Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468's Blog

The Holidays Are a Great Time to List Your Colorado Springs Home!

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:53:11 -0800

The Holidays Are a Great Time To List Your Colorado Springs Home!

If you need to sell your home in Colorado Springs, but think you should wait until after the holidays, you may want to reconsider. Here are the top 5 reasons why it may be beneficial for you to list your home during the holidays:

1. Quantity vs. Quality- I am talking about buyers. If your home is listed during the holidays, you

may have less traffic, but the buyers that come for a visit are usually very serious buyers.

2. LESS INVENTORY ON THE MARKET- This means less competition for you! A lot of sellers during

this time take their homes off the market until spring. If you list now, you may be one

of five in a buyer's criteria search, rather than one of thirty later.

3. Holiday decorations- Your house will show well and evoke emotions when it is tastefully

decorated for the holidays. Caution- Don't overdo the decorations and knick-knacks-

Keep it simple.

4. Relocation- Just like summer, this is a popular time for people to relocate for new jobs

for the new year. Families with children sometimes choose the holidays to relocate

before the new semester at school begins.

5. Taxes- Some buyers will want to buy for tax purposes before the end of the year.

Bonus reasons:

Great Service- Since holiday time is typically slower for house sales, you should get excellent service from your Realtor (always!!!), lender, Title Company, Inspector, etc...
Some buyers rarely get time off, and now have time to do serious house hunting.
Mortgage rates are lower than ever!

Also, remember that you have the ability to restrict showings for a couple of days if you are having guests, a party, etc...

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Colorado Springs housing market

Colorado Springs Market Report YTD Ending October 31, 2012

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:13:53 -0800

Colorado Springs Market Report YTD Ending Oct. 31, 2012

Here are the latest statistics from the Pikes Peak MLS presented by Bill McAfee at Empire Title.

The market in Colorado Springs is showing a lot of positive signs.

Avg. sales price is UP

Number of sales compared to last year is UP

Inventory is below average

Interest rates are at a RECORD LOW

It is a great time to BUY!

Check out the YOUTube video from Bill

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Cordera Colorado Springs Market Market Report

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 14:18:46 -0800

Cordera Neighborhood Colorado Springs Market Report

Cordera is a master planned community in the north eastern part of Colorado Springs. It has single family homes from various local builders ranging in price from the $300’s to the $800’s. Cordera currently has 150 home sites currently available.

The builders in Cordera Colorado Springs are: Campbell Homes, Keller Homes, Saddletree Homes, Symphony Homes, and Vantage Homes. Each builder offers 2 story and ranch plans.

Market Report for Cordera Colorado Springs YTD ending Nov. 15, 2012

Homes Sold- 54

Price range of homes sold-$316,004-$520,000

Average Price of homes sold- $392,699

Average Days on Market for homes sold was 117 days

Average Price per sq. ft. for homes sold was $109

Homes Currently Active in Cordera Colorado Springs (as of Nov. 15, 2012)

24 homes are available

Price range of homes available is $305,350-$509,950

Average price of homes available- $389,829

Average Price per sq. ft. of homes available- $111

Homes Currently with Sales Pending in Cordera Colorado Springs (as of Nov. 15, 2012)

11 homes are under contract ranging from $325,650-$430,109

If you are interested in seeing any of the homes available in Cordera Colorado Springs, or if you would like more information give Kristi a call at 719-459-5468

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Pleasant Valley, Colorado Springs-Homes Sold Year to Date

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 12:43:50 -0800

Pleasant Valley Neighborhood-Colorado Springs, Colorado

Pleasant Valley is a quiet neighborhood on the west side of Colorado Springs. It is located next to Garden of the Gods Park, Rock Ledge Ranch and Old Colorado City. Can you say Location, Location Location?

The school district for Pleasant Valley is D-11 and the direct feeder schools for the neighborhood are Howbert Elementary, Holmes Middle School and Coronado High School.

Built mostly in the 1950s, the homes have a charm about them. The townhomes in the neighborhood were built in the 1990s. Many people who live in Pleasant Valley tell me that you can't beat the "community feel" of the neighborhood. Within Pleasant Valley, is Valley Swim Club where a lot of the residents like to spend time in the summer. This is a private club where you can obtain a membership for a fee.

Market Report for Pleasant Valley- Colorado Springs YTD up to November 12, 2012

I represent buyers and sellers in Pleasant Valley neighborhood. If you are looking to sell your Pleasant Valley home, give me a call. My last 2 sold properties in Pleasant Valley were under contract within a week of listing.

HOMES SOLD IN PLEASANT VALLEY- 27 single family homes ranging from $130,000-$410,000. The average home price YTD in Pleasant Valley for homes sold is $211,817.

The average Sq. Ft. range of homes sold in Pleasant Valley- 1209 sq. ft- 4200 sq. ft. with a Price per sq. ft. average of $100 per sq. ft.

The average Days on Market for homes sold in Pleasant Valley- 104 days.

There are currently 7 homes for sale in Pleasant Valley, Colorado Springs ranging in price from $124,900 for 1027 sq. ft. to $699,900 for 5342 sq. ft.

7 homes are currently pending sale as of Nov. 12, 2012.

Below are some pictures of the neighborhood:

Garden of the Gods is within walking distance

Many mature trees line the streets

Typical Home in Pleasant Valley

A typical rancher in Pleasant Valley

The view of Pleasant Valley from 30th Street

Neighborhood Park in Pleasant Valley

Rock Ledge Ranch is also within walking distance

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Does Less Sleep Equal More Success?

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 21:09:12 -0800

Does Less Sleep Equal More Success?

I have often heard that some of the most successful people inf the world require less sleep. There is a very popular motivation speaker for the younger crowd who thinks so. Eric Thomas, known as The Hip Hop Preacher, claims to get up at 3:00 am every day. This man was a high school drop out and homeless and now speaks to NFL teams and most recently did the NBA voice-over for the new season.

He claims that "Sleep is For Suckers!" He also says that he started to become successful once he decided to sleep less. My kids love him. Since listening to him, I have done a little more research into the sleep of the ultra-successful. It seems he is on to something.

Here is what I found out about the sleep requirements of some super successful people:

Historical Figures that slept very little- Thomas Edison and Ben Franklin both slept less than 5 hours per night.

Current Successful People:

Marissa Mayer (CEO of YAHOO) 4-6 hrs per night.

Donald Trump- 3-4 hours

Kelly Ripa- Claims to be a night owl with a bedtime of 1:00 a.m. and and early bird getting up at 6:00 a.m.

Jay Leno- 5 hours

Tom Ford (Fashion Designer)-3 hours!

Martha Stewart- Just 4 hours

Bill Clinton- 5 to 6 hours

So- Does it mean that in order to be super duper successful you have to sleep less? Does it mean that those that get 8 hours per night can't be as successful? I don't think so. I do think that if I had 3 to 4 more hours in my day to be productive that I could get do much more done. Especially if it was the uninterrupted hours when everyone else was asleep!

Another fact- Our own super star, Loreena Yeo, says she sleeps on average of 5 hours per night. HMMMM... Maybe there is something to this!

Here is my challenge to myself for the rest of the year and maybe it will become a habit. I know I can't do 4 to 5 hours per night, but I CAN get up one hour earlier each day. I am going to set my alarm earlier and devote that hour to productive things! Does anyone want to take the challenge? Thought???

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

I Had a Skeleton In My Closet~Is it Time to Clean Out Your Closet?

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Sat, 10 Nov 2012 12:29:08 -0800

Is it time to clean out your closet? This is not a metaphor;I mean, is it really time to clean it out? I have lived in my current home for over 10 years. I am very diligent about keeping my kids' closets clean. They grow so much, so I pretty much donate everything they grow out of once a year.

For some reason, I have been avoiding my own closet. It is a walk-in closet, but it is not huge. My husband and I share this space, and like most couples, I get most of the closet being the female. Over the past few months my closet has gotten out of control. This is hard for me because I like to be organized. There is just too much JUNK in the closet!

I have been asking my husband to help me clean out this crazy closet and he finally agreed. It was getting so bad that I couldn't find a single thing and I would find myself spending way too much time digging for things.

The process is over (and 9 bags to Goodwill later), I feel free! I literally feel like a huge weight has been lifted. It is great to simplify things. I finally did what I tell my sellers to do every time I list a home.

Here is how I did it. It really didn't take as long as I expected.

1. I pulled everything out of the closet and put in the bedroom. Wow- this was a task.

2. To make it back into the closet, I had to have worn it in the past year-no exceptions. I threw out everything that I was saving "just in case."I had 6 pairs of black pants, but really only wore 2 of them.

3. Once everything was out of the closet, I vacuumed and cleaned all areas. I put all the shoes back in place. I then put the clothes that made the cut back in.

4. I refolded everything on the shelves and put back neatly.

It looks like we hardly have anything in our closet compared to the way it was before, but in reality, most people only wear about 1/4 of the clothes hanging in the closet. It has also saved me time in the morning trying to find that one black shoe that always seems to be missing.

Another thing I realized when cleaning out my closet is that my husband has more shoes than I do. That is really good to know. I really must rectify this situation!

And yes, I really did find a skeleton in my closet. I got him out and now life is good!

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Forest Meadows Colorado Springs-Homes For Sale-Market Report YTD

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:18:43 -0800

Forest Meadows Colorado Springs- Homes for Sale and Market Report

Forest Meadows Homes for Sale

As of November 9, 2012

Forest Meadows in Colorado Springs has 23 Active homes for sale

13 Homes are being offered as new construction and 10 are resale homes.

The active homes that are being offered range in square ft. from 2017-3527

The price of homes currently offered in Forest Meadows ranges from $186,500-$295,000 with an average of $234,827

Pending Homes for Sale in Forest Meadows

As of November 9, 2012

13 homes are currently pending. 2 of the pending sales are short sales and 9 are new construction

Homes Sold Year to date In Forest Meadows Colorado Springs

As of Nov. 9, 2012

Homes sold- 43

New Construction homes sold- 16

Range of Price of homes sold- $180,553-$340,000

Average Price of Homes sold- $235,357 (up from $231K in 2011)

Square Footage range of homes sold- 1650 sq. ft.-4653 sq. ft.

Avg. sq. ft. of homes sold- 2918

Days on Market Avg. for Homes Sold in Forest Meadows-139

Some of the builders in Forest Meadows include:

St. Aubyn Homes, Today’s Homes, Aspen View Homes, Legendary Homes, and more.

(If you would like information regarding any of the new current inventory of these homes give Kristi a call today at 719-459-5468.)

Below is a shot of some of the new construction of Forest Meadows with Pikes Peak in the background.

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Thoughts- Homes in Forest Meadows are selling! Buyers have a choice to go with new construction for a home or chose from an existing home.

IF you are looking to buy a new home in Forest Meadows in Colorado Springs, or sell your existing home, give Kristi a call today at 719-459-5468

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Wagon Trails, Colorado Springs-Year To Date-Market Report-Homes Sold

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:15:03 -0800

Wagon Trails, Colorado Springs-Year To Date Report- Homes Sold-Market Report (Ending Nov. 1, 2012)

Wagon Trails is a community in the NE part of Colorado Springs. In Wagon Trails, you will find different styles of homes as well as prices. Most homes were built in the early 2000’s.

Market Report for Homes Sold and Homes for Sale in Wagon Trails for 2011

Number of homes Sold- 56 (only 46 sold in 2011!)

Average Price of Homes Sold-$242,679 (up from $220,000 in 2011)

Average days on market for homes sold- 95 (102 days in 2011)

Average Price per Sq. Ft. Sold- $90

1 Short Sale is currently under contract.

Active Homes In Wagon Trails, Colorado Springs

11 homes currently active- As of Nov. 7, 2012

Homes currently for sale in Wagon Trails range from $179,000-$429,000

Average price for home currently for sale in Wagon Trails-$273,000

Price per Sq. Ft. List Price average is $94.843

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Here is a map of all of the different studios you can visit

What's Happening in Colorado Springs? Pikes Peak Studio Tour

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:33:15 -0800

The 10th Annual Pikes Peak Studio Tour Presents
Fine Art and Grand Crafts
by Pikes Peak region artists

This Weekend, mark your calendars. If you are a lover of art you won't want to miss this event in Colorado Springs. It reminds me of a "Parade of Homes" type of event within the art world.

19 artists, 17 studios over 2 days!

Each Studio will have an art sale and refreshments. Credit cards accepted. No cost for entry.

Dates:

November 10 10-5

November 11 11-4

You will find on this tour everything from artwork to jewelry. I personally know a couple of these artists and you won't be disappointed!

Meet the artists and get a look at what you will see from each one.

Also, you can enter to win free art at each studio.

If you have any questions before the event- 719-440-7403

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

I Took My Kid Out Of School Today To Go Vote With Me

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 14:36:13 -0800

Last night my 13 year-old son asked if he could miss school today. He wasn't feeling that great, but not really bad enough to stay home from school. He was just really tired and had a stuffy nose. I proposed to him that if he were to stay home he would go with me to vote. He was excited about that idea. His grades are great so I figured what the heck, I would let him stay home and go with me.

I figured a day with me going to a polling place and me explaining the electoral college to him would be a great learning experience. I honestly didn't understand it until I was an adult. His school has gone on so many different field trips, and I considered this a field trip with me.

We got up and went to the polling place. There was a very long line. The line went out of the building and down the sidewalk. He gladly stood in line with me for an hour and then they actually let him watch me vote. We read each item together and I explained why I was voting the way I did on each item. He seemed to understand and even gave his input on a couple of the items. After voting, we went out to lunch.

I had a great day with my son and I want him to realize what a great country we live in and what a privilege and responsibility it is to know what is going on around you and be involved in this great democracy.

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Wolf Ranch Colorado Springs Market Update Year To Date 2012

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 17:18:34 -0800

Homes are selling in Wolf Ranch!

Market report for Wolf Ranch YTD (ending October 31, 2012).

Homes currently active in Wolf Ranch- 31

Active single family homes range from $284,900 to $406,900 with an average price of $347,472

Homes Pending in Wolf Ranch (as of October 31, 2012)

Wolf Ranch currently has 3 homes pending for sale ranging from $301,000-$359,000.

Homes sold Year To Date (as of October 31, 2012) for Wolf Ranch

53 homes have sold year to date ranging from $252,000-$560,000 with an average price of $352,802.

Average Days on Market for Homes Sold in Wolf Ranch -127

Average Price Per Square foot for homes sold- 99

IF you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Wolf Ranch, give Kristi a call today at 719-459-5468

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Good Listing Photos Equals More Business

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 11:51:18 -0700

I recently closed a transaction with a very lovely couple that relocated here this month. They told me that one of the reasons that they chose me was because I had good photos on my listings at the time they researched me. Wow! I knew those photos were important to my sellers and also to get the home sold, but I didn't think of a buyer using those photos as criteria for a good buyer's agent.

They explained that I had several photos that really showed the property. They also said that their pet-peeve was agents who only upload one photo (mine too!). They expressed that they could tell the professionalism of an agent by the photos they posted to their listings.

Our MLS allows 16 photos and I always try to upload the maximum number. Sometimes it is challenging if the home is not very "photo-worthy." Now, our MLS has just updated to allow 25 photos. I know it will be hard to find 25 things to take photos of in some homes, but it will be very beneficial to future buyers.

So, I will continue to spend the extra time taking my photos and remember this amazing couple that chose me because I do so.

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

The official website for the Beer Festival

What's Happening in Colorado Springs This Weekend? CO Beer Festival!

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 11:25:34 -0700

The 2012 All Colorado Beer Festival

Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend in Colorado Springs and raise money for charity? Then you should check out the All Colorado Beer Festival.

Where: Freedom Financial Services Expo Center

Address: 3650 N. Nevada Ave.

Date: Saturday, November 3rd, 2012

Session 1: 1pm – 4:30pm
Session 2: 6:30pm – 10pm

VIP Access Available For:
Session 1 at 12pm
Session 2 at 5:30p

Tickets to the Festival
     $40 for VIP Passes

     $30 ($25 with military ID) for General Admission

     $10 for Designated Driver Tickets (no beer, free soft drinks)

The VIP Pass and the General Admission tickets include as many 2-oz. beer samples as you can responsibly consume. Discounts offered apply only to General Admission tickets. There are no discounted VIP passes or Designated Driver Tickets.

Proceeds of the festival will benefit THEATREWORKS, Home Front Cares, and the Empty Stocking Fund.

No one under 21 will be allowed to enter the Festival venue.

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

The Top 10 Things MLS Photos Should NEVER Include

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:42:54 -0700

This is a great list of what NOT to include by a someone who knows- a Stager! Thanks to Kathy Nielsen in Atlanta for such a comprehensive list. I see these things in MLS photos daily among other crazy things.

Via Kathy Nielsen Atlanta Georgia Home Stager (http://atlantahomestaging.net):

The Top 10 26 Things MLS Photos Should NEVER Include:

Based on some incredible comments, this list now extends beyond the top 10 and now sits at 26! Thanks everyone for adding suggestions in your comments! This may end up being the most conclusive list of items NOT to include in your MLS photos.

Special thanks to Randy Lindis who added several.

Trash cans - Inside and outside. Let's face it, trash cans are not appealing.

Cars in driveways - I once viewed pictures on the Internet only to relay back to the seller that I know what his license plate number is. He wasn't happy.

Cars in garages - A garage will look far more spacious without the cars.

Unmade beds - Buyers are beginning their search for their home on the Internet. Your unmade bed will hardly draw the buyers into the home.

Tissue boxes, sprays, toilet bowl scrubbers in the bathrooms.

Pets - Your pets are not for sale. Your house is.

Dead plants - they're simply not the most attractive thing. On top of that, it shows a sign of neglect.

Names on walls - sure the room may be theirs now. However, you want buyers to envision it being their room

People - They, too, are not for sale (smile).

You, the picture taker in the mirror. I see this mostly in bathrooms. I get that most bathrooms are small. However, you can kneel to take the photo.

Toilet seat up - If your photo must include the toilet (and sometimes, there's just no avoiding it), make sure the lid of the seat is put down.

Time/Date stamp on the photo - and like Brian Kuhns says below in the comments, this is ever a good idea unless the house sells within 5 days or less.

TV's on in the background - this can be extremely distracting.

Magnets and clutter on fridge - Eyesores, I tell ya. Eyesores.

Children's toys scattered about - This applies to the inside as well as the outside.

Dirty towels in bathrooms - It literally takes less than a minute to place the towels in the laundry.

Dirty clothes - especially in the bedrooms.

Family photos - As Steve Warrene Butler points out, the MLS photos will be all over the Internet. For safety precautions, it's simply makes sense to remove them.

Flash reflecting from mirrors - I too have seen photos where this has happened. It simply doesn't make for a "great" picture.

Dirty dishes in sink and/or counter tops - There's nothing appealing about seeing dirty dishes. Heck, even clean dishes in the dish drain doesn't look good. Simply put - make sure all dishes are taken care of.

Window glare - Seems minor. However, it can also be distracting.

Gun cabinets and guns - for safety reasons, you'll not want these on display in your photos.

Jewelry and jewelry cabinets - as you never know who might be searching the Internet for items such as these.

Large liquor displays - Great that you like liquor. However, some people don't.

High-end electronics - this one may not be as easy to NOT photograph. However, if they can be avoided, great.

Nudity in artwork - may be viewed by a potential buyer as distasteful.

This top 10 things MLS photos should never include was created based on my own experience as a professional home stager in Atlanta. As you can see, the list has now grown to 20 based on the comments.

Feel free to add to the list!

Update: The list will continue to grow based on the ever-supportive and oh-so-knowledgeable Active Rainers!

Home Staging Atlanta - Kathy Nielsen - 678 522 8392

RESA Professional Stager of the Year - Southern Region 2011

This Atlanta home stager understands what it takes to separate your home or listing from the others on the market. Armed with a massive inventory, we can add the furniture and accessories befitting the style of the home as well as the demographics of the buyer. We also provide our after pictures at no additional charge.

Our Atlanta home staging services have helped hundreds of sellers secure a contract quickly. Visit our website at http://atlantahomestaging.net to see first-hand the solutions for selling your home, listing or flipped property. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by emailing Kathy at Kathy@HomeStagingAtlanta.com or by calling 678 522 8392. We've got the furniture and accessories your home needs!

PR: wait... I: wait... L: wait... LD: wait... I: wait... wait... Rank: wait... Traffic: wait... Price: wait... C: wait...

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M506L4QJUH8

Colorado Springs Market is Improving! Market Report for 2012 YTD

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 09:06:25 -0700

Here is our Year to date comparison of 2011 to 2012. The market is improving!

2012 YTD vs. 2011 YTD

• Average Price UP 3.2%

• Median Price UP 5.1%

• Residential Units Sold UP 8.2%

• Inventory Levels Down 27.3%

• Number of Listings Down 21.7%

• Foreclosures UP 3.3%

• Interest Rates are at historic lows

If you want to see a goofy Halloween video describing the market click the link below:

Courtesy of Bill McAfee from Empire Title aka Princess Leah!

Call me if you have any Real Estate Needs. I would love to help!

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Wolf Ranch Subdivision-Market Report-Homes For Sale in District 20

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 16:54:15 -0700

Wolf Ranch Subdivision-Market Report-Homes For Sale in District 20

Wolf Ranch, Colorado Springs-Market Report- Homes Sold- Year to Date ending Sept. 30, 2012.

Homes are selling in Wolf Ranch!

Market report for Wolf Ranch (ending March 31, 2012).

Homes currently active in Wolf Ranch- 32

Active single family homes range from $274,500 to $415,000 with an average price of $347,675

Homes Pending in Wolf Ranch (as of April 1, 2012)

Wolf Ranch currently has 4 homes pending for sale ranging from $318,000, to $367,000.

Homes sold first 3 quarters of 2012 for Wolf Ranch

50 homes have sold year to date ranging from $252,000-$560,000 with an average price of $352,920.

Average Days on Market for Homes Sold in Wolf Ranch 127

Average Price Per Square foot for homes sold- 98.4

IF you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Wolf Ranch, give Kristi a call today at 719-459-5468

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Woodstone Subdivision Market Report-Northwest Colorado Springs

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 16:32:32 -0700

Woodstone Subdivision Market Report-Northwest Colorado Springs

Woodstone News:

Real Estate Market Report- March 31, 2012

Homes are selling in Woodstone!

Statistics for the past quarter (ending September, 2012)

Number of Homes Sold Year to Date- 11

Average Price of home sold:

Sold Price- $292,000 Average

Range of Price of homes sold

$228K-$388K

Average Days on Market for Homes Sold- 126 (down from 188 first quarter!)

Average Price per Sq. Ft. Homes Sold- $95 per sq. ft. (up from 88 first quarter!

Available Homes in NW Colorado Springs- Woodstone (as of October 23, 2012)

Currently active- 3 homes

6 bdrm. /4 bath/2 car garage built in 1986 (3500 sq. ft.) $289,900

6 bdrm. /4bath/2 car garage built in 1988 (3537 sq. ft) $300,000

4 bdrm. /4 bath/3 car garage built in 1993 (4088 sq. ft.) $399,900

I am an active agent in Northwest Colorado Springs and Woodstone Subdivision. If you are thinking about selling your home in Woodstone, give me a call. If you would like to know the value of your home, I can do a free market analysis for you! Kristi- 719-459-5468

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

My Walking Companion-This is Why I Love My Neighborhood in Colorado!

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 15:41:24 -0700

I love walking in Colorado! While out on my walk yesterday, I pulled out my phone to take some photos of the leaves and all of the colors. I especially was looking up toward the mountain. When I turned the corner, this guy was right in front of me! I snapped the photo quickly and he jumped over the guardrail into the creek on the left.

I just love Colorado and the changing of seasons. I also love seeing beautiful animals like this in my neighborhood each day. I know the photo is a little blurry- it was taken very quickly from my phone. The weather is beautiful here in Colorado this week and the leaves are changing. Have a great week everyone!

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Dear Seller, what to do if you have 15 min to get ready for a showing!

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 17:15:43 -0700

These are some great tips from Tanja. It can be stressful showing your home for an extended period of time, but that extra effort really does help.

Via Tanja Cisliek (South Beaches Real Estate Professionals):

To prepare for having their home on the market, Sellers often invest lots of time and energy. The bathrooms and kitchen are scrubbed like never before, before the first Realtor is even invited for the listing appointment. The landscaping spruced up (we all know about the curb appeal!), and in general the property has never looked better than the day the home goes on the market.

And then life happens ... and the home is a mess. And the phone call comes: “Can the house be shown like right now, we are kind of already in the neighborhood!?”

Whatever the scenario, if you ever have only 15 minutes to get your property ready for a showing, here is what I would like my Sellers to do with those precious 15 min:

1.     Race through the house and pick up ANY dirty laundry. Get it off the floor, off the chairs, off the bathroom sink (wipe any toothpaste/hair off the vanity with a used towel, looks 100% better with 10 seconds of time investment). Put in laundry baskets, if they are full, put in trash bags in the garage, looks like you’re ready for trash day or donations! Nobody wants to see other people’s used undies. EVER.

2.     Make all the beds in the house. Straighten the pillows and sheets, put a blanket or throw on it. It is creepy and feels way too intimate for Buyers to view the Sellers’ unmade bed, they will be so distracted that they can't envision your bedroom as their own!

3.     If there are dirty dishes, put them in the dishwasher. Doesn't matter how you load them in, or if food is stuck to them, just store them in there to get them off the table and counter. If the dishwasher is full or you don’t have one, make sure all the dirty dishes are together in the sink, not spread out all over the kitchen. Buyers are visiting to see the kitchen, not to view an assortment of your used dishes.

4.     Take a plastic grocery bag or trash bag and stuff any paper and clutter that’s on your kitchen counter and table in it. Newspaper, coupons, mail, kid’s homework, kids lunch box, grocery list, etc. Hide in pantry, laundry room or worst case your car!

5.     As you are racing through the house, open blinds and turn on lights in darker rooms, or bathrooms without windows.

If there is time left:

6.     Grab disinfectant wipes. Start in master bathroom, grab a couple wipes and wipe the sink, the toilet seat and toilet rim (don’t forget the space behind the toilet lid, where little boys tend to somehow miraculously splatter!), put the lid down. Buyers and Agents sometimes have to go to the bathroom on tours, if anybody is attempting to use your bathroom while there, your toilet should be appealing.



7.     (Sparingly) spray some room freshener or Febreeze, in particular by the dirty laundry, which often has a smell of its own!.

8.     Vacuum or sweep the floor (Ok, I know, by now the doorbell is ringing!).

Last but not least:

9.        Put a smile on your face, and wave in a friendly manner as you are leaving the property for the Buyer and Agent to view your sparkling home in peace and quiet!

My personal opinion is that kids' toys and messes are being picked up last. Every Buyer knows that kids make a mess, that's excusable. Start picking up in the public areas of the house, living, dining, kitchen, then master bedroom/bathroom.

I have tested all of these tricks myself, mostly when friends or relatives are coming over “I’m out and about, just calling to see if you’re home, I’ll be there in a little bit!”. They do work. You will be amazed yourself what impact you made in such a short time. They make a hopelessly messy home look like a home that normal, pretty tidy people live in!

Buyers know you live here, they don’t expect a museum when visiting an occupied property. Good luck, and keep the trash bags and disinfectant wipes ready, you never know when that phone call comes ….!

Tanja Cisliek |Realtor ReachTanja@gmail.com www.RealtorTanja.com

A House is made with walls and beams .... a Home is made with Love and Dreams!

Call me today for all your real estatet needs! 727-480-4155

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Adorable Home With Cottage in Colorado Springs~Great Income Potential

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 13:03:45 -0700

316 W Harrison St Colorado Springs, CO 80907

MLS #: 797662

$199,000

4 bedrooms 2.00 bath

Adorable home with a 761 sq. ft. Cottage. Located on a corner lot and walking distance to Penrose Main. Home and Cottage both have updated kitchens. The main home has been newly updated with brand new carpet, vinyl flooring and fresh interior paint. All outside plumbing has been replaced. Both units have separate fenced in yard area. Excellent rental potential for both units. Don't miss this one!

View the Photos and Virtual Tour: Click Here

RE/MAX Advantage
Kristi DeFazio

Phone:
Mobile: 719-459-5468

This information is deemed reliable, but is not completely guaranteed. Buyer to verify all information.

E-mail: kdefazio64@msn.com

Equal Opportunity Housing

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

What Would You Grab From Your Home If Given Only 10 Minutes?

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 14:33:05 -0700

Last Month, my family was evacuated in the Waldo Canyon Fire. We were never under pre-evacuation orders. We knew the fire was close, but on June 26, when the fire erupted so wildly, we had no idea how bad it was going to get- and how fast.

We were lucky. We did not lose our home like so many that we know.

I had just gotten home from working and was home with my kids. My husband was at work on the other end of town. All of the sudden, we got the reverse 911 call to get out.

I started to panic a little and my 13 year old actually calmed me down. He took his phone and started video taping each room to document the "things" in the home. I was looking for things that can't be replaced. Some things were obvious:photos, videos, important papers, etc...

Beyond the pictures and papers needed, I looked around and realized pretty much everything could be replaced. I just had an urgency to get OUT with my family. I wasn't too worried about what I left behind.

While we were evacuated, so many friends and family members called and offered to help us and let us stay with them. My kids got a lesson that week. The important things in life really are not THINGS at all. They are the people who are in your life.

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Adorable D-20 Home on a HUGE Cul-De-Sac Lot-562 Tamarron

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 21:05:17 -0700

Adorable D-20 Home on a HUGE Cul-De-Sac Lot-562 Tamarron

4/3/2 2658 Sq.Ft

Great home in desirable Tamarron neighborhood. Offered at $249,000. Home is on a very large private cul-de-sac lot. New paint inside and out* New Carpet* All appliances in kitchen stay*Award winning D-20 Schools. To make an appointment to see this home, call Kristi DeFazio at 719-459-5468

Front Porch

Formal Living Room

Formal Dining with Access to Kitchen

Kitchen- All appliances stay.

Family Room with Fireplace

Large Basement Recreation Room

Huge Backyard with Privacy Fence

View of back of home from yard

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gWT5_lV9xk&feature=youtu.be

Colorado Springs Market Update June 2012

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:20:53 -0700

Colorado Springs Market Update June 2012

There is good news in the market in Colorado Springs. Demand is high and Supply is lower. Click on the link below from Bill McAfee from Empire Title to see the latest stats.

The market below $250,000 is in high demand. The market above $250,000 is improving. Interest rates are unbelievably low. If you are looking to buy or sell in this market, give me a call.

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468

Colorado Springs~ What's Going on in This Market?

Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:30:53 -0700

Colorado Springs~What's Going on in This Market?

I get asked almost daily, "How is the market?" Everything is local. and here in Colorado Springs we have a great market, an average market and a not so great market. What do I mean? Well, it all depends on what price point you are talking about.

Let me explain...

If you are looking to buy or sell in the price range below $250,000 we have less than 4 months (3.7) of inventory. That leans towards a seller's market. Now, if the home is in a desirable location and is in fantastic shape- it won't last long at all. I have had 2 sets of buyers "think about it" a littel too long lately in this market and miss out on different homes.

In this price point- Below $250K, sellers are getting 97.9% of asking price. The average seller concessions paid is about $4,000.

If you bump up to the $250,000-$350,000 price point, we have 6.1 months of inventory. Sellers are getting 97.5%. Seller concessions are about the same. These homes that are priced well and in great conditions as well as good locations, are also moving.

When you move up to $350,000-$500,000 the months of inventory goes up to 8 months with sellers getting about 95% of asking price.

The homes from $500,000-$750,000 have an 18 month supply of inventory. That is quite a bit different from our below $250K market. When you continue to go up in price, the months of inventory only gets longer.

Experts think that we will have appreciation in the market below $250K this year. We haven't seen that in ahwile. We also have less foreclosures on the market than last year. Things are moving slowly into the right direction.

Overall, we have 25% less inventory on the market than this time last year. That is good news!

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Kristi DeFazio is a Realtor in Colorado Springs

Call for a free market analysis of your home or set up a listing search with a webpage, tailored to meet your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, give Kristi a call today.

Kristi DeFazio

RE/MAX Advantage

719-459-5468