Parkland & Coral Springs Real Estate

The Price is Right

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:28:32 -0600

It seems that all priced right listings are selling here in the Coral Springs / Parkland area. Because of decreasing inventories of homes for sale, low interest rates and government incentives it is becomming a sellers market.It is an excellent time to sell because you never know when interest rates will go up. There are qualified buyers out there right now. So if anyone out there is undecided whether to sell now is the time because the market is getting hot.

Time to sell

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:53:14 -0500

Not only is it a great time to buy but also a great time to sell. Low interest rates,tax credits, and low prices are fueling the market here in Coral Springs,Fl. Selling inventories are way down and quality listings are hard to find. Now is the time to move! You never know when interest rates will go up and when the government will start upping taxes to control deficits.

Help the Builders

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:52:38 -0500

Down here in Florida there is one sure way to reduce the high unemployment rate and that is to get the builders building new homes again. Every new home produces about 4 new jobs. Builders are producing about 20% of what they would build in a normal year. That translates into about half the unemployment in Florida. Customers are purchasing short sales and reo's because they are about 25% less than a new home can be constructed for. Normally they would pay 10% more for a new home because it needs no work. So to make up the difference why not have the counties wave these super high impact fees and water meter fees. And why not have the federal government give builders loans, and tax credits to sell affordable housing.The benefit to all is undeniable and will get the housing market moving again.

Going Green is a People Business

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:09:03 -0500

There is much talk about going green. What are we as real estate professional doing about it? For one thing we are trying to save paper by emailing,text,presentingand advertising thru the Internet. Someday soon all newspapers,magazines,books,bills will be available thru the Internet. We now have paperless and virtual closings happening more often. And most of us have home offices from which we can do much of our business, take courses and to pay our bills. And I'm definitely for doing something for the environment and the economy , every little bit helps and we all need to contribute. But I want to remember that we are in the people business and that by treating everyone with respect,honesty and loyalty, we are also contributing to the good of all.

First Time Home Buyers

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 10:25:20 -0500

Yesterday, I had a short sale contract offer accepted by the seller of a very nice home. It will be submitted to the bank for approval and hopefully soon the bank will respond and will close by the end of November. My buyer,a single woman, is a first time home buyer. She is hoping to get the $8,000 tax credit. This tax credit has been a boom to our area here in Coral Springs, FL. and I'm sure it has helped other markets as well. It makes me feel good to know that the tax credit is not only helping this young person in purchasing a home, it is helping many other people and the economy as well. I support the extension of this tax credit for another year.

The Professional

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:03:23 -0500

What does it mean to be a professional in the business of real estate? The mother of a client of mine recently said to me that even though her daughter wouldn't take any advice from her she would listen to me because I was the professional. This really hit home for me. If I don't advise my clients on how, what and where to buy and sell real estate then what am I doing. Of course everyone has preferences, but I'm the one that must guide them through the process and help them realize what their goals and needs are and help them get there. With all the experience that I have, I promise to listen and to then give an opinion on how best to proceed. I will then go and do the best I possibly can for everyone.

Farming for buyers and sellers

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 11:02:24 -0500

I like doing open houses. It's a great way to a sell property that you belive in, meet neighbors who might one day sell their home, or cultivate referrals in the area.Basically it's a great way to meet new people and to become an expert! Usually, I make sure to invite about 20 neighbors to my open house.

While knocking on doors. one gentleman told me that there was no soliciting, and that he could call the police, or report the HOA. I apologized.

The next day I had my open house and it went well with positive results. I've decide I'm going to keep knocking on doors because I feel I can add much to a community by being freindly, professional and selling in the development.

Pre Open House

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 15:19:59 -0500

Tomorrow I'm doing an open house for another agent, but today I decided to first clean up the house somewhat and meet as many of the neighbors that I could. Cleaning someone else's home and listing, is not one of my favorite things to do, but I did it because I wanted to be proud of what I was selling. Walking up and down the street in the Florida heat and knockig on doors is not normally on my to do list. I met some really nice people and I learned an a lot about the neighbothood. I may or may not sell that home tomorrow but I'll bet I get one solid lead out of this weekend. I'll do whatever it takes.

Old friends

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:11:55 -0500

Yesterday, I went out to preview some properties in a 66 home development that I had built. While driving around the block, I noticed that a garage door was open, so I called the owner and friend up and he invited me in. He had made many improvements over the years, and still loved the home and the neighborhood. It gave me great joy to visit, seeing one of his teenage sons, and to realize that I had been a part of their lives and they a part of mine. I promise to keep in touch with friends and clients that I enjoyed working with.

Location

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 19:16:41 -0500

Through Facebook, I've been in contact with some old friends from Decker Avenue in Elizabeth, N.J. -- where I grew up. It brought backsome special memories. What made it special was that it was one short narrow block where everyone knew and hung around together. People were outside a lot, there was football, wiffle ball, and basketball and a lot of sitting on front stoops. People lived in their homes for long periods of time. I hope some of the buyers I work with will experience the good feelings of living and growing in a small community. The people living there are the amenities.

Back Up Contracts

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:54:05 -0500

Yesterday, my client and I lost out lost out on a short sale home to a cash buyer at a higher price. The listing agent then asked me if we wanted to put in a backup offer in case the deal fell through because of inspection issues. My initial reaction is that if a short sale is so time consuming and difficult to get the bank to approve then what chance does a backup have? On the other hand, what is there to lose except some time, paperwork and money in escrow? Now I'm thinking maybe recommend it to my buyers.What does everyone out there think?

Short sales can be a good thing.

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:49:26 -0500

Even though I tried to stay away from short sales, I'm finding that I'm showing them much more often now. They are the most abundant listings on the market now and as a result are setting the prices that homes are selling for. I think that the government is pushing banks into streamlining the process so that so there is a shorter waiting period and there are not so many foreclosures. All this makes sense because the banks save on foreclosure costs and generally end up with a higher price with a short sale and get there money sooner. And the seller takes less of a hit on his credit. It helps the buyer, seller, bank,and the economy. So, why not go for it?

Listed Vacant Land

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:15:49 -0500

I just listed 3.28 acres in West Palm Beach. It is approved for 38 Carriage Homes, and it also can be used for a 91 bed ALF/ Rehab center or a Church/ Day Care. It is a great opportunity for those who know the workforce, moderate income market and know how to work with HUD.It is a great location. Terms and joint venture will be considered with those with the best credentials and experience.

A changing world

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:20:12 -0500

What I'm finding out there is that most people would rather be emailed, texted, or just be contacted in ways other than a telephone call. Apparently, It is easier to say yes, no, or I do not want to speak to you right now. Customers want immediate response via texting or email. It's a fast changing world out there and you have to keep up. The PDA phone is the way to go. Anyone else out there feeling the same?

Happy Birthday

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:11:28 -0500

Today I'm 60. Do I feel it? No, I feel great! In fact, better than ever. I am a better person, father, son, husband, friend, builder and Realtor than ever before. I've learned to be more patient, thoughtful, and less reactive. I certainly appreciate all that I have and am thankful that I continue to move forward in great health and spirit.

I've been involved in real estate for over 45 years in one way or another and I've learned to seize the moment, opportunities and enjoy the process. Success will certainly follow.

Hot,hot, hot!

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:40:49 -0500

All properties that are priced properly are selling. The condo and townhouse market is being helped by investors returning and properties are being built up by rising prices. The $200,000 to $300,000 market in Coral Springs and Parkland is also selling briskly, helped by the 1st time home buyers tax credit. In fact, there is a shortage of quality listings in these markets.

What this all means is be prepared to act now! The benefit warrants great value with great financing.

Foreclosures

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:08:38 -0500

Are you finding that low priced foreclosures are being bid on immediately and usually go pending after about 5 days? I just had a buyer with a Coral Springs Stabilization Program approval but his bank approval was more than 30 days old and he lost out. On well priced foreclosures, buyers must have their pre-approvals or cash to close. The paper work was well organized but there really isn't anyone to talk to. If there is something out there you like, everyone must act quickly. I'm hoping that these propeties go to families but I think many are going to investors.

Premier Service

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Thu, 28 May 2009 15:54:39 -0500

After having a focus group in our office today, I am excited about offering my clients the best that I can give and to really listen to their needs. Sometimes, I forget it's not about how much but about showing others how to buy and sell Real Estate. I want to care about those I'm dealing with. After that I'm sure success will follow.

After the Holiday

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:54:39 -0500

It's good to be back to work today. I'm doing floor this morning and it feels like I'm not the only one moving slowly today. I think at this point, we are getting many calls looking for rentals. Are any of you out there also getting more calls for rentals? I'm definitely going to get more involved in them. It's definitely going to be a bigger part of my business. Having built,rented,and managed an apartment complex, It is an area that I have much experience in and I can use the income.

Opportunity knocks

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Sat, 23 May 2009 13:58:18 -0500

Even though most of us have experienced many problems in this tough economic market and are not doing as well as we we expected, there is much opportunity for professional and personal growth.My goals are to be a better communicator,salesperson,and to market my skills effectively. With that happening I know there will be much success. Let's try and be the best that we can be.

Sales are happening

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:29:26 -0500

A few of you out there commented that there might not be enough inventory if the selling upswing continues. Not to worry, there are more foreclosures comming up and if inventory does dry up and there is still buyer demand then prices stabilize and start to go up. If prices go up then more folks list their homes and builders start, like myself, start to build again. This is a good thing for the U.S. economy and it's going to happen.

Homes are finally selling

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Tue, 19 May 2009 19:14:52 -0500

People are beginning to realize that now is a great time to buy. Condos that have been on the market for quite awhile are selling to 1st time home buyers and investors. 1st time home buyers are taking advantage of the tax credit on single family homes. Move up buyers are selling their homes for less money than expected but getting bargains at the higher end. South Florida is becoming affordable again and their is opportunity for all types of buyers and sellers in this market. The buzz feels good. Spread the word.

Sunday's Open House

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:53:20 -0500

I sat an open house yesterday on a listing in our office and a young couple and their parents stopped. They had been searching in the area for awhile and had seen the "back on the market" listing on the internet. They drove by and really liked the home. I asked if they wanted to purchase it and they said they might but only thru the realtor that they were working with. I learned 2 things on sunday, that young people by homes off the internet and that if you treat people right they will stay loyal to you.

A home is the best route taken

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Thu, 14 May 2009 14:35:03 -0500

If you are a young person and you are renting right now, invest in your future. It is a must that you start building equity either thru saving or home ownership. Historically, home ownership is the single most important wealth builder there is. With todays interest rates, prices, and tax incentives you must take advantage. Make the commitment and you will thank me. Besides wealthier, you will also be happier and healthier. How do I know this? It is the route I have taken.

Buy and Sell Now!

Paul Zwanger (1st Choice GMAC Real Estate ) — Wed, 13 May 2009 19:27:35 -0500

What a great time to buy a home in South Florida. Prices have come down 35% in a year, interest rates are low, and 1st time home buyers are getting an $8,000 tax credit. It's like hitting the trifecta. Investors can take advantage of low prices, young people can stop renting and buy their first home, moveups are finding incredible values, and empty nestors can move here and still have an active lifestyle. As for selling,sales are up 46% over a year ago and it's time to move up and move on. This is a call to action. contact me.