Ronald's Blog

Sellers Do's and Dont's

2009-06-17T12:36:51Z

Bankrate lists ten things you should focus on if you want to entice a homebuyer looking to take advantage of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer credit.

1) Dirt - Dirty = bad

2) Odors - Stinky is not good either.

3) Old fixtures

4) Wallpaper - They recommend removing it all.

5) Popcorn acoustic ceilings - They badly date your house.

6) Too many personal items - It’s hard for someone to envision themselves living in your house if all your stuff is still there.

7)Snoopy sellers - Please don’t be there.

8) Misrepresenting your home

9) Poor curb appeal

10) Clutter

If you don’t want someone to buy your home, there’s one very simple thing you can do: be there. (which is a mix of #6 and #7)

So, don’t do any of the ten things Bankrate recommends you avoid and please don’t be there.

Good Luck,

Ron Stead - Valley HomeSteads

Real Estate Tip:Show And Sell

2008-10-22T08:53:16Z

Real estate agents are often asked "What is the best way to show and sell a home?" Almost every agent can tell you a story about meeting with a prospective seller who has just completed a lot of work to prepare their home for the market. It can be difficult for a real estate agent to tell the seller that their renovations were not the best changes to effectively market their home.

If you are considering making any improvements prior to selling your home, the best advice is to consult with your agent before you make any changes. An experienced real estate agent can provide you with information that can help you decide what kind of improvements will set the stage for a sale. Whether it is paint and wallpaper, remodeling the bathrooms, or updating the kitchen, your real estate agent can guide you toward "neutral" choices which can assist the buyer's imagination.

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

RON STEAD 540-539-1200

RSTEAD@SHENTEL.NET

Real Estate Tip:Renting Your Home

2008-10-15T09:14:55Z

Homeowners who don't need the equity from their home to purchase a new home may consider renting it instead of selling. Rental property is almost always a good investment, but you should understand the consequences of becoming a landlord.

Tenants may not share your pride of ownership and, therefore, may not maintain the property like you would. If you plan to rent your property, acquaint yourself with state or local landlord/tenant laws, including those dealing with rent control and eviction procedures. If the home you rent has been your primary residence, you could lose the benefits of a capital gains deferral when you sell it later. Get professional advice from a tax expert and a professional real estate agent before you decide to turn your home into rental property.

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

RON STEAD 540-539-1200

RSTEAD@SHENTEL.NET

Real Estate Tip:Best Interests of the Buyer

2008-10-09T10:05:17Z

Who represents the homebuyer in the transaction? The most common scenario is for homebuyers to purchase a home with the help of the seller's listing agent. In this case, known as "dual agent representation," the real estate agent assists both the sellers and the buyers. However, it is also possible for the buyers to ask another realtor to represent their interests exclusively, acting as the "buyer's agent," a service which is available at no additional cost to the homebuyer.

Any licensed real estate agent can act as your buyer's agent, helping you to locate and look at properties in your price range. However, if that real estate agent works for the same brokerage that is listing a particular property, dual agency or designated agent rules will then apply. The buyer's agent will advise the buyer if issues arise such as termite damage or significant material defects appearing on the home inspection report. If the home appraisal comes in at less than the asking price, the agent will represent the buyer's interest, working with the seller and the lender to negotiate a satisfactory resolution.

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

RON STEAD 540-539-1200

RSTEAD@SHENTEL.NET

Real Estate Tip:When Your House Gets Too Big

2008-09-17T09:30:18Z

Real Estate Tip:When Your House Gets Too Big

As the Baby Boomers of the 1950s send their children off to college, they join the part of the market called "empty nesters". At this point they no longer need six bedrooms and three baths, a family room and a gigantic yard. Many "empty nesters" are trading in the family home for something that is smaller, easier to maintain and has the amenities that are important to their more carefree lifestyle. If you are considering such a move, start out by consulting a good Realtor whom you like and trust. The good news is--- when you sell your primary residence, you are not taxed on your profit if (1) you have lived in the home for two out of the last five years and (2) your gain does not exceed $250,000 as a single taxpayer or $500,000 as a married couple filing jointly. These capital gain exclusions apply whether you "buy up" to a more expensive home or "buy down" to a less expensive one. If you are moving downtown from the suburbs in order to be close to cultural centers, theaters and restaurants, there may be "quality of life" issues, such as noise or parking. Your Realtor can help you find a home that has all the conveniences and amenities you desire.

I am @ your service

Ron Stead

Ron Stead 540-539-1200 rstead@shetnel.net

FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT

2008-07-25T18:01:15Z

An Attractive Approach
First impressions count! Do you remember your first impressions of your present home? What made you want to buy it? The features or amenities that first attracted you are probably the same ones that will sell your home.

Prospective buyers' first impression of your home is the feeling they get when approaching your property. Each home has its own unique features--trees and shrubs which soften structural lines, unusual architectural features, such as bay windows, or a beautifully landscaped entrance. Whether your home is modern or elegant traditional, the approach to your home makes a statement. Since most buyers are looking for a home that has both charm and class, it pays to keep your grounds well-maintained and attractive. If the exterior appearance of your home and yard is pleasing, buyers will want to see the interior.

I am @ your service

Ron Stead

Ron Stead 540-539-1200 rstead@shetnel.net

Real Estate Market Timing

2008-07-25T17:50:08Z

Real Estate has proven to be one of the safest and most profitable types of investments available of the past 50 years. Records statistically show long periods of steady growth With brief re-adjustment periods throughout.

On the other hand, timing the market for quick profits can be a difficult strategy. It becomes hard to predict when the next high or low will come, as long as various other factors that affect property values. Homeowners who hesitate to sell their home during a readjustment period (such as the case in today's market) because they feel the lower price is "Too" low are missing the advantage of the next home purchase which will also be at the lower prices. You must remember that a home purchase is an overall long term investment in the real estate market as a whole, not just a single home purchase. Once you make your first home purchase, your investment will steadily grow throughout your lifetime of home ownership. Instead of waiting it out for the next hot market to sell your home, you would be better advised to put your energy and efforts into making your current home the best that it can be. This allows you to get the best price for your home, regardless of what type of market we happen to be in at any given period.

For sound advice to maneuver this market or any real estate market, feel free to drop me a line and I will be happy to assist you.

I am @ your service

Ron Stead

Ron Stead 540-539-1200 rstead@shetnel.net

Bug Free Buying

2008-07-06T13:24:24Z

Real Estate Tip:Buying Bug Free
If your house is a typical one, there is probably some kind of small, leggy creature that makes its home with you. Whether they are termites, fleas, roaches, ants, or spiders, it is a good idea to serve them with an eviction notice before you put your home on the market. If home remedies like ionized boric acid don't work, paying a professional exterminator will be money well spent.

Most standard sales agreements require that a property be inspected before the closing and treated for termite infestation, if necessary. It is a good idea to check for insect problems as soon as you sign a listing agreement, so that they don't become an issue of contention in the sale. Some insects may not physically damage the house, but may reduce its chances of selling for top dollar. Constantly having to push back spider webs while touring the house could seriously undermine a prospective buyer's ability to fully appreciate your home.

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead 540-539-1200 rstead@shetnel.net

Mortgage Opinions

2008-07-06T13:10:52Z

Mortgage banking organizations are in the news closing down offices or shutting down company wide. This economic downsizing is mostly due to the result of relaxed credit activity of sub-prime lenders over the past 5 or 6 years. The interest rates on these subprime loans are now adjusting to higher rates, making them unaffordable to many investors and homeowners alike, which in turn is causing mortgage delinquencies and defaults leading to foreclosures. Borrowers with good credit and documented income however are still having no difficulty in making their mortgage payments and getting new loans as well. Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac / FHA and VA mortgages remain fully available, underwriting is basically the same with not many changes, and settlement funding is as reliable as ever. Subprime loans on the other hand although still available, are difficult too find and the rates and terms have tightened up substantially.

The rising inventory of unsold and new homes are benefiting today's home buyers. They have more homes to choose from, the market is better situated for them to negotiate home prices, and mortgage financing remains historically low for those with good credit.

To discuss homes in the area or discuss buying or selling strategies in today's market give me a call or shoot me an email.

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead 540-539-1200 rstead@shentel.net

Congrats Allen

2008-07-06T13:06:53Z

CONGRATULATIONS to my client Allen on his recent purchase on this property in the Columbia Furnace area of Shenandoah county. It is going to make a great home for a young family real soon. Thanks for using me as your Realtor. It is always a pleasure to work with all my customers as it was with you!

I AM @ YOUR SERVICE

RON STEAD 540-539-1200

RSTEAD@SHENTEL.NET

Congrats Jason and Natalie

2008-06-04T22:12:55Z

Congrats Jason and Natalie! June 4th, 2008 7:03 PM

Congrats to my customers Jason and Natalie. They are the proud new owners of a great home in Stephens City, Virgina. It has been a long time coming but we made a great deal on a great home for you and your family.

May your new home be filled with love, health, happiness, and friends. Thank you for allowing me to be your Buyers Agent.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead

Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net

Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

New Reduced Price - What a Deal

2008-06-04T21:18:39Z

359 BACK RD, EDINBURG, VA 22824
ML#: SH6729660	LP: $565,000
Status: ACTIVE	DOMM/DOMP: 12/12
Adv Sub: NA
Ownership: Fee Simple, Sale	Total Taxes: $1,079
Date Avail:	Ground Rent:
Type: Detached	Area:
Style: Cape Cod	Map Coord: NA
BR/FB/HB: 5/1/0	Tot Fin Sqft:
Lot AC/SF: 46.115 / 2008787	HOA/CC Fee: /
Model:	Yr Blt: 1933
Lvls/Fpl: 2/0	Vacation Y/N: No
Construction: Frame,Vinyl Siding
Basement: Yes, Connecting Stairway,Full,Outside Entrance,Rear Entrance,Unfinished
Parking: Covered Parking,Drvwy/Off Str
# Gar/Cpt/Assgn: //
Heat/Cool: Oil/Forced Air/Electric/Central A/C
Water/Swr: Cistern,Public/Gravity Sept Fld,Septic,Site Evaluation On File
List Date: 14-Apr-2008	Update Date: 23-Apr-2008

Showing Information: Appt Only-Owner/Contact,Call 1st-Contact,Call Office,Lockbox-None, , -

Company: RE/MAX Leaders

Office/Fax: (540) 338-6300 / (540) 338-4916

List Agent: Sherry Wilson

Home/Office: / (540) 338-6300

Showing: Ronald Stead

Home: (540) 539-1200

Remarks: Buy a rare large parcel of Shenandoah Valley Farmland min. from Edinburg/Woodstock. Beautiful 51+ ac. parcel with older 5 BR 1 BA farmhouse. Improved with bank barn and numerous outbuildings/sheds. 2nd homesite identified and septic cert. on file. Town water on property. Great road frontage on Back Road. Endless possabilites (Vineyard, Family Subdivision, Horse Farm, Vegtable Farm, Cattle operation).Owner/Agent

Directions: Rt. 42 Senedo Road West from Woodstock approx. 6 miles to rt. on Union Church Road to Rt. on Back road. Property on left beginning at intersection. 1st house on left.

AM AT YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead

Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net

Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

The Asking Price

2008-06-04T21:04:36Z

Real Estate Tip:The Asking Price
Picture this...

Your house has been on the market for four weeks. There have been a lot of showings but no offers, so you are wondering if you should consider a price reduction. You want to get as much as you can for your home, but more importantly you want it to sell!

This may be the time to have a frank discussion with your real estate agent. While price may be a major factor, it may not be the only consideration. Are you making your house easy for agents to show? Have you completed the necessary maintenance and cleaning so that your property is as appealing as possible? Review with your agent the current market conditions and the prices of other homes in your neighborhood before determining that a price reduction is in order.

Even though your price may be competitive, the marketplace may be telling you that buyers just won't pay what you would like to get. If all indicators point to a price reduction, it is better to do it sooner rather than later.

Call me and Let's discuss a sale strategy for your home!!!

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead

Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net

Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Shenandoah Valley Farm / Homestead 50+ acres

2008-04-27T23:17:41Z

359 BACK RD, EDINBURG, VA 22824
ML#: SH6729660	LP: $565,000
Status: ACTIVE	DOMM/DOMP: 12/12
Adv Sub: NA
Ownership: Fee Simple, Sale	Total Taxes: $1,079
Date Avail:	Ground Rent:
Type: Detached	Area:
Style: Cape Cod	Map Coord: NA
BR/FB/HB: 5/1/0	Tot Fin Sqft:
Lot AC/SF: 46.115 / 2008787	HOA/CC Fee: /
Model:	Yr Blt: 1933
Lvls/Fpl: 2/0	Vacation Y/N: No
Construction: Frame,Vinyl Siding
Basement: Yes, Connecting Stairway,Full,Outside Entrance,Rear Entrance,Unfinished
Parking: Covered Parking,Drvwy/Off Str
# Gar/Cpt/Assgn: //
Heat/Cool: Oil/Forced Air/Electric/Central A/C
Water/Swr: Cistern,Public/Gravity Sept Fld,Septic,Site Evaluation On File
List Date: 14-Apr-2008	Update Date: 23-Apr-2008

Showing Information: Appt Only-Owner/Contact,Call 1st-Contact,Call Office,Lockbox-None, , -

Company: RE/MAX Leaders

Office/Fax: (540) 338-6300 / (540) 338-4916

List Agent: Sherry Wilson

Home/Office: / (540) 338-6300

Showing: Ronald Stead

Home: (540) 539-1200

Directions: Rt. 42 Senedo Road West from Woodstock approx. 6 miles to rt. on Union Church Road to Rt. on Back road. Property on left beginning at intersection. 1st house on left.

BUY TODAY - NOT TOMORROW

2008-03-23T11:15:27Z

Ignore the headlines. It is true housing is in a slow down period but there is a case for buying now!

When prices are falling few people have the discipline to buy real estate, stocks, bonds, or any other assets. But to those who do decide to pull the trigger during these times, the rewards will be be great in their future.

And although the current housing market may or may not be in its final stages of bottoming out it is certainly "Near" the end of its negative trend. And if you are a ready, willing , and able potential buyer, whom plans to purchase and stay in that home for the next 5 years or so, then you need to consider getting very serious NOW. If you continue to wait for further declining home prices, then you just very well could be wasting away your potential advantage as the inevitable rise in mortgage interest rates will wipe out that advantage.

Consider this case.

Current home sale price: $218,900; Current Interest Rate: 5.5% 30 year fixed; Monthly payment $994.31

Waiting 1 year for a 10% reduced home sale price:

Sale Price: $197,010; Interest rate in 1 year: 6.5% ; Monthly payment $994.94

In this scenario, you have waited 1 year in the hopes of a further 10% decline in the housing market, you have given away a great interest rate, spent another year living or renting someplace where you did not want to be and you have saved $0000000000000000000.

Call me and let's get you on the path to buying a home today at a great price and a great interest rate!

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE.

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

LET'S SELL YOUR HOME - TODAY!

2008-03-23T10:49:35Z

Even in today's market we can sell your home quick, but here are some things you need to know.

Find a true Real Estate professional whom will thrive in any market including this one and listen to what they tell you. It is our job to make things happen and we will if you just listen to what we have to say.

With the onslaught of negative press surrounding today's market you must remain positive.

Steer clear of toxic people . Negative attitudes about money, finances, and about the current real estate situation fuels more negative attitudes. So steer clear of these type people. You can tell if you have come in contact with such a person because you will feel deflated by the end of the conversation. So either force the change of the conversation or walk away.

Avoid the media. It is the media's job to sell more media so they print and publish whatever it needs to to sell more media. Slanted and negative opinions generated by the media sells more for them then positive stories do. Just look at the newspaper or listen to the evening news and keep track of how much positive information is conveyed versus negative information? You can easily see this bias slant so just steer clear of it or keep it in perspective.

Look at these times as opportunities. Do you think Donald Trump is sitting back and whining about todays real estate market? Quite the contrary, he is a very smart businessman and is buying up as much property as he can in todays market place because he knows NOW isw the best time to buy.

Always rremember that your success depends on your mindset, not on the outer conditions of the market. Henry Ford one said "If you believe you can or you can't, either way you are right,". What mindset do you choose to nurture inside yourself? Do you want to believe, "I can" or "I can't?" Your beliefs create your reality so whatever you choose to believe will become true for you.

And finally, engage the Law of Attraction as one of your most powerful tools. The law of attraction states that you get what you focus your attention on. Furthermore, your beliefs create your reality so choose your beliefs carefully. Here's a tip: instead of saying "I can't possibly succeed in today's REAL ESTAE market," choose instead to focus one of these beliefs: "I achieve whatever I set my mind to." and "My success depends on my attitude, not on any outer circumstances.", and "I will sell my home in the next 30, 60, or 90 days" and believe these thoughts from your very soul. AND IT WILL HAPPEN.

Call me and let's get it done!! I WILL MAKE IT HAPPEN!!

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE.

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Finding Buyers

2008-03-23T09:49:42Z

So how do Realtors find buyers versus how a "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO) home owner might find buyers? The basic techniques of a FSBO home owner are pretty much limitied to planting a "FSBO" sale in the front yard and maybe advertising in the local newspaper in the classified section. The home owner must then contend with handling an abundance of calls from mostly not so qualified buyers trying to find a bargain or perhaps an owner who is willing to finance because the potential clients credit is "Not So Great"!

On the other hand, let an experienced and professional Realtor such as myself list your property and a very intricate and efficient process will be activated to generate a successful sale of your home.

Realtors have backlogs of potential and qualified buyers whom are looking for homes in your respective area. As well, your home will be listed in the local Multiple Listing Service where all brokers cooperate with one another to market, show, and sell your home to all of these backlogged and new potential buyers. Realtors such as myself also combine direct marketing methods, telephone calls, a varying degree of advertising media exposure of your property from local newspapers, TV, Radio, and Home Sales advertising booklets. As well we employee internet advertising and have our own websites to directly target the ever growing internet savy real estate shopper. All of these means combine to create activity on your listed home and is designed to make it sell quickly and for top dollar. Remember, as Realtors, we do not make a dime until our customers are happily setting at the closing table.

If I can answer any question on your home selling or buying needs, please give me a call.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE.

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Sherry Wilson Team - Tops in Remax

2008-03-20T09:56:52Z

The Sherry Wilson Team Recognized as a Top Sales Team in the Region, State, World!

by: Ron Stead on March 19, 2008 11:30:22

THE SHERRY WILSON TEAM RECOGNIZED AS A TOP SALES TEAM IN RE/MAX REGION

(Purcellville, VA March 2008) - The Sherry Wilson Team with RE/MAX Leaders, ranked #1 overall in the Central Atlantic Region for production in 2007. This is the 12^th year that The Sherry Wilson Team has been recognized for their high amount of annual transactions.

The Sherry Wilson Team is composed of Sherry Wilson, Broker/Owner, Dorothy Hall, Karen Wenner Cooper, Matthew Custer, Jeanne Cooper, Marge Plasmier, Nancy Sabella, Kim Mendes, Cindy Grinnell, Jodi Hooper Spelbring, Vicky Noufal, Carmelle Shea, Crystal Pruit, Ron Stead, Stacy Mallonee, Gena Perrine, Susan Burdick, Arianne Gharavi and Dana Bridger. This well respected group of professionals has extensive experience in Residential Real Estate, Commercial Real Estate and New Home Construction. Among The Sherry Wilson Team's achievements are: RE/MAX Presidents Club Member, RE/MAX Platinum Award, RE/MAX Chairman Club Member, RE/MAX Diamond Club, RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement, RE/MAX Hall Of Fame, Circle of Legends, Lifetime Achievement, and Brian Buffini's - Life & Balance Award just to name a few.

"The Sherry Wilson Team has been an integral member of the RE/MAX network and has worked diligently to reach this milestone," said Dorothy Hall, Team Leader and Lead Listing Specialist, of The Sherry Wilson Team. "Ranking #1 in the Central Atlantic Region & Virginia for gross commissions paid is a tremendous accomplishment. The Sherry Wilson Team continues to raise the bar in real estate, making us and this community proud."

RE/MAX has over 110,000 agents worldwide and continues to lead the industry in top markets with cutting-edge technologies like the comprehensive property search engine on http://www.remax.com/ and the RE/MAX Satellite Network (RSN), that provides Associates with award-winning programming, coaching and training in the convenience of their offices or homes.

About RE/MAX Leaders, The Sherry Wilson Team

Sherry Wilson's love for Loudoun County, Virginia real estate and expertise in this field, along with her history of successful growth as an agent/owner, have helped her to lead the industry in developing a unique team approach for her personal service business. Over the years, Sherry has assembled a team of top professionals who work with her to ensure the highest level of service for her growing client list; meanwhile, she is a phone call away for any imaginable need.

Sherry has a full-time Marketing Director, Contracts Department Manager, Listings Coordinator, Closing Coordinator, Buyer Agents and various support personnel. While each Team Member has specific functions, all top Staff Members are cross-trained to pitch in as needed without missing a step.

In turn, you will be comfortable knowing that all of the necessary details are being attended to, and that your transaction will go smoothly!

For More Information Contact: Gena Perrine, Office Manager, 540-338-6300

Sherry Wilson, Matthew Custer & Dorothy Hall at the 2008 RE/MAX Awards Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Help Your Realtor Help You

2008-02-29T21:49:35Z

Good communications with your Realtor is critical in helping us help you find that perfect home. A Realtor who knows your specific set of home criteria can work much more efficiently and effectively to meet your home buying objectives. Let your Realtor know your specifics on the area you would like to move into and whether or not there is any flexibility from this specific area. If it turns out there are no available homeS in this specific neighborhood in your price range, are you willing to look elsewhere for homes with the same amenities? What are the details that your new home need to accommodate? How many bedrooms ? How many bath rooms? Is your family expanding or are you an empty nester? Do you need a home office? What are your hobbies and do any of them require an specific home spaces? Do you have a particular style of home that you prefer?. Do you want all of your living space on one level or more than one level? Does your home need to have a basement or a garage? Do you want a fireplace in your home and how large of a kitchen are you desiring? Often times Realtors are called upon to be a bit psychic when we work with buyers, but remember the more you can tell your Realtor about your home buying wants and needs and where you are willing to compromise, the easier and quicker it will be for us to find you that perfect fit. For solid home buying tips give me a call.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE.

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Seller Paid Points?

2008-02-27T17:50:58Z

In shopping for home mortgage financing, home buyers must consider two important factors--the interest rate and the points. Each point is equal to one percent of the mortgage amount. If you are selling a home, the buyers may ask you to share the points with them.

The buyer usually pays the points. But if the offer is attractive and will give you the amount you want, paying one or more points might be a good idea. When a contract is presented, your real estate agent will go over the price and terms to help you calculate the net price you will receive. If the offer isn't strong enough or has risky contingencies, you might make a counter offer to increase your profit on the sale by eliminating the points from your selling costs or by increasing the price to help you absorb additional costs you will pay.

In some cases, buyers with limited cash may need some assistance from the sellers to make the transaction work. Call me and let me help you look at the total picture and the buyer's overall qualifications, so that you can make a decision based on the bottom line.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Looking for a Diamond? Shenandoah Valley Real Estate Gems

2008-02-09T22:55:34Z

There are a lot of potential "Diamonds" in the trenches of todays Real Estate market. It is still a buyers market and there is an abundance of inventory. Of this inventory there are indeed some "Diamonds" to be found. These properties may be in perfect locations, have that perfect large yard for the family and offer a large and open floor plan. But along with that may come some "dated" wallpaper, worn flooring, and walls in need of some paint to spruce things up.

If you have an eye for some details and have the foresight to overlook a few shortcomings you may be able to find yourself a great deal and a great home in todays market. Throw a little "elbow grease" at one of these gems such as some new paint, new floor coverings, and a good ole fashioned scrub down and you have the potential of finding that "Diamond" you have been seeking. Most of these homes in todays market are priced competitively to make them move so you could be the winner of the slow real estate market. As well, the seller is usually a little more negotiable in price because you can rest assured he has been directed by the market that the house has some cosmetic flaws! Make sure the home is structurally sound, major mechanical systems are in operational order, the roof shows many years of wear left, and no other major defects are noticed, and get with a Professional and educated Realtor such as myself and let's write an offer.

Bring your eye for detail, your imagination and come see me and let's discuss your options in todays market.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE!

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Beautiful Shenandoah Valley Home For Sale

2008-02-06T21:00:32Z

Beautiful Shenandoah Valley Home For Sale

$244,900

5093 ELM DRIVE, MOUNT JACKSON, VA 22842 MLS#: SH6652102

Adv. Sub: AVONDALE ACRES

Style: Rancher Yr Blt: 1987

BR: 3 FB: 2 HB: 0 Basement: Yes, Connecting Stairway,Full,Outside Entrance,Rear Entrance,Space

List Date: 02-Feb-2008 Status: ACTIVE Type: Detached Const: Vinyl Siding

Company: RE/MAX Leaders, RMAX100 Own: Fee Simple, Sale

Total Taxes: $1,304 Acres: 0.24 Park: Carport,Drvwy/Off Str

Heat/Cool/Wtr/Swr: Forced Air,Hot Water,Wood Burn Stove/Bottled Gas/Prop/Attic Fan,Central A/C/Electric/Public/

Area: SShen #Lvls: 1 #Fpls: 1 Total Fin SF: 1,510 # Gar/Cpt/Assgn: / 1/

Upd Date: 03-Feb-2008

Showing Contact: Ron Stead SC Home: (540) 984-8979 DOMM/DOMP: 4/149

Remarks: Completely remodeled 3 br, 2 ba Ranch on quiet town lot. Custom wood cabinets, new hardwood floors in dining room and kitchen, new carpet. Full unfinished basement with roughed in bath. Lovely landscaped yard with storage building. Sun room off rear basement walkout. Owner providing personal 6 month warranty on home. High Energy Efficient Home. A MUST SEE! Lots of Sq. Ft. for the dollar.

CALL ME TODAY FOR A SHOWING OF THIS FINE HOME!

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE!

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Sellers - Avoid Disappointment

2008-02-06T20:38:14Z

Often times a home seller is disappointed by the first offer they receive. For example, when your agent calls to say that she has an offer on your home, your adrenaline might start flowing profusely. You get really excited, but your happy bubble bursts when you are presented with the contract. It's just not enough! The buyers asked for your new washing machine, and they also want to postpone the closing for three months. You don't see how it can work!

Before rejecting any offer on your property, you should consider making a counter offer. Rarely does an offer look the way it would if you had written it yourself. Consider the good and bad points of the offer, and work with the agents to find a middle ground that you and buyers can live with. You may have to go back and forth several times, and there will probably be compromises on both sides. Unless you are lucky enough to be selling in a strong sellers' market (which we are not right now), the buyers will expect to do some bargaining. With a little patience, you and your agent can create a "win-win" situation for you and the buyers.

I AM AT YOUR SERVICE!

Ron Stead Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net
Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

Winter Home Improvement Ideas

2008-01-26T23:27:25Z

1. Replace Old Knobs and Door Handles. This is an easy, inexpensive way to dress up or change the look of doors, cabinets, and more. Many homes in the Cleveland Ohio area are older and have outdated hardware. These small changes can actually transform the look and style of your home. Whether you choose vintage glass, shiny metal or even rustic wood, installing these new knobs and handles can add to the value of your home, as well. Don't overlook the hinges! If you can't quite get to those now, but have a squeaky door, try spraying the hinges with a cooking spray like Pam. It works!

2. Install a Greenhouse Window. A beautiful addition to any room in the home, a greenhouse window will allow you to grow flowers, herbs and other plants even during the winter! Replacing a regular window with a greenhouse window adds dimension, light and display space while eliminating clutter. Available at home supply stores, they come with many options including granite finishes and glass shelves.

3. Paint, Paint, Paint! Painting can instantly change your home's look and feel. Don't limit your color change to just your walls - an updated color on furniture or cabinetry can really spice things up, as well. Play with new colors, patterns and techniques. Don't be afraid of going bold; remember, if you don't like the way the color looks, you can always paint over it! There's a wall, trim or doorway in everyone's home that could use some paint or freshening. Cheap and easy, get to work!

4. Replace Builder Lighting or Outdated Fixtures with remote ceiling fans. Not only will it save energy and keep your air circulating, it will add appeal, value and enhance the beauty of a room and pull your entire decor together from the floor up. Ceiling fans today are modern, fun, classy and relatively easy to install. They come with directions and there's help online. If you purchase one in a home improvement store the sales people will help you as well! Make sure you call on their advice and expertise, that's what they're there for!

5. Work on your closets and cabinets. Most homeowners have secrets hiding in their closets and cabinetry. The closet is the least looked at part of the home and there we tend to find cracking or peeling paint, old contact paper and clutter! How about taking a few hours and organize, adding new shelves, hooks or hardware and giving yourself more room by throwing out or donating some of the items you think one day you'll use but haven't in a decade!

6. Don't forget your home's air quality. Change your furnace filter! You can add a couple of dryer sheets to the new one to add a cheap and whole-house air freshener. Remove your vents and soak them in a hot bleach bath while you vacuum inside to remove dust and build up. Clean the hard to reach spots in your home that you don't get to often. Behind entertainment centers, baseboards, behind heavy furniture and under beds. Removing dust in the home can make it smell better and create a healthier environment!

These fun projects are a great way to pass the time this winter, not to mention the way they'll quickly improve the look and value of your home!

Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net

Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/

NAR Commends Fed Interest Rate Cut

2008-01-26T23:23:10Z

Jan. 24, 2008-The following is a statement by Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors®, on this week's action by the Federal Reserve Board:

"Today's 75-basis-point cut in the Fed funds rate to 3.50 percent is a very good step in the right direction to boost the economy and send a clear message to both the market and to consumers. This strong rate cut will help lower mortgage interest rates and lessen the burden of adjustable-rate loans that are resetting in the current environment. It also could help stimulate business investment in the wake of market uncertainties. We commend the Federal Reserve Board on its bold action, but at the same time we urge it to keep a close watch to see if additional action is needed."

The market has bottomed out. Call me and let's discuss the next action you should take.

Call me today at 540-539-1200 or e-mail at rstead@shentel.net

Find my website at http://www.ronsellsva.com/