Kim's Blog

Support the Troops Friday

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:56:11 -0500

Another Friday and a day to show our appeciation and support for our members of the armed services. Living next to an Air Force Base, we are reminded daily of their service. Today, October 16th is a day for our entire community to be on edge. Two of our F-16 pilots from the 20th Fighter Wing were involved in a collision last night over the Atlantic. One fighter was able to land safely at Charleston Air Force Base. A search is going on for the second pilot and his plane. Please take a moment to keep this family in your prayers.

Kim Peasley-Parker, Realtor/Shareholder, AgentOwned Realty, Heritage Group, Cell 803-840-7519

September 2009 Sumter, SC Market Report

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:39:40 -0500

Market Summary Thru September 30, 2009

Market Statistic	August 2009	September 2009	Trend
Median Price of Homes Sold	$140,000	$124,450	-
Average Price of Home Sold	$151,923	$127,677	-
Least Expensive Home Sold	$30,000	$24,900
Most Expensive Home Sold	$400,000	$244,000
Price/ Sq. Ft.	$78.41	$73.60	-
Average Days of Market (DOM)	165	144	-
Total Active Inventory	1345	1322	-
Median Home Size	1789	1619	-
Median Number of Bedrooms	3	3
Median Number of Bathrooms	2	2

In September we saw the number of units close decrease from 83 in August 2009 t0 68 in September 2009. This was a decrease from September 2008. Though we are seeing some first time home buyers taking advantage of the $8000 Tax Credit, we are not seeing as many as was expected. The tax credit does require the buyers to stay in the home for three years or repay the entire amount. This is definately a consideration if you are in the military and might have to sell the home before the three year requirement. The number of pending units increased from 157 units in August to 176 units in September indicating that we may see more units closed in October than in September.

The total number of homes sold in 2009 continues to fall short of 2008 levels. With 2009 monthly units closed less than 2008 this decline is to be expected.

The days on market decreased dramatically in September falling from 165 in August to 144 days on market as an average in September.

The number of new listings in Sumter decreased in September 2009 by a mere four units. August and September typically are very close in the number of units listed during the month. We normally see a decrease in October, November and December.

If the trends in listings follows previous years, the number of new listings will taper off in the fall and during the holidays. Bringing the total number of new listings for a year below 2008 levels.

The total number of listings available decreased from August to September. Given the trends of listings during the holidays and the number of pending units, I would expect this number to continue to trend downward until after the end of the year.

The median home price decreased in Sumter. The current price of $124,450 is an indication of the homes being sold. Along with the median home price being lower in September, the average home price, $ per square foot and median home square footage also decreased. These statistics all seem to follow along with each other. We saw this trend at the beginning of the year with smaller homes and less expensive homes affecting all of these measures.

The average price per sq. foot declined in September for the first time in seven months. In comparing the price per square foot, you notice it closely mirrors the median home price.

Remember all real estate markets are local. There is no National rules that every market in the United States follows when it comes to the ups and downs. Consumers are best served by an educated Realtors^® who understands the market and how to help them buy or sell a home.

I hope you find this real estate market report for Sumter County, SC interesting. If you have any suggestions, please email me at kim@agentowned.com and I will see what I can do.

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtors^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty,

Heritage Group, Inc.

Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Serving all of Sumter County including Sumter, Dalzell, and Shaw Air Force Base area

Friday's Anthem Performed by the Academy Choirs

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:45:10 -0500

Friday is Red, White and Blue day at AgentOwned Realty. The agent owners and mangement do this to support our troops and to show our appreciation. Mama Liz started a group on AciveRain called "Support our Troops Friday" and I like to post the National Anthem. I am fortunate and get to hear the National Anthem daily from the loud speakers at Shaw Air Force Base. I like to post the Anthem every week to remind everyone how fortunate we are to live in the United States, I also realize most Americans do not hear the National Anthem weekly unless they are sports fans.

Have a great weekend,

Kim Peasley-Parker, Realtor(R)/Shareholder, AgentOwned Realty, Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Because of the Brave, We are Free

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 06:15:54 -0500

To help kick off the new group "Support Our Troops Friday". Thank you for all you do!

Kim Peasley-Parker

Sumter, SC Realtor

Wintergreen Subdivision Close to Shaw AFB

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:34:11 -0500

Kim Peasley-Parker | AgentOwned Realty Co. | 803-840-7519

3600 Rhododendron, Sumter, SC

Wintergreen Subdivision Close to Shaw and Shopping

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $141,900

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	1,568
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.46 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Home is move in ready. Located on a corner lot in Wintergreen Subdivision close to Shaw, shopping and easy access to 378 to get to Columbia. This home a tile foyer that is open to the great room with a cathedral ceiling. Great room is large enough for a sectional or living room suite. The kitchen has plenty of counter space and storage and is adjacent to the dining area. The master bedroom has two closets and a private bathroom. The second and third bedrooms share the hall bathroom. The back porce is covered and great for enjoying relaxing evening. The lot is landscaped and has underground sprinklers. This home is ready for its new owners.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Corner Lot Close to Shaw

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Back of House
Great Room	Master Bedroom
Kitchen	Dining Area

Contact info:

Kim Peasley-Parker

AgentOwned Realty Co.

803-840-7519

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 24, 2009, 9:16am PDT

Historic Sumter Home

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:12:58 -0500

Kim Peasley-Parker | AgentOwned Realty Co. | 803-840-7519

2 Warren Court, Sumter, SC

Historic Home close to Downtown Sumter

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $175,000

Year Built	1935
Sq Footage	2,736
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.13 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Home built in 1935 has all the charming character. The exterior is brick and siding and has brick patio at the back door. Oak hardwood floors that are well maintained are throughout the home. The living room has an original fireplace with gas logs and French doors leading to the formal dining room, another set to the Sunroom and the staircase to the second floor. The foyer has double closets and a French door to close it off from the living space. The Sunroom features an exit to the patio area and provides a naturally lit area for reading or relaxing. The Formal Dining Room is adjacent to the living room and breakfast area and is large enough for a dining room suite. The breakfast area has built in cabinets and could be used as a butler's pantry. There is a den/office/sitting room next to the living room. Giving the flexibility for multiple entertaining areas. There is also a den located at the rear of the home with an original fireplace with gas logs. The first floor bathroom is located off the central hallway and is tiled with a large storage closet. The second floor has two bedrooms with built ins and a half bath off one of the bedrooms. The large landing has a sitting area for quiet moments. A second full bath is located on the second floor. A large bonus room could be used as a bedroom with a walk in closet adjacent to it in the hallway. This home does need some TLC and is being sold as is.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Washer	- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Beautiful Historic Home

- Close to Downtown Sumter

- Original Hardwood Floors

- Possible up to 5 Bedrooms!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Kim Peasley-Parker

AgentOwned Realty Co.

803-840-7519

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 24, 2009, 8:09am PDT

Linwood Plantation, Close to Shaw and Sumter

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:08:24 -0500

Kim Peasley-Parker | AgentOwned Realty Co. | 803-840-7519

2535 Navigator Circle, Dalzell, SC

Beautiful Split Floor plan on 1.04 Partially wooded Acres

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $158,900

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	1,597
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	1.04 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Home is on 1.04 acres with no back yard neighbors. The split floor plan home features laminate flooring in the Great Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Master Bedroom and hallways. The Great room has a cathedral ceiling with ceiling fan and overlooks the large front porch. The Great Room is large enough for a sectional or several piece of furniture. The dining room has chair rail and panels to give it that special touch. The kitchen has a pantry, stainless steel appliances and white cabinets. The Master Bedroom has a cathedral ceiling and measures approximately 15'X18' and features two large walk in closets. The master bath has a tile floor, jetted tub, double vanities, linen closet and a separate commode and shower room. The second and third bedrooms are carpeted and share the hall bath that has a tile floor. The back deck offers access to the back yard. The large front porch is big enough for several rocking chairs to enjoy nice evenings.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Stainless steel appliances	- Attic
- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Close to Back Gate at Shaw

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Kim Peasley-Parker

AgentOwned Realty Co.

803-840-7519

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 24, 2009, 7:57am PDT

1775 Canberra Drive, Sumter, SC

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:06:19 -0500

Kim Peasley-Parker | AgentOwned Realty Co. | 803-840-7519

1775 Canberra, Sumter, SC

Beautiful Home on Corner Lot in Williamsburg

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $147,500

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	1,500
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.24 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful home with side entrance garage on corner lot in Williamsburg. Great Room has a cathedral ceiling and is large enough for all your furniture and that big screen tv. The eat in kitchen has windows overlooking the backyard and a window overlooking the side yard. The kitchen come completed with all appliances. The large master bedroom will accomodate a Kind Size bed and all your other furniture. The master bedroom has a large walk in closet with closet organizers. The master bathroom has a linen closet, garden tub and shower combo and a double vanity. The split floor plan has the second and third bedrooms sharing the hall bath. The foyer welcomes you into this home and has a coat closet with easy access to foyer and garage entrance. Utility room has extra storage cabinets and access to the garage.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet	- Family room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Attic	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Main View	Great Room
Kitchen	Master Bedroom
Garage Side Entrance	Utility Room

Contact info:

Kim Peasley-Parker

AgentOwned Realty Co.

803-840-7519

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 23, 2009, 12:37pm PDT

August 2009 Sumter, SC Market Report

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:53:49 -0500

August 2009 Sumter, SC Market Report

Hope everyone had a good August and part of September. From my talks with many Realtors^®, we are seeing a very different market than what we have experienced in the past. Yes, you can say "Duh, Kim, we all know that." But I am not talking solely about the level of sales. I am talking about what is getting buyers' attention in properties. All the Realtors^® I have spoken with have found that homes they think will sell quickly do not. Homes they think might linger on the market go under contract. Buyers are being fickle (sorry buyers, I don't mean this as an insult, it is just a fact). As Realtors^® we once could tell a seller exactly what would sell a home price, location, preparation for the sale and several other items. These rules seem to have been thrown out in today's market. In asking all the Realtors^®, what they find are selling homes and the answer is the same. They don't seem to have a good answer as it changes from buyer to buyer. With that being said, here are the August Sumter, South Carolina Market Statistics.

Summary of the Market Thru August 31, 2009

Market Statistic	July 2009	August 2009	Trend
Median Price of Homes Sold	$137,250	$140,000	+
Average Price of Home Sold	$140,366	$151,923	+
Least Expensive Home Sold	$15,000	$30,000
Most Expensive Home Sold	$390,000	$400,000
Price/ Sq. Ft.	$75.69	$78.41	+
Average Days of Market (DOM)	191	165	-
Total Active Inventory	1337	1345	+
Median Home Size	1742	1789
Median Number of Bedrooms	3	3
Median Number of Bathrooms	2	2

The number of homes sold in Sumter during July 2009 was 106 and in August that number decreased to 83. While we did see the units closed or sold decrease, the units was only 4 units less than August 2008. The number of pending units is still strong so we expect to see more units closing over the next several months too.

The total number of homes sold in 2009 has lagged behind the year to date total for 2008. This is to be expected as the monthly numbers with some exceptions have fallen behind.

While days on the market decreased in August, this put the Days on Market back down to where it was before the spike we saw in July.

The number of new listings in Sumter increased in August 2009. July had shown Sumter the lowest number of new listings in since January 2009. Listings are cyclical and historically July and August have proven to been months where a large number of listings come onto the market.

The Year To Date listings in the Sumter market for 2009 is following very closely with the 2005 Year To Date listings as far as overall trends. If Sumter continues to follow this trend, I would expect to see the number of listings level off for the remainder of the year.

A combination of units sold during the month and the increase in homes listed resulted in a upward movement of the total number of homes available. This statistic is new to the report and it gives buyers and sellers a feeling for what is on the market. I am still watching it to determine what it is showing.

The median home price continues to increase over time in Sumter. The current price of $140,000 has only seen one month higher since January 2004. During the fall and winter of 2008-2009, we did see the median home price down, but in the past six months the median home prices have come back. Much of the fluctuation during these months was due to the mix of properties being sold.

The average price per sq. foot continued to climb in August as it had over the past seven months. In comparing the price per square foot, you notice it closely mirrors the median home price. This would lead me to believe that we saw many investors buying lower priced homes over the fall and winter and more owner occupied properties being sold during the spring and summer.

I hope you find this real estate market report for Sumter County, SC interesting. If you have any suggestions, please email me at kim@agentowned.com and I will see what I can do.

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtors^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty,

Heritage Group, Inc.

Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Serving all of Sumter County including Sumter, Dalzell, and Shaw Air Force Base area

Jury Duty

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:29:07 -0500

Jury Duty

My number came up. I can't complain as this was my first time ever being chosen for jury duty. I was concerned though about being in General Sessions and Common Pleas. I didn't mind being called for traffic court, but the thought of sitting on the jury for criminal trials made me nervous.

I ended up finding the experience interesting. Many of my fellow jurors commented on how many pleas there were. The other part of our observations were that many young people need to come to court and observe this process. Sitting there for four days showed many of us that if illegal drugs and alcohol were taken out of the equation, the court dockets would have a lot less cases. Very few cases did not involve one or the other of these two components.

I am out of the courtroom now and back to work and breathing a sigh of relief. I didn't get pulled for the worst cases and was able to feel ok about the cases I did hear and have to contribute to a verdict. So my best advice, it is much better to be on the juror side of circuit court than the victim or defendant. As the judge put it, he hopes none of us ever have to sit on the other side of the rail.

July 2009 Sumter, SC Market Report

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 10:36:07 -0500

As I stated back in June, my report is under transition. I have been working on it over the summer and what a summer this has proven to be. The number of units sold in Sumter County has increased and many Realtors^®, including myself, have been very busy. My report is still in transition and I am open to any suggestions you might have. You can email me at kim@agentowned.com. I am trying to provide you the consumer with information to make an informed decision about the real estate market in the Sumter, SC area.

Summary of the Market Thru July 31, 2009*

Market Statistic	July 2009	June 2009	Trend
Median Price of Homes Sold	$137,250	$128,900	+
Average Price of Home Sold	$140,366	$141,765	-
Least Expensive Home Sold	$15,000	$14,500
Most Expensive Home Sold	$390,000	$397,500
Price/ Sq. Ft.	$75.69	$73.70	+
Average Days of Market (DOM)	191	158	+
Total Active Inventory	1337	1386	-
Median Home Size	1742	1754
Median Number of Bedrooms	3	3
Median Number of Bathrooms	2	2

The information above starts to show the picture of the Sumter, SC market, but it isn't a complete picture. The number of homes sold in Sumter during June 2009 was 85 and in July that number increased to 106. This is the first time since June 2008 that the number of units sold in a month has been over 100! Many Realtors^®, are seeing the increase in buyer traffic. Also note on the chart that year to year, the number of units sold in July 2009 compared to July 2008 was actually higher. This is the first time we have seen this in a chart since 2006 numbers over 2005!

The total number of homes sold in 2009 has lagged behind the year to date total for 2008. As the numbers increase, we may see this gap narrowing.

While days on the market increased, it also meant homes that had been on the market for many months were receiving offers and being sold.

The number of new listings in Sumter decreased in July 2009. This is the lowest number of listings we have seen since January 2009. Listings are cyclical and historically July has been a month where more listings are seen on the market. The lower number may be the result of sellers marketing their homes sooner, but one month doesn't make a trend.

The Year To Date listings in the Sumter market appears to be leveling off more. If the trend continues, we should see fewer homes on the market over the next several months.

A combination of units sold during the month and the decrease in homes listed resulted in a downward movement of the total number of homes available. This is the first decrease we have seen since April 2009.

The median home price continues to increase over time in Sumter. The current price of $137,250 has only seen two months higher since January 2004. During the fall and winter of 2008-2009, we did see the median home price down, but in the past six months the median home prices have come back. Much of the fluctuation during these months was due to the mix of properties being sold.

The average price per sq. foot continued to climb in July as it had over the past six months. In comparing the price per square foot, you notice it closely mirrors the median home price. This would lead me to believe that we saw many investors buying lower priced homes over the fall and winter and more owner occupied properties being sold during the spring and summer.

Most areas in Sumter have been able to maintain their values during the National Housing Down Turn. This is just a reminder that all real estate is local. Every market is local and consumers must find an educated Realtors^® who understands the market to help them buy or sell a home.

Again, this market report is still evolving and I hope you are finding the information helpful. If you have any suggestions, please email me at kim@agentowned.com and I will see what I can do.

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtors^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty,

Heritage Group, Inc.

Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Serving all of Sumter County including Sumter, Dalzell, and Shaw Air Force Base area

Bookmark This Post For The Next Time You Think You Can't

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:26:54 -0500

For those of us who think they can't. We don't know what we can do until we try.

We might have to overcome a mental obstacle, but most of us have the physical ability and for that we are truly blessed. I would say DJ is blessed with the heart of a champion and an attitude to go with it.

Via Mike Jones (Tucson Mortgage Company, LLC):

My friend Kevin Wood lives and breathes golf. He shared this video with me. It's my pleasure to share it with you. It's the most encouraging story I've encountered this year.

Block out ten minutes. Take the phone off the hook. When it's over, bookmark it. Come back the next time your client bolts, and you feel like quitting the industry. Come back to it when that loan you were counting on is denied by the lender. Come back to it when your personal life takes an unexpected turn south. Come back to it when your broker announces that the doors are closing on a business into which you've poured your heart and soul.

Come back when you think you can't anymore. Because really...you can.

I'm Mike in Tucson, your preferred Tucson, AZ Mortgage lender.

Call me if I can help you with a purchase or refi mortgage;
(520) 349-9090

Photos copyright Mike in Tucson

Sumter, South Carolina Real Estate Market Update May 2009

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00:26 -0500

Wow, another month has gone by in the real estate market. Overall, we hear news that the markets are improving throughout many parts of the county and that is great news for many people especially sellers. And yes, I do mean real estate markets. Every state, county, town and subdivision is different so each is a market!

Buyers, now is the time to make the commitment and get off the fence. Uhm, aren't you getting sore from sitting on it for so long anyway? There is only 5 1/2 months left in the $8000 first time home buyers tax credit programs. Yeah, five months might seem like a long time, but remember plan for at least 30 days minimum to get your home closed and that is after locating one. As for the interest rate fluctuations, they are still great!!!! They may not be as low as they were a couple of months ago, but they are still historically low!

My market report this month is in transition. Please bear with me as I have added some charts and information. I am still working on the formats and working out the details but I wanted to get this information into a post so come back next month and I will hopefully have more bugs worked out in the formats.

As part of the new information, I have added the Monthly Median Sale Price and also Monthly Average $/Square Foot. These charts proved to be interesting. If you look at the data, you can see a direct relationship between the median sale price and $/square foot in January. The median sale price and average $/square foot dipped in January. We saw smaller, less expensive homes being sold and driving down both numbers. As we watch these charts over the next couple of months, I think we will see they continue to follow the same movements.

Days on Market is very important for sellers in planning moves. The Days on Market has increased over the past couple of years and continues fluctuate month to month. I do not see the days on market decreasing anytime in the near future for Sumter. It will be a gradual change as the number of listings decrease and the number of buyers increases.

In May there were a total of 153 new listings up from 151 in April. The new listings contributed to an overall increase in the number of active listing of 1363 at the end of May. This information was just added and will be continued on a monthly basis.

The number of units sold in May was 69 down from 72 in April and equal to the 69 units sold in March. June and July are traditionally the strongest selling months in Sumter County so we should expect to see these numbers increase the next two months.

I have added new charts this month and eliminated some other charts, but I hope you find the additions helpful. I am still working on tweaking the new charts and information so please bear with me on the changes. Hope to see you next month!

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtor^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty Co.

Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Serving all of Sumter County including Shaw Air Force Base

Wordless Wednesdays, Miss Maddie at Lake Keowee

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 06:28:45 -0500

This weekend we were able to visit Aunt Pam, Uncle Scott and Natalie at Lake Keowee in Oconee County. The really scary part was the swimsuit is a 12 month size and she is only 4 months!!!

Kim Peasley-Parker, AgentOwned Realty, 803-840-7519

Top 10 Reasons to Green Your Home

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:42:58 -0500

Emily covers the reasons to green your home very well. Her links are really useful in finding more information.

Via Emily Shapiro (AgentOwned Park Circle):

1.     Guests always comment on the nice breezes going through your home...but your windows and doors are all shut. http://www.greenhomeguide.com/index.php/knowhow/entry/974/C236

2.     Your monthly visits to the allergist are starting to cost about as much as your mortgage payment. http://www.earthcrafthouse.com/documents/abn/abnjuly07.pdf or http://www.greenhome.com/info/articles/fighting_allergies/5/

3.     No, the previous homeowner did not sponge paint your bathroom in brown - that's mold silly. http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/fix-leaks-fight-mold.html

4.     The office coffee is pretty bad, but you had to stop your morning trips to Starbucks so you could afford to pay your electric bill. http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/green-electricity/green-electricity-top-tips.html

5.     You decide to have a home inspection before you put your home on the market (good idea) but during the radon testing, the inspector darts out of your house without giving you an invoice. http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/hmbyguid.html

6.     You just spoke to your neighbor and your recent water bill is about the same - nice, but they just filled their pool last month. http://green.yahoo.com/blog/amorylovins/33/low-cost-ways-to-conserve-water-at-home.html

7.     Even the White House is doing it! http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29944122/

8.     You've calculated that your carbon footprint alone is bigger than that of the First Family living in the White House. http://www.nature.org/initiatives/climatechange/calculator

9.     You can't take a hot shower while your dishwasher is running. http://www.thedailygreen.com/going-green/tips/tankless-water-heaters-460225

10.    It will help you feel better about the future! http://www.charityguide.org/volunteer/fifteen/greenhouse-effect.htm

More Useful Links:

The 10 easiest ways to green your home:

http://realestate.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=13107876

How to go green home buying:

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/home-buying

Green Home Environmental Store:

http://www.greenhome.com/

EarthCraft House certification:

http://www.earthcrafthouse.com/About/criteria.htm

I love my new perfume....

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sun, 24 May 2009 18:31:08 -0500

I waited many years and had much heart ache to become a Mom. But today I realized that one of the sweetest parts of my new role in life is my new perfume. Oh, it isn't anything fancy, but to my nose it is as sweet as any fancy, smancy designer perfumes people are paying outragous amounts of money for at stores I don't even dare look at the door!

My perfume varies by the day and more realistically by the hour. I might leave the house smelling like Irish Spring or Zest or it might be Johnson's and Johnson's Baby Lotion. A couple of hours later, it might be eau de formulay (said like olay, for-mu-lay) or something worse. The something worse days has only been a couple of times, but the eau de formulay days seems to be occuring frequently. I have to say, it doesn't bother me.

So the next time you walk up to me and smell something. Realize it is a designer fragrance, created by the magical Miss Maddie. It is also a fragrance that her mom wears with great pride and wouldn't trade it for anything!

PS if you let me be your Realtor, you will more than likely get to meet Miss Maddie along the way!

Kim Peasley-Parker, Realtor, AgentOwned Realty, Heritage Group, Inc. Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

President Obama is Committed to Creating the Most Open and Accessible Administration in American History-Oh Yeah?

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Thu, 21 May 2009 14:52:47 -0500

Midori's blog is so correct. Please pass the message along and help Washington to hear what is happening with real people.

Via Midori Miller-Daytona Beach Florida Real Estate Trainer (CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty):

I received yet another call on a seller who needs to do a short sale..as I heard the story I couldn't help but want to help...because its the same story over and over again.

Their life happened

You see they bought this house 5 years ago....both husband and wife are sick..so sick..they can't work...they are lucky to have food...fortunately they managed to stash a few bucks....well the bucks are running out and so is their time in their home. Do people realize the expense of chemotherapy even with medical insurance?

They attempted a loan modification and again same story...the lender will not cooperate..one of the big boys that received their Bail Out!

I was really thinking do these people in Washington really understand what people are going through..hell what we as real estate agents are going through...trying to help people who want help but with little cooperation.

We tend to write many great articles here...reporting the facts in many cases...we tend to express our opinion but really what good is it doing? We can all do more......

There are 147,199 members on the network....and with the amazing google juice...the prominence this network has...maybe we should be blasting the white house with story after story...by posting...reblogging and sharing it with the white house.

You really want to make a difference...well Obama wants to hear from you...at least that is what the White House claims....

CONTACT US

President Obama is committed to creating the most open and accessible administration in American history.

While some may think this is not your fight in truth it is everyone...its impacting...you...me and many others. With empty houses...property values....and more broken dreams, uncooperative lenders, ridiculous time lines and the excessive cost to taxpayers today, tomorrow and the future.

Sometimes all it takes...is that one extra voice...contact the white house today!

About The Author: Midori Miller is a Real Estate Trainer and writes and trains Real Estate Training and assists sellers in short sale situations. Midori is a Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker, License # BK645709 and a member of the Daytona Area Association of REALTORS. Contact midorimiller@yahoo.com or (386)453-3236.

Tweeting Dr. Twitter

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Tue, 19 May 2009 05:52:03 -0500

Wow, how fast is Twitter moving into the main stream of our lives. This morning on the news I hear about a child's transplant where the family was kept informed through out the surgery of the progress via Twitter! The surgery involved a kidney transplant which is labor intensive and the family followed along in the waiting area via Twitter.

My real surprise was when I googled "Twitter surgery" and came up with over 3000+ results! It seems many hospitals have implemented this practice to keep families up to date. Here is a link to the article about the surgery at the Children's Hospital in Texas. Twitter in Surgery

I think back to a surgery that my husband had last year and wish the hopsital Tweeted surgeries. I was alone waiting for my husband for several hours and talk about nerve wracking! Having updates via Twitter sure would have helped me remain calm.

I think we are just beginning to see the use of Twitter. If a hospital can Twitter a surgery, what can we do with it as agents, brokers, mortgage, inspectors...

Wordless Wednesdays

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:34:00 -0500

Ok, I think this qualifies as a Wordless Wednesday as no actual words are spoken. If you do understand them, please let me know!

Kim Peasley-Parker

AgentOwned Realty

Sumter, SC

Cell 803-840-7519

Sumter, SC Real Estate Market Update April 2009

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Tue, 12 May 2009 08:48:50 -0500

Sumter, SC Real Estate Market Update April 2009

First let me apologize about being so bad about doing market reports this year. About the time I should have been doing February’s report, I had another project going on. The project was 7 lbs 2 oz and 19 ½” long and totally adorable. J Madeline Marie was born on February 2^nd, healthy and happy and that is all that mattered to her mom and dad. Mom went back to work February 12^th and hasn’t slowed down since. I have listed several homes, done several competitive market analysises and also had several transactions close. So I am trying my best to get back on track ya’ll. Bear with me!

The Sumter real estate market had a slow winter. Normally winters are slower, but our December, January and February were slower than normal. In December the number of pendings dipped to 94 and that showed in the number of units sold (closed) in January. I am posting a chart of the data below so you can see the numbers. After a slow winter, the numbers have shown an increase in March and April. The number of units sold and pending (under contract) has increased and this is good news. The number of phone calls for showings has also increased, but we are seeing a little slower activity in May. Showings do have a tendency to slow in May due to the end of the school year and many people being busy wrapping up the school year.

Month	Units Sold in Month	Pendings	New Listings
December 2008	57	94	107
January 2009	49	114	114
February 2009	57	127	163
March 2009	69	139	181
April 2009	72	152	151

The charts for Units Sold Per Month, Listings per Month and YTD Listings are included below. You can compare 2009 to prior years and see that we are off to a slow start. Will we catch up to prior years? It is hard to tell, but right now I would say no. But that doesn't mean it will be a horrible year. Sumter is still looking forward the the 3rd Army Headquarter relocation to Shaw Air Force Base and also the Shaw AFB PCS season has not yet gotten into full swing.

There are two questions after all this data. First, is it a good time to list my home for sale? My answer is if you need to sell, yes it is. As a seller, you need to make sure your home is ready to sell. The house needs to be spic and span and organized throughout and be ready to market. The competition is tough and you need to be ahead of them in order to get the buyer to make an offer. I wrote a series of blogs about houses selling in Sumter and what they have in common. (Are Houses Selling in Sumter?) Second, is it a good time to buy a home? YES!!!! No one has a crystal ball to say what the future holds, but it is an excellent time to purchase a home. We are seeing mortgage rates at record lows. No one has any idea how long they will stay there, so strike while the iron is hot. (This includes refinancing if you are remaining in the home.) Also if you are a first time home buyer, you can qualify for up to $8000 First Time Homebuyers Tax Credit. This credit doesn't have to be repaid like the 2008 tax credit, unless you sell the home in less than three years. If there is a chance you might sell the home before the three years, there are options to help you.

2009 promises to be another interesting year in Sumter, South Carolina as far as real estate. The best thing that both buyers and sellers can do is research, ask questions and deal with a professional who understands the market and keeps up to date on the trends.

If you would like any specific information about a segment of the market please feel free to contact me at 803-840-7519. I would be happy to talk with you about your real estate needs and concerns.

Kim Peasley-Parker, AgentOwned Realty, www.SumterHomePros.com

FREE Shred It Event at SAFE Federal Credit Union

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sun, 10 May 2009 07:43:56 -0500

Shred It Event in Sumter

Many people have been a victim to identity theft and now SAFE Federal Credit Union is sponsering a "Shred It" event at their Administration facility. Members and community residents can participate. Each person is allowed to bring up to four boxes of personal documents for shredding. Items that are suggested include financial statements, concelled checks, credit card statements, credit card pre-approval letters, payroll stubs, insurance forms, old tax returns, and forms from doctors' offices.

The event in Sumter is:

Saturday, May 16th

160 W. Wesmark, Blvd

9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Identify theft costs everyone and the numbers are staggering. Per SAFE's information, loses to Americans alone are estimated at $40 billion annually! Protect your credit and your future!

Thank you to SAFE for sponsering this event!

Red, White and Blue Friday!

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Fri, 08 May 2009 15:06:23 -0500

It's another Friday at AgentOwned Realty. That means it support the troops Friday in support of our troops everyone at AgentOwned is asked to wear red white and blue. It's a very simple way to show our recognition and support of our troops that are out protecting our freedoms every day.

Madeline is now three months old and is helping to support the troops. This outfit is becoming her Friday outfit. We will do our best to raise Madeline to be a patriotic citizen.

To read more about the AgentOwned effort to support our troops please visit Liz Loadholt's blog about our efforts

Please join us next Friday in support of our groups and where your red white and blue.

Are Homes Selling in Sumter? Yes!!!!!! Part 1

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sat, 02 May 2009 19:27:19 -0500

What does it take to sell your home in Sumter? This is a question that I often hear. I like any other agent have had some homes linger on the market to suddenly sell right before their expiration of the Listing Agreement. I have also had homes sell very quickly. The properties that sell quickly have several common threads among them... You have probably heard this before if you have listed a home, watched the shows on tv or read on the internet, but here goes....

A house for sale is different than a home to live in. When we live in a home we like to be surrounded by our personal items, family photographs, treasured family heirlooms, all the stuff we Americans like to collect. When a buyer goes to purchase a home, what don't they like to see? Your stuff. Yes, some buyers like to see how you have it decorated, but when buyers are looking at that, they are not focusing on where to put their tv and couch, how to arrange their bedroom suite, or how the dining room table will fit in the dining room. If possible, pack up as many personal items as possible and store them in the attic, a storage unit, a friend's house or the garage. I know you don't like living this way. Right now you are trying to get rid of your home. When you decide to sell, your home becomes a house, a property for sale. A property that is competing with all the other properties out there. Now is the time to detach yourself from the house and property, and change your mindset. You are now living in someone else's home. You hope anyway. How do they want to see the home?
Other Blogs in Selling Your Home Series:
I hope you have enjoyed this information and the series of posts about selling your home. For a free consultation or for more information, please contact me at 803-840-7519. I can also provide a free Competitive Market Analysis for pricing information on your house.

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtor^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty

Heritage Group, Inc.

Cell 803-840-7519

Fax 853-725-6506

www.SumterHomePros.com

Are Homes Selling in Sumter? Yes!!!!!! Part 2

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sat, 02 May 2009 19:16:59 -0500

DIV>

This is the post 2 of a series of posts about selling your home.

What does it take to sell your home in Sumter? This is a question that I often hear. I like any other agent have had some homes linger on the market to suddenly sell. I have also had homes sell very quickly. The properties that sell have several common threads among them... You have probably heard this before if you have listed a home, watched the shows on tv or read on the internet, but here goes....

Maximize space Does your house feel crowded? Does it feel small? Did it feel that way when you purchased the home? Chances are while you have lived in your home you have accumulated stuff. Good, bad or indifferent most people accumulate stuff. If your home feels crowded to you, it will feel crowded to a buyer. If it is the furniture, what can you live without? Do you need the ottoman in the middle of the room? How about that coffee table? Too many book shelves? Book shelves that are full of books, CDs and DVDs? Time to pare down what you need and keep the basic necessities. If you watch all those DVD's pick a few and rotate the ones that you have out, put the remainder in a good storage location. When you clean out your storage location you might find several things you didn't think you could live without you actually can or it will be like Christmas as you are reunited with items you have missed. Another suggestion for thining things out, have a garage sale or moving sale. Call it what you want, but gather the items and then have a sale one weekend. And hey, we can all do with a little extra cash!

Keep a home neutral. We all have our own tastes in colors for a home. Sometimes a unique color will sell in a property, but normally that color needs to be neutral. I had an opportunity to show a buyer my client's home this week. They were not my clients' but due to a scheduling conflict their agent asked me to show them the home again after they wrote the contract. The home had dark sage walls in the Great Room. The buyers' told me they liked the color. The color was neutral though. If the color had not been neutral, I would have stongly suggested repainting the room.

Other Blogs in Selling Your Home Series:

I hope you have enjoyed this information and the series of posts about selling your home. For a free consultation or for more information, please contact me at 803-840-7519. I can also provide a free Competitive Market Analysis for pricing information on your house.

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtor^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty

Heritage Group, Inc.

Cell 803-840-7519

Fax 853-725-6506

www.SumterHomePros.com

Are Homes Selling in Sumter? Yes!!!!!! Part 3

Kim Peasley-Parker (AgentOwned Realty) — Sat, 02 May 2009 19:13:37 -0500

This is the post 3 of a series of posts about selling your home.

Clean, clean, clean Yes, you will have to keep the house spic and span at all times. I know this is hard, but remember the goal is now to make someone else want to buy your home! How clean is clean enough? This is tough, everyone's definition of clean is different. Given that, how clean is clean enough. Clean until there is nothing else left to clean. Not only do you need to clean the floors, walls, trim, appliances, inside of cabinets, closets and anything pertaining to the structure. You also need to make sure your furnishings are clean and everything else in the house is also clean. Scratched up coffee table? Use something to cover the scratches! Worn out chair? Remove it or cover it with a slip cover. Why you might ask? These are personal possessions that will be moving with me? These items lead to the overall impression of the home. If you have a filthy living room suite, is the house really all that clean? It is the little things that make the difference in the feel of if a home is clean or not so clean... And please look up at the ceiling and remember to change the filter for the heat and air.

Other Blogs in Selling Your Home Series:

Kim Peasley-Parker

Realtor^®/Shareholder

AgentOwned Realty

Heritage Group, Inc.

Cell 803-840-7519

Fax 853-725-6506