Cleveland Realty Blog

It's time to check out your credit score if you consider to buy a home in Cleveland

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:15:56 -0600

It's time to check out your credit score if you consider to buy a home in Cleveland OH or anywhere in the United States in few months, so you can still benefit from Home buyers tax credit.

Monitoring and reviewing your credit reports is a good idea for everyone. According to Equifax,

more than 27 million Americans have been victims of identity theft in the last five years
only this year about 500,000 people will be robbed by identity thievs
there is likely to be a "mass victimization" of the consumers within the next two years
it may take six months to two years to recover from identity theft.

Even if you get pre-approved by the mortgage lender and If you are going to buy a house within next few months, it might be wise to monitor your credit in order to avoid unwilling surprises.

Consumers are entitled to receive one free credit report every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies – Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Free credit report can be requested through the website https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp.

The addresses for the credit reporting agencies are listed below:

Equifax
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, Georgia 30374

Experian
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, Texas 75013

TransUnion
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92834

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Happy Thanksgiving Day from Cleveland OH!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:52:24 -0600

Happy Thanksgiving from Cleveland OH.

Thanksgiving Day is my favorite American holiday. Spirit of gratitude makes people better, more kind, more thoughtful, more connected.

In this season of gratitude and love I want to thank all my friends, my loving family, wonderful clients, reliable partners, our neighbors, our contractors and wish all of you you a happy Thanksgiving Day!

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Walden, Aurora OH - Why settle for less when you can live an American dream

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:19:10 -0600

Aurora, OH. Club Walden. Walden Farms.

If you live in Greater Cleveland or Akron area there is a pretty high chance that you've heard about either Walden golf, Club Walden, Walden Inn, Walden spa, or dining in the Walden barn.

There is something special about Walden of Aurora OH. Luxury without a pretension, elegant simplicity and humanity of thoughtful architectural design - that's all Walden.

I am happy to present to you one of the last opportunities to build a home of your dream in Walden Farms. If you are considering moving to elegant country club community of Walden, Aurora, please call me 216-548-4663 for a private tour. I will be happy to arrange for you a preview of Walden golf club, Walden Inn and spa, dining in Walden, and tour you around Walden Farms. You can also e-mail me about this tour at Realty@Local-n-Global.com.

This offer is unique:

One of three last lots on Bonnie Ln., which has no Home Owners Association fee
About 30 minutes from downtown Cleveland and Akron
Proximity to major hospitals
Prime cul-de-sac location
You can bring your own builder
Great price for a prime lot in Aurora OH!

Opportunity to build in Walden Farms

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Video Welcome to Aurora
Neighborhood

$125,000

Lots and Lands
For Sale

Main Features

Lot: 0.46 acre(s)

Location

97 Bonnie Ln
Aurora, OH 44202

Svetlana Stolyarova

Local-n-Global Realty
(440) 2475388
Realty@Local-n-Global.com
http://www.Local-n-Global.com

Listed by: Local-n-Global Realty

Our recent listings

Opportunity to build in Walden Farms
Broker's Open 11/03/2009 11:30am-1:30pm
Affordable home in Mayfield Heights
Beautiful Starter Home in Richmond Heights
Horse Property in Mesopotamia, OH

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When can I get my $6500? Details for grabbing that new Federal MOVE-UP Home-Buyer Tax Credit.

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:48:00 -0600

It's a perfect up to move up for those who really need it. It's a perfect incentive for those homeowners who really deserve it.

Please read the excellent explanation of new home buyers tax credit. The only thing which I would mention is that this tax credit is not only move-UP buyers' credit. You don't need to pay more for your new home than you paid for your old one. You just need to move to a new place.

Via Jim Hale - On the MOVE for You! Eugene - Springfield Oregon Real Estate (ACTIONAGENTS.NET):

You've just closed (or will be closing soon) on the purchase of your new home. You've been told you're eligible* for the new $6500 fully-refundable federal

Move-Up Home-Buyer Tax Credit.

You've got just one question:

When do I get my money?

The short answer is:    It's up to you!

But your available options will be determined by whether the closing date of your purchase is:

Between November 7 and December 31, 2009
Or after January 1, 2010.

And you will have to keep in mind the income limitations applicable to the calendar year option you pick.

For purchases closed between November 7 and December 31, 2009, your options are:

1) Elect to File as if the purchase was made in Tax Year 2008.

Here's How:

Wait for a new November 2009 revision of Federal Tax Form 5405.

File the new Federal Tax Form 5405 to compute and claim the credit.

Attach a copy of your HUD-1 settlement form (closing statement) to that new Form 5405 as proof of the completed home purchase.

File a Federal Form 1040X (Amended Return) to amend Line 69 of your previously filed 2008 Federal Tax Return.

The IRS says to allow 3-4 months for a response to an amended return. They regularly beat this turn-around last summer, but may take longer this winter.

2) File as if the purchase was made in Tax Year 2009.

Here's How:

After January 15, 2010:

File a 2009 Federal Form 5405 (not yet published) to claim the credit.

Attach a copy of your HUD-1 settlement form (closing statement) to Form 5405 as proof of the completed home purchase.

File your regular 2009 Federal Income Tax Form 1040 in the usual way, reporting the credit amount on Line 67.

Expect your refund on the usual timeline a few weeks after you file.

For purchases closed after January 1, 2010, your options are:

1) File as if the purchase was made in Tax Year 2009.

Here's How:

After January 15, 2010:

File a 2009 Federal Form 5405 (not yet published) to claim the credit.

Attach a copy of your HUD-1 settlement form (closing statement) to Form 5405 as proof of the completed home purchase.

File your regular 2009 Federal Income Tax Form 1040 in the usual way, reporting the credit amount on Line 67.

Expect your refund on the usual timeline a few weeks after you file.

If you purchase you home after filing your 2009 income tax return (but before the April 30 deadline to have your purchase under contract and the June 30 deadline by which the sale must close) you can elect to file a 1040X to amend 2009.

2) File as if the purchase was made in Tax Year 2010.

Here's How:

After January 15, 2011:

File a 2010 Federal Form 5405 (not yet published) to claim the credit.

Attach a copy of your HUD-1 settlement form (closing statement) to Form 5405 as proof of the completed home purchase.

File your regular 2010 Federal Income Tax Form 1040 in the usual way, reporting the credit amount on the appropriate line.

Expect your refund on the usual timeline a few weeks after you file.

Here's how you may want to decide which of those options to choose:

If you choose to file the credit for 2008, the income limits (Modified Adjusted Gross Income - MAGI) associated with the First-Time Home-Buyer credit on December 31, 2008 will apply. Those were:

$ $75,000 for single filers
$ $125,000 for married filing jointly.

Also applicable for 2008 will be the pro-rating/phase out of the tax credit for those having incomes just above those stated limits ($95,000 and $145,000).

If you choose to file the credit for 2009 or 2010, the income limits (Modified Adjusted Gross Income - MAGI) associated with the credit on December 31, 2009 will apply. Those are:

$ 125,000 for single filers
$ 225,000 for married filing jointly.

Also applicable for 2009 and 2010 will be the pro-rating/phase out of the tax credit for those having incomes just above those stated limits. See you tax advisor for the details of this provision, but the bottom line is:

If the applicable income phaseout would reduce your home buyer tax credit amount in the present year and a larger credit would be available using the prior year MAGI amounts, then you can choose the year that yields the largest credit amount.

The phaseout range for the tax credit program is equal to $20,000. That is, the tax credit amount is reduced to zero for taxpayers with MAGI of more than $145,000 (single) or $245,000 (married) and is reduced proportionally for taxpayers with MAGIs between these amounts.

I

*(i.e. I've lived in my old personal residence for five (5) out of the last eight (8) years.)

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

Jim Hale

Principal Broker

Graduate, REALTOR Institute                e-PRO
actionagents.net
1715 Linnea Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401-1962

Office: 541-484-0219
Direct: 541-543-9991
Fax:      541-485-8068

www.actionagents.net                jim@actionagents.net

© 2009 All Rights Reserved

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Too good to be true? Too many advantages of buying Real Estate now? Just compare the numbers!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:15:41 -0600

Can it be too many advantages of buying Real Estate now?

Why in the world people who need to buy the house in Solon, Mayfield Heights or anywhere in Greater Cleveland are still thinking and waiting for something?

Isn't it better just do it?

Simple list of opportunities for both first time home buyers and for moving up buyers is impressive.

Still a very good inventory of solid homes and condos
Still very attractive prices
More chances to do your due diligence - inspect the property, get it fixed by sellers if necessary
As a result, much better condition of the property
More qualified Real estate professionals working for you. It's not a secret that many part timers or agents who could not earn enough to support their family or lifestyle, simply left Real estate for other occupations
Up to $8,000 tax credit to first time home buyers
Up to $6,500 tax credit to existing home owners who move to the next home
Incredibly low interest rates!

Just compare the numbers!

Let's say, you decide to buy the $200,000 home in Cleveland OH.

You make enough money and you saved enough to put 20 % down.

You earned a high credit score, so you get perfectly qualified for conventional loan.

Using a simple mortgage calculator you can easily compare your mortgage payments and savings if you borrow at 4.75 % (available today) vs. very respectable 6.25 %, which many homeowners recently dreamt about.

Purchase price	$200,000
Down payment	$40,000
Loan amount	$160,000

30 yrs. Fixed Interest rate	4.75%	6.25 %
Monthly Principle and Interest	$834.64	$985.15
Interest to be paid over the duration of loan	$140,468	$194,653

Cost of not taking advantage of current low interest rate	$54,185

Why wait?

Any of home buyers' advantages listed above may vanish soon.

If you really need to buy or move up, just do it!

Call us today 216-548-4663 and schedule your free home needs evaluation session with Local-n-Global Real Estate consultants.

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Broker's Open House in Big Turtle II Condo - you owe this preview to your buyers!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:06:52 -0600

I will host a Broker's Open House in Big Turtle II condominium 11/03/2009 between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. As usually, delicious appetizers will be served.

Dear agents! Don't assume that all the condos are the same or very similar. Just stop by and see how diligent renovation, great taste and decoration skills made this three bedroom Willoughby OH condo different.

It's priced obviously higher than some bank owned units in the same Big Turtle II. However, the scope and quality of renovation, love and care is incredibly larger than a difference in prices.

Your clients' carefree living, enjoyment and gratitude are priceless!

Please visit our Open House and let your clients know about this wonderful deal.

You owe this preview to your clients!

Broker s Open 11/03/2009 11:30am-1:30pm

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$120,000

Condominium
For Sale

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
3 Units
Interior: 1182 sqft

Location

5542 Bretton Ct.
Unit B3
Willoughby, OH 44094

Svetlana Stolyarova

Local-n-Global Realty
(440) 2475388
Realty@Local-n-Global.com
http://www.Local-n-Global.com

Listed by: Local-n-Global Realty

Our recent listings

Broker's Open 11/03/2009 11:30am-1:30pm
Affordable home in Mayfield Heights
Beautiful Starter Home in Richmond Heights
Opportunity to build in Walden Farms
Horse Property in Mesopotamia, OH

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See more Willoughby, OH real estate for sale

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Richmond heights OH Real Estate news: Condominiums in Richmond Place are still desirable

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:10:12 -0500

Richmond Heights OH Real Estate News: Condominiums in Richmond Place are still desirable.

Local-n-Global marketing system helped to sell another condo in Richmond Heights OH.

Despite the fact that number of condominium units sold in Cuyahoga County in 2009 decreased in comparison with previous years, there is still some hope for sellers and for buyers of condominiums in Richmond Heights OH.

I am very glad to announce that another lucky buyer just bought the condo in Richmond Place listed by Local-n-Global Realty.

As of 10/29/2009, five Richmond Place condominiums sold in 2009.

Two of them were Local-n-Global listings. The sellers of both units received offers in first few weeks upon listing and closed within first three months on the market.

There is a small secret of successful sales: right pricing, right marketing, right showing condition, right buyers' qualification.

Local-n-Global listing specialists know how to sell the condominiums in Richmond Heights on any market.

Please call us 216-548-4663 if you need to sell your condo in Richmond Place or anywhere in Greater Cleveland.

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Few more beautiful reasons to move to Cleveland OH

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 09:06:37 -0500

There are many reasons to move to Cleveland OH.

Friendly Clevelanders. We are patriots and fans of our city.

Rich culture. Cleveland Orchectra. Cleveland Museum of Art. Cleveland Playhouse. Cleveland libraries and much, much more
Multi-cultural Diversity. Cleveland is the city with the rich history of European immigration. African-American, Asian-American, Middle Eastern, Hispanic communities contribute a lot to the flavor and beauty of the City
Cleveland Cavaliers!
Affordable and quality Cleveland Real Estate
Excellent healthcare system. Cleveland is a home of Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Metro Health Hospitals
Excellent schools and institutes of higher education
Excellent place to raise children
Cleveland Metroparks
Four distinct seasons to enjoy

Let me present you few more beautiful reasons to relocate to Cleveland OH. Watch, enjoy and make your plans to move to our beautiful Cleveland!

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Mayfield Heights OH: Good Houses Sell Within First Month On The Market

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:54:27 -0500

Mayfield Heights OH. Good news for the home owners who need to sell the house - well prepared houses sell within first weeks on the market.

Another Mayfield Heights house sold by Local-n-Global Realty within first three weeks on the market. Our clients, the sellers of the nice newer home in Mayfield Heights OH entertained the multiple offers on their house. Three months from listing day to closing!

This happy case proves the old good formula of the successful sale:

Supply + Price

Time on the Market = Product Quality + Marketing

I want to tell you about a Product quality. The house is so nice and was so very well prepared for showings! No wonder that multiple buyers were making the offers to buy this Mayfiled Heights home.

Please see the presentation below and be happy for the buyers who not only purchased the beautiful home but also closed timely in order to take advantage of the First time home buyers' tax credit.

Home in Mayfield Heights - Sold In Four Weeks

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood

$217,500

Single Family Home
Sold

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 1920 sqft
Lot: 0.12 acre(s)

Location

1641 Fruitland Ave.
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

Svetlana Stolyarova

Local-n-Global Realty
(440) 2475388
Realty@Local-n-Global.com
http://www.Local-n-Global.com

Listed by: Local-n-Global Realty

Our recent listings

Affordable home in Mayfield Heights
Beautiful Starter Home in Richmond Heights
Opportunity to build in Walden Farms
Horse Property in Mesopotamia, OH
Best deal in Richmond Place!

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Mayfield Heights, OH real estate for sale

If you need to sell your house in Mayfield Heights or in any other suburbs on East side of Cleveland, please do not hesitate to call Local-n-Global listing specialists at 216-548-4663. We offer the free home listing and selling planning session for you.

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Looking for condo in Willoughby OH? We've just listed the best of the best!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:35:19 -0500

$120,000 - Willoughby Big Turtle II condo - must see! Buy and get $8,000 tax credit.

Location: Big Turtle II

Condominium in Big Turtle II of Willoughby offered for sale. Very special renovation, re-decoration and lovingly care distinguish this home from the others.

Wonderfully remodeled three bedroom unit is ready to move in and enjoy. Everything has been recently redone: windows, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, painting, finished basement. Very neat and neutral, tastefully decorated. Kitchen with all newer appliances, cabinets, countertops and backslash flows into adjacent dining area with sliding door to the patio.

Sunlit and classy Great room is set for family gatherings and enjoyment. Beautiful laminate floor, warm and yet neutral colors, newer sliding door, tasteful drapes make this room so inviting.

Bathrooms are finished with beautiful ceramic tile. All newer fixtures, sinks, vanity, whirlpool bathtub, classy light fixtures make the bathrooms luxurious. Spacious bedrooms are so cute and attractive!

New owners will love a plenty of closet space on the second floor and nicely organized utility / laundry room in the basement. Quality washer and dryer stay.

Maintenance fee of $218 per month includes landscaping, snow removal, recreation, exterior maintenance, insurance, water and sewer. Great value considering that there is a swimming pool, tennis courts, play ground, party center and wonderful walking paths in Big Turtle II!

Big Turtle II condos are FHA approved. Great chance for first time home buyers to buy it with low down payment and receive $8,000 tax credit if closed before November 30, 2009. Perfect fit for those who want a care-free condominium lifestyle in a renovated, lovingly decorated space.

Don't be confused with the lower competitors' prices. This unit had an extensive and expensive renovation during last 18 months. Over $40,000 invested by the sellers in the complete renovation and beautification of this unit. You can e-mail us at Realty@Local-n-Global.com to request the Before and After pictures of this condo. You will be surprised how much a good investment, great taste, good workmanship, love and care can make!

Please call our 24/7 Real Estate Hotline ext. 145 877-770-5551 or Svetlana Stolyarova directly at 216-548-4663 to set up a private tour to see this wonderful unit. Don't miss your chance! Call today!
condominium

Contact Information

Svetlana Stolyarova

216-548-4663

Pricing

Price: $120,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Homeowner Dues: $218/month

Property Location

5542 Bretton Ct. # B3

Willoughby, OH 44094

View Map

Links

Search all Cleveland MLS

Features

Bedrooms: 3	Bathrooms: 2
Parking Spaces: 1 car garage	Year Built: 1978
Subdivision: Big Turtle II	School District: Willoighby - Eastlake
Square Footage: 1182	Agent Name: Svetlana Stolyarova
Broker: Local-n-Global Realty	MLS #: 3078547

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Basement

Building Amenities

Patio

Swimming Pool

Recreation Center

Equal Housing Opportunity

VFLYER ID: 2901871

Photo Gallery

All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

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Buyers always want to buy your home for less than you want to sell it for. Is it always true?

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:28:12 -0500

Buyers always want to buy your home for less than you want to sell it for. Is it always true? Is there any way to avoid such a contradiction?

Right selling strategies help many home owners to sell homes in Cleveland OH for the top dollar and quickly.

Right home selling strategy means:

Price it right! Right pricing is the best cure from the unreasonable buyers' extreme proposals.
Prepare it right! Nice looking, clean, light, staged homes sell faster and for more money.
Show it! When you put For sale sign, get ready for a "Model home" mode. Make your home accessible!
Chose the right agent and plan the right marketing!

Not all the Real Estate agents are equal! Before signing a listing agreement with any real estate agent, make sure you know EXACTLY how your home will be marketed. There is a huge difference in marketing and negotiation skills, selling experience, and track records!

Most of the serious Real Estate agents prepare a formal listing presentation to show you, the home sellers, how your home will be marketed for sale. Don't list your home with a real estate agents who did not bother to make a presentation of their skills, who did not prepare a marketing plan and did not do the Comparative market analysis for you!

We in Local-n-Global Realty take it very seriously. We make free listing presentations and prepare CMAs for prospective home sellers very often. We know exactly what should be done to put a big SOLD sign in your front yard.

If you need to sell your house in Mayfield Heights, condo in Richmond Heights, home in Solon or in other neighborhoods of Greater Cleveland, please contact us. We'd love the opportunity to make a presentation for you. It is totally free and without any obligation.

Call us 440-247-5388 or e-mail to: Realty@Local-n-Global.com.

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God bless good Real Estate brokers! Another Solon OH home sold thanks to cooperation!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:24:24 -0500

Cleveland Real Estate market has one strength which neither crisis, nor falling prices could weaken. This strength is in our Realtors(R).

I am positive that home buyers and home sellers who buy or sell the houses in Solon, Pepper Pike, Mayfield Heights, Twinsburg and other communities of Greater Cleveland know it by heart that no matter what side of the transaction our Real Estate agents represent, or to what company they belong they work as one strong, professional team to make our clients happy.

Today is a big day. We closed another Real Estate transaction in Solon OH. It was probably the longest deal in my career. There was a cloud on the title which took over two and a half months to clear. My clients - first time home buyers were patient and understanding. The sellers were incredibly cooperative and diligent. Lender found the solution for rate lock extension. Everyone did a great job. However there was one person who managed everything and who was amazing. It's a listing agent Robert Gallmann from RE/MAX Haven. I am honored to extend my respect and gratitude to Rob and all members of his team for their job.

We worked together with Suzanne, Robert and all Gallmann team on few deals before. It is always a big pleasure to deal with this team. What a professionalism, leadership, ability to find a solution and great talent to cooperation!

I always believe in the importance of cooperation for real success in our business. It's not a secret that we are in a very competitive business. I think, it's beneficial for our clients that we compete with the very strong professionals.

Most of home sellers in Greater Cleveland and everywhere in the world interview at least two, sometimes more different agents. When Realtors(R) present our services to the home sellers we always try to show why should they chose us as their agents. What we do differently. What is our unique strength. How our strength can help the sellers to solve their problems in a better way.

However one of the most important parts of any listing presentation is explanation of the principles of cooperation between the brokers within MLS.

What we always hope and rarely tell our clients about is how easy it is to deal with the well trained, experienced, smart and educated agent on both sides when you sell your home.

Why don't we share the stories about our partners from different Real Estate companies.

God bless all cooperating brokers!

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So you want to save the commission?

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:19:24 -0500

Here in Cleveland OH we see fewer For Sale By Owner signs in the past two years. It's because the home sellers in Greater Cleveland do realize how much work and responsibility is involved in selling Real Estate in Ohio, especially during the hard times in economy.

If you are going to sell your house in Solon, Mayfield Heights, Twinsburg or other areas of Greater Cleveland, please read this excellent advice given to the home sellers by my colleague Dr. Chantal Saucier. It's real good!

Via Dr. Chantal Saucier (Keller Williams Realty Acadiana):

One comment we often hear as real estate professionals is "I'm selling my home myself to save the commission." That is fine so long as you don't think that your potential buyers don't know that.

In fact, did you know that there are only 4 kinds of buyers out there? That's right, 4. And they are either working with a Realtor or they, too, will want to save the commission. If you have a "For Sale By Owner" sign in your yard, everyone knows that you are not paying a commission to a professional.

1. First time home buyers: They are the most likely to seek the help of a professional because they do not know all the ins and outs of the home buying process. Even if they come across your home and like it, they will want their agent involved. Being open to working with a buyer's agent and paying at least some commission might help you get your home sold.

2. Relocating buyer: They, too, usually work with a real estate agent because they are not in town, yet. Again, if you are willing to pay a buyer's agent commission, you may be able to work with one of these buyers and sell your home, that is, if you are available to show it when this buyer is in town house shopping. If not, they might just buy your neighbor's house because it's listed and on a lockbox and they were actually able to view it.

3. Move up buyers: They tend to feel more confident about the process because they have been there before. However, if they choose to work on their own, they'll negotiate you down on your price to save some of the commission themselves. Since 2 out of 3 FSBO that go under contract do not close when no Realtor is involved, it might not matter if you split the would-have-been commission with this buyer. The question is: can you get them to the closing table?

4. Investors: Probably the most savvy buyer out there and you can bet that they will not pay you a commission to work the sale of your home for you. Unless you are an investor yourself and you've sold many homes in the past, this buyer knows more about the process than you do and he/she knows that they will have to do all the work. And, unless you are an awesome negotiator, you will not save money if your buyer is an investor. Not a penny.

There you have it! These are the only 4 kinds of buyers out there, no more, no less.

Here's another way to look at it: appraisers do not care about the commission. Your house is worth what it is worth, whether or not there is a commission involved. For example, if you live in a neighborhood where homes of similar age and sizes sell for 150K, then your home is worth 150K.

With a 6% listing commission, you would have to pay 9K in commission, usually split between the listing and the selling brokers (if two agents are involved). If you sell on your own, you are not going to save the full 9K. Buyers will want to split those savings with you and might only offer you 145K for your home. If this is acceptable to you, all is good, but your savings are now down to 4K. If you calculate 2 or 3 months extra on the market (and 2-3 months of extra house payments), the advertising and signs costs, and the time involved in showing your home numerous times to buyers who may or may not qualify to buy it, is it really worth the aggravation? Besides, getting an offer/contract on your home is the easy part. Do you know what to do if you ever get that far?

I know what my time is worth, do you?

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Is the First time home buyers tax credit under-promoted?

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 21:05:40 -0500

Is the First time home buyers tax credit under-promoted?

Being a Real Estate broker in Cleveland OH, I can not tell for sure that First time home buyers tax credit of 2009 has been triggering the sales in our area. We have a very decent sales activity in Greater Cleveland, however many of the first time home buyers made their decision based on their needs and ability to buy, not on availability of $8,000 (or 10 % of purchase price).

I still think that it was not enough promotion of this tax credit to potential buyers. Just compare Cash for Clunkers campaign and First time home buyers tax credit. Have you seen on TV any home buyers tax credit advertising? Have you seen testimonials from happy new homeowners who have already received this money? Where are all these happy stories?

We, the Real Estate professionals, overestimate availability of information about the first time home buyers incentive. We think that if we know a lot about it, it automically makes our clients informed, too. That is wrong!

People are underinformed and confused about this great incentive! Few of my clients this year got information about this credit from me, not from the government or newspapers, and only after they've actually been involved in home buying process! I keep receiving calls and e-mails from potential home buyers who sincerely think that it's too good to be true and can not believe that it's about real money.

We had few excellent posts here on Active Rain about controversy of the First time home buyers tax credit. Although I agree with the concerns about over-spending by our government and especially regarding the dangers of welfare mentality, I still think that this tax credit can make more good than harm to our economy. The problem is that $8,000 Tax credit has been promoted more among the professional audience than among the potential recipients of this credit.

Sure, we, the REALTORS(R), do a lot to spread the word about its benefits, which sometimes creates a false idea that we are the only ones who are selfishly interested in such incentives.

Working mostly with moving-up clients and with the investors, I personally did not have a privilege this year to help too many first time home buyers. I know for sure out of my little experience that those few clients of mine who have already received money from the government, used this money mostly for home improvement and for making their new homes beautiful. Did tax credit money help to do all these purchases and improvements? The answer is YES!

I agree with those who support the idea not to let the Tax credit expire on November 30, 2009.

What do you think?

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Cleveland OH Home Owners - don't miss an opportunity to lower your property taxes!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 19:14:19 -0500

Cleveland OH Home Owners - don't miss an opportunity to discuss your property taxes!

If you own the real estate in Cuyahoga County you probably received your Property Evaluation mailer from Cuyahoga County Auditor. Even if you did not receive it or if you did not pay attention to this mailer, there is still a chance to request a change or make a complaint regarding your house value. That will be informal complaint, as time for formal complaint with Cuyahoga County Board of Revision is between December and March 31st .

Deadline for informal complaints about property value or description of the property is September 15, 2009. You can call 216-442-4663 or go to the Cuyahoga County Auditor's web site.

Cuyahoga County re-assess the real property value every six years. Last assessment was done in 2006 when we had the record high sales prices in Greater Cleveland. This year update is based on sales of Real Estate in Cuyahoga County. Please review your property information and updated value carefully. Sales statistics show that prices declined since 2006 almost everywhere in Cuyahoga County. It's a big chance that you can lower your Real Estate property taxes by simply making complaint about it!

We in Local-n-Global Realty are always ready to help you evaluate your home in Cleveland area. Just visit our web site www.Local-n-Global.com or call us 877-770-5551.

If you need a property evaluation because you want to list your Cleveland house for sale, please call Svetlana Stolyarova directly @ 216-548-4663.

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Time to Buy in Cleveland Real Estate Event ! Plan to attend September 16, 2009

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:48:16 -0500

Cleveland OH Real Estate Events "2009. Time to buy in Cleveland"

Cleveland Real Estate professionals, mortgage specialists, title agents, attorneys, insurance agents have already supported the "Time to buy in Cleveland" initiative started by Local-n-Global Realty .

We reported about the success of the first Cleveland Real Estate Event in June, 2009. Now we are glad to invite everyone to our second event.

Please contact Svetlana Stolyarova at 216-548-4663 if you have any questions or suggestions.

Time to buy in Cleveland Event

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Mayfield Heights OH - Open House and PRICE REDUCTION. First time home buyers are welcome!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 15:13:28 -0500

Mayfield Heights OH - Open House.

I am glad to announce that the house at 1304 Golden Gate Blvd. in Mayfeild Heights OH, which is listed by Local-n-Global Realty will be Open this Sunday, August 30 between 12 and 2:00 p.m.

Price Reduced! Mayfield Heights OH Home is now offered for $164,900. Offers are welcome by motivated sellers.

If you are thinking about moving to Mayfield Heights OH I encourage you to pay attention to this nice 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 bathrooms split level home.

Golden Gate neighborhood of Mayfield Heights OH is familiar to everyone who has been shopping at Best Buy and Costco. Residents and guests of Mayfield Heights OH like this well established neighborhood with meticulously cared lawns, beautifully landscaped front and back yards and well maintained homes.

Dear home buyers! Please plan to visit Open Houses at Golden Gates neighborhood of Mayfield heights OH. Few homes will be Open at the same time between 12 pm and 2 pm. You will have a chance to get familiar with the neighborhood and all the houses which are currently offered for sale.

Affordability of these nice homes make them attractive to first time home buyers. If you did not own your primary residence within last three years AND buy the house or condo prior to November 30, 2009 you may be eligible for up to $8,000 First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit.

First time home buyers are welcome to visit our Open House in Mayfield Heights OH!

If you need to buy a Mayfield Heights OH home or condo, please call us immediately. We can be reached 24/7 at Local-n-Global Real Estate Hotline 877-770-5551.

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How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar. Step three. Winning pricing strategy.

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:57:46 -0500

How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar?

We've already discussed how to Evaluate your position on Mayfield Heights OH Real Estate market in our first article in this series.

Few good reasons to Evaluate yourself as an owner of Mayfield Heights house have been listed in the second post.

Let's discuss the winning pricing strategy. Your goal as the owner is to sell your Mayfield Heights OH Real Estate for as much as possible on today's market.

What should you and your Real Estate agent do in order to define the right pricing strategy?

Remember: it's still the Buyer's market no matter how active it is.
Get and evaluate info about prices of sold properties in Mayfield Heights OH.
Know your competitors! The best way is to see what the other home sellers in your neighborhood are asking for their homes and preview their houses. You can visit your competitors' Open Houses. You can ask your agent to preview these houses for you.
Look at your house from the BUYER's point of view. Do not expect the new generation of buyers to be driven by the same emotional triggers which made you chose your house at first place. Important : buyers look at the houses strictly via the prizm of price! For the same buyers a house priced for $250K will show differently than the same house offered for $210K.
Price your Mayfield Heights OH house realistically. Even if you made all the greatest job replacing the roof, changing the furnace, waterproofing your basement but still keep that glossy 70-s wallpaper in your bathroom or keep your original, 40+ years old kitchen cabinets clean and well organized, it does not mean that your home's value will be perceived by potential client as a "top dollar for totally updated, top of the line, ready to move in" house.

Many sellers want to give potential buyers a chance to negotiate the price and thus slightly overprice their homes. I will be honest with you. Despite the common opinion that this strategy may hurt your bottom line, in many cases it works! The key word here is "SLIGHTLY" .

Normally, the Sold Price / Asking Price ratio for Mayfield Heights OH single family homes is 95-96 %, which means that buyers expect to get and indeed recieve about 5 % discount from the LAST asking price.

Starting from 2008 discounts tend to be higher, especially if we calculate the discount from original asking price. Last year a median discount from original asking price was about 13 %! However those sellers who priced their Mayfield Heights OH houses right from the beginning, received their 94-96 % of original price.

Here is your major price strategy for a successful sale of your house in Mayifield Heights OH:

price it right from the beginning and get a higher acceptable offer.

If you want to see the detailed statistics on sales and trends on Mayfeild Heights OH housing market, please do not hesitate to e-mail us Realty@Local-n-Global.com.

If you need to sell your Mayfield Heights OH home, please call us immediately. We can be reached 24/7 at Local-n-Global Real Estate Hotline 877-770-5551.

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How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar. Step two. Evaluate yourself.

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 16:41:04 -0500

How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar?

In our first post on this subject , we spoke about the fine city of Mayfield Heights OH and its popularity among the buyers of Real Estate.

We have enough buyers willing to move to their own houses in Mayfield Heights OH. According to NorthEastOhio MLS (NEOHREX), as of 08/15/2009 the number of Real Estate transactions in Mayfield Heights OH closed since January 1, 2009 till August 15, 2009 is the same, even a little bit higher than the number of sales in the same period of 2008 (85 sales of single family homes in Mayfield Heights in 2008 vs. 88 sales in 2009). As of 08/15/2009, we have 10 contingent listings in Mayfield Heights (offer accepted, contingencies are not removed yet) and 24 pending lisitngs (offers accepted, contingencies removed, pending for closing).

Now let's talk about you, the owner, the seller of Mayfield Heights OH home.

First of all, are you really going to move?

What is the core reason why you need to sell this home? Getting married? Expecting another baby? Need someone to take care of your yard and maintenance, so your current home is not a good accomodation for you any longer? Your business is growing and you can allow yourself to build a new bigger home?

If this is the case, please focus on your goals and your future.

Separate yourself emotionally from your house in Mayfield Heights OH which you are going to sell
If you are going to utilize the services of experienced and result-oriented Real Estate professional, interview and hire the right Real Estate agent who is a specialist in Mayfield Heights OH Real Estate
Prepare to cooperate with your agent and follow your agent's guidance
Prepare to look at your home from the Buyer's point of view
Prepare to make some repairs, start packing extra stuff, and let your agent or professional stager to stage your home for showings
Call the City of Mayfield Heights OH at 440-442-2626 and order the Mayfield Heights OH Point of Sale inspection. Make sure to read the Point of Sale guide first, so you know what you should do prior to inspection in order to get your house violation free
Prepare to live in a "Model Home" mode. Your house should be accessible for showings by your agent and other cooperating Real Estate agents any time
Price your home right and let your agent plan the effective marketing of your home, so you get a higher chance to achieve your goal timely.

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How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar. Step one. Evaluate your position on Real Estate market.

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 05:41:47 -0500

How to sell a house in Mayfield Heights OH for top dollar is a good question to ask when your life comes to the point when you need to move to the other location or to the different home.

First of all, you should evaluate your position on Real Estate market and possibilities to get top dollar for your Mayfield Heights OH home.

Let's start evaluation from some critical factors which you or your Real Estate agent can not control, such as

area
school district
location
layout/floor plan/age of your house
lot size

Area. School District.

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Being a resident of this wonderful city, you know better than anyone that Mayfield Heights OH is a great place to live. Located at the East side of Greater Cleveland, Mayfield Heights has it all: parks and shopping, restaurants and entertainment, medical facilities and community swimming pools, easy access to I-271 and proximity to University Circle and Downtown Cleveand.

Major area employers like Progressive Insurance, Hillcrest Hospital create jobs for many professionals.

Cultural and ethnic diversity of Mayfield Heights residents and businesses makes this vibrant city so alive!

Very strong and competitive Mayfield City Schools attract to Mayfield Heights and adjacent Mayfield Village, Highland Heights and Gates Mills families with kids.

Congratulations! If you want to sell your home in Mayfield Heights, you are in right place! It's a very popular city, so we have many qualified potential buyers who are willing to buy the house in Mayfield Heights

Your goal is to sell your home for top dollar.

Be honest with yourself and keep evaluating your current market position and options!

Location of your home. If you house is situated in a quiet residential area with a low local traffic, if it has a nice private back yard you have a better chance to sell it for more. If your house is really close to highway or is on the major street, more likely it will affect the price.

Layout / floor plan. Age of your house. Lot size. Mayfield Heights housing market offers a lot of houses of different ages, styles and layouts. They are all in different price groups.

You can still find in Mayfield Heights OH few older homes built in 20-s. Many houses were built in 50-s and 60s. Bungalow and cape cod styles were very popular back then.Some of them lost in value during last couple years.

It's a good supply of solid moderately priced ranch style homes built in 60-s and 70-s. Popular in late 60-s and 70-s medium size split level homes are still in a good demand but they should be priced reasonably in order to sell. Bigger and more pricy split level homes can be found in Gates Mills Blvd. area. on SOM Center, Cedar Rd., in neighborhoods located West of Lander Rd. and North of Ridgebury Blvd.

It's a decent supply of recently built homes in Mayfield Heights. They are very well built and reasonably priced and that's why they are very popular among the buyers.

No matter what the position of your house on current Real Estate market is, you should be positive about the sale of your home. Each house has its buyer.

Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. Prepare your house. Hire the right Real Estate professional. Get your house sold!

I hope, our series of articles on How to sell your Mayfield Heights OH house for top dollar will be of a good help for you.

Good luck !

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Open House in Richmond Heights OH.

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 09:54:30 -0500

Buying a home in Richmond Heights?

Please stop by to see the excellent home in Richmond Heights today, Sunday, August 9, 2009 between 2 pm and 3:30 pm. House at 26647 Loganberry Dr. in Richmond Heights will be Open for public.

First time Home Buyer? Not sure if you can be eligible for $8,000 First time Home Buyer Tax Credit? Come to our Open House or call Svetlana 216-548-4663 to set up a private consultation.

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Twins Days in Twinsburg, OH - time to have fun! Part two

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 18:35:17 -0500

Here are m ore pictures from the Twins Days in Twinsburg OH in addition to my post about the Twins Days in Twinsburg.

I am very glad that residents and guests of this wonderful city will have another day of fun with twins from all over America!

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Twins Days in Twinsburg, OH - time to have fun!

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 16:08:56 -0500

Twin Days in Twinsburg, OH started first in 1976. Since that time each year twins, their relatived, friends and fans gather together at first weekend of August to take part in contests, show their talents and have fun!

Twins festival of 2009 rocks and rolls despite a rainy weather in Twinsburg.

Such a wonderful day full of fun and joy!

It's still a good time to join! It takes place mostly at Twinsburg Schools Campus. Public parking is right there at Ravenna Rd.

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How web analytics can help sell more Real Estate in Cleveland

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:09:31 -0500

Web analytics can help sell more Real Estate in Cleveland.

Few months ago I was lucky to read the Lisa Udi's blog here at Active Rain. Lisa posted about advantages of a Get Clicky analytical service for your blogging.

Being a "try it all" person myself, I immediately signed up for Get Clicky and registered my Greater Cleveland Real Estate Active Rain blog.

Today I want to share with you how this amazing analytical tool literally helps sell more Real Estate in Cleveland.

I learned to regulary check out what exactly my blog's visitors are looking for.

Just go to your Get Clicky and see what search phrases have driven visitors to your blog.

It's amazing how often Search phrases which people type in their Google or Yahoo search boxes, look like questions to be answered immediately. I.e. the phrase "Does both spouses have to be first time home buyers to qualify for tax credit?". I am glad that my post Who is the First Time Buyer? Does the Real Estate tax credit applies to condos? got a Number One position on Google to answer that question.

Here is a little secret of getting to a top position on specific search. The idea and the title of the post about First time buyers tax credit came from my Get Clicky analytics. That was exactly how one of the visitors phrased the search on Google, according to Get Clicky.

I was amazed how many people typed the same phrase and got to my blog after I published this post. It works! People get helped with information they need, Cleveland Realty Blog gets popularity and top position on Google, Local-n-Global Real Estate agents get more chances to serve more home buyers and home sellers in Greater Cleveland.

Let's get back to the topic of How web analytics can help sell more Real Estate in Cleveland.

Here is one sample of how neat the analysis by Get Clicky is and how targeted our posts can be.

This visitor who was looking for "Condo in Richmond Heights OH" found my blog at Yahoo search. I know that it's a local buyer. At the same day one of my Open House visitors mentioned that he got information about this Open House from the Internet. Guess from what? From my Active Rain blog!

It's a win-win situation to write and publish the articles which answer the questions, which our potential home buyers or home sellers are trying to get answered at the different Search engines.

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Motivated seller offers the great buildable land in Walden Farms of Aurora, OH

Svetlana Stolyarova,Local-n-Global Realty, Broker (Local-n-Global Realty) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 10:13:43 -0500

Motivated seller offers the great buildable land in Walden Farms of Aurora, OH.

There are only a few home sites left in Walden Farms. Build your dream home and enjoy the luxuries this development has to offer.

This perfectly buildable lot perches high and offers spectacular canyon westerly views of five cities. 180 degrees of rural setting. You won't find better sunsets anywhere else in NorthEast Ohio!

That's a great opportunity to build a home and become a part of a private development that features fine custom built homes that range in price from $575,000 to well over $1,200,000. This area is one of the best kept secrets in NorthEast Ohio.

SL 97 Bonnie Ln.

Aurora, OH 44202

For Sale $140,000

Area:	Walden Farms
Style:	Buildable land
Lot Size:	.46 acre

Motivated sellers. Reduced down to $140,000! BRING ALL OFFERS. Land in Walden Farms of Aurora is now offered for sale for $140,000. Two adjacent lots are available, too. Tremendous opportunity to build your dream home in Aurora and surround yourself with privacy and comfort. Hurry! There are only a few home sites left in Walden Farms. NO association dues or condos. Build your dream home and enjoy the luxuries this development has to offer. Close to everything yet nestled in the country.

This perfectly buildable lot perches high and offers spectacular canyon westerly views of five cities. 180 degrees of rural setting. You won't find better sunsets anywhere else in NorthEast Ohio!

This is one of the largest lots and it is fully improved with sanitary sewers, underground utilities, and gas. That's a great opportunity to build a home and become the part of a private development that features fine custom built homes that range in price from $575,000 to well over $1,200,000. This area is one of the best kept secrets in NorthEast Ohio. The tranquility of the rural atmosphere in Walden Farms and elegant simplicity of custom built homes reflect the unique character and integrity of Walden residents. The whole neighborhood enhances the natural wonderland. Breathtaking sunset views from the privacy of your own dwelling bring you a sense of happiness and integrity.

Dream life in a dream neighborhood!

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Svetlana Stolyarova Broker
Local-n-Global Realty

Office:	440-247-5388
Mobile:	216-548-HOME(4663)
Fax:	440-247-8365
Email:	Realty@Local-n-Global.com
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