Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Homes for sale

Losing your buying power? Don't blame us!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 17:44:27 -0700

Unbelievable interest rates are about 4.35%, never have they been this low! As a home buyer you have an unprecedented opportunity, but only for a limited time!

With interest rates around 4.35% you can now purchase 20% more home than you could last year, but this offer will expire soon!
If last year you could only afford a townhouse at $180,000 you can get a single family detached home for the same monthly payment, priced around $220,000! That 20% increase in buying power just gave you 500 sq ft of additional living space, a large fenced in backyard, a garage, larger bedrooms and more closet space. But if you wait you'll miss out on this opportunity.

You can almost consider this another HOME BUYERS CREDIT in away. The Government is
keeping interest rates artificially low. As a result instead of receiving up to $8,000 back you get
the full 20% to purchase the house! - but again it won't last long!

Eventually interest rates are going to increase, it will not be subtle, it will be quick, fast and dramatic, when this happens you'll know you have missed your opportunity. Interest rates are likely to go beyond 6%, they will land somewhere around 8%. And with every 1% of interest rate increase you lose 10% in buying power. Should interest rates jump to 8% a 2% change from when you could purchase a $180,000 townhouse now you can afford a $145,000 one floor apartment with no garage, smaller rooms, no backyard of your own, limited parking.

If you are looking to purchase a home in South Hampton roads you have time, but you need to call me today, this offer could be over tomorrow!

The General Rule of thumb: For every 1% increase in the interest rate, you lose 10% in buying power!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

So you think you can't buy because the banks aren't lending?

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 11:57:55 -0700

Regardless of where I go, I talk to many people, while standing in the line at the local 7-11 to sitting at Starbucks. If there is a person near me I strike up a conversation. Generally we talk about real estate, I am asked the same question over and over again "I can't buy because the banks aren't lending".

The truth is simple, the banks have to lend, the only real product that the banks have to sell is cash, and they do it by making loans for houses and cars. As we all know the rules have tightened up, buyers have to prove that they can make the payments, hold a job and put some of their own "skin" in the game, in the form of a a down payment. But the banks are indeed lending.

Allow me to show you an example of these loans

In South Hampton roads there are 1,636 as of 9/14/2010 at 11:45am, that are under contract. This means 1,636 home buyers found a loan to purchase their new home. Just to illustrate this a little further year to date home sales in South Hampton Roads is just under 8,000! Here are an additional 8,000 home buyers who managed to borrow money from BANKS! In 9 months and 14 days almost 9,636 home buyers have borrowed money from BANKS.

Here are 9,000 plus home owners who will be very happy in several years when their home values increase, and while they are living in the home they can change what ever they want without permission from their land lord. Now if you decide to rent, instead of taking advantage of the opportunity that is presenting itself to you, you are going to pay more in the long run with higher interest rates, and higher home prices. Remember: those who buy today will sell to you tomorrow!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Home Sales Tumbled! It is time to BUY!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:34:52 -0700

Last week the our local news paper, The Virginian-pilot, ran their lead story: "Home Sales In Record Tumble" So here I am again with information from our MLS ( Rein )

In January there were only 532 home sales, with an average sales price of $259K At the end of August we have had 687 home sales. With the slight but positive increase of 29% in our year to date sales, sales prices have increased by 8%. The average 3 bedroom, 2 bath 2000 sq ft home in Virginia beach is selling for $280K up from $259K at the beginning of the year.

So allow me to present a couple reasons you should be looking for a home YESTERDAY:

Interest rates are at the lowest we have ever seen them
Home prices appear appear to be trending up, giving you the ability to earn equity sooner than latter.

With the low interest rates and low prices you have a limited period of time to purchase your dream home now! Consider this scenario:

In January you could have purchased your dream home for $259,000 at 6% with a monthly payment of $1552. Spring ahead to September 2010, the same home is now available and will cost you $280,000 at only 4.35% your monthly payment is now only 1,390 a huge savings!
Now lets jump forward to January 2011, using our crystal ball. Your dream home is now valued at $291,000, had you purchased it one year earlier you would have earned $32,000 in equity, or had you purchased in in September $11,000 in equity. However, you waited and now you are paying $1,744 or $414 more per month even at the 4.35% interest rate!

Get off the fence, what could you do with $414 extra in your pocket everymonth?

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Understanding the American Dream

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:22:19 -0700

The American dream, and the foundation of America is the ownership of real estate for over 200 years. Originally property ownership was considered so important that only property owners could vote. Even today, I meet people from other parts of the world who's goal it is to purchase a home in America.

Even though real estate has suffered, so has the stock and bond market. Real Estate offers what these other investment can not. Real Estate is finite, the government can't make more of it! Each parcel of real estate is unique, and as such it has real value. This is evident

According to research by MSN.com and Case Shiller between January 2000 and May 31, 2010

Down Jones down by 11.8 %
S&P 500 down by 17.7%
NasDaq down by 44.8%
Real Estate UP BY 43.4%

Aside from this what are you really purchasing? With other investments such as stocks and bonds you are purchasing a piece of paper that represents an investment into a company, its' value is directly related to the value of the company, and the whims of the market. However, purchasing a home is much more than simply an investment. Of course, one day, in the future you will expect a return on your investment. But until that time your home is a place to entertain, to raise your family or even to start one.

Your home is the biggest investment that you will make, quit possibly even bigger than all cars you will purchase over your life time. But we don't purchase the car with the expectation of appreciation, we accept the fact that the return is the reliability, safety and fuel economy that it will provide us over the length of ownership.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Homes for Sale in Virginia Beach for under $100K

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:22:58 -0700

Looking for a great start home? Recently married, just starting off? There a 78 homes for sale in Virginia Beach between 60K to $100K. Imagine owning a home for less than renting one, and having the ability in a couple of years to turn it into a rental property, that is income producing! It is time to take advantage of the low rates and the great deals that are out here.

First time home buyers, using an FHA loan need to have only a 3% down payment, a credit score of 620!

Take a look at some of the homes for sale in Virginia Beach:

If you are moving to Virginia Beach, or looking for a reason to call Virginia beach home cosider these facts:

The median household income is $65,000 higher than the US Median household income of $55,000. Homeowners enjoy a low real estate tax rate of .89 per $100 of assessed value, our real estate taxes do not weigh as heavily in acquiring a mortgage as they do in cities in New York.

It is estimated that over 1 million people call Virginia Beach home, and almost 450,000 are permanent residents. These residents enjoy the Virginia Beach boardwalk, exceptional jobs consider these distinctions:

- America's 29th Fastest Recovering City from the Recession - Forbes.com

- Virginia Beach ranks among top 20 MSA's for economic performace during the recession - Brookings Institute

- Virginia Beach named by Fores as the 6th best place to "Ride out the Recession" - 2008

- Virginia Beach Boardwalk is listed in the top 10 great public spaces in America, By American Planning Associat.

- Virginia Beach named as one of the 10 BEST Places to grow up, U.S. News and world report

- The Best City to Buy a Home - reported by Good morning America with research from Zillow

- 6th Best place for the Outdoors Forbes Magazine

- Virginia Beach MSA Ranked #1 in U.S. for jobs and growth in high impact firms.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

55+ community on Signature Golf course in Virginia Beach!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:13:41 -0700

Wonderfully maintained home in Virginia Beach, located on the 14th tee of the Arnold Palmer golf course in Virginia Beach. This is a 55+ community

Details

Address: 3017 Maat Ct Type: Residential Style: Bedrooms: 3 "Master bedroom first floo" Bathrooms: 2 "1/2"Garage: Double, Attached Size: 2,543 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Year Built: 2003 MLS®: 1031523

Description

Spacious airy home on the 14th tee. Large loft, Florida room & screened-in porch. Short sale subject to bank approval without recourse. Equip with chair lift..

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

.86 Acres for sale with "newly built" home

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:57:41 -0700

This home has been rebuilt from some of the original foundation. The owner tour down the original home, and almost all of the foundation and rebuilt a modern open home.

Details

Address: 5120 Shenstone drive Type: Residential Style: Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Garage: SingleSize: 1,616 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 0.86 acres Year Built: 1941 "totally rebuilt from the ground up"Taxes: $1,815.00 USD

Description

Newly remodeled from the ground up! Stainless steel appliances, upgraded fixtures, recessed lighting, panned ceiling and skylights in great room. Master bedroom with large walk-in closet, master bathroom with jetted tube, oversized glass enclosed shower.

This home offers seclusion on a large wooded lot - country living in the city. Oversized parking, and detatched garage.

Features

Interior Features

▪ Carpeted Floors	▪ Ceiling Fan	▪ Skylights
▪ Window Covers

Cooling

▪ Central Air

Exterior Finish

▪ Vinyl

Heating

▪ Heat Pump

View

▪ Forest

▪ Woods

Sewer/Water Systems

▪ Water District

Appliances

▪ Dishwasher	▪ Garbage Disposal	▪ Oven Range
▪ Refrigerator	▪ Washer/Dryer Hookup

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Virginia Beach home for rent

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:50:09 -0700

View the Virtual tour

Details

Address: 1949 ABORFIELD CT Type: Residential Style: Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Garage: Single, AttachedSize: 1,226 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Year Built: 1986 Available Date: 8/4/2010

Description

Wonderfully maintained 3 bedroom home, updated & conveniently located in Kempsville on a cul-de-sac. Only minutes from Lynnhaven & NAS Oceana. Enjoy the large fenced in backyard with its 500 sqft. wood deck. No pets.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

So you think you can't qualify for a loan? Think again!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:33:45 -0700

After the proverbial real estate bubble popped, the fed and the banks restricted loans to such a degree only those with high credit scores could hope to purchase a home. Things have changed, but it seems that most people are unaware of the changes.

Currently one of the easiest loans to qualify for are FHA loans require a minimum of a 620 score, less than 5% down ( currently at 3.5% ), steady employment for the last 2 years with equal or increasing pay and the new payment shouldn't exceed 30% of your gross income.

The FHA has increased two key features of an FHA loan the Private Mortgage Insurance went from 1.75% to 2.25% and the down payment may increase from 3% to 5%. They have also decreased maximum closing cost assistance to the buyer from 7% to 3%

So, how do these changes compare?

Lets take a home selling at $200,000 - Remember I am not a loan officer, this is only intended to serve as an example, and to help dispel some of the misconceptions about buying homes.

OLD FHA Loan New FHA Loan
Guidelines Guidelines

Max Closing Cost $14,000 (7%) $6,000 (3%)
PMI $3,500 (1.75%) $4,500 (2.25%)
Down Payment $6,000 (3%) $10,000 (5%)
Interest rate 6% 4.25%

Estimated payment: $1,431+pmi 1,277 +pmi

As is evident even with the change in interest rates are helping to keep the home buyers monthly payments lower than in the past. However, these interest rates will not last! To take advantage of them call me today. Not let mis-information sway you, let me put you in contact with a loan officer who can give you the facts and figures based on your current situation. Even if you think your credit score is low!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Take advantage of the low interest rates now, see why!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:14:55 -0700

After you are done reading this call me

In the last few weeks I have been bombarded by loan officers, telling me about the "LOWEST INTEREST RATES IN HISTORY". But I remain amazed that not more people are taking advantage of these low rates, they won't stay there for long, and before you know it they'll be approaching double digits.

But how do interest rates actually affect your buying power? It should come to no surprise that your monthly payment is directly related to the loan amount and the interest rate. Change either of these and your monthly payment changes, and thus so does your buying.

Using an online mortgage calculator I ran 3 scenarios, all assuming the the home buyers had a house hold income of $75,000, I used the default ratios - I am not a loan office, I am a real estate agent :)

So, based on a $75,000 house hold income and a desired monthly payment of: $1,400

Interest rate: 6%
loan amount: $233,508

Interest rate: 5%
loan amount; $260,794

Interest rate: 4.25%
loan amount: $284,588

As you can see that with only a 2.25% drop in interest rates your buying has increased significantly to more than $50,000! Now with this low interest rate, a fixed 30 year loan you can have the home of your dreams right from the start! Why? Imagine this same home buyer facing interest rates of 8%, as some experts predict by 2011, his buying power changes dramatically, but in an entirely different direction:

Interest rate: 8%
Loan amount: $190,797

Now our buyer has to settle for something other than his dream house. If you are considering making the move to purchase a home in South Hampton roads time is of the essence! Interest rates will not stay low and the median home price has gone up since this time last year.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Moving? Pick Virginia Beach!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:35:32 -0700

Are you moving, looking for a more stable environment to work and live? Virginia Beach provides many great reasons to consider. Virginia Beach is strategically located, offers low tax rate and has a dynamic and diverse economy. Our economy is powered by the Military, the largest ice free port on the east coast which supports a large number of businesses.

- America's 29th Fastest Recovering City from the Recession - Forbes.com

- Virginia Beach ranks among top 20 MSA's for economic performace during the recession - Brookings Institute

- Virginia Beach named by Fores as the 6th best place to "Ride out the Recession" - 2008

- Virginia Beach Boardwalk is listed in the top 10 great public spaces in America, By American Planning Associat.

- Virginia Beach named as one of the 10 BEST Places to grow up, U.S. News and world report

- The Best City to Buy a Home - reported by Good morning America with research from Zillow

- 6th Best place for the Outdoors Forbes Magazine

- Virginia Beach MSA Ranked #1 in U.S. for jobs and growth in high impact firms.

Klett Consulting Group to Nearly Triple Its Workforce 08/17/2010
Virginia Beach Named Active Base Community of the Year 08/11/2010
Turner Strategic Technologies Nearly Triples Number of Full-Time Employees 07/20/2010
reQuire Expands Operations in Virginia Beach 05/19/2010
Virginia Beach-based Business Named to FORTUNE 500 List 04/21/2010
Mayor Announces More Than 200 New Jobs for Virginia Beach 03/18/2010
Oceana Land Use Conformity Committee to Meet on Feb. 8 02/02/2010

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

The State of Virginia Beach Real Estate market.

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:37:01 -0700

As an analytic personality, I really like to look at what is happening in the markets that I provide service to, I generally want to no more about what is happening in terms of sales, pending sales now and contrasted to the year before. When I look at these number I am also looking at other indexes such as the DOW and S&P, the Fed and treasury policy. They all directly affect the real estate market, but they also affect the home buyer and seller.

For example interest rates are at the lowest point since we started to keep track in the 70's. A strong home buyer can get a loan in the 4's, but as evident in the number of sales, home buyers in Virginia Beach are not scrambling to take advantage the low interest rates.

In June 2010 there where 208 single family homes sold with a median sales price of $245,000 contrast this to the 415 single family homes that were sold at a median price of $235,000 when interest rates where higher.

A home purchased in June 2009 at at interest rate of 5.75% would result in a monthly payment of $1,372 when compared to a loan payment of $1,205 this is not only a huge saving to the home buyer, these artificially low interest rates will also increase the home buyers purchasing power.

What home buyers are unfortunately missing, due to what I believe is a barrage of negative information about the stock market, the economy etc is that interest rates need to go up very soon, and when they go up it is going to be like a rocket blasting off into space - it will be dramatic! I expect to see interest rates in the 8's and maybe the 9's! This change will be not only affect the home buyers ability to purchase a home, it will also affect the home sellers ability to sell the home. If interest rates increase to 8% home prices may fall by 10%, the net affect will be an increased home payment, and a smaller pool of qualified home buyers.

Virginia beach real estate market, and the rest of the South Hampton roads area, has benefits greatly from the large military presence. We have what many would consider a very healthy economy when compared to other regions of the United States. Our employment rate is about 96%, that is 96% of the work force is employed!

Virginia Beach offers many great reasons to make this your home. Virginia Beach offers its residents and visitors city parks and neighborhood parks, camp grounds, the ocean front. We are a 45 minute drive to Williamsburg, where you can spend several weekends exploring our history, enjoying the Bush gardens and Water Country USA.

Ready to buy a home in South Hampton roads, and to make it your home? Call me today, time is not on your side!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Do you have a home to sell in Virginia beach, Chesapeake or Norfolk? Use Video to get it noticed!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 08:52:34 -0700

Sean Schroeder, Realtor with The Real Estate-Xchange

Real Estate Video Marketing

One of the many services that I provide, at no extra charge, is a video tour of your home. utilizing up to 20 pictures and narration, this video is syndicated on youtube, The local MLS, as well as the National Listing service.

Sellers, home buyers want to see lots of pictures before visiting a home, my video tours are a great alternative to simply presenting static pictures. View an example of this service.

To schedule a free home sellers appoint call Sean Schroeder, Realtor with The Real Estate-XChange. Utilizing modern technology, including video presenations and tours of your home to find you a home buyer!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

MarketLinx MLXChange

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 09:33:08 -0700

MarketLinx provides a robust MLS management system called MLXChange. It offers many features to manage listings, clients, produce reports etc. But its biggest draw back is that it was developed using Microsoft proprietary programing frame work called Dot Net. Essentially rendering the site unusable in any web browser except for Internet Explorer.

My preferred operating system is Linux, this is what the Mac is based on, a Unix based operating system. It is fast, secure and very flexible. But it doesn't run Dot Net. When attempting to access MLXChange this is the message that I receive:

This is also the message that Mac users will receive! Now MarketLinx, will tell you to run Windows in a Virtual machine - essentially a program that emulates another computer inside your Mac or Linux system.. But you also need to purchase the OS - all to run IE? I suggest, as a programming geek, that MarketLinx develops an API that will allow a PHP based website to have access to the functionality of the MLXChange. Or simply write a PHP version of MLXChange that will access the data base. It isn't that hard!!

So, in the meantime if you have a Mac or a Linux system you'll need to install a virtual machine and purchase Windows or dual boot as I do.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Can traditional real estate markets survive?

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 21:34:06 -0700

I have been working in real estate for several years now and find myself wondering if the traditional real estate market is beneficial to the consumer and if it is going to survive in its current form. In the past the traditional model made sense. The brokerage fee, in part, was designed to repay the brokerage for advertising, marketing and selling the property.

With the introduction, and heavy use of the internet brokerage firms have pretty much discountinued their "print" advertising, and have replaced them with online syndication, social networking and online virtual tours with feed back forms and the like, resulting in reduced advertising costs to the agent and brokerage fee.

With home sellers facing lower property values, and little "wiggle" room to pay brokerage fees and an additional 3% in closing cost for the buyer, sellers seem to be looking for an alternative. After all, with sites like Zillow and Google home owners have access to much of the same information as agents have.

So, what is the future of the real estate business? How can brokerage firms continue to make a profit to keep the doors open? Brokerage firms are giving their agents higher splits, and have seen higher per sq ft rents etc.

Agents, I am looking for honest feed back about the industry, maybe even insights on different models.

Best regards,

Sean Schroeder

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Discount brokerage isn't a bad word!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:43:31 -0700

The real estate industry has certain business practices that are considered “normal” one such business practice is the brokerage fee. Under federal and state law, it is illegal for brokers, or their agents, to discuss with other brokers and agents their brokerage fees This could be construed as price fixing. When home sellers need to sell, and turn to a real estate professional, why do they hear the same argument, from each real estate agent, justifying 6% listings? Traditional real estate agents look down at discount agents fearing that, by saving the home seller money, they are giving a bad name to the real estate profession.

Regardless of your city, you can ask real estate agents from various brokerage firms what their fee is to sell a home. Generally you will hear the same responses. In my city, the generally accepted norm is 6%. So, if there are laws that prevent price fixing how is that almost every agent and every firm has the same brokerage fee? Why aren't there more options for home sellers? In short, agents can ONLY do what their brokers allow them to do, and that also means they can't list a home below the minimum brokerage fee, if set, of the brokerage firm. This also holds true when it comes to buyer brokerage agreements. In short, the brokers are setting the minimum brokerage fees that their agents can offer and accept.

In some circles discount brokerage is looked down upon by the BIG Box brokerage firms, because they “feel” it cheapens the business. However, these same brokerage firms nickle and dime their agents with fees, and various commission splits that require the agents to charge 6%. What the consumer is left with are thousands of agents that have access to the same MLS, newspaper, magazines offering the same brokerage fees. The only real difference is the sign in which the agent operate under.

Times have changed, in the past the 3% brokerage fee that listing agent earned was utilized to pay for expensive newspaper ads, open houses, flyers and photos. With the internet, online MLS, Emails, search engine syndication and digital cameras, the real out-of-pocket expenses have been reduced. Today's listing agent has become an online marketing agent who rarely ever sells his own listings. The other side of the coin is the position that the home owners are finding themselves in. Many have little or no equity to afford the 6% normal commissions.

If you are selling your home in Hampton roads, don't get taken on a hot air balloon ride, talk to me about Sellers' Choice. A very simple, consumer focused listing service specifically tailored to give you the services that you want and need to sell your home.

Sean Schroeder, Realtor
757-839-3954

517 Baylor Ct. Chesapeake Virginia 23320 Equal Housing Opportunity ( EHO )

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

It's rental time! Looking for a rental in Virginia Beach or Chesapeake?

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Sun, 23 May 2010 23:39:31 -0700

Looking for a rental property in Virginia beach or Chesapeake? Call or email I have
2 more properties left

3 Bedroom, Townhouse in Kempsville 1400 Sq Ft $1300 per month with pool (HOA), and pet friendly ( owner/ agent).

3 Bedroom home in Greenbrier area with fantasic view, wood deck, pet friendly

Call me today to set up an appointment to view either of these units.

If you have a home that you need to rent contact me.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Who really sells homes?

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 20 May 2010 23:47:48 -0700

The real estate market is changing right before our eyes. Technology is making it easier for home buyers to find homes that match their needs, allowing them to research homes and tour them right from the comfort of their own living room or even on their cell phone. The Internet has become the MOST Powerful tool for both the home buyer and seller.

In the digital age of real estate, listing agents no longer sell homes, instead they market them using the many tools that only licensed agents have access to. Let me repeat that, listing agents don't sell homes, buyer agents sell homes, listing agents market homes.

With that in mind we are introducing 2 new programs on Monday. To learn more send a text message to VB411 to 41411, or visit our business page on FaceBook. To learn more... watch our short video

If you have a home that you NEED to sell, you need to consider the many options that we have available to you. If your home is currently with another agent I CAN NOT CALL YOU. Pick up your phone or send me an email today!

Oh, I almost forgot, buyers I also have a special program just for you too!

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Relocating to Virginia Beach things you need to know.

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Sun, 16 May 2010 16:27:12 -0700

Get up to date, real time information about the Virginia Beach real estate market
sent right to your phone.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Real Estate Consultants, The new face of real estate?

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Wed, 12 May 2010 20:30:01 -0700

Have you ever sold a home and found yourself wondering why real estate agents charge X percent? There are several ways professionals, like attorneys and financial advisers charge for their services. They can charge a flat fee, a retainer, by the hour or a contingent fee.

Generally in real estate, the norm is a contingent fee or some percentage based on the sale price of the home. But who is this "norm" benifitting is it one sided or is it a win-win?

The traditional percentage base method of selling real estate works on the assumption that the real estate agent/brokerage firm is spending money up front, to advertise the property in order to find a buyer. That same brokerage firm has to also pay insurance, licensing fees ( both agent and firm ), continuing education, gas, signs, websites etc. Some homes however don't sell and the firm/agent is out of money.

Due to the perceived "high" brokerage fees many home owners turn to "for sale by owner". They miss out on the large number of home buyers who are represented by buyer brokers, and many times can't show a for sale by owner property due to the buyer broker agreement.

I believe that real estate professionals provide an invaluable service to both the buyer and the seller, however, I also believe that many times home owners can do a lot on their own and only require a real estate consultant. A real estate consultant, like an attorney, provides services such as contracts, statistics, reports, a listing for the property, disclosures, virtual tours, syndicating and access to marketing tools that a home owner otherwise would be unablt to gain access to due to real estate licensing requirements.

As a real estate professional I offer my clients the option of real estate consulting services verses the traditional real estate services found with most other firms. Many others brokers would consider this a "discount" brokerage service simply because it doesn't mirror the "traditional" method. If you are a home seller in Hampton roads and would like to learn more, let me introduce you to the Sellers Choice, my non-traditional real estate consulting service. Call today.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

New tax break offered to Homeowners in New York.

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 22:59:25 -0700

2010 New York Tax Break just in time!

Does a tax break of 7,000 to $9,000 plus tax break and a cost of living reduction of 40% sound good to you?

If you are a resident of New York, your elected representatives are aware that your real estate taxes are outrageous and they have provided you a great tax break, you simply need to act!

In your local news papers, you read much about tax incentives that New York is offering businesses but what about the tax breaks to home owners who are paying $9,000 on 900 sq. ft. homes up to $15,000 and more depending on location?

Here is your Tax Break in a nutshell:

New York is telling you that if you don't like the High Real Estate taxes that you should MOVE to Virginia Beach! Real estate taxes in Virginia beach are extraordinarily low. On a homes valued at $280,000 with 2200 sq. ft, the real estate tax is about $2,500! Unlike New York, where most affordable homes are sold as Co-ops, Virginia Beach homes area either simple interest or condos, you will be hard pressed to find a Co-op. Come to Virginia Beach where you really own your home!

The cost of living in Virginia Beach is 40% lower than New York. Even with the real estate tax break that you will recieve, the retail sales tax in Virginia Beach is only 5% compared to 8% in New York. New York Gas tax is 59.6 Cents per gallon compared to only 38 Cents per gallon!

You owe it to yourself to investigate Living In Virginia Beach, give your self a tax break!

Call Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
The Real Estate-XChange
757-839-3954
seanschroeder@757realproperty.com

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Short Sale listings as of Feb 18, 2010

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:02:54 -0800

As of today’s posting there 437 Virginia beach short sales listed in the local MLS. Of these Virginia Beach short sales, 64 are pending, 373 remain active – awaiting a buyer! To put this in perspective there are 3,992 homes for sale in Virginia Beach, the current number of short sale properties in the city of Virginia beach is just over 10% of the total inventory.

Short sales in Virginia Beach, that have closed in the lat 30 days have sold at 98% of the properties list price and were on the market for 75 days. The goal of the short sale is to save not only the current home owner from a foreclosure, but to also save the bank money and in the banks eyes it also protects the property from vandalism.

To learn more about short sales in Virginia Beach or Hampton roads visit Hampton roads short sales List of short sales in Virginia Beach between 180K and 300K

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Short Sale listings as of Feb 18, 2010

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:02:32 -0800

To learn more about short sales in Virginia Beach or Hampton roads visit Hampton roads short sales List of short sales in Virginia Beach between 180K and 300K

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Months Supply of Inventory...

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:51:34 -0800

Part of our job as a real estate agents is to recgonize trends within the market, we need to know how much inventory is in the market, how fast the inventory is being sold and reblenished. The best tool we have to track the market trends is the MSI ( Month Supply of Inventory ) otherwise known as the absorption rate.

Every Monday I look at the Months Supply of Inventory by running the following calcuation:

Number of homes sold (in 12 months) divide it by 12
This gives me the average number of homes sold per month
Number of active listings divided by the average number of homes sold

From my current market, we have 3,054 homes for sale and in 12 months 5,634 have sold

Example:

ACT = Number of Active Listings: 3,054
SLD = Sold listings in 12 months: 5,634

Formula: ACT / (SLD /12 )

3,054 / ( 5634/12) == 6.51 Month Supply

In the example above we have a 6.51 month supply of homes, meaning that at current sales levels it would take 6.51 months to sell off the existing inventory.

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320

Real Estate Levels hit low!

Sean Schroeder Virginia Beach Property manager (Realty Executives) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 11:37:04 -0800

In all the months that I have been tracking the Virginia Beach real estate market todays inventory levels are the lowest I have seen them in a long time! Currently there are 3,044 active homes for sale in Virginia Beach and the 12 month sales index increased slightly to 5,637 homes, that is the number of homes that have been sold in the last 12 months. In 10 days, the MSI (Month Supply of Inventory) has dropped 1/2 a point from 7 to 6.5. This is down from double digits less then one year ago! The MSI, Month Supply of Inventory, is the index used in real estate to measure the health of the market. A norma market is considered to have a 6 MSI. Below a 6 we start to head towards a sellers market, and above a 6 we are in a buyers market. As inventory levels continue to decrease and demand remains consent, market forces will begin to slowly drive prices upward. As this drive upwards is occuring more home buyers will be entering the market between January and April in order to take advantage of the Home buyers tax credit. Between the three cities that I track, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk, Virgininia beach has the largest number of homes for sale, the highes 12 month sales and the lowest MSI. Chesapeake is now where Virginia beach was in November and Norfolk is almost a year behind Virginia Beach in terms of MSI. City Inventory 12 Month sales MSI

Virginia Beach	3,044	5637	6.5
Chesapeake	1,808	2,824	7.7
Norfolk	1,464	2007	8.8

If you want to sell your home in 2010, or purchase a home call me today
Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
757-839-3954

Sean Schroeder, REALTOR
Realty Executives

757-839-3954
sean@757realproperty.com
927 N. Battlefield Blvd. #200
Chesapeake, Va 23320