the seller to the buyer. It is a formal meeting that most parties involved in the transaction will attend. Closing procedures usually are held at the title company's or lawyer's office. The closing officer will coordinate all the document-signing and the collection and disbursement of funds. A few days before your closing date, your lender will send a final closing statement that outlines your closing costs, if applicable. Your real estate agent will review this document with you to ensure its accuracy, as well as help you gather any necessary documentation that you'll need to bring to closing.

Let the fun begin!

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

7 Steps to Buying a Home, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 16:16:16 -0500

Seven Steps to Buying a Home

To get focused on your important purchase, it is a very good idea to have a strategy in place. These 7 steps are designed to help you get to your goal!

Define your needs.
Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home! Before you go house hunting, it's a good idea to define what kind of home and neighborhood would best suit your desires and needs and make a wish list. Share this list with your real estate agent. The finer the details, the more effective your home search will be. To further define your needs, you may want to divide your lists into negotiable and non-negotiable items, so your agent can operate with some flexibility when scouting for homes on your behalf.
Get prequalified or preapproved.
Now that you know what you want in a home and neighborhood, you need to find out what you can afford. There are two ways to go about this: prequalification or preapproval for a home loan. Your real estate agent can refer you to a mortgage broker to begin the process. In most markets, preapproved buyers are preferred by sellers over those who are prequalified.
Your preapproved status lets the seller know:
* You have gone through an extensive financial background check * A lender is willing to do business with you * The likelihood of unexpected obstacles regarding financing is minimal
Let the house hunting begin!
Now you are ready to embark on your home search - an endeavor that can prove overwhelming if not approached with some forethought. The most efficient route is to allow your real estate agent do the initial scouting for you. Using your wish list as a guide, he or she will alert you of new and existing listings that have strong potential. If these listings pique your interest, your agent will arrange home tours at your convenience. Many agents send alerts via email - sometimes as often as daily, depending on the available inventory in your market. Let your agent know how you'd like to receive these alerts, whether by phone, email or fax.
You also can do some research on your own. Read local real estate publications, contact your local neighborhood associations, visit the local chamber of commerce, surf the Internet, or drive around your favorite neighborhoods. While these methods certainly can lead to your dream home, it's important to note that 82 percent of home sales are the result of agent connections.* That means it's more likely your agent will find your dream home through being in the real estate business than you driving around on the weekends.
* National Association of REALTORS(r)
Make an offer.
When you're ready to make an offer on a home, your real estate agent will help you determine the offer price by reviewing recent sales of homes similar in size, quality and amenities. With your input, your agent will draft a written contract that outlines what needs to be done by both parties to execute the transaction. If the seller accepts the offer, the document becomes a binding agreement, so it is imperative that you carefully review it with your agent and speak up if anything is not clear to you. It's important to note that if the seller changes any aspect of the offer, it is not a binding agreement until the buyer agrees to the seller's changes.
Strike a deal.
Sometimes, you get lucky and the seller accepts your offer as is. However, in most instances, the seller will make a counteroffer. This is where your real estate agent's experience in negotiations will be invaluable. Keep in mind almost everything is negotiable when you are buying a house. This can give you a great deal of leverage in the buying process - that is, if you have adequate information and you use it in an appropriate manner. Some items you may negotiate:
* Price
* Financing
* Closing costs
* Closing/Move-in date
* Repairs
* Appliances & fixtures
* Landscaping
* Painting
Remain in close contact with your real estate agent so you can quickly review any changes from the seller. Remember: Bargaining is not a winner-take-all deal. It is a business process that involves compromise and mutual respect ALWAYS!
Prepare for the closing.
When an offer becomes a binding agreement, your real estate agent will help you tackle the checklist of action items that you, as the buyer, have agreed to perform prior to closing. Depending on how the responsibilities are divvied up in the agreement, this is typically when you will:
* Conduct a home inspection
* Get an appraisal and finalize your financing
* Secure title insurance
* Shop for a home warranty
Having these procedures done in a timely and professional manner is a must, as any delays could threaten a successful closing. A first-rate real estate agent should be able to serve as your "one-stop shopping" referral source for service providers. Your agent also should serve as your advocate, helping to coordinate activities and making sure the vendors have access to the property to perform their jobs.
Close the deal.
Congratulations! The moment you've been anticipating has arrived. The closing is where home ownership is legally transferred from the seller to the buyer. It is a formal meeting that most parties involved in the transaction will attend. Closing procedures usually are held at the title company's or lawyer's office. The closing officer will coordinate all the document-signing and the collection and disbursement of funds. A few days before your closing date, your lender will send a final closing statement that outlines your closing costs, if applicable. Your real estate agent will review this document with you to ensure its accuracy, as well as help you gather any necessary documentation that you'll need to bring to closing.

Let the fun begin!

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

DC in Top Ten of Rising Rental Prices, Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 09:37:27 -0500

Washington, DC in Top Ten: Greater Demand for Rentals = Increased Rental Prices

Rent prices are increasing in some markets in 2007. A fair number of people are delaying the purchase of homes as they're being market-cautious, are unable to qualify for a mortgage, want to build up a good downpayment and for other reasons. So, they need to rent, and this is causing rental vacancy rates to fall and rent pricing to increase.

The top 10 markets where rents have risen the most, average rents in the second quarter of 2007 & percentage increase from the first quarter of 2007:

1. San Francisco, CA, $1,757, 3 percent
2. San Jose, CA, $1,473, 2.4 percent
3. New York City, NY, $2,657, 2.1 percent
4. Seattle, WA, $973, 2 percent
5. Oakland-East Bay, CA, $1,300, 1.8 percent
6. Orange County, CA, $1,493, 1.7 percent
7. Washington, DC, $1,301, 1.7 percent
8. Baltimore, MD, $945, 1.7 percent
9. New Haven, CN, $1,065, 1.6 percent
10. Philadelphia, PA, $981, 1.6 percent

Source: BusinessWeek Online, Maya Roney (07/19/07)

So, if you're doing a rent-buy consideration/comparison, perhaps buying will come out the better of the two depending on your specific market - and situation. The help of a qualified Realtor can be a strategic short-cut to your answer. Look at the long-range and don't forget to include the tax incentives of buying. Happy renting or buying!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Ken Courtade, ABR, GRI, CRS, Yes I Ken!, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

703.981.4646

Green Living Tip of the Day! Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern Virginia, MD, DC

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:23:57 -0500

Green Living Tip of the Day!

Help yourself to the best health with fresh food while helping US farmers: Food - from farm to your table - travels an average of 1,500 - 2,000 miles (Doesn't sound too fresh, eh?) - but NOT when you buy it from one or more of the over 1,200 small U.S. farms that provide fresh produce "subscriptions." Find one near you: foodroutes.org

Ken, Yes I Ken!

703.981.4646

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern Virginia, MD, DC

The Top Ten Questions to ask a Realtor. Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern Virginia, MD, DC, www.kencourtade.com

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 09:02:02 -0500

So, you have been looking online, at Open Houses or just thinking about getting a Realtor to represent you in your home sale or purchase. Now, you are ready and want someone to represent you in perhaps the largest financial (and one of the most personal) transactions you will ever undertake. Where do you start?

Online and in-person, you will find many great Realtors and SOME that might not be a good fit with you or your needs. Look to real estate company websites and individual Realtor websites, local advertising and word-of-mouth (referrals) for those that might serve your needs. Then what? Interview them. And keep in mind that they will be interviewing you as well. Any Realtor worth their weight in gold will know their business, what works for them and might work for you, and will not take up your and their valuable time if they determine your relationship will not be a good fit. So, interview them. What are the top ten questions to ask?

1. What is your formal training beyond the required pre and post licensing classes. Do you have additional designations - the letters behind their names? Such as ABR, SRES, GRI, ABR.

2. What is your system of working with clients? How systematic are you to help me sell or buy my home in the least amount of time with the least amount of work?

3. How long, on average, does it take for you to sell or buy a house for someone?

4. What are your areas of expertise, both in type of home and in areas/locations?

5. What technology do you use? This will tell you how advanced they are in their tools. Those more advanced have an edge on the competition.

6. How many homes, on average, do you show a buyer before they buy? This will tell you two things - 1. How well they listen and know what you want. and 2. How well they know their market.

7. What do you think is the most important item in buyer or seller-Realtor relationships? This will give you a good hint as to what they value in the overal process to bring you success.

8. So, what is going on in the market? See how well they know their area.

9. What happens once the transaction is over? You want to see is they "move on" to their next transaction, or "stick around" to make sure that you settle in well in your home and they are there in the future should you need any assistance whatsoever, and there when you may decide to sell your home.

10. What is your guarantee of working with me? Find out what their stated and written policy is on a guarantee that their work with you go well - and should it not - or your needs change - are you able to step out of the relationship temporarily or permanently. A good Realtor gives a good guarantee to buy you a house or sell your house effectively and efficiently!

This should help you on your way to finding a GREAT REALTOR to represent you in your important transaction of buying or selling your next home! Comments ehre are welcome! Have a great day!

Ken

703.981.4646

www.KenCourtade.com

KenCourtade@gmail.com

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern Virginia, MD, DC

Virtual Assistants! Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 11:45:08 -0500

Thought about a virtual assistant?

Using Virtual Assistants is a great way to save dollars on staff overhead and to have control over your assistant's use of time - just to name a couple of reasons to check them out. You set up an account, arrange for a volume of work to be done, and you are off and running. Of course, you will need to work at a personal working relationship. That is always the case with any assistant. Think about the savings alone in foregoing possible state-required retired benefit programs - yes, some states have them!!!!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Three Simple Tips for Sprucing Up Your Home! Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 10:08:13 -0500

Have some wonderful, quiet time on your hands and are you noticing the house would benefit from some sprucing up? Here are 3 quick, easy, fun tips!

1. Fresh Paint. Contrary to some beliefs, painting is one of the fastest and cheapest ways to freshen up, update and enliven a space. Use colors that you like - and consider that you want them to be livable - easy to live with every day. Painting is easy overall and doesn't take much time. Do it yourself - or call in the pros!

2. Acccessorize. Another easy, fun way to anty up your home's interest quotient. Start at an antique store, home furnishings store or one of the many great, inexpensive retailers online or on the street. Simple items add a lot to your decor.

3. Fabrics! From throw pillows to a simple slipcovering or reupholstery of a sofa, the word is simple. For slipcovering, call a local upholstery expert who comes to your home, measures your sofa, brings samples of fabrics - and in a couple of weeks, you have what appears to be a new sofa! And all for the cost of slipcovering. Or go online to stores such as Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams' exceptional www.mgandbw.com. To reupholster, you will have to do without the sofa in your home for awhile, but still an easy way to change your environment relatively quickly.

Other ideas, blog here! Thanks - and happy summer freshening!

Ken

Ken Courtade, Yes I Ken!, ABR, GRI, CRS, Keller Williams Realty, Arlington, VA, Northern VA, DC, MD, VA