Your Hometown Realtor's Blog Place

Enduring the cycles of life. Sometime all that you need to do is seize the opportunity when it presents itself..

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 05:20:37 -0500

Richard Weisser's Coweta Fayette Real Estate of ERA United Realty Newnan Georgia excellent post explains how all things are cyclical.

Thank you Richard!

Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate ERA United Realty:

I am NOT a young man. And I have experienced a lot in my life, and one thing that I know for certain is that everything is cyclical!

We had been experiencing a severe drought the last few years. Now it won't stop raining. It's the cyclical nature of weather, the dryer it is, the dryer it gets. And the wetter it is, the wetter it gets!

Economics are cyclical too. The stock market has enjoyed boom years and bust years. People have made millions of dollars and then lost them again as the cyclical nature of the market ran its normal course. It takes only time for the winds of the market to shift in a different direction.

And of course, the real estate market is cyclical too. I purchased a home in the 1980's that came replete with a mortgage at an astounding17.5% interest rate. The market ground to a halt as the restricted pool of buyers that could qualify for a loan at the rate competed for the limited funds that were available to lend. In time, the money supply grew and the market recovered.

So there isn't really any quick-fix for what ails the economy right now. But in time, true market forces will prevail against all of the counterproductive Keynesian efforts to accelerate the process.

The net result is that a lot of buyers are getting some bargains right now. But these low prices combined with low interest rates won't last forever, It's the cyclical nature of things.

And those that seize the opportunity now will be sitting pretty!
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate of ERA United Realty Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Get the latest GA Foreclosure List Updated Daily! We Do HUD bids in Georgia! 770-827-6225

Is Your Short Sale or Loan Modification Being Turned Down?

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 05:19:56 -0500

Is Your Short Sale Or Loan Modification Being Turned Down?-was first published on South- Florida-Luxury-Living.com. Copyright © 2009 By Katerina Gasset, All Rights Reserved.*Is Your Short Sale Or Loan Modification Being Turned Down?*

This is A Reblog of Katrina Gasset's Post Because She Explained It So Well!

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Has your short sale or loan modification been turned down and you have no idea why? Let's examine some of the reasons. These reasons may not make you feel any better or maybe they are just excuses by your lender, however there are a few things you may not even know about your loan.

Let's say that you make your mortgage payment to Wells Fargo. You can no longer handle your payments so you ask Wells Fargo to modify your loan- to do a loan modification for you. You are behind in your payments. You are in fact, in foreclosure but you are still living in your home and the judge in your case has not ordered the sale of your home at auction yet. You are scared. You see your neighbors losing their homes all around you. You are hopeful because you see on the news and in the newspapers that the Federal Making Homes Affordable Program has been helping some folks keep their home and get a loan modification.

You are no longer making your mortgage payment because your adjustable rate has been applied and your mortgage payment has gone from $1600 a month to $2300 per month. You just can not make these payments. You have been trying for almost 2 years now to get Wells Fargo to approve your loan modification. You even hired an attorney to help you with your foreclosure defense.

Wells Fargo turns down your loan modification request. You wonder, how could this be? After all, Wells Fargo is one of the large lenders and is participating in the government's Federal Making Homes Affordable program.

But Wells Fargo tells you that the investor is the one that will not allow you to get a loan modification. What in the world is an investor doing making decisions on your loan you wonder. Well, you are not alone in your confusion. Every day we are explaining the whole mortgage note owner thing to buyers agents, real estate agents and homeowners.

Just because you make your house payments to Wells Fargo does not mean they own that note that you are paying on. They are the servicer. Other words you will hear them called are asset management companies.

The very first thing you need to do before you ask for a loan modification is to find out who actually owns your note. You can do this by calling who you make your mortgage payments to and asking them.

If it is Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae that own your note- you have a much better chance at getting your loan modification approved if you qualify. If it is a private group of investors, your chances go way down. Why would this happen?

One in eight homeowners' loans were sold to investors on Wall Street. What happens is that a bunch of loans are packaged together. These are called mortgage-backed securities. They are then sold off to investors. Homeowners who have mortgage-backed securitized loan are five times more likely to be late on their house payments. Many of these borrowers were given loans they were not qualified for from the beginning. Many of the homeowners getting these loans did not read the fine print and did not realize how high their mortgage payments might go when adjusted.

The rules to allow modifications, short sales and terms of foreclosures and deficiencies are ambiguous at best. Homeowners who are told no by the investor have little recourse.

The federal Making Homes Affordable program lenders who participate in the program must modify all homeowners that qualify. The exception is when the investor has a rule that they do not allow modifications.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency reported to Congress on June 3rd that these securitized mortgages are a "hurdle" to the success of the Making Homes Affordable program. The treasury department has not disclosed why the modifications are denied so there are little to no facts to go on.

Why would the investors say no to your loan modification? Well, Wells Fargo's response is that the investors need their money. Wells Fargo has one situation where the borrowers ( the homeowners) are trying to get their loan modified but Goldman Sachs is the issuer and Deutsche Bank is the trustee. But when you go and talk to these investors and we have on several occasions when doing short sale negotiations for our sellers; the investor passes the buck back to the servicer. For instance, Deutsche Bank says that Wells Fargo is solely responsible for the decision to modify a loan or not.

Some people say that the investors are the scapegoats. Everything can easily be blamed on them. Since you rarely get to speak to anyone at the investors' group it is hard to tell who is telling the truth. In this particular situation Wells Fargo is saying that the investor is not forgiving the past due debt and that makes the payment go up on a loan modification because then Wells Fargo would have to put that past due balance along with all the penalties and fees into the loan modification which then may cause the homeowner to not qualify financially for the loan modification.

Servicers have agreements, contracts that they sign with investors. These agreements contain the rules for modifications. These agreements are called Pooling and Servicing Agreements which is known as PSA's. The PSA is most often what the servicer says is the reason for them not being able to do the loan modification or release the deficiency on a short sale.

But when you talk to other people in the management areas or to the investors they claim that there is nothing in the PSA's that would prevent the servicer from approving loan modifications, short sales and releases. There is a new study coming out from a law school wherein they state that only 8% of these mortgage-backed securities agreements contain any language that says the servicer is not allowed to do a loan modification for these notes. That means that about 92% of all the NO's; could actually be YES's. So why would that even happen?

Fear of law suits! The language in the PSA in question here, Wells Fargo and Deutsche Bank- it says that Wells Fargo can "waive, modify or vary any term" as long as Wells Fargo as the servicer makes a "reasonable and prudent determination" that the modification is in the investor's best interest. Attorneys examining these agreements say there is quite a bit of room for servicers to make these decisions. But the language itself in this agreement is enough for the servicers legal counsel to be concerned with the investor suing them for not acting in the best interest of the investor. They can not, no matter how inhumane this sounds, put the homeowner ahead of the investor. This is about business and if they want business from investors they need to make sure they are looking out for the interests of the investors.

The treasury department has stated that the fear of law suits is the biggest deterrent to getting the servicers to approve loan modifications and short sales. So doing little or simply turning down the loan modifications are the answer many servicers choose. This is not personal and this is not against you, the homeowner. The position of the servicers is to watch their own backs and to protect the assets to which they have been entrusted with, your mortgage-backed security. The Treasury Department says they can relieve some of the pressure of the fear of lawsuits by standardizing requirements for loan modifications and also provide some type of calculation to figure out if the investor will make more money by the loan modification or by the foreclosure.

We need to keep in mind one big thing in all of this and that is that these investors end up being regular people because most of these mortgage-backed securities were bought by pension funds and retirement plans of folks like your parents or even yourselves. You may well be one of the shareholders of the very loan you can not pay.

T o view Florida Short Sales- Click here . We know Palm Beach County Short Sales and Port St Lucie Florida Short Sales and will help you get your home Sold if you need to Sell your home and help you buy your home in Palm Beach County Florida : Call us today.

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Is Your Short Sale Or Loan Modification Being Turned Down?-was first published on South- Florida-Luxury-Living.com.

Copyright © 2009 By Katerina Gasset, All Rights Reserved.*Is Your Short Sale Or Loan Modification Being Turned Down?*

July 2009 Market Statistics for Locust Grove, VA 22508

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:10:53 -0500

2009 2008 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume: $ 5,332,900 $ 3,965,550 34.48 %

Average Sold Price: $ 242,405 $ 247,847 2.20 %

Median Sold Price: $ 215,500 $ 204,000 5.64 %

Total Units Sold: 22 16 37.50 %

Average Days on Market: 197 168 17.26 %

Average List Price for Solds: $ 284,357 $ 285,715 0.48 %

Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price: 85.25 % 86.75 %

Total NEW listings: 53

Total Properties Marked Contract: 18

Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract: 20

Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents): 38

Homes in Locust Grove, Va are selling and prices seem to be stablizing.

Considering a move? Ready to take the next step?

I am your Local Hometown Realtor ~ Helping Families Since 1984!

Eunice Waller

Prudential Simpson & Associates

www.FredericksbuegHomeSource.com

NEW ON THE MARKET

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 07:03:42 -0500

Make a Smilebox invite

May Market Statistics for Locust Grove Va 22508. YES, The Market is Improving!

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:01:09 -0500

2009 2008 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 2,572,800	$ 5,106,950	- 49.62 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 197,908	$ 340,463	- 41.87 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 165,000	$ 325,000	- 49.23 %
Total Units Sold:	13	15	- 13.33 %
Average Days on Market:	184	174	5.75 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 252,077	$ 404,530	- 37.69 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	78.51 %	84.16 %

Total NEW listings:	61
Total Properties Marked Contract:	16
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	5
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	21

Looking to move...No one knows Locust Grove or the Fredericksburg area better!

Eunice Waller, Your Hometown Realtor ~ "Helping Families Since 1984!

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

March Statistics for Locust Grove Va 22508...Is the Market Improving?

Thu, 07 May 2009 07:01:48 -0500

March 2009 Statistics for Locust Grove VA 22508

2009 2008 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 2,177,400	$ 5,712,036	- 61.88 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 197,945	$ 272,002	- 27.23 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 150,000	$ 200,000	- 25.00 %
Total Units Sold:	11	21	- 47.62 %
Average Days on Market:	137	182	- 24.73 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 227,118	$ 315,956	- 28.12 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	87.16 %	86.09 %

Total NEW listings:	42
Total Properties Marked Contract:	8
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	8
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	16

Click on the link to view a short video about the area market conditions:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpOFPXYM-QM

If you are considering a move I would be glad to help you. I am your Hometown Realtor and No One knows Locust Grove better.

Eunice Waller

Prudential Simpson & Associates

540-842-1061 direct***

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE READY TO BUY A HOME?

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:52:00 -0500

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE READY TO BUY A HOME?

If you can answer yes to the following questions, chances are you are ready to purchase a home.

1. Will my job provide a steady source of income?

2. Is my income reliable?

3. Have I saved money for a down payment?

4. Have I been employed for the last 2-3 years?

5. Do I have a good record of paying my bills on time?

6. Do I have the ability to pay a mortgage plus the additional maintenance cost and utilities?

If you answered yes, it just may be the right time for you to start thinking about your situation and making a list of priorities like location and size of home. Establish a minimum requirements and a wish list. Start doing some casual research. Talk with friends and family and drive through neighborhoods to decide on the types of homes and the areas you like. Start your search for available homes on the internet.

Remember your home should fit the way you live and should offer the spaces and features that will appeal to your whole family.

Interview with a local Realtor to find the realtor that you feel comfortable working with, choose an agent who will be working for you and your best interest.

Eunice Waller, Your Fredericksburg Hometown Realtor

Prudential Simpson & Associates

"Helping Families Since 1984!"

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

4311 Essex Court, Fredericksburg VA 22408

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 05:52:38 -0500

4311 Essex Court Fredericksburg, VA 22408
It's Affordable! Perfect Location! Great Home!

Interior Features:
Central Air, Family Room, Appliances, Walk-In Closet, Den/Office, Laundry Room, Fireplace, Dining Room, Hardwood Floors, Pantry, Basement, Forced Air.

Exterior Features:
Deck/Patio, English Gardens, Fenced Yard.

Community Features:
Golf, Clubhouse/Rec. Room, Tennis, Swimming Pool

Price: $284,000

Type: Single Family Residential for Sale

Floors: Multiple

Parking/Garage: 2

Bedrooms: 4

Baths:2

Half Baths:1

Square Feet: 2163

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Just Listed! New to the Market!

4311 Essex Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

$284,000

MRIS # SP7007485

A Terrific Home located in Fredericksburg's Amenity Rich Planned Golf Community ~ Lee's Hill. This is the Perfect Home and is Conveniently Located Near Pool, Tennis, Play Area, Community Center and located on a cul-de-sac street. A Lovely Private and Fenced Backyard Retreat with English Gardens and Brick Patio and so much more!. Contact me today for more information or to take a look at this wonderful 4 bedroom home ...You will be glad you did...Really!

"Helping Families Since 1984!"

Eunice Waller, Your Fredericksburg Va Hometown Realtor

540-842-1061 direct

Prudential Simpson & Associates

Feb. 2009 Market Statistics for Locust Grove, Va 22508

Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:42:39 -0500

February 2009 Market Statistics for Locust Grove, VA 22508

2009 2008 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 3,029,790	$ 4,924,448	- 38.47 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 216,414	$ 289,673	- 25.29 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 174,955	$ 289,900	- 39.65 %
Total Units Sold:	14	17	- 17.65 %
Average Days on Market:	213	203	4.93 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 252,220	$ 329,513	- 23.46 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	85.80 %	87.91 %

Total NEW listings:	43
Total Properties Marked Contract:	12
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	8
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	20

If you are considering a move to Orange County, Va, or just moving down the road I am a local realtor who has lived in here all my life. No one knows this area better. Let's talk about how I can help you.

Just Listed ~ Fredericksburg's golf Community ~ Lee's Hill ~ 4311 Essex Court

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:20:49 -0500

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Just Listed! New to the Market!

4311 Essex Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

$284,000

MRIS # SP7007485

"Helping Families Since 1984!"

Eunice Waller, Your Fredericksburg Va Hometown Realtor

540-842-1061 direct

Prudential Simpson & Associates

$8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 05:35:15 -0500

There is no better time to find the home of your dreams! Let's get started!

Eunice Waller ~ Your Hometown Realtor serving Orange, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania and Stafford

www.FredericksburgHomesource.com

540-842-1061

email: ewaller764@aol.com

January 2009 Market Statistics for Locust Grove VA 22508

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 07:32:17 -0600

January 2009 Market Statistics for Locust Grove, VA 22508

2009 2008 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 1,148,900	$ 2,476,530	- 53.61 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 191,483	$ 309,566	- 38.14 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 172,450	$ 292,450	- 41.03 %
Total Units Sold:	6	8	- 25.00 %
Average Days on Market:	184	238	- 22.69 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 267,083	$ 374,288	- 28.64 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	71.69 %	82.71 %

Total NEW listings:	33
Total Properties Marked Contract:	14
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	4
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	18

It is important to find a knowledgeable agent who knows how to get the job done and is responsive to all your real estate needs plus provides you prompt service, personal guidance and professional competence from contract to settlement plus is experienced in marketing and negotiations.

I am passionate about my job, love our area and I keep up with the latest trends and strategies so that I can pass them on to my clients.

We have a common goal: Getting you home. So when you are ready ~ Let's make it happen!

Your satisfaction is my success!

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

Helping Families Since 1984!

Price Reduced! A Very Fine Home in a Very Fine Community! It's a Good Value!

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:21:24 -0600

CLICK TO VIEW LISTING WEBSITE

Description and Features

Welcome Home to This Wonderful Home in a Great Planned Community! JUST REDUCED TO $344,900 ** Do Not Wait! This is the Home to See this Week! Call Me to Take a Look Today! Ready to move right in ~ Pristine Condition!

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	3.5
Parking Spaces:	2
Square Feet:	4000
Floors:	3
MLS #:	SP6750181

Location

Click to view map: 11008 Plume Ct. Fredericksburg VA 22407

Links

12007 Stansbury Drive, Fredericksburg VA 22407 ~ Bank Owned!

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:47:31 -0600

CLICK TO VIEW LISTING WEBSITE

Photo Gallery

Description and Features

Bank Owned! Excellent Location! Good Value! Needs Just A Little Bit of Love and Will Be a Terrific Home! 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Family Room w/ Woodstove Insert, Large Deck and Fenced Rear Yard. JUST REDUCED!

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	2.5
Square Feet:	1900
Lot Size:	13,257
Year Built:	1974
Floors:	2
MLS #:	SP6960057

Location

Click to view map: 12007 Stansbury Drive Fredericksburg VA 22407

Links

December Housing Statistics for Locust Grove VA 22508

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:16:00 -0600

December Housing Statistics for Locust Grove, VA 22508

2008 2007

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 3,301,300	$ 5,197,700	- 36.49 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 235,807	$ 399,823	- 41.02 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 210,000	$ 334,900	- 37.29 %
Total Units Sold:	14	13	7.69 %
Average Days on Market:	101	142	- 28.87 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 262,943	$ 442,100	- 40.52 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	89.68 %	90.44 %

Total NEW listings:	30
Total Properties Marked Contract:	5
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	2
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	7

Considering A Move? Talk With Your Local Hometown Realtor. I Know Our Area!

"Proudly Serving Families Since 1984!"

JUST REDUCED! Nestled on 1Ac...4 Bedrooms...3 Baths...Stafford, VA

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:59:18 -0600

CLICK TO VIEW LISTING WEBSITE

Photo Gallery

View More Photos

Description and Features

So Nice To Come Home to...A Lovely 4 Bedroom Home in Stafford Virginia!

Home features a really nice Deck, Patio, Brick front, Vaulted ceiling, New Carpet, Brick Fireplace, 2 year old roof, Jetted tub in Master Bath, Updated Kitchen Appliances, and the 1st Floor Bedroom and Bath could be an Office or Library. Close to Schools, Shopping, I-95 ~ EVERYTHING! Plus situated on 1 Acre that backs to woods!

Let\'s take look today! JUST REDUCED!

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Square Feet:	2559
Floors:	3
MLS #:	ST6905915

Location

Click to view map: 18 Little Rocky Run Lane Stafford VA 22554

Links

Totally Awesome...6 Bedrooms 5 Bath...3.4 Acres...Excellent N.Stafford Location!

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:46:57 -0600

CLICK TO VIEW LISTING WEBSITE

Photo Gallery

View More Photos

Description and Features

Have You Seen this 6 Bedroom Home in Stafford Virginia? Well You Should! IT\'S Totally AWESOME!

Location, Location, Location! Convenient to Everything!

All the Features You Want At An Affordable Price! JUST REDUCED!

Bedrooms:	6
Bathrooms:	5
Parking Spaces:	3
Square Feet:	4311
Lot Size:	3.4 Acres
Year Built:	2004
Floors:	3
MLS #:	ST6884087

Location

Click to view map: 119 Spyglass Lane Stafford VA 22556

Links

Fredericksburg, VA Market Trends & Graphs

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:47:26 -0600

Fredericksburg Recently Sold Homes

Fredericksburg Homes For Sale

Fredericksburg Recently Sold Homes

IF YOU ARE READY TO BUY OR SELL A HOME I WOULD BE HONORED FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP YOU. HELPING FAMILIES HOME SINCE 1984! www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and Thank You!

Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:59:33 -0600

As 2008 comes to a close I want to say THANK YOU to all my clients, friends, family and realtors who graciously made 2008 a success. I want to especially THANK those who referred friends, family and neighbors to me. My business is based on your positive comments and referrals and I just couldn't do it without you. As we approach 2009 I look forward to helping you and your friends with all their real estate needs. THE GOOD NEWS IS... RIGHT NOW IS THE HOME BUYING OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME! THERE ARE SOME AMAZING HOMES ON THE MARKET AND HOME PRICES AND INTEREST RATES ARE AT THEIR LOWEST IN YEARS! So if you know someone looking to take advantage of today's home prices and interest rates, please remember me to everyone you know who may want to buy or sell a home. I would be honored for the opportunity to help.

Here's wishing you and yours a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year!

HELPING FAMILIES REACH THEIR #1 REAL ESTATE GOAL SINCE 1984.

Eunice Waller

Prudential Simpson & Associates

540-842-1061

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

November Market Statistics for Locust Grove, VA 22508

Sat, 27 Dec 2008 07:18:58 -0600

2008 2007 % Change

Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 2,722,650	$ 6,714,950	- 59.45 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 272,265	$ 353,418	- 22.96 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 240,625	$ 270,000	- 10.88 %
Total Units Sold:	10	19	- 47.37 %
Average Days on Market:	167	148	12.84 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 307,740	$ 382,882	- 19.63 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	88.47 %	92.30 %

Total NEW listings: 33

Total Properties Marked Contract: 10

Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract: 4

Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents): 14

IT IS IMPORTANT TO HAVE AN AGENT WHO HAS THE EXPERTISE IN MARKETING AND NEGOTIATION PLUS UNDERSTANDS THE COMPLEXITIES OF REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS. AS YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT I CAN HELP. LET'S TALK!

I AM COMMITED TO PROVIDE YOU WITH THE PERSONALIZED REAL ESTATE SERVICE YOU EXPECT AND DESERVE AND I WOULD BE HONORED FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS YOUR HOME BUYING OR HOME SELLING NEEDS. YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT AT 540-842-1061.

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

HELPING HOME BUYERS AND HOME SELLERS REACH THEIR #1 GOAL SINCE 1984.

1st Annual Christmas Decoration Contest!

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:14:06 -0600

1^st Annual Christmas Decoration Contest

December 12, 2008 by EWaller764@aol.com

1st Annual
Christmas Decoration Contest
Prize: $25 Home Depot Gift Card

How to Participate:

If you think your home has the best Christmas Decorations in the Locust Grove, VA area and want to participate, email a photo of your home to Ewaller764@aol.com.
Headline for email should read: 1^st Annual Christmas Decoration Contest. Entries must be received before December 20th. Late entries will not be considered. Please include your permission so I can post your home on this site for sharing. The winner will be announced December 22^st. The winning entry will receive a $25 Home Depot Gift Card.
Contest Sponsored by:

Eunice Waller
Phone: (540)842-1061
Website: http://www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com
E-mail: Ewaller764@aol.com
Prudential Simpson & Associates
77 Cambridge St.
Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Moving Made Easy for Seniors

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 05:22:55 -0600

Moving Made Easy for Seniors

Transforming the Challenges of Moving into Choices for Seniors

It may be time to consider moving, yet the thought fills many with absolute dread. All the aspects of the moving process may seem overwhelming. There are so many issues to deal with: sorting, packing, cleaning, selling the home, and various other tasks. The moving to-do list never seems to end. However, for seniors who have been in their homes for 20, 30, 40, or even 50 years, relocating presents challenges far beyond the physical demands of carrying boxes and arranging furniture.

Older adults may also face difficult emotional and financial decisions during the moving process. Preparing the family home for sale, downsizing, packing, moving, and setting up the new house are all physically and mentally arduous tasks. It is not surprising that many seniors hesitate to leave their long-time homes-insisting that they are "Not Ready Yet!" In fact, the moving process is often cited as one of the largest barriers to relocating by seniors who would otherwise be ready for a move.

Transforming Challenges, Step by Step
No one would consider diagnosing a health problem without consulting a physician or going to court without the assistance of an attorney. The process of moving and downsizing should be no different.

Most innovative real estate firms offer customized services to help seniors with every aspect of moving and downsizing. These professionals provide essential advice and assistance while preparing the home for sale and sorting through possessions, but their services do not stop there. They also help older adults prepare for a move by breaking the process down into manageable steps and offering hands-on assistance. With this type of professional support, the challenges of the moving process can easily be transformed into choices.

Step One: Preparing to Sell
Once a homeowner has made the decision to sell their home, they should select a real estate agent who can meet their distinctive needs.

After finding a qualified agent, homeowners are ready to begin the process of preparing to sell their home. An evaluation of the condition and marketability of the home is the first step. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified agent can decrease selling time and increase selling price.

After evaluating the current condition of a home, I like to provide a report that includes the suggested asking price for the home in its present condition and another suggested asking price for the home after completing some improvements."

Suggested improvements can be as simple as enhancing curb appeal by re-mulching flower beds or improving first impressions by removing clutter from the home's entry. Other recommended improvements may include updating appliances, replacing carpets, and repainting exterior or interior walls.

In addition to comprehensive reports, specialized agents can also help clients prioritize repairs and locate qualified professionals to complete home improvement projects. Utilizing the help of professionals to prepare for a sale can ultimately result in a selling price that reflects the top market value for the home.

Step Two: Packing and Sorting Starting early is the key to successful packing and sorting. Before moving, years' worth of treasures must be sorted. While planning for a move, items should be sorted into distinct categories: keep/move, give to family, donate to charity, and throw away.

The initial list of items to keep will likely be larger than the new space can accommodate, but moving professionals who specialize in working with seniors can offer advice about what to take and what to leave behind. Completing the difficult task of sorting before moving is essential for a successful transition.

I recall clients who learned first-hand the importance of sorting through unnecessary belongings earlier rather than later and have seen clients move too much into the new residence and regret their decision. They end up paying to have these possessions packed and moved-only to realize that they have to dispose of them to make room in their new home.

Professionals can help seniors make informed decisions about what to take to the new home. They take into account their client's personal tastes, the financial and sentimental value of possessions, and the floor plan of the new residence. These professionals have helped countless senior clients make the move and are adept at addressing the emotional challenges inherent in sorting through a house full of belongings.

Step Three: Downsizing and Moving Downsizing is one of the most time consuming and emotionally draining aspects of the moving process. After sorting, final decisions must be made about what to take to the new home. If floor plans of the new space are available, they should be used to help with planning. The new home is likely a smaller apartment or condo, so space limitations should be taken into consideration.

Moving day is the final step in the process. For many seniors, moving day is simple and rewarding due to comprehensive, customized real estate services provided prior to the sale of the house. On moving day, movers, shippers, and haulers can help with the physical aspects of the task of moving. Real estate professionals can recommend trusted companies to handle this work, as well as provide assistance with the job of unpacking and setting up the new home. From the initial assessment of the old home to settling into the new house, professional real estate assistance is available to help with every aspect of the moving process.

Challenges Become Choices As the challenges of moving fade due to increasingly helpful professionals, seniors are left with nothing but choices-where to move, when to move, what to take, and how to decorate the new home. Older adults who are considering a move are no longer faced with the difficult questions of how to market their homes and move their belongings.

There is help available every step of the way. The only question that remains is, "Are you ready for a move?"

When you are ready to move to Fredericksburg, VA or any of the surrounding counties, I am available to assist you every step of the way! You can contact me directly at 540-842-1061 or email at ewaller764@aol.com

This article was written by Diane Krause (Philadelphia Area) w/ Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors & published in the Guide to Retirement Living by Christy Pagans

If you are considering a move to Philadelphia you can contact Diane at: www.dianekrause.com or diane@dianekrause.com

October 2008 Market Statistics

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:36:39 -0600

2008	2007	% Change
Total Sold Dollar Volume:	$ 2,947,800	$ 6,496,400	- 54.62 %
Average Sold Price:	$ 226,754	$ 270,683	- 16.23 %
Median Sold Price:	$ 214,000	$ 256,500	- 16.57 %
Total Units Sold:	13	24	- 45.83 %
Average Days on Market:	186	170	9.41 %
Average List Price for Solds:	$ 251,223	$ 297,773	- 15.63 %
Avg Sale Price as a percentage of Avg List Price:	90.26 %	90.90 %

Total NEW listings:	56
Total Properties Marked Contract:	9
Total Properties Marked Contingent Contract:	3
Total NEW pendings (Contracts + Contingents):	12

IT IS IMPORTANT TO HAVE AN AGENT WHO HAS THE EXPERTISE IN MARKETING AND NEGOTIATION PLUS UNDERSTANDS THE COMPLEXITIES OF REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS. AS YOUR #1 REAL ESTATE AGENT I CAN HELP. LET'S TALK!

www.FredericksburgHomeSource.com

HELPING HOME BUYERS AND HOME SELLERS REACH THEIR #1 GOAL SINCE 1984.

State and Local Elections are Important Too

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:38:37 -0600

The Presidential election isn't the only election that warrants your attention. Your state and local elections are very important too. By being aware of the issues and knowing your elected officials, the power of your vote can affect your state and local tax rates; the building and upkeep of roads; city management; the governance and management of the public schools in your area; and that is just the start.

If you care about health care, jobs, education, environmental protection, global warming, and just about every other issue that has the potential to affect our lives, it is vital that you let your elected officials know what you want by going to the polls and casting your vote.

The truth is that every vote does indeed count and is important! Your single vote helps to make up the millions of ballots in the election. In fact, so many elections on the local, state, and even national levels have been won or lost by less than 100 votes! So, please exercise your right and VOTE!

Notice to All Employees...New Office Policies

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:25:58 -0500

Notice to All Employees!

New Office Policies Effective Immediately

As of November 5, 2008, when Senator Obama is officially elected to office, our company will instill a few new policies which are in keeping with his new, inspiring issues of change and fairness:

1.     All salespeople will be pooling their sales and bonuses into a common pool that will be divided equally between all of you. This will serve to give those of you who are underachieving a "fair shake."

2.     All low level workers will be pooling their wages, including overtime, into a common pool, dividing it equally amongst yourselves. This will help those who are "too busy for overtime" to reap the rewards from those who have more spare time and can work extra hours.

3.     All top management will now be referred to as "the government." We will not participate in this "pooling" experience because the law doesn't apply to us.

4.     The "government" will give eloquent speeches to all employees every week, encouraging it's workers to continue to work hard "for the good of all."

5.     The employees will be thrilled with these new policies because it's "good to spread the wealth." Those of you who have underachieved will finally get an opportunity; those of you who have worked hard and had success will feel more "patriotic."

6. If you are asked to clean out your desk. Don't feel bad, because President Obama will give you free healthcare, free handouts, free oil for heating your home, free food stamps, and he'll let you stay in your home for as long as you want even if you can't pay your mortgage.

If for any reason you are not happy with the new policies, you may want to rethink your vote on November 4th.