Central MN Short & Traditional Sales

Brainerd Lakes Real Estate Update for November 2011

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 20:31:31 -0500

If everyone had the ability to sell their existing home or the financial resources to make the purchases, there are many great homes on the market at exceptional prices in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota. For every home that sells in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota, 15 properties remain on the market. The median sales price of a home in the Brainerd Lakes area dropped 9 percent and is now at $154,425 according to the Greater Lakes Association of Realtors.
The Brainerd housing market is lagging behind the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington market, which was recently ranked the top healthiest market in the nation. The Brainerd housing market is moving on a slow, steady road to recovery as the number of homes for sale decreased and closed home sales increased. Closed home sales were up 9 percent over last October; all told, 206 properties closed last month compared to 189 a year ago.
Overall, active listings were down 11 percent and new listings were up 2 percent. The month’s supply of housing has dropped to 16.8 months from 19.3 months, meaning that it would take 16.8 months for the existing inventory to be sold at the current rate of sales.

If you are interested in a seasonal property or a year around home in Central Minnesota- call Kathleen Lordbock with Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes. The lakes are always beckoning whether it is summer wake boarding or winter ice fishing. Combine those with the exciting snowmobiling opportunities, skiing and brisk winter walks in this wonderland.

Come and see us soon!

Welcome from the Brainerd Lakes - where outdoor and indoor recreational opportunites abound. Looking to buy on one of our many lakes? Ready to move up or down? Having trouble selling your home? Falling behind on payments or already in the foreclosure process? I am a Certified Short Sale Specialist as well as a Home Staging Expert.

Call me!

Advice for Sellers: The One Question You Must Ask Your REALTOR®

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 10:37:40 -0400

Great blog- What will it sell for, not how much do I want or even how much do I need. Overpricing the property from the start even with subsequent price reductions later has been statistically proven to net you a lower price in the end. If you are aware that it will sell for less than you owe , then a short sale will need to be considered or not selling if that is a possiblity.

You will initially get some showings and those buyers will move on to purchase other homes that are priced at or under the market. Other agents will use your property as a comparison to sell other properties that are similar and well priced. The what will it sell for and where should we start need to be close together.

Via Peggy Chirico, REALTOR® 860-748-8900 Hartford & Tolland County Real Estate (Prudential CT Realty):

Advice for Sellers: The One Question You Must Ask Your REALTOR®

If you are thinking about putting your home on the market (or maybe you already have your home on the market), there is one question you must ask your REALTOR® or any agents that you are interviewing for the job:

What do you think my home will sell for?

Notice I didn't say,"What should I list my house for?" but "How much will it sell for?" You will get (hopefully) an honest opinion of the most likely price for your house. It may not be what you want to hear, but you will be saving yourself a lot of grief and aggravation in the process if you approach it from a realistic viewpoint.    A REALTOR® who knows your market will have a good idea of what you will get for your house, and that's where you should list your house.

Why? The greatest disservice an agent can do is to lead you with false hope in order to get the listing. When you price your home over market value, you will not sell it, you run the risk of having no one look at it, and the listing will expire unsold unless you price it correctly.

"Well," you say, "let's start high and leave room for negotiation." You won't get to negotiation because you won't have a contract, and you won't have a contract because people won't even look at your house. It's better to start with a realistic price to get buyers in the door.

"But," you say, "someone can always make an offer and we will consider where to go from there." WRONG! By overpricing your house, buyers are already thinking you are inflexible. Some may take the bait, but most will move on to something they can afford from the get-go. In addition, when your home is overpriced, it will stay on the MLS a long time; the longer the time, the more stigma it will amass. The first thing people will say after seeing that it has been languishing on the market for six months is "What's wrong with the house?"

"We can't afford to sell it for less than this amount," you say, "so we will have to hope that there is someone out there who will pay what we want for this house." This is so unlikely, but even if one person HAD to have your house and was willing to overpay for it, the house won't appraise and then you will have the appraisal nail in the coffin. The buyers (who HAD to have it) are now going to renegotiate the contract.

"Well," you say, "if it doesn't sell, we will just take it off the market and try again next year." If you aren't serious about selling your house this year at the right price, then wait until you are serious about selling your house. Many of our market areas have high inventories now, and the situation will improve if the non-serious sellers take their homes off the market.

Only you can decide if you are ready to sell, but if you are, price your house to sell. Find a REALTOR® who knows your area, will give you an honest answer about the market value of your home, and will do everything possible to help you get to the next step in your life. You will be on your way, sooner rather than later or never.

Did you enjoy this post? Click here to subscribe to my blog by email.



Peggy Chirico, REALTOR®
Serving the Greater Hartford Area
Prudential CT Realty
peggychirico@gmail.com

860-748-8900

If you are buying or selling a home in Hartford County or Tolland County, please call me, email me, or visit my website.  I would be happy to help you with your home search or provide a market analysis for your home.

Find your dream home now!

Call me!

My Role in the Offer is an ADVISOR

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 18:28:34 -0400

I like how Paula addresses this issue. We as real estate agents work in the capacity of advisors or consultants. While we can give our buyers information and share all that we know about comparable solds, we are not the ones to set the offer price. If the buyers want to make a low ball offer that makes our hair stand up- we can refuse to do so and let them move on to another agent or we can go ahead and make it, hoping it will be accepted, countered or flat out rejected. In that way, they hopefully learn a small lesson- the listing agent gets a good laugh and life continues on.

Via Paula Hamilton~McDonald, The Woodlands, TX ~ 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC):

WHY I CAN'T TELL YOU WHAT TO OFFER!

Dear Buyer,

We have been working together for awhile now. I have provided you with the latest market data, shown you numerous home and have spent numerous hours discussing the process of home buying to you. You have found the perfect home and you are now faced with the inevitable task of making an offer!

Many times when buyers get to the "Making an offer stage", they want me their Real Estate Agent to tell them what they should offer. When I won't give them this information, some Buyers get upset or angry with me. Please understand that while I can assist your throughout the process, I cannot and will not TELL you what to offer.

Here are a few reasons why myself nor any other licensed real estate agent will not tell you the price you should offer:

This is YOUR money, not mine. The price you can and will pay is something only you can truly determine.

I do not know what a Seller will take.

The listing agent will NOT provide me with information about other offers in a multiple offer situation nor will I ask them for this information. They owe confidentiality to THEIR client just as I owe you mine.

My job is to guide and assist you so please understand when I will not tell you the price you should offer. My job is to add value as an expert and to help you make the very best choice possible. Ultimately, you are the one who has to live in the house and make the payment each month.

I hope this clarifies this sticky situation. As an agent, I am anxious to work with you and to give you every bit of information to help you make an informed and intelligent decision when it comes to purchasing a home. Chevaux Group is your real estate expert choice so give us a call if you are ready to buy or sell!

Paula Hamilton~McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker ~ Managing Principal

9595 Six Pines Drive, Suite 8210 ~ The Woodlands, TX 77380 ~ 936-203-0279

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

Copyright 2011 Paula Hamilton~McDonald

Call me!

The Uncertainty in Housing

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:50:11 -0400

Lawmakers, housing industry leaders, and policy strategists explore solutions on REALTOR® TV to our current housing market problems. Senator Johnny Isakson states that he feels the correction will take seven to ten years. Ron Phipps, National Association of Realtors President declares that the objective in the cure should "do not harm" and that in time the problem will resolve itself. No new appraisal re-financings and other creative ideas are presented.

Call me!

May Good Listings be with You!

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 09:25:06 -0400

Janice did such a great job on this presentation that I had to share it. Home Staging can make a huge difference in the way a property is perceived and reflect in the desirablity and value. From an appraisors point of view the number of bedrooms, square footage and style of home remain the same. From a buyer's point of view those things also do not change but they look differently. If a 3 bedroom is perceived to be spacious compared to a crowded 4 bedroom home and the number of bedrooms is not crucial- the clear choice may be the lovely staged 3 bedroom.

Via Janice Sutton - Temecula Murrieta Home Stager - Home Staging (1st Stage Property Transformations ):

May good listings be with you!

Counting on four leaf clover's to help sell your listings?

Do your MLS listings look better then the competition?

Let us help your listings attract potential buyers..

Don't Delay....Home Stage Today!!!

Contact Janice at 1st Stage Property Transformations of Murrieta Temecula for a free estimate.

Janice Sutton | Home Stager | 1st Stage Property Transformation
Dir 951-704-0597 | Email | Website

Blog posted by Janice Sutton, Murrieta Temecula Home Stager. Home staging & marketing homes for the Inland Empire/Riverside County & San Diego County.

Are you looking for a Home Staging Professional? We currently home stage in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, Winchester, Escondido, San Marcos, Oceanside, Fallbrook, Lake Elsinore, Perris, Corona, Santa Ana, North Tustin, Mission Viejo, Anaheim Hills, Moreno Valley, Banning, Yucaipa, Palm Springs and all other surrounding Riverside & San Diego County cities.

Home staging services included Vacant, Occupied, Model Home, REO & Bank Owned Home Staging.

Contact us at 951.704.0597 for a free vacant home staging estimate!

Don't delay....Home stage today!

Follow @1ststage

Call me!

What is HAFA?

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:32:26 -0400

HAFA is another one of those terms thrown about in Short Sale discussions and pronounced Hoffa or Halfa. It has not been the most successful of the Short Sale program attempts but is far more successful than the loan modification programs. No matter how you choose to pronounce it, the letters stand for Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternative. HAFA sets a structured time frame for the Short Sale process but does not always hit their own goals. None the less, the financial incentive to homeowner's is a powerful carrot to dangle as the journey is long and stressful to a successful closing. But when it does happen, it is sweet!

Call me!

Get Pre-Qualified and then we go shopping

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 10:44:15 -0400

Buying a first home in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota is a huge step and definitely not an easy decision. Anyone entering into this process for the first time deserves special attention from a real estate professional that is prepared to walk them step-by-step through the process.
I'm here to provide you or any first time home buyers that you know with that exact level of service.

It seems to make perfect sense that as a first time homebuyer, the first thing to do is to shop for homes. Many start by investigating the market in a desirable area and finding that perfect property. Then, they contact a mortgage professional. Unfortunately, this is when the dream can fall apart for potential buyers! Essentially, they've begun the process backward. When a bank or lending institution declines a mortgage loan, for whatever reason, the potential homebuyer can be left frustrated. Buyers then face the prospect of having to start their search again, seeking a new set of properties that fall within the boundaries of the mortgage company's approval. Homes in a lower price range, often do not measure up to what they had been viewing in a higher price range.

The opposite may also be true and they actually qualify to buy in a higher price range! Smiles all around for this.

For the real estate professional, the first question to ask the client isn't, "What kind of house are you looking for?" But rather asking them, "Have you been pre-qualified for a mortgage?" Unless the buyer is paying for the house with cash, a pre-qualification is an essential element in the buying process.

The pre-qualification process isn't difficult, and as a result, buyers will know exactly what they can afford, which in turn clearly defines their choices. This common sense approach can save real estate professionals time, as they can direct clients to homes that fall within their approved price range, rather than those they can't afford. It can also save buyers a lot of potential heartache and disappointment, removing the lure of falling in love with that "perfect home" that's out of reach and replacing it with a home that, instead, will be affordably just right.

In order to make an offer on property here in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota. we need to include a pre-approval letter from your lender with the purchase agreement, along with earnest money. That shows you are serious and ready to purchase.

I would truly appreciate you passing my contact information their way. I guarantee to take good care of them and to help them on their way to finding that perfect first home.

Call me!

Lordbock earns Luxury Distressed Property Designation

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:56:24 -0400

Kathleen Lordbock, an agent at Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes, earned the Harris Real Estate University Certified Luxury Distressed Property Designation, having completed extensive training in negotiating and closing short sales for the higher end market at at time when the recession forces more luxury homes into foreclosure.

Lordbock has successfully listed and sold many Short Sales and assisted other fellow agents with their properties being sold short.

She has earned the National Association of REALTORS® Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource certification, is a Short Sale Superstar and many certifications in Short Sales and distressed property. As the owner of Brainerd Lakes Short Sales and a partner in Property Pro~911, she enjoys being part of the solution.

Call me!

This Month in the Brainerd Lakes Real Estate Market

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:57:09 -0400

Rates are at a record low after steadily declining throughout May, primarily due to uncertainty in the global and domestic economies. While these incredible rates represent a significant savings for home buyers, experts note that for the benefits to fully be realized, lending conditions must loosen so more buyers can take advantage of them. As overall economic activity gets back on track, rates will likely rise to keep inflation in check. In other words, the window of opportunity for buyers to lock in these historically low interest rates may not remain open much longer.

In our lovely Brainerd Lakes are of Minnesota, we have homes in every price range, condition and location. Investment properties abound with many duplex and single homes at great prices to convert into rentals.

Call me!

Interest Rates for June 2,2011

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:32:40 -0400

The Brainerd Lakes area is looking like a the summer playground that it is. With our sky blue waters and lush green fields and forests, there is something for everyone. Right now with our inventory of homes on most lakes and other desirable locations, one's attention goes to the interest rates for mortgages and they are looking good, as well.

Call me!

Is Your Business Built for Speed or Endurance?

Sun, 29 May 2011 11:30:32 -0400

Tammie provides a unique insight into the market from the prospective of an agent entering the business which quickly took a downturn. What is your value proposition, what sets you apart, what do you offer that other agents do not? For myself, I offer homestaging services for every one of my listings- this sets my listings apart and hopefully in the more desirable range. I also have a great hunger for education and keeping pace with the current market. For that reason, I have several distressed property, short sale and luxury short sale designations/certifications. I do my own negotiations and understand the process. Education is necessary before jumping into short sales and continuing education is priceless.

Via Tammie White Realtor® Franklin TN Homes For Sale (Benchmark Realty, LLC):

Tonight, I watched the movie Secretariat. I was a child when this story unfolded and while I knew Secretariat was the greatest horse that ever lived, I didn't know all the details surrounding his fame. For those who don't know, he won the Triple Crown in horse racing. No one ever thought he'd win the final race at Belmont because it was a distance race. Secretariat was fast but few thought he had the stamina to win the final race and take home the Triple Crown.

What does all this have to do with real estate? Is your business built for speed or endurance?

When I came into this business almost four years ago, my goal was to be in this business for the long haul. It was never my intention to come into the business, hit it hard, make a lot of money and then move on. It's a good thing--because the market turned and lots of people with that plan had to bow out of real estate. They came into the business thinking they'd make a quick buck and get out. Many got out but never made that quick buck.

I came into the business just as the market hit a downturn in Middle Tennessee. Therefore, my business plan was slow and steady. I wanted to make sure I would be able to endure for the long haul.

In the beginning, I wasn't sure how I was going to accomplish this. There were so many agents. How was I going to set myself apart? I began by working primarily with buyers. This gave me lots of opportunities to work with clients but kept my marketing dollars low. After I had a few sales and funds, I could afford to spend a little money on marketing. But where to invest that money?

I know of an agent who uses direct mail as her primary prospecting tool. She hates prospecting, as do I. She chose a high turnover neighborhood and started mailing recipe cards. It has really paid off for her. But it took about 18 months and $9,000 before she actually experienced one closing from her efforts. Franklly, I didn't have $9,000 to spend on recipe cards.

Instead, I invested by money in training. I took a few classes. Some paid-off while others didn't. I did get my Short Sales and Foreclosures Designation and Accredited Buyers Representation. But nothing seemed to help me find my unique value proposition--that thing that uniquely separates me from my competition. That is until a friend introduced me to Activerain.

Not only did I find my unique value proposition, I have begun to build a solid foundation. The knowledge I have gained through Activerain has prepared me to run the race for the long haul. I'm not ready to vie for the Triple Crown but I am developing systems to prepare me for a long, lucrative career.

So, is your business built for speed or endurance?

************************************************************************************

Tammie White, Realtor® in Franklin TN

Cell Phone: (615)495-0752

www.TammieWhite.com

Tammie@TammieWhite.com

Serving the Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, Spring Hill, Thompsons Station, College Grove, Leipers Fork and greater Nashville area. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted.

Call me!

The "Back on Market" Listing . . . Does it Matter?!?

Sat, 28 May 2011 10:36:58 -0400

I love those back on the market listings. They have at least started on the process of being sold- the owners may be already packed to go or gone and the mindset is of one of "moving on".

Via Carla Muss-Jacobs Principal Broker/Owner EBA Portland LLC | 503.810.7192 | (Exclusive Buyers' Agent for the Portland Metro Area):

The "Back on Market" Listing . . . Does it Matter?!?

In my local MLS, we have a BOM status for properties that have had an offer, and for some reason are "Back On Market." Not sure how this is acronymed in your area, but I'm sure you've got something similar.

When a property is BOM, there's a few possible reasons:

Buyer didn't want to proceed (was inflicted with a dreaded case of "Buyer's Remorse" -- which is, fortunately, not contagious!)

The home didn't pass inspection-- which isn't entirely accurate. "Passing inspection" is quite subjective. Last time I checked there is no "pass or fail" to a home inspection. Maybe the home had issues which created Buyers second-quessing, and gave them a bout of Buyer's Remorse.

Sellers didn't want to negotiate repairs -- this is rare, but happens. If the home is "as is" I advice my clients not to expect much . . . we can try. The "as is" in the listing sheet is NOT negotiation. But if the "AS IS -- Seller to do no repairs" is stated, it may be indicative of what they will do when they receive the Repair Addendum.

Buyer couldn't obtain financing -- this happens.

Toss into the mix, those foreclosures that have hidden problemos, or short sales where there is no wiggle room to negotiate repairs . . . buyers walk. House status is now BOM.

BUT . . . I don't shy away from showing properties that are BOM. Here's why . . . after the Seller has had the HIGH of an accepted offer, only to find it fell out (sale fail), Sellers may be more driven with the next solid offer. They may be more driven to negotiate sales price, or negotiable items. They just had the HIGH of having it under contract. They want to feel that HIGH again!

I've seen comments in the agent remark section: "Home had no issues. Buyer financing did." A clear tag to their BOM status.

Again, Sellers have just gone through the HIGH of an accepted offer . . . now it's BOM . . . the LOW.

SHOW THAT PUPPY!

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

~ Representing Buyers Since 1999 ~

Carla Muss-Jacobs, ABR, CEBA, e-PRO, Realtor®

Principal Broker/Owner ~ EBAPortland, LLC
YOUR Exclusive Buyer's Agent

1722 NW Raleigh St., Suite 116 Portland, OR 97209

(503) 810-7192 / Carla@CarlaHomes.com

CHECK OUT www.EBAPortland.com for Home Buyer TIPS!

All rights reserved ©

Call me!

Lordbock of the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota Earns Distressed Property Certification

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:11:48 -0400

KATHLEEN LORDBOCK EARNS PRESTIGIOUS DESIGNATION TO HELP HOMEOWNERS

IN DANGER OF FORECLOSURE

Kathleen Lordbock of Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes has earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance and short sales. This is invaluable expertise to offer at a time when the area is ravaged by “distressed” homes in the foreclosure process.

Short sales allow the cash-strapped seller to repay the mortgage at the price that the home sells for, even though it is lower than what is owed on the property. With plummeting property values, this can save many people from foreclosure and even bankruptcy. More and more lenders are willing to consider short sales because they are much less costly than foreclosures.

In the Brainerd Lakes area, many homes are in danger of foreclosing. It is happening in all price ranges. Local experts say that even high-priced homes are not immune.

“This CDPE designation has been invaluable as I work with sellers and lenders on complicated short sales,” said Lordbock. “It is so rewarding to be able to help sellers save their homes from foreclosure.”

Alex Charfen, founder of the Distressed Property Institute in Boca Raton, FL said that Realtors® such as Kathleen Lordbock with the CDPE designation have valuable training in short sales that can offer the homeowner much better alternatives to foreclosure. These experts also may better understand market conditions and can help sellers through the emotional experience, he said.

Call me!

Do you want my client’s underwear too?

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 20:41:36 -0400

Most of our area agents are attempting to treat short sales as if they are a traditional sale. Unrealistic are :the time frames they want approval in, the personal property they want left and the fact that they do not want to spend a penny to inspect, water test or anything until lender approval and we are on a 30 day tight time frame to close.

Via Kathleen Daniels, HAFA Short Sale Specialist (San Jose Real Estate ):

Do you want my client’s underwear too?

We recently received short sale lender approval on a San Jose Short Sale. The buyer’s agent ordered inspections and returned the signed disclosures. Prior to removing the contingencies, the agent sent me the following email message:

“My client wants the seller to leave the washer, dryer, refrigerator and the mirror above the fireplace. Please help on this matter. Thank you.”

I could not help myself. While still dealing with the “Little Fockers” who wanted me to kickback cash to their buyers under the table … out of escrow … now this?

I picked up the phone and called the agent.

Hi, Tom [name has been changed] This is Kathleen Daniels calling from San Jose Short Sales. Do you have a minute? I just received your email indicating that your client wants the seller to leave the washer, dryer, refrigerator and the mirror on the wall above the fireplace.

I just need to know … Does the buyer want my client’s underwear too?

Tom: [giggle] no.

Me: OK Great. I imagine he may not want my client’s underwear because he understands those are the seller’s personal property – is that right? Does your client understand that the items he requested were not included in the purchase agreement?

Tom: Yes.

Me: The property is a short sale. I need you to help me understand why your client is now asking for the seller to leave personal property. Did you explain to your client that the items he is asking for are considered “personal property” just like the seller’s furniture, household furnishings, clothing and underwear?

Tom: No. I’m just asking because my client asked me to ask.

Me: Well Tom, we would appreciate it if you would explain to your client that the items are personal; were not included in the offer; the property is a short sale; the seller nets nothing from the sale; and asking for these items is inappropriate. Please also know that we have several backup offers and I continue to receive calls on that property. If your client intends on making these items a condition of the sale, then we will kindly ask you to release the contract and we will submit a back-up offer.

Tom: I will tell my client. I know he wants the property without the items.

Me: Great! Thanks, Tom.

Do you want my client's underwear too? - by Kathleen Daniels - San Jose Homes for Sale - Short Sale Specialist

Call me!

NAR video on the state of home sales for 2011

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 10:52:03 -0400

This video is directly from Laurence Yun from the National Association of Realtors. Things are continuing to change in our real estate markets with some drastic changes being very localized. The cost of new construction is now much higher that purchasing an already built home- which we see playing out in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota and construction of new homes therefore slowing to a crawl. People are entering the market to pick up properties at low prices. Cash transactions seem to be much higher than normal- suggesting that there are investors rushing in with all cash or first time home buyers getting contributions from family members to purchase properties. Laurence feels conditions are favorable for rising sales in the upcoming months.

Call me!

One Level Living in the Cove- Nisswa, Minnesota

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:39:55 -0400

If you are looking for one level living in a great newer development- call for an appointment on this gem. Close to all that the Nisswa area has to offer, with a designer touch and loads of storage. This is not an association and is a private stand alone home with in-ground sprinklers, a peaceful view of nature and a quick drive to the lakes or golf courses of your choice.

One Level and oohh so nice

24825 Cove Trail, Nisswa, MN 56468 View Map

In-ground sprinkler system, double closets in the garage for extra storage, up- graded fixtures. Light filled rooms with a panoramic view of nature in the backyard. 2 full bathrooms and a large master bath with walk in closet and an abundance of cabinetry.
The designer's touch is evident in each room.
Gas fireplace for cozy winter nights and a window wrapped sunroom for sunny days.
Close to Nisswa and all the lake area amenities.

Details

Asking Price:

209,500

MLS:

200835

Sq. Feet:

1625

Lot Size:

.48

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

Subdivision:

The Coves

Year Built:

2005

Contact Info

Kathleen Lordbock
REALTOR/Staging/ Short Sale Specialist MN#40142464

Main 218-829-0339
Cell 218-831-8001
Dir 218-829-4664
Email | Website

All information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.

Call me!

Should You Shop On Your Own or Have a Personal Shopper?

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:03:26 -0500

Real Estate websites such as: Trulia.com, Zillow.com, and REALTOR.com, are fun to explore sites with a wealth of information at your fingertips but it may not necessarily be accurate and is certainly not timely. When the prospective homebuyer searches those sites, the information they are viewing on the site has a time lag from postings and changes in our Multiple Listing Services (MLS) The information that you are able to access is just general in nature and any important documentation such as disclosures are not available. A home with a leaky roof and interior damage may not seem like such a good deal once you find out that information. In addition, if the home you are looking at is priced at or below market, it may already have an accepted offer and be pending. I get a lot of phone calls on properties, only to have to tell the eager buyers that they are indeed too late and that someone else will be buying that home.

This is just one of the many reasons to engage the advice and knowledge of a licensed professional REALTOR who can spare you many hours of wasted time and save you in our current economy, precious dollars. The agent’s services are usually free of charge to buyers as the Seller almost always pays the total commission fees.

Call me!

Interest Rates for February 24, 2011

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:31:14 -0500

If you are in the market for a home, then the interest rates are going to be very interesting. If not buying, then selling- they will still be important- because the interested parties for your home sale are probably going to be financing some or all of the purchase.

Well I have good news for you either way- the rates are still very favorable.

What are you waiting for?

Call me!

Interest Rates are Creeping UP

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 01:01:18 -0500

	*AS OF*	*2/14/2011*
	30-YR FIXED…………………………………..	5.000%

	15-YR FIXED…………………………………..	4.250%

	JUMBO 30-YR FIXED (> $417,000)………….	5.625%

	JUMBO 15-YR FIXED (> $417,000)………….	5.125%

	Minimum $70,000 loan amount for the following quoted rate:

	RURAL DEVELOPMENT (30-Year Fixed)….	4.750%

	30-YR FIXED FHA……………………………..	4.750%

	30-YR FIXED VA……………...………………..	4.750%

	3/1 ARM…………………………………………	4.250%

	5/1 ARM…………………………………………	4.990%

	BARE LAND…………………………………...	6.000%

	Rates effective as of the date shown above and subject to change. As real estate agents, we deal with prospective buyers and sellers and that so necessary item, MONEY. Yes the inventory is amazingly good- what a selection, what possiblilties. Now however, I see the home morgage interest rates starting to climb out of those almost unbelivable low rates. WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???

Call me!

It Is Up To You, Mr. Seller

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 22:42:44 -0500

This should be required reading for all those homeowners who are even thinking of selling. It is hard work, inconvenient, and so worth it if you need to do so.

Via William James Walton, Sr. Greater Waterbury Real Estate (Century21 Access America):

It Is Up To You, Mr. Seller

So, Mr. Seller, you’ve made a decision that you want to sell your home. Scratch that. You’ve decided that you need to sell your home.

That’s great. You start looking at what other homes in your neighborhood are selling for. You research market statistics on homes that have sold. You peruse some websites that allow you to obtain a market analysis of your home. You go to Zillow to get some more information about the prices of similar homes in your area. You read the local newspaper, looking for tips on how to sell your home.

You’ve been gathering information for some time now, and you are weighing your options – do I use a realtor, or do I try to sell my home on my own? You evaluate all of the pros and cons of each avenue and you ultimately decide against selling it on your own and you decide to reach out to a few realtors – those whose sites you used to get a free evaluation from, and one who was recommended to you by a co-worker who recently sold his own home.

After speaking with all of the agents and listening to their presentations, you’ve settled on one agent. You just…clicked. He explained to you in detail his marketing strategy, established how he would communicate with you during the process, and provided his rather extensive resume of closed transactions over the last several years.

So you ask the usual questions as you prepare to sign the listing agreement:

At what price should I list my home?

How long do you think it will take for the home to sell?

What should I do to make the home more appealing to buyers?

Will the house actually sell in this market?

My response to those questions? It is up to you, Mr. Seller.

The whole process of selling your home is dependent first and foremost on the attitude that you bring to the table. You established that you wanted and needed to sell your home, so your actions should be consistent with that motivation.

But you’re the Realtor. You’re the professional, so you should know the answers to my questions.

That is true, I am the professional. But consider this:

·         I performed a comparative market analysis of your home and came up with a suggested listing price range of $150,000-$160,000. Did you concur with my professional opinion supported by the market statistics, or did you insist that you needed $195,000 in order to place your home on the market?

·         I toured the home prior to our listing appointment and took some pictures. I made several suggestions that would improve the curb appeal of your home, and even provided you a list of vendors who could perform the needed repairs at a minimal cost to you, if you were unable to complete the repairs yourself. Did you follow through with my suggestions, or did you refuse to even trim the hedges and mow the lawn, let alone make any repairs?

·         I suggested de-cluttering several rooms and making some minor rearrangements of furniture so that buyers could visualize the amount of space available. Did you take my advice, or ignore it altogether?

·         I informed you that the majority of buyers would be uncomfortable touring a home with either one of us present, and that your schedule needed to be flexible in order to accommodate potential buyers who want to see your home. Did you make arrangements to vacate the premises during a showing, or did you insist on being present to meet each buyer, as well as unreasonably limiting the times in which your home could be shown?

Sellers, if you are serious about selling your home, only you, based on the actions that you take, can determine whether your home sells or not. Your actions during the selling process must be consistent with your need to sell or your want to sell, and especially if you both need and want to sell your home.

In the final analysis, Mr. Seller, whether your home sells or not is entirely up to you.



Courtesy of William James Walton, Sr. , Realtor, Century21 Access America

Serving northern New Haven and southeastern Litchfield Counties (Waterbury, Wolcott, Prospect, Naugatuck, Middlebury, Southbury, Watertown, Thomaston and Plymouth)

Call William James Walton, Sr. Real Estate Agent with Century21Access America (203) 558-7463 for help with your real estate needs -buying or selling - in Waterbury, Watertown, Wolcott, Middlebury, Southbury, Prospect, Naugatuck, Plymouth and Thomaston

Buyers - Search for Greater Waterbury, CT Area Homes For Sale

Sellers - Request a Free Home Evaluation, Look at Recent Home Sales

Call me!

Preparing for Homeownership in Ten Steps

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 21:34:14 -0500

Preparing for Homeownership in Ten Steps

1.Decide what you can afford. The best way to do this is with a visit to your favorite lender – that way you will know what price ranges you can search in.

2. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provides a history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.

3 Determine your mortgage qualifications. How large of mortgage do you qualify for? Also, explore different loan options — such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMs — and decide what’s best for you.

4 Get preapproved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.

5 Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you’ve saved to buy your fist home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal.

6 Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.

7.Develop your home wish list. Separate the needs from the wants and understand that you can get some of each but maybe not all of the above.

8 Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, medical facilities, parks, cultural events.

9 Start saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don’t forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs — average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price.

10. Contact a REALTOR®. For help in the Brainerd Lakes Area of Minnesota- call Kathleen Lordbock with Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes at 218-831-8001.

Call me!

Foreclosure Numbers for 2010 in the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnnesota

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 20:44:35 -0500

Foreclosure numbers for 2010 in lakes area counties represent a staggering sum.

"The No.1 driver for foreclosure in the state of Minnesota is unemployment and underemployment," said Ed Nelson, marketing and communication manager with St. Paul-based Minnesota Home Ownership Center. "Until we start seeing our unemployment rate drop and stay dropped, we're going to see elevated numbers of foreclosures."

In 2010, there were 71,556 pre-foreclosure notices sent to Minnesota families.

While not all the foreclosures represent a homestead lost, since reports indicate a rise in second-home foreclosures, the majority are serving as primary homes.

In a Seminar at the Greater Lakes Association of Realtors on January 28,2011, Nelson presented a preview of preliminary foreclosure numbers. These initial figures, which may change slightly, present a picture of the extensive mortgage crisis. In the hard hit Crow Wing and Mille Lacs counties, up to 8 percent of all residential parcels are in foreclosure.

Crow Wing County had 388 foreclosures in 2010 for a running foreclosure total of just less than 1,600 households in the last four years. For Crow Wing, the numbers began a rather steep rise in 2007, bumped up even farther in 2008 before leveling off in 2009.

Mille Lacs County's foreclosures shot up in 2006, more than doubled by 2007 and climbed even higher in 2008. Nelson said the Mille Lacs County foreclosures have leveled off but at elevated numbers. The county had 226 foreclosures in 2010, slightly higher than 2009.

If you are falling behind on payments or have already received a notice of the Sheriff's Sale, please do not walk away. We may be able to negotiate with your lender to sell your home for less than you owe and avoid foreclosure. This will give you a graceful exit and allow you to move on.

Kathleen Lordbock

Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes

Short Sale Specialist

218-831-8001

Call me!

Interest Rates for January 15, 2011

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 01:12:36 -0500

CURRENT MORTGAGE RATES

		*AS OF*	*1/19/2011*
	30-YR FIXED…………………………………..	4.750%

	15-YR FIXED…………………………………..	4.125%

	JUMBO 30-YR FIXED (> $417,000)………….	5.500%

	JUMBO 15-YR FIXED (> $417,000)………….	4.750%

	Minimum $70,000 loan amount for the following quoted rate:

	RURAL DEVELOPMENT (30-Year Fixed)….	4.750%

	30-YR FIXED FHA……………………………..	4.500%

	30-YR FIXED VA……………...………………..	4.625%

	3/1 ARM…………………………………………	4.250%

	5/1 ARM…………………………………………	4.990%

	BARE LAND…………………………………...	6.000%

	Rates effective as of the date shown above and subject to change.
	This is not an offer to enter into a lock agreement
	Rates apply to loan amounts of $200,000+ unless otherwise stated Rates are still historically low and we have an inventory that is high- what are you waiting for? Short Sales, foreclosed properties, and traditional sales in all price ranges, locations and from fixer upper condition to move in ready. Looking for lake property on a small lake or the very large Mille Lacs or one of the chains? Want a property to buy, fix up and rent? How about some hunting land for a try at another trophy buck? Maybe you are ready to sell and need some help to get the best price or sell your home short of what you owe? Call Kathleen Lordbock at 218-831-8001

Call me!

LESS Than Perfect

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 23:46:45 -0500

Selling your home? Being ready to show at a moment's notice and knowing what to do and what not to do- takes some experience and training and life.

Via Jackie Peraza, Home Stager - Framingham, Massachusetts (Perceptions AdverStaging(TM), LLC):

In my last post I described the process of getting ready to list my house for sale. I think it important to share some things I learned in that process and the additional knowledge I gained from the experts that actually do the work of selling homes, Realtors(r). Remember, we were not selling a vacant home, but even at that, based on what I learned with this (pending) sale, I might be inclined to approach staging a vacant home differently.

As a stager and designer, and in life in general I'm a perfectionist - sometimes to the point of being obsessive. Being a perfectionist is not a personality trait I would wish on anyone, though I suspect many might disagree with me. Generally speaking, my house is always 'show ready' because of that obsessivness. It's just the way we live. I dislike clutter and love lots of free wall space. I also like knowing that I don't have to rush around at the last minute should someone want to stop in and visit over a cup of coffee. Closets and drawers are a bit of a different story though. I live with other people and they have been known to leave things laying around. If I'm unsure where the items belong I get them into a closet or drawer - or the infamous 'storage room' we have in our house. As I was going through the house I knew I had to tackle those areas and I was dreading it. Where exactly do you put other peoples things so they can find them quickly, or so that you can remember where you put things when they're screaming, "hey, I needed that!" Here is what I did...

Closets - I weeded them out. Out of season clothing was put in storage containers, shelves were tidied up and shoes were lined up neatly. Other than that, I left them alone. No one really lives in a show home and I wasn't going to pretend we did. I cannot begin to apologize enough to my previous clients for being so strict about their closets. Sure, it's important to show space availability, but not to the extent of leaving closets without a lived in feel. Potential buyers that came through my house appreciated experiencing the amount of 'real availability' of closet space we have here.

Drawers - Were left in the state they were found in - including the two junk drawers in the kitchen. Who doesn't have a junk drawer in their kitchen? As a stager I know better than to leave junk drawers for their intended purpose, but I went with my gut on this one. Guess what? It didn't make a bit of a difference to the potential buyers.

The dreaded storage room - This room was a tough call for me. The room really is fairly large and it is PACKED with all manner of items, though bulky Christmas decorations take up most of the room. I thought about renting a storage facility just for the items in this room - I'm selling space, I kept saying to myself; and then I thought differently. This is a storage room for goodness sakes - shouldn't buyers see its defined and intended purpose? I did tidy the room up, donated a truckload of whatnots, but other than that the room stayed as it was intended, a storage room.

And finally, The Family Room - My family room is very much loved and used. The bookshelves are filled to the brim with books. And they're not perfectly orderly. We also have an extra TV in this room - hey, who doesn't like playing Guitar Hero?! I want to tell a short story about those bookshelves and the room in general and then I'll show a picture. I had an opportunity to speak with a potential buyer immediately after the couple walked through the house. Before they could say anything I was apologizing for the state of the bookshelves, explaining we love having access to whatever our hearts desire reading and I was having difficulty weeding through what should be packed away. The feedback was this, "those bookshelves and the game TV set-up give that room the lived in, loved on feeling we want in a family room. Thank you for not making the room look like a magazine shoot." Now that was a lesson I'll probably never forget. Here is the listed pic as taken by our Realtor, Lisa Zemack, of Zemack Real Estate.

Our Realtor (as well as several other Realtors) had repeatedly told me that I was being obsessive about having everything perfect before I would agree to list the house. At one point, Lisa told me to 'leave it alone', meaning the entire house. She said enough was enough and the house would sell and probably sell quickly. She was right - the house went under contract within 2 days, with multiple offers over asking.

Going forward I'll remember much of this. I'll ask sellers to do much less than I've asked in the past. Most importantly I'll ask and respect the answer of the listing Realtor as to what their take is on the condition of the house and the buying demographics they expect to have go through, especially houses that are lived in while listed. And I'll do everything in my power so the sellers still feel like it's their home, because it is...until the day it sells.

Call me!

Why Not You?

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 14:03:20 -0500

This is Christmas Day and by now most of you will have already opened your gifts and had some good things to eat! This is perhaps the most celebrated holiday in the entire world. Gift giving is core to the message of Christmas." For unto this world a child was born", a gift for all mankind who believe. Jesus gave the best gift of all- the sacrifice of a sinless life-heaped with the sins of mankind. None of use could give a gift like this-"for all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God". But we can share this gift and tell others about it for it is the"good news' that the shepherds heard sung by angels.

This Christ is the only son of the living God- always was and always will be.

The gift is there for those who seek it - wise men did.

Why not you?

Call me!