improvements: Over Improving Your House - 09/14/08 12:21 PM
I can only say, your home or house, whether it is a single family or condominium, is not an investment. However, you must consider which improvements are worth doing and which are not. Your home is the place, where you live, whether you rent or buy. Now, you should only spend … (1 comments)
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improvements: Lincoln Park Landmark Land Battle - 08/20/08 05:34 PM
Have you heard there may be a top-down authorization for some areas of Lincoln Park which may force the properties in certain zones to be labeled "landmarked" with the intent of preserving the original quality construction properties throughout the neighborhood and attempting to decrease the amount of demolition going on to … (0 comments)
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improvements: FHA 203k Streamline "The Process" .... So...So...Simple! - 08/18/08 01:43 AM
HUD's 203(k) program can help and allow you to purchase or refinance a property plus include in the loan the cost of making the repairs and improvements.
The 203k Streamline Process:
A potential homebuyer locates a fixer-upperand executes a sales contract after doinga feasibility analysis of the property with … (5 comments)
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improvements: THE SMART WAY TO LOOK AT HOME IMPROVEMENTS - 08/06/08 02:11 PM
What home improvements really pay off when the time comes to sell your house?That's an important question for any homeowner contemplating moving or remodeling. And the only possible answer is a somewhat complicated one.
That answer starts with the fact that really major improvements - room additions, total replacements … (0 comments)
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improvements: Renovation/Rehab Financing- 203K (FHA) & Conventional - 08/04/08 01:05 PM
RENOVATION LOANS
Conventional and FHA renovation loans
* SFR up to 4 plex
* Only require one bid
* Build in 10% "cushion" so funds will not come up short- if unused will go towards mortgage
* Can put up to 6 months of payments into the loan for … (8 comments)
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improvements: Improve to Enjoy... then Sell! - 07/28/08 08:40 PM
I have never understood why people will fix up their house and then leave it. Why not make improvements to your that you can enjoy for a year or two and then move. There's no reason for you to live in a house that hasn't been updated … (2 comments)
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improvements: How a Home Stager choose the new color on her own front door - 07/17/08 09:32 AM
This summer we've been doing some improvements on our own house. It had been about 6 years since we did the last major improvements and we were ready to tackle a few more. As a professional home stager I understand the value of improving ones home before even thinking about selling. … (21 comments)
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improvements: Valuable Home Improvements - The Kitchen - 07/06/08 08:16 PM
The kitchen is the heart of the house. It's where the family gathers to cook meals, bake cookies and talk about the days events. It's also one of the best places to improve the value of your home.This kitchen is big, with lots of work surfaces. It has a great … (2 comments)
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improvements: Dress Up your Investment - 07/02/08 11:20 AM
It's still a strong buyer's market these fine spring days here in Prescott, Az. Lots of inventory, sales are sluggish, and people are waiting for the absolute minimum prices before they risk buying. If you are trying to sell your home you already know this as it's probably sitting still on … (0 comments)
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improvements: FYI - FEMA rules for additions to exisiting waterfront homes - 06/22/08 11:38 AM
So you (or, for you Realtors out there, your clients) want to buy a waterfront home -- one that was built prior to the latest hurricane codes. It needs updating and an addition to the building would be nice too ...
Not so fast. Please, before making an offer, know what … (1 comments)
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improvements: Incrementalism - 06/14/08 09:40 AM
Incrementalism is a concept that a lot of people in the automotive hobby are familiar with... in theory, if not the word itself. So, let me give a definition...
Incrementalism refers to the practice of just changing things a little bit... over time... piece by piece.
This would be opposed to … (2 comments)
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improvements: Tips To Help You Start Your Home Project - 06/10/08 01:07 PM
Envisioning your new home or simply making improvements to your residence can be exciting and challenging. The new lighter shade of paint to go with the handsome leather couch, the mosaic tiles in the bathroom - these ideas can get stuck in the mind and leave you impatient to start and … (0 comments)
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improvements: Making the offer - 05/29/08 03:00 AM
Hey are you ready to make an offer? When you prepare an offer to purchase a home, you already know the seller's asking price. But what price are you going to offer and how do you come up with that figure?
Determining your offer price is a three-step process. First, you … (0 comments)
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improvements: CMHC Purchase Plus Improvements - Facilitating the Financing of a Home Purchase Together with Smaller Scale Home Improvements - 05/15/08 10:59 AM
So, you're considering putting an offer on a house - you love everything about it except that it needs a new roof and the kitchen is pretty tired and after you pay your down payment and your closing costs, there's not much left in your wallet but moths and lint.
Don't … (0 comments)
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improvements: Road Updates in Gloucester County - 04/28/08 02:00 PM
If you live in Gloucester County, you know all about the 322 Bypass road work. It almost seems endless, even though we know the end result will likely be very worthwhile. In order to keep our community a desirable place to live, these types of improvements our necessary to keep … (0 comments)
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improvements: Over improvements, super-adequacies, and what repairs to make when selling - 04/25/08 09:12 AM
A lot of people have the mistaken impression that if you spend $20,000 redoing your kitchen, you have just increased the value of your house by the same amount. Unfortunately, that is not the case. While there are some rough standard percentages (inground pool = 50%, bathroom remodel = 70%), it … (4 comments)
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improvements: "Maintenance" vs. "Improvement" - 04/23/08 11:22 PM
When setting up an appointment, I always try to talk to the homeowner (or listing agent, borrower, or whomever) to get a better understanding about the house. One of the comments I usually get is about all of the "updates" they have done. However, what people don't understand is that there … (4 comments)
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improvements: Main St. in Parker to be More Pedestrian Friendly - 04/11/08 08:21 PM
The Town of Parker is planning improvements to East Mainstreet through downtown Parker. The project encompasses East Mainstreet from Parker Road east to the Parker Water and Sanitation District office.
The project will include rebuilding entire intersections, expanded plaza areas, storm water drainage improvements, additional parking, and new street crossings.
Motorists will face … (0 comments)
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improvements: The TOP 10 recession proof investments you can make in your HOME - 04/06/08 01:04 PM
Cork Floors
Cork is quickly becoming an alternative to pricier tile and wood-plank flooring. Low-density cork is an effective insulator, plus it doesn't rot when exposed to water nor does it absorb dust. Premium cork flooring from a company such as Luxury Home Products will run $6.75 per square foot, assuming … (1 comments)
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improvements: .....HOME IMPROVEMENT - CONTRACTORS REMODELS IMPROVEMENTS DIY..... - 03/24/08 06:06 AM
YOU CAN'T MISS WITH DEANE & CHRIS Call them today! OK? DEANE & CHRIS's MAIN WEBSITES BUYERS ALMANAC SELLERS ALMANAC MORTGAGE ALMANAC ----------- THANKS. Deane and Christopher Harker YOU CAN'T MISS WITH DEANE and CHRIS CALL US NOW - DON'T YOU WAIT … (0 comments)
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improvements: Into the mailbag V, part II... What else should we do? - 03/01/08 04:29 PM
I covered this recently, but there was one other thing I neglected to mention...
If you are getting ready to put your home on the market... or you WILL be doing so in the near future, it might not be a bad idea to get a "Pre-Listing Inspection."
Yep. It is the … (6 comments)
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improvements: Home Seller Quandary: Fix Up House Or Offer Credit? - 02/29/08 07:51 AM
Sellers who anticipate losing money if they sell their home may wonder why they should spend a dime fixing the place up for sale. isn't this throwing good money after bad? Even sellers with plenty of equity in their home often figure the way to get the most out of the … (5 comments)
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improvements: Tips for Selecting a Contractor - 02/22/08 08:34 PM
Tips for Selecting a Contractor
For most Renovation Loans, a contractor is required to do the work. The contractor must usually be licensed and insured. Here are some tips for how to find a contractor.
Word of mouth. Ask friends or family members who they would recommend. Ask your Realtor®. Contractors with a … (3 comments)
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improvements: Choosing a Renovation Mortgage Consultant.. - 02/22/08 08:26 PM
The typical renovation loan process is complex and requires a lot of attention to detail and follow-up. It requires coordination of all parties involved so nothing is forgotten and there are no delays. This is what we do - and it is all I do! My team works with you and for you … (1 comments)
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improvements: FHA 203k Renovation Loan-Frequently Asked Questions? - 02/22/08 08:19 PM
What is the maximum amount of a mortgage under this program? Loan amounts vary from area to area, depending on FHA and Conventional Guidelines. Conventional loan limits go up to $ 822,700. FHA limits vary by county and state. Higher cost areas and multi-unit properties have higher limits. To find the … (0 comments)
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improvements: Here are some of the situations where renovation loans work best: - 02/22/08 07:53 PM
Property will not pass basic inspection prior to closing (minimum HUD standards) Cost of work needed is high - at least $5,000 - and borrower does not have the money available to pay for this work. The more work needed, the more renovation lending makes sense. If only minor … (0 comments)
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improvements: FHA 203k Renovation Loans can be used for a variety of purposes - 02/22/08 07:46 PM
Here are the common uses.....
Meet HUD minimum standards
Put on an addition or garage
Major (Totaling over $5,000) remodeling. Examples include: Roof, windows, siding, rainspouts, doors, carpet, plumbing, electrical, heating, driveway, fencing, re-drywall, update kitchens & baths, ...even install a new well or septic system.
Buy an historic home and … (0 comments)
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improvements: What is a FHA 203k Renovation Finanicing??? - 02/22/08 07:36 PM
What's different...
Loan are based on after-improved value and condition
Defects can be addressed after closing.
Repair costs can be included in the loan and completed after closing
Most loans require the property being financed to meet certain conditions. Any defect in the property - from leaky roofs or bad furnaces to … (5 comments)
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improvements: The Auburn-Opelika Robert G. Pitts Airport will hopefully be completed in a year and a half. - 02/21/08 08:39 AM
Great news for those traveling from the Auburn - Opelika area by plane. Plans have started to make dramatic improvements to the Auburn - Opelika Robert G. Pitts airport.
The terminal was built in 1950, and is currently experiencing peeling paint and chronic leaks.
"We've got great use out of it, but … (0 comments)
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improvements: Guidelines to Improvements to an older home - 02/18/08 12:39 PM
If you are fortunate enough to live in an old house, proceed with caution if you plan to sell it within the next year and feel you need to "improve" it. Before spending over $1000 on a new kitchen, bath, or other major projects, consult an experienced Realtor who deals frequently … (2 comments)
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improvements: Checklist For A Real Estate Investment - 02/09/08 02:19 AM
The current turndown in real estate activity has become an opportunity for the shrewd investor. Since income property’s value is based on cash return, commercial investment property has kept its value. There are bargains out there if you look. Too often, people buy property based on what they have been taught … (0 comments)
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improvements: My two cents worth on "What Does Staging Cost?" - 02/07/08 08:00 PM
I just read a post by Amie Chaney, What Does Staging Cost?
I am sure that Amie had no idea when she wrote it what direction the comments were going to go. I started to add a comment and soon realized that my "comment" was getting rather lengthy and needed a post of … (16 comments)
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improvements: Creekside Neighborhood - 02/06/08 04:31 PM
When it comes to neighborhoods in Modesto, most people know Del Rio, Village One, and Dutch Hollow, which are some of the most prestigious neighborhoods. However most people do not know about probably the best kept secret in Modesto, known as Creekside.
This area is located in South East Modesto, between Claus and … (0 comments)
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improvements: ActiveRain.Com Christmas Wish List! - 12/20/07 04:36 PM
First of all I love www.Activerain.com, the folks I have met, and the referrals I will close from it! But things could be better in 08' There is always room for improvement in my books. So here is my Christmas Wish list for the www.ActiveRain.Com folks.
1. Private labeling capabilities like … (25 comments)
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improvements: Rock Crawling and realty... - 12/08/07 12:37 AM
I am about to perform a feat of magic... I am going to combine two such different things, that you won't believe I was able to actually pull it off...
In the first corner, we have a real estate transaction. Just about every time a home changes hands, there are obstacles and … (5 comments)
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improvements: 2007 "Cost vs. Value Report" Released for Des Moines Iowa Real Estate market - 12/07/07 12:05 AM
We all know that when we make improvements to our homes, we don't typically get 100% of our investment back when we move. And certainly, we make improvements to our homes for more reasons than just the return on investment. We do it to enjoy the time we spend in our home, to keep it … (1 comments)
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improvements: Lend me your "too cool" garage... ok, at least tell me about it. - 11/08/07 06:37 PM
I was going to call this post "A funny thing happened on my way to the Search Engine Results..." and then start it with... I got hijacked. It was one of them long-tailed searches. They sure are sneaky. But, I got hijacked with a different idea, sooo...I got hijacked. It … (13 comments)
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improvements: Crawlspaces? Save Money... - 11/07/07 10:18 PM
I'm going to deviate a little from my normal pattern here. I just ran across a story (printed, sorry no link) about encapsulated crawlspaces. It was touting the energy savings that could be realized by encapsulating the crawlspace. I have seen some claims as high as 15% savings in heating a … (0 comments)
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improvements: Merchant Specialist - 11/03/07 04:37 AM
Central Payment Corp.
The world most leading merchant company. We offer competitive merchant services for the small - medium - too large businesses. Weather you’re a home based - commercial - corporate, we have the options for you. To find out more about our services, please enter the site at: activerain.com/pcs4u. From … (0 comments)
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improvements: Home Value Increasers and Detractors - 10/18/07 08:56 PM
Things that add value:
An updated kitchen - maximum space and lots of work area, solid surface counters and high-quality flooring, such as wood, laminate, tile or stone, newer appliances in working order.Updated bathrooms - spaciousness, spa tubs and separate shower, double sinks, Well-appointed master suites - a nice bathroom, walk-in closetsNatural … (0 comments)
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improvements: Is there any difference in approach when it comes to selling your used car from selling your home? - 10/18/07 01:38 PM
What do you do when you sell your used car?
If you want the blue book value, not the trade-in value there are certain things you have to do. The same applies to selling your home. Some things you would probably do to your car would be... a tune up, change the … (0 comments)
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improvements: Sellers; REMODELING: Strongsville Real Estate - 10/15/07 10:07 AM
By:
CJ Harrington
Keller Williams Realty
Date:
09-21-07
Quite often, it is necessary or desirable to remodel your home. This article provides an overview of some of the economic and stylistic issues that you should consider when undertaking this endeavor.
So, when you are ready to get started, consider whether the … (0 comments)
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improvements: Home Improvements = Cash Back - 10/02/07 02:03 PM
If you are selling a home which needs updating there is money available via energy efficient home improvements. Credits range from $50.00 to $2,000. Check out this chart (via Mother Earth News).
Credit Max Credit
Solar Electricity 30% of cost $2,000
Solar Water heating 30% of cost $2,000
Exterior doors … (8 comments)
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improvements: It's about the Garage! - 10/02/07 01:20 PM
I just had the opportunity to wander through the October issue of REALTOR(R) magazine. Cars and Cable caught my eye (pg. 14). As I had previously mentioned in a blog post in July, oversized garages made a pretty good showing. Second place.
Now, before you go gloating about second place, keep … (13 comments)
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improvements: ARE SELLERS REALLY READY TO SELL?? - 09/27/07 10:30 AM
ARE SELLERS REALLY READY TO SELL??
Many sellers that I have seen spend more time preparing for a garage sale than their home sale. It's true. A sucessful Garage Sale is work! You have to sort, clean, price, "merchandise", set-up, get change, advertise and "man" the check out area. Time, Energy and Effort!
It … (1 comments)
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improvements: "We Sell Ugly Houses", have you seen that sign? - 09/24/07 10:50 AM
Do you ever go to an open house or a showing at a property and wonder why the property is being shown in the present condition? If a property is in need of some renovation or cosmetic fluff, it would definitely behoove the owner to get it done PRIOR to putting … (1 comments)
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improvements: Improve or sell As-Is - 09/18/07 08:19 AM
I am amazed by the amount of homes listed in my local market (Northern Virginia) that are in need of basic improvements that wouldn't cost the seller very much, and am interested in points of views from agents about recommending improvements before listing the home.
I'm not talking major renovations here. … (6 comments)
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improvements: K is for Knockdown - 09/03/07 02:59 PM
So, Bunky, life got you down? Are they building "McMansions" on your street? Do you have the smallest house in your neighborhood? Do you think it's time you sold your older home?
Let's look at this a little deeper.
First, if this is the situation, your house would probably be considered a … (5 comments)
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improvements: G is for Garage - 08/31/07 11:00 AM
Could it really be about anything else? I am a garage specialist, so of course not.
First, let's get this out of the way. Single car garages are made to store lawn tools and maybe a motorcycle. Two car garages are the minimum an auto enthusiast would consider. Three car garages … (3 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 203 - 08/22/07 05:24 PM
Back in Real Estate Investing 101, Part II, I briefly mentioned "Shifting Classes" after the Buy & Hold strategy. There are a few different ways to shift classes and uses that can build value for investors.
Residential to Commercial
One of the most common ways to increase value while … (2 comments)
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improvements: Want to sell your house to an investor? - 08/21/07 11:31 AM
I get the occasional call from people that have a house they wish to sell quickly. Often, the home is in less than optimal condition (sometimes heinous is a word that creeps into my mind). They range from estate sales to pre-foreclosures to rentals that the owner doesn't wish to handle … (3 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 301, Part II - 08/17/07 09:25 AM
Real Estate Investing 301Part II
Link to Part I
Advanced strategies
Strategies for selling hundreds of properties
For most buyers, holding the properties isn’t the option that they are looking for. Turning the properties is the goal. Generally, there are a few different strategies that sellers use to dispose of … (0 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 301, Part I - 08/17/07 09:16 AM
Real Estate Investing 301
Advanced strategies
In Real Estate Investing 101, Part I we covered buying a house to resell for a short term profit, while minimizing risk and making it happen fast. We delved further into flipping in Real Estate Investing 201. In Real Estate Investing 101, Part … (0 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 202 - 08/15/07 06:33 PM
Real Estate Investing 202
Digging a little deeper in Buy and Hold strategies
In Real Estate Investing 101, Part II, we covered buying and holding property for long term appreciation and wealth building. This is by no means a get rich quick scheme, but is one of the most … (1 comments)
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improvements: Luxuries for Entry Level Buyers? - 08/06/07 07:08 PM
I was out today with a client looking at entry level homes. One of the homes we looked at turned out to be a seemingly under-priced townhome. This wasn't of interest to my client, but it did have some interest for me. But, it got me thinking... (regular readers will recognize … (4 comments)
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improvements: Cool Garage Toys - 08/04/07 12:36 PM
Since I am an admitted garage guy, I obviously like the toys that go into a cool garage.
OK, the ultimate garage toy is a really cool ride. Street rods, sports cars, racers, Jeeps, 4x4s, even boats and other things are the ultimate garage accessories. But, what goes into make a … (1 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 201 - 08/03/07 10:05 AM
Digging a little deeper into Flipping
In Real Estate Investing 101, Part I, we covered buying a house to resell for a short term profit. In this lesson, we’re going to delve a little deeper into flipping, run a scenario, and examine ways to maximize profit, while minimizing risk and making … (0 comments)
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improvements: I'm Telling You... The Garage is the NEW Media Room - 07/26/07 03:58 PM
Take a look...
The Chicago Tribune posted a story today about garages. Here are a couple of excerpts:
Home builders, remodelers and specialized garage-organization companies see that problem as an opportunity to sell you a solution. They have plenty, including more square footage and garage-themed cabinetry. You can even find a … (8 comments)
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improvements: Do you have a Unique Selling Proposition? - 07/26/07 09:52 AM
I touched on this in another thread, but I think a lot of people thought it was actually about cars, so I am going to go into a little more depth, and be a little less cryptic. But, the main point of the thread was...
They are saying that they specialize … (5 comments)
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improvements: Does this mean I'm GREEN?!? - 07/25/07 02:43 PM
I have been reading a bit about green construction, and green living, and green (yada, yada, yada fading away...)
Let's see. I changed my lifestyle in part so that I wouldn't have to drive an hour to work every day. In doing so, I cut the number of miles I drive by … (5 comments)
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improvements: Repairs, Improvements, Upgrades and Resale - 07/17/07 10:29 PM
After posting up about What buyers are looking for yesterday, I got to thinking about an article I wrote on my website a couple of months ago. I thought it might go well here also. It is a little more specific about what I am looking for when I am looking … (0 comments)
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improvements: With an FHA Loan - you can include costs of home improvement into your loan - 07/17/07 02:36 PM
With the decline of sub-prime lenders - FHA is looking better and better. They just never marketed their programs well - so FHA loans have been declining in numbers for the past few years - though that may change..
With a FHA loan you can include the costs associated with home improvements … (4 comments)
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improvements: I stand corrected. - 07/16/07 07:31 PM
I have been preaching about how a home's value is never related to the needs of the seller or buyer, but rather it is wholly dependent on what the market will bear (a price that a buyer and seller are willing to both agree upon, without extenuating circumstances). Well, I just … (1 comments)
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improvements: What are buyers looking for? - 07/16/07 03:50 PM
The NAR is getting ready to release their 2007 Profile of Buyer's Home Feature Preferences in about a month. For the REALTORS that don't subscribe to the NAR weekly newsletter, or those that are looking, here is the blurb:
Central air conditioning, walk-in closets, hardwood floors, high-end kitchen appliances, oversized garages and … (2 comments)
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improvements: Lessons from driving school, Part II - 07/15/07 07:22 PM
The other major concept I learned in driving school had to do with the level of performance. This is less directly applicable to the outside world, but actually more of an all encompassing concept.
There are four levels of competence/performance. Let's start from the bottom.
Imperfect/Unconscious (I/U). Basically, I'm doing it wrong, … (0 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 101 Part 2 - 07/12/07 02:28 PM
Buy and HoldAnother tool in the bag of the Real Estate Investor is the "buy and hold option. Buying and holding a property is a longer term strategy. In this case, one is using the increase in values over time, generally in conjunction with rental income, to increase their personal wealth. … (0 comments)
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improvements: Real Estate Investing 101 Part 1 - 07/12/07 02:26 PM
Real Estate Investing, 101Real Estate investing is one of the best tools to build long term wealth and financial security. About 70% of millionaires in the US built their fortunes in Real Estate, so it is obviously an excellent tool. There are several ways to incorporate Real Estate into one’s overall … (2 comments)
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improvements: Market update for Gwinnett County, June 2007 - 07/10/07 07:58 PM
Gwinnett County sales comparison for residential real estate. 6/07
Here is a look at the residential real estate market for Gwinnett County for the last two years as well as looking at overall trends that will affect investors and “move-up” buyers in the next few months.
Looking at the … (1 comments)
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improvements: Tips for Sellers: Staging your Home for Sale - 06/26/07 11:50 AM
You know you should clean everything and get rid of clutter. But aside from that, how do you broaden the appeal of your house?
Here are a few tips:
• Walk through the house and prioritize things that, if changed, would increase the value of your home. For example, … (0 comments)
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improvements: Tips for Sellers: Selling your Home - When less is more - 06/26/07 11:45 AM
Reduce clutter
• Clean out closets, pick up clutter, and pare down what’s inside. That goes for those treasured family photos and mementos, too. The reason? Besides adding a spacious feel to the home, pared-down surroundings can help potential buyers better envision themselves and their family photos in the house.
… (1 comments)
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improvements: I still think it's still a bad idea. - 06/25/07 08:29 PM
Every time I see one, it reminds me of one of those hospital gowns that your butt hangs out of. Three sides are fine, but that fourth side just isn't making it. What am I talking about? Three sides brick homes.
I like brick. My house is brick... all four sides. … (4 comments)
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improvements: Top 5 Home Improvements for Sellers - 06/23/07 08:26 AM
Is the home you are selling in need of a little help? Are you willing to do a few Mr. Fix-It projects to get fabulous returns on the value of your house? These five home improvement projects are the most profitable. Buyers value them. They increase the value of the home … (0 comments)
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improvements: One Improvement too many? - 06/22/07 04:40 PM
I was out showing a house to a contractor for a buyer today. As they toured the house and sized it up for renovations, we spent a lot of time chatting about the market, strategies for prospering, and building wealth through real estate. While I'm not enough of a typist to … (0 comments)
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improvements: Tips for Buyers: When checking out a house, leave your emotions at home - 06/06/07 02:24 PM
Home buyers often follow their hearts, and they should. Sometimes just going with a gut feeling is the best indicator. But when it’s house-touring time, it’s important to set those emotions aside and replace them with clear-headed thinking and a critical eye. Otherwise, your potential dream house might just turn … (2 comments)
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improvements: Don’t Out Improve Your Neighbor - 05/20/07 03:51 PM
I know you have all seen it. You drive into a neighborhood and there are all these house that look about the same. Then there is this one that looks like a castle that has been misplaced. It has been added on to, it has had the best landscaping money … (0 comments)
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improvements: When It Is Your Move - 05/17/07 12:27 AM
Contacting different moving companies is one of the first steps in moving to a new house. You will find a variety of service options and price ranges from which to choose, whether you are moving across town or thousands of miles across the country.Call several companies for estimates. Ask each company … (0 comments)
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improvements: Land Lovers - 05/17/07 12:04 AM
Great curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting buyers to a home that is for sale. Many of our sales have been generated by a "For Sale" sign in front of a home that is beautifully landscaped. Prospective buyers who admire a home's exterior often prove to be among the … (0 comments)
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improvements: Tenant Tips - 05/15/07 12:34 PM
When you buy an investment property, finding and keeping a tenant is very important. It's been said that a little caution during the screening process can save a lot of headaches later on.You can rely on an intuitive sense of how a prospect feels to you. While this is an important … (1 comments)
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improvements: Responding to Low Offers - 05/15/07 12:14 PM
The beginning of negotiations is usually the end of many months of hard work for the buyer or seller. The work ahead requires skill in order to maintain a strong position.Sellers can lose their advantage if they do not counter an offer that a buyer has made. Even if the opening … (6 comments)
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improvements: Effective Marketing - 05/14/07 03:15 AM
If your home has been listed for a number of weeks and you have only seen it featured in one newspaper ad, you may start feeling anxious. Although your house is being shown regularly, you wonder if the agent is doing enough.Home sellers often equate effective marketing with classified ads in … (1 comments)
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improvements: Choosing A Lender - 05/14/07 03:10 AM
When you are buying a new home or refinancing your present one, it is wise to do some comparison shopping among lenders. A low interest rate isn't the only criterion by which to evaluate a loan. You should also consider the terms of the mortgage, what your closing costs will be … (1 comments)
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improvements: Building Considerations - 05/14/07 03:08 AM
Are you planning to build your dream home? Once you are pre-approved for a loan and have found a professional real estate agent you trust, you are ready to start looking for the perfect lot. Compare the qualities of several target neighborhoods by looking at schools, shopping, recreation and zoning. Make … (0 comments)
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improvements: Closing Questions - 05/14/07 03:02 AM
Because of the complexity of a real estate transaction, questions and concerns arise frequently for those who are buying or selling a home. Most people experience a degree of stress at the closing of the sales transaction. Both parties are probably feeling nervous and vulnerable as they sign the papers, and … (0 comments)
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improvements: Net Sheet for Sellers - 05/14/07 02:52 AM
When you consider what price you should accept when selling your home, there are two important factors that will influence your decision. The first factor is the basic sales price. The second, and more important, is the amount you will actually receive from the proceeds at the closing.Your real estate agent … (1 comments)
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improvements: Buyers Real Estate Jitters - 05/14/07 02:41 AM
Here is a typical scenario illustrating the effects of buyer's remorse. Your home was on the market for a few weeks, and you are now feeling fortunate because an attractive offer has been presented by qualified buyers. Once the ink dried on the contract forms, however, it seemed that everything suddenly … (0 comments)
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improvements: Tips for First Time Investors - 05/14/07 02:38 AM
When starting out as a real estate investor, you can choose either the conservative approach of holding a property until it increases in value or the riskier approach of "flipping" - reselling very soon after making some improvements that add value. If you plan on taking the safer approach, keep the … (2 comments)
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improvements: Brighter is Better - 05/13/07 08:15 PM
Sometimes a real estate agent will walk into a home that is basically attractive, yet communicates the feeling that something is lacking. Then the agent notices that all of the drapes are closed, interior lights are off and there is a lot of overgrown shrubbery blocking the sunlight that might otherwise … (0 comments)
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improvements: Benefical Tax Laws - 05/13/07 07:58 PM
American tax law offers a significant capital gains tax exemption that allows taxpaying homeowners to unlock home equity and end the spiraling cycle of "investing up." First-time buyers enjoy expanded rules for Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) and 401(k) plans, rules that allow penalty-free withdrawals to purchase a home.Every two years, married … (0 comments)
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improvements: Who Pays the Commission - 05/13/07 07:55 PM
Does it cost the homebuyer more to be represented by a buyer's agent who serves their interests exclusively? No, because the listing agent splits the sales commission, which is customarily paid by the seller of the home, with the buyer's agent. The sales commission split is usually 50-50, but the listing … (3 comments)
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improvements: An Empty House - 05/12/07 12:38 AM
There are two schools of thought about whether it is better to show a house empty or with the furnishings in it. An empty house is like a blank canvas, and prospective buyers can more easily imagine what their things would look like in it. But buyers could take the fact … (4 comments)
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improvements: Selling Before Buying - 05/11/07 11:52 PM
Timing can sometimes be difficult if you have to sell a home before you can buy another one. Most people need the equity from the sale of their first home for the down payment on the new house. If your present home goes on the market first, you may be concerned … (0 comments)
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improvements: Good Faith Deposits - 05/09/07 03:10 PM
After many months of searching, you have found your ideal house. You are a little older and a little wiser now, so you want to give the impression that you are serious without appearing to be too eager. What should you do? In the marketplace, "money talks."There is no absolute rule … (1 comments)
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improvements: Mortgage Myths - 05/09/07 03:07 PM
Nationwide surveys indicate that a large number of potential home buyers count themselves out of the market because of widely-held myths about home financing. Some of the most prevalent myths include: 1) home buyers need large down payments (more than is actually the case); 2) the loan process works against people … (0 comments)
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improvements: Buyer Protection- Inspections - 05/09/07 12:14 PM
There are situations in which you as a homebuyer may be in need of protection: here is one example. You have finally found the home that is right for you, but you have some questions about the structure and condition of the home. A home inspection is the best place to … (0 comments)
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improvements: Read the Fine Print (Disclosures) - 05/08/07 04:27 PM
Many states require the seller of a home to fill out a real estate disclosure statement when transferring the title. The disclosure is designed to reveal any material defects in the home to the new owner. When buying a home, take the time to read the fine print of the disclosure … (0 comments)
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improvements: Self Employed- No Problem - 05/08/07 12:25 PM
There is no doubt about the fact that it could be more difficult for you to get a mortgage loan if you are a free lance viola player than if you are a government accountant. Traditionally, lenders have been more cautious when evaluating loan applications from buyers who are self-employed than … (0 comments)
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improvements: Mortgage Fears - 05/08/07 11:56 AM
It is not unusual for home buyers to feel that the lender is being very critical during the loan approval process. The buyer is required to provide all kinds of financial information, and then the lender asks for more. If this is your experience, and the process seems discouraging, remember that … (2 comments)
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improvements: Kitchen Clutter - 05/07/07 07:05 PM
The kitchen is usually very important to prospective buyers. Your kitchen may not be new and state-of-the-art, but it should look its best.Your kitchen should be spotlessly clean and well organized while your home is on the market. The counter tops should be clean and free of clutter, and the floor … (5 comments)
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improvements: Termites - 05/06/07 11:23 PM
Most home purchase agreements have clauses that deal with termites. After the agreement is ratified, a termite inspection is arranged. Before the closing can occur, the sellers must be able to produce papers signed by a licensed exterminator stating that the house is free of infestation and that any termite damage … (2 comments)
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improvements: Remodeling- Show And Sell - 05/06/07 11:04 PM
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 … (1 comments)
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