Matthew's Blog

Is every home clearance priced?

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 21:39:56 -0500

Unemployment rates have risen, foreclosures are still occurring, so everything on the home market must be a steal, right? Wrong! Just because a home is being sold at a certain price does NOT automatically make it a good deal.

Now, more than ever, buyers need to exercise due diligence and research carefully before buying a home. A listing agent can recommend a certain price, but that doesn’t obligate the homeowner to sell at that price. If you go to an open house and question the asking price, the agent will probably defend it – that’s their job. In most cases, they work for the seller, not you, the buyer.

What can you, the buyer, do to make sure the home is worth what the seller is asking?

Ask your agent (or even the listing agent) for recent comparable sales in the neighborhood that justify the house. Real estate agents have access to sales information that can give you a good idea of how much a house should sell for.

Things to weigh as you look at a new home:

Does it actually meet my needs, both now and for the future? If you’re starting or expanding your family, will this home work? Will you need to add on or make major modifications for it to suit your lifestyle? Is there enough storage and closet space to suit your needs?

Does it meet any handicap-accessible needs you have? If this is a concern, will you have to modify the home to meet these needs?

Is the neighborhood a good fit? If you have children, check out the school district. This is important for both your family and because it can affect resale value. Ask the local police department for information on safety concerns in the area, and walk around yourself to get the feel of things.

Make a list of activities you enjoy to see if this area meets your needs.

Does the home need major repairs within the next five years? If so, how much will the repairs cost?

Can I afford the taxes if I get re-assessed? Checking with the local city economic office will help you learn if/how property values have changed.

What is my financial safety net? If you’re a dual-income family and one spouse decides to stay home, how will this affect your financial situation? Will you be able to afford mortgage and upkeep on the home?

In general, making sure that a home fits your needs and that the price is justified, given the current market conditions, will leave you happier in the long run.

--
~Matt

Ask your Re/Max agent TODAY for more information about the one-time $8,000 First Time Home buyer and $1,500 Energy tax credits!

Matthew Barens-REALTOR
RE/MAX Universal
Cell - (262) 204-SELL
http://www.sheboyganareahomes.com
http://www.mattsellsmilwaukee.com

Be a Powerful Buyer- Part 4

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:56:01 -0500

This is Part 4 of a 4 part series.

With all of the scandals surrounding us today, it seems like everyone is repeating the age old addage "Buyer Beware". And while I do think there are a lot of untrustworthy things happening in the general consumer market today, I think "Buyer be Smart" is a better plan of action.

I deal with first time home buyers (FTHB) on a daily basis, and many of them have the same question; "How do I get these great deals that everyone is talking about?" It's quite simple, yet takes a little bit of work by the potential buyers. These few steps could save you thousands on your next home purchase. I've broken this down into a 4 part series so that I can properly explain each step, and will updating this blog every few days with the next step.

    * Get Pre-approved by a credible lender: This is a very simple process. If you already work with a bank or credit union, make an appointment to meet with their loan officer. If you don't, contact your REALTOR and ask them for recommendations. I recommend that buyers meet with at LEAST 2 different lenders to compare rates, terms, etc. During this one hour appointment, ask the officer about their current programs. How much down payment will you need? Do you qualify for FTHB loans? How much are you pre-approved for? Get this pre-approval in writing.
    * Interview local agents: Talk with friends and family that have purchased a home within the last 2 years in your area. Based on their recommendations, interview a few agents. Don't simply call the agent in town who has the most advertising, this doesn't make them the best agent. I do recommend that buyers find an agent they like working with, and stick with that agent. As an agent, if I have a buyer come to me that's pre-approved and motivated to find a home, I will bend over backwards to help them no matter what their price range. Buyers that are unorganized and unmotivated don't typically get the same level of service because as agents, we know that person is unlikely to actually buy a home.
    * Start the Home Search: NOW that you've worked with a lender to determine your buying power, and selected an agent that's motivated to work with you, you need to determine what you're looking for in a home. Many people start the home search first. This may work for some, but starting the search without having a clear understanding of what you can afford and knowing current market conditions can actually cost you time and money in the long run. Ask the professionals about both of these, and then determine your needs from there. How many bedrooms? What locations do you like best? Do you prefer tile, hardwood, or carpet? Having a clear understanding of your likes and dislikes will allow you to find homes that fit your needs. A quick side note to couples: Please do NOT use your agent to settle differences in taste between you and your significant other. Putting your agent in the middle of an argument about whether you should have tile in the entryway or not usually makes it very uncomfortable for all parties involved.
*Making an Offer: Rule #1- Don't fall in love with a home: In order to get the absolute best price when negotiating an offer, you need to remember that this is probably the largest financial transaction for you've ever dealt with. In order to find the best price, you need to find motivated sellers. During your search, narrow it down to 4-5 properties that you like. Rank them in order from best to worst on your own scale, and start making offers. If you fall in love with only one home, you will be at the mercy of the market. In order to get the absolute best price, you need to determine what each property is worth to you and stick to that number. If they are asking $150k and you are only willing to pay $135k, then start with a lower initial bid and never offer more than $135k. If you and the seller can't come to terms with what YOU feel the property is worth ($135k), then move on to the next property. You never want to be in a situation where you feel you paid too much money for the home. Just keep moving down your list until you find the right property at the right price. This may take 1 offer or 10, but in the end you'll feel confident that you got the best deal and were a very powerful Buyer!

--
~Matt

Ask your Re/Max agent TODAY for more information about the one-time $8,000 First Time Home buyer and $1,500 Energy tax credits!

Matthew Barens-REALTOR
RE/MAX Universal
Cell - (262) 204-SELL
http://www.sheboyganareahomes.com
http://www.mattsellsmilwaukee.com

Be a Powerful Buyer- Part 3

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 19:43:32 -0500

This is Part 3 of a 4 part series.

With all of the scandals surrounding us today, it seems like everyone is repeating the age old addage "Buyer Beware". And while I do think there are a lot of untrustworthy things happening in the general consumer market today, I think "Buyer be Smart" is a better plan of action.

I deal with first time homebuyers (FTHB) on a daily basis, and many of them have the same question; "How do I get these great deals that everyone is talking about?" It's quite simple, yet takes a little bit of work by the potential buyers. These few steps could save you thousands on your next home purchase. I've broken this down into a 4 part series so that I can properly explain each step, and will updating this blog every few days with the next step.

Get Pre-approved by a credible lender: This is a very simple process. If you already work with a bank or credit union, make an appointment to meet with their loan officer. If you don't, contact your REALTOR and ask them for recommendations. I recommend that buyers meet with at LEAST 2 different lenders to compare rates, terms, etc. During this one hour appointment, ask the officer about their current programs. How much down payment will you need? Do you qualify for FTHB loans? How much are you pre-approved for? Get this pre-approval in writing.
Interview local agents: Talk with friends and family that have purchased a home within the last 2 years in your area. Based on their recommendations, interview a few agents. Don't simply call the agent in town who has the most advertising, this doesn't make them the best agent. I do recommend that buyers find an agent they like working with, and stick with that agent. As an agent, if I have a buyer come to me that's pre-approved and motivated to find a home, I will bend over backwards to help them no matter what their price range. Buyers that are unorganized and unmotivated don't typically get the same level of service because as agents, we know that person is unlikely to actually buy a home.
Start the Home Search: NOW that you've worked with a lender to determine your buying power, and selected an agent that's motivated to work with you, you need to determine what you're looking for in a home. Many people start the home search first. This may work for some, but starting the search without having a clear understanding of what you can afford and knowing current market conditions can actually cost you time and money in the long run. Ask the professionals about both of these, and then determine your needs from there. How many bedrooms? What locations do you like best? Do you prefer tile, hardwood, or carpet? Having a clear understanding of your likes and dislikes will allow you to find homes that fit your needs. A quick side note to couples: Please do NOT use your agent to settle differences in taste between you and your significant other.Putting your agent in the middle of an argument about whether you should have tile in the entryway or not usually makes it very uncomfortable for all parties involved.

--
~Matt

Ask your Re/Max agent TODAY for more information about the one-time $8,000 First Time Home buyer and $1,500 Energy tax credits!

Matthew Barens-REALTOR
RE/MAX Universal
Cell - (920) 917-0781
http://www.sheboyganareahomes.com
http://www.mattsellsmilwaukee.com

Be a Powerful Buyer- Part 2

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:48:51 -0500

This is Part 2 of a 4 part series.

With all of the scandals surrounding us today, it seems like everyone is repeating the age old addage "Buyer Beware". And while I do think there are a lot of untrustworthy things happening in the general consumer market today, I think "Buyer be Smart" is a better plan of action.

I deal with first time homebuyers (FTHB) on a daily basis, and many of them have the same question; "How do I get these great deals that everyone is talking about?" It's quite simple, yet takes a little bit of work by the potential buyers. These few steps could save you thousands on your next home purchase. I've broken this down into a 4 part series so that I can properly explain each step, and will updating this blog every few days with the next step.

Get Pre-approved by a credible lender: This is a very simple process. If you already work with a bank or credit union, make an appointment to meet with their loan officer. If you don't, contact your REALTOR and ask them for recommendations. I recommend that buyers meet with at LEAST 2 different lenders to compare rates, terms, etc. During this one hour appointment, ask the officer about their current programs. How much down payment will you need? Do you qualify for FTHB loans? How much are you pre-approved for? Get this pre-approval in writing.
Interview local agents: Talk with friends and family that have purchased a home within the last 2 years in your area. Based on their recommendations, interview a few agents. Don't simply call the agent in town who has the most advertising, this doesn't make them the best agent. I do recommend that buyers find an agent they like working with, and stick with that agent. As an agent, if I have a buyer come to me that's pre-approved and motivated to find a home, I will bend over backwards to help them no matter what their price range. Buyers that are unorganized and unmotivated don't typically get the same level of service because as agents, we know that person is unlikely to actually buy a home.

Be a Powerful Buyer- Part 1

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 11:40:50 -0500

With all of the scandals surrounding us today, it seems like everyone is repeating the age old adage "Buyer Beware". And while I do think there are a lot of untrustworthy things happening in the general consumer market today, I think "Buyer be Smart" is a better plan of action.

I deal with first time home buyers (FTHB) on a daily basis, and many of them have the same question; "How do I get these great deals that everyone is talking about?" It's quite simple, yet takes a little bit of work by the potential buyers. These few steps could save you thousands on your next home purchase. I've broken this down into a 4 part series so that I can properly explain each step, and will updating this blog every few days with the next step.

Get Pre-approved by a credible lender: This is a very simple process. If you already work with a bank or credit union, make an appointment to meet with their loan officer. If you don't, contact a REALTOR and ask them for recommendations. I recommend that buyers meet with at LEAST 2 different lenders to compare rates, terms, etc. During this one hour appointment, ask the officer about their current programs. How much down payment will you need? Do you qualify for FTHB loans? How much are you pre-approved for? Get this pre-approval in writing. Now that you know your buying power, everyone involved with your real estate transaction (REALTORS, sellers, etc) will take you seriously as a buyer.

Price Reduced to $209,900!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:22:02 -0500

Wonderful 4 bedroom colonial in the beautiful Town of Sheboygan Falls. Placed on nearly 1 acre of lucious green landscape enjoy the gorgeous setting from your great sunroom. Formal dining room and dinette as well as deck area on the exterior for entertaining purposes. Private setting yet a central location.

Click here for listing details...

Price Reduced to $157,900!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 21:00:53 -0500

Large historic 3 bed Victorian home, that has been completely removated inside. New kitchen w/refinished HW floors, cherry cabinets, lrg walk-in pantry, granite counters & all stainless appliances included. Formal dining room. Huge upper bathroom that feautres dbl vanity, oversized shower w/4 body sprays & 3 shower heads& Whirlpool tub. 2 story sundeck. 4 Car det. Garage. Don't pass this up!

Click here for Details

Open Houses- June 28

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:24:49 -0500

I will be holding 2 open houses this weekend.

11am-12pm 4br/1.5 ba Two Story w/ huge lot- 2908 W Warbler Ln Sheboygan Falls WI
12:15-1pm 3br/1ba Two Story w/ remodeled interior- 708 Superior ave, Sheboygan WI

Come out, enjoy the nice weather and see some beautiful homes!

Home for Sale in Sheboygan Falls WI

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 13:46:18 -0500

Click Here for Details...

New Listing: 416 Giddings Ave, Sheboygan Falls WI

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 21:44:50 -0500

An abundance of time and effort has been put into the makeover of this late 19th century 2 Story Victorian home. Refinished natural hardwood floors, immaculate kitchen featuring all stainless steel appliances, upstairs bathroom w/ walk-in 2-person shower, 2nd story sun porch and huge 4 car garage are just a few of the unique features that make this home truly great! Don't miss this opportunity!

Click Here for detailed information...

"Today I Turned Down a Listing..."

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:15:16 -0500

I'm hoping that many of you reading this clicked on it because you think I've gone off the deep end. You might be right. In this day and age of agents fighting for customers, why on earth would I willingly turn down a listing? I hope the reason will be clear after a little explanation.

I had a condo listed for five months, with minimal activity. The sellers set the price based on what they wanted out of the home - it was about $15,000 over what market analysis suggested. I took the listing reluctantly, fearing that it wouldn't sell due to its high price. I was correct. About a month ago, the sellers asked to pull the listing because they were refinancing their primary home and the bank didn't allow the refi with their second home (the condo) for sale. The condo listing was removed the next day, and the sellers agreed to re-list within a month or two.

The sellers called last Friday, ready to re-list. I researched the current market and found another identically-designed condo for sale in their neighborhood. This condo was in better shape and on the market for $8,500 less than what my sellers were originally asking for their condo. I did what I considered to be my duty as their agent, and informed them about this new competing property. Their response was not necessarily what I was anticipating. The sellers decided to re-list their home at the original asking price, even with the given information.

After much thought, I've decided not to accept their listing if this is the path they wish to take. I'm not doing it to be mean. I'm actually doing what I think is best for them. I don't want to devalue their home by listing it too high and letting it get stale on the market for a full year. This will only invite low bids and probably cause their home to sell for a lot less than what it's actually worth. It's also not a good use of my time and marketing dollars, as I feel it will only help justify a sale for the other less expensive condo.

It's not a move I wanted to make, but in the end I think it'll work out the best for both parties.

My Sales Contract is about to Expire...Now What?

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:49:31 -0500

Your home has been on the market for several months now, and the listing contract is up soon. Your current agent wants you to re-sign for another six months but should you?

At this point, I tell my clients to treat the situation as though they were listing their home for the first time. Review all services the current agent provided – what worked and what didn’t? Did the agent meet all expectations? Did they follow through with potential buyers? Did the house not sell because of an over-inflated price, or was the market not responding for other reasons?

Ask the current agent what they will continue to do, and what things they will do differently, if you renew your listing. Your agent should be able to provide buyer feedback, which can be reviewed for validity and used to make positive changes, which may include additional repairs or the possibility of staging the home for a fresh look.

As you move through the process of re-listing your home, take the time just as you did when you originally listed the property to select the proper agent. If you feel the need to interview other agents about their services and to ask what they’d do differently, now is the time.

~Matt

Oh, by the way…if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please
call me with their name and business number, and I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them.

Matthew Barens-REALTOR
Ph: 920-917-0781
http://www.sheboyganareahomes.com

Do I Smell Gas? #1 Reason to ALWAYS do a walkthrough.

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 22:25:12 -0600

If this doesn't guarantee that you do your walk throughs, I don't know what will.

A week ago I had a closing on a brand new home. The buyers had requested the seller switch out the white appliances with stainless, and this was done at noon the day before closing. The new owners had insured the home the week before closing, so that they could move all their things in. The wife was due 1 week after closing with their first child. All they had in their apartment was a blow up mattress and enough clothing for the week.

We arrived at 5pm to do the walk through. Since we are in a northern climate, the heat was on and running in the house. I opened the door and a strong smell of gas filled my nose (and no, I hadn't recently ate any Mexican food). The smell wasn't strong enough to make me think the place was going to explode, but I knew I had to get windows and doors open to air the place out. I asked the buyers to stay outside, and I proceeded to open all the windows on the 1st floor. I got back outside, called the builder, and told him to get someone out there asap. Luckily, my buyers were remaining calm.

The plumber arrived within 20 mins, and discovered that when the appliance people installed the new gas stove, they had cranked on the gas line with a wrench and broke open a union on the basement. This left a 1/2" gas line leaking in the basement only 15 ft from the running gas furnace and gas hot water heater. The plumber said that had we let it go until after closing, the house would have exploded. The gas would have been flowing into the house for 24hrs at that time, and would have filled the whole house to an extreme level.

Needless to say, My buyers would have lost everything they own. I can't imagine having my first kid and literally owning a car, an air mattress, and a few pairs of clothes. I will definitely do all walk throughs from now on!

New Listing- 1803 N 20th Street, Sheboygan WI 53081

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 20:03:23 -0600

Classic northside home that has great curb appeal, & is loaded with charm. Beautiful hardwood floors add character and warmth. Lots of space for everyone with 4 bedrooms & a roomy living room with big windows that let the home fill with natural light. Extra large yard with gardens and lots of room to relax or play. Wonderfully maintained with great updates including central air & new furnace.

Check out a Virtual Tour of this home!

Housing Slump...Is it over?

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 13:24:28 -0600

I know I'm going to get a ton of responses to this post saying I'm insane, but here's where I'm coming from. My local market was never really hit hard like the "bad" housing areas we hear about on the news. We didn't have the super boom like most had, so we didn't fall as hard when times got slow.

October and November '07 were really slow. Showing requests, listings, and closings were all down. However, my team mate and I have been having a record December and the pipeline so far for January is getting really really full. So far about 7 listings are ready for 2nd week of January, and buyers (without any SOP's thank god) are lining up quick.

I was at a local agent meeting (i.e- Bar night) and everyone else is talking about the "so-so" market. So, it seems that my team and others in our office are the only ones seeing this great emerging 2008 market because we're not talking ourselves into the bad market hype. I fully believe your personal view of the market dictates what your outcome will be.

So, for all the people out there worried about the housing slump going on, your fears will be your reality in 2008. For those that push through and decide to take a positive spin on a bad situation, your thoughts will be your reality as well.

Best wishes for 2008!

Price Reduced! N6307 Woodland Meadows dr, Town of Sheboygan

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 10:12:25 -0600

This well maintained two story colonial is located in a quiet subdivision on the city's north side. Wood Trim, gas fireplace, large kitchen, and a first floor laundry make this homes interior stand out. Low maintenance, professional landscaping, and a large yard round out the homes exterior. Town of Sheboygan location means economical taxes. Call me today at 920-917-0781 for a private showing!

3 Bedroom, 2.5 baths (ready for another full bath in basement)
Spacious master suite with a sunburst window
2 car garage, concrete rear patio, and a storage shed
Large Yard, Security System
First Floor laundry, All Appliances included
Price Reduced...$199,900

I'm back!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 23:46:58 -0600

I'm not sure if the title fits, since I was never actually gone, but it fits. It's been a few months since i've posted, but the good news is i've been busy busy building my business. Working on referrals, the new website, cultivating buyers and sellers, and learning how to improve my service skills. I hope everyone is have as much fun in the business as I am right now, and to those that are, lets keep it rolling into 2008!

~Matt

I'm sick of all the "Chicken Little's"

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:24:34 -0500

"The Sky is Falling, the Sky is falling!"

It seems that's all I hear these days in regards to the real estate market. Every reporter who's bought a home in the last 25 yrs thinks they are a housing market expert, and that it gives them the right to spout off at the mouth about it.

The reason I'm getting upset about this is that I was looking through our MLS statistical data for this year and last. Although locally we have slowed down a bit, we're really not in that bad of shape. LP/SP ratios for Residential housing has been 96% for the past 4 months, average sale price has increased an average of 11% vs. last year at this time, and now our winter "slow down" is happening at the same rate that is has for the last 3 years. Basically, we're on track.

But, the "news experts" are out there blowing their "sky is falling" whistles and on a daily basis we as agents have to try and counteract that with accurate information to our local markets. Anyone else fed up with uninformed experts?

Seller Tips- Don't take suggestions personally!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 23:34:12 -0500

No matter if you're buying or selling a home, there's a good bet that it's an emotional process for you and your family. From experience, I think the two most emotional parties are sellers and first time home buyers.

First time buyers are probably making the largest purchase that they're made so far in their life. To many, this is the start of adulthood or a new life as a couple. Many FTHB's are starting a family. Because of this, emotions are touchy and we as real estate agents need to work extra hard to make sure we're showing our customers what they truly want, and what they truly need.

But far and above FTHB's, are Sellers. My selling clients so far have lived in their home anywhere from 1yr to 45 yrs, and for most it was a long hard decision to move. They are emotionally invested in the home, since their children may have been raised there and they take pride in what they have built.....as they should.

As an agent, I find that when I meet with my clients to list their home, it's usually not truly ready for sale. I try to give my clients tips on how to properly stage their home, and make it marketable to buyers that will be coming through shortly. In their highly emotional state, some sellers take this as a personal attack that I don't like their home, or their style.

Nothing could be further from the case! I am simply doing my job, that you've hired me to do. Marketing your home doesn't stop with a yard sign and an ad in the paper. Great agents follow through with the physical home itself. This could be as simple as changing a few decorations, to re-arranging a whole room for a better layout.

So in closure, please let your agent do their job...to the fullest. Take all suggestions to heart and realize that they are making suggestions for your benefit,

Happy Selling!

New Listing! N6307 Woodland Meadows dr, Sheboygan WI

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 20:20:37 -0500

3 Bedroom, 2.5 baths (ready for another full bath in basement)
Spacious master suite with a sunburst window
2 car garage, concrete rear patio, and a storage shed
Large Yard, Security System
First Floor laundry, All Appliances included
$212,900

Say Hello to Sheboygan's Newest Remax Agent!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 23:39:45 -0500

Yep, that's right folks. As of today i'm officially the newest agent at Remax Universal Realty of Sheboygan I've joined 3 of the top producing agents in Sheboygan county, and I'm looking forward to working with this highly energized team of individuals. This is also my first time working for a nationally recognized real estate company like Remax, so I'm looking forward to what that has to offer as well.

I've found so far that the biggest challenge with moving companies is getting used to the different office styles. What the secretaries do, how call-ins are handled, and generally how the people in the office "mesh" together. It's just the beginning but I feel really at home here. Looking forward to great things...

Matt

How to get a Realtor to work hard....for you!

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:41:14 -0500

Are you considering buying a home? If you are, does the thought of moving into a new place bring joy, or fear of getting hosed? Home inspections, counter offers, and appraisals are all words you might know nothing about. You want to be a smart shopper. After all, this is probably the biggest monetary transaction of your life even if you've done it several times. So who do you ask for advice?.............

Most people ask someone they trust like their parents, siblings, neighbors, etc. The funny thing is, many people don't find a problem with this. I pose this question: Would you ask your neighbor who just had open heart surgery how it was done? Try it sometime. You'll get an answer like "well, they went in there and changed out a few hoses now i'm all better." Would you now feel qualified to perform open heart surgery?

I'm not saying buying a house is as complicated as open heart surgery, but if you're going to do it why not consult a professional who you trust? Agents are willing to work with you and guide you along in your home buying adventure. Here's a few tips to getting their attention:

1) Interview several local agents. Ask for their resume, recent buyer references, and go through their open houses until you find an agent with a style you're comfortable with.

2) Get Pre-approved by a reputable lending institution.

3) Have a rough idea of what you're looking for. Establish a price range, and determine what's important to you (bedrooms, kitchen, sqft, first floor laundry, etc).

4) If you have to sell a home, list it with the same agent. If you don't trust the agent enough to work with them on both sides, you shouldn't be working with them at all. Working with two agents on different sides of the sale gets confusing for all. Make sure to ask for a selling discount since they're getting both sides of the sale.

5) Expect Results. If your agent is slacking, let them know. If they don't respond, speak with their broker or seek out another agent.

These are just a few tips. You can still ask your friends and family for other pointers, just don't ask them how to perform open heart surgery :)

Observations

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 13:30:35 -0500

I am on my way back from a two day trip to washington DC(sitting in o'hare as I type), and got to spend some time looking at local condo's in downtown DC. One building offered a 750sqft studio condo for a mere $220k. There was no style to these, the fixtures and appliances were cheap, and the view was of a brick building across the street. My question is, if I was the selling agent, how would I get excited to sell something like this? I'm from a more modest market where that kind of money will get you a fairly new 2400 sqft ranch with a nice yard. I realize dowtown DC is a whole different world, but don't people still need to have some sort of value?

Destination Golf Condo's- Entry level through Ultra-luxury available

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 23:02:15 -0500

Are you tired of trying to beat the heat? Spend your summers relaxing in our mild northern climate! Take advantage of our stable local economy, and purchase a Vacation Destination condo today!! We have something to suit all tastes and budgets. Affordable 2br Condo's start at $124,900, while our Ultra-Luxury Lake Michigan Waterfront Condo's reach well into the $500,000 range. Whatever your taste, we have something for you!

Sheboygan County Wisconsin is becoming one of the finest golf destinations in the world! With 3 championship golf courses (Whistling Straights, Blackwolf Run, and The Bull) and several others that make honorable mention, this is the place to be for your relaxation needs. Whistling Straight and Blackwolf Run are both Pete Dye designed courses, and have been host to the Senior Open, US Women's Open, PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup in 2020. The Bull is Wisconsin's only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, and was voted "America's Best Courses You Can Play 2006" by Golfweek Magazine.

Contact me today for an information packet!

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Well cared for 3br Ranch in need of minor updating (paint, carpet)

Matthew Barens (Remax Universal Realty) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 22:18:09 -0500

This well maintained 3 br/1.5 bath home has a great hilltop view of Howards Grove. This home features REAL hardwood floors in all bedrooms, newer vinyl windows, furnace/central air, a 2 car attached and 1 car detached garage. Kitchen with 2 large pantry areas. Full basement just perfect for a rec room. Spend your evenings watching the sunset from your 3 seasons porch!
This listing even has its own website!