Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR's Blog

Sellers Let the Real Estate Experts Do Their Jobs; Or Don't Hire One

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:57:54 -0700

Have you ever been in a job situation and there is somebody that isn't in your field, but they know it all? Well, I ran into a couple of unique sellers this past month, that hired me to list their properties. It was a referral from a past client, that I had sold her home and then helped her find another home. It was a great experience! I digress, I always tell sellers that "You are the decision maker, but I determine the process!" ( got that from another agent)
This is just saying let me do my job, I am the real estate expert, that is why you hired me! I will implement the marketing plan and have the different processes in the order I feel will work. Guess what? Everytime I did something, they would criticize it or like the episode with the pics, they had a friend retake photos, that we had already shot and posted, slowing up the process!( By the way, their pictures were dark and most of the rooms looked like they were leaning with; foundation problems??)
Open house signs were put out by another agent days before the open house, metal ones, guess what, they wrote with a permanent marker times on them without permission. Again, always trying to do mine or another agent's job!
People, People when you hire an agent let the agent control the entire process! Do not try to do their job for them. Suggestions and ideas are welcome and a meeting may be in order to see what is working and not working; however 5 days into the process it was not working and so we parted ways. I lasted 2 days longer than the previous agent! I had been the 3rd agent, OMGoodness! It wasn't me! LOL
If you are not comfortable in letting go and working with an expert, than you need to sell it on your own. Otherwise, when you decide to hire a real estate agent let that person do their job and you continue doing yours.
In all of the transactions, 22 Million in 2009, and the 30+ listings approx., I carry. I have never met such unique people nor do I hope to ever run into these type again. I'm glad to be moving on.....and helping my true sellers that understand how the process works!
Til next time....Becky A. The Diva Team, Keller Williams Realty Partners Inc.

Will the Buyers Find Security To Take Advantage of the Low Interest Rates?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:17:18 -0700

The interest rates have been the best since history can remember; for me since 1962. So why are the buyers not taking advantage of this market in the Kansas City area. That can be easily debated that the security is not there for buyers to take a leap of hope and purchase their dream home.
There are still a rising number of jobs being lost through out the United States and just the news in general that the economy hasn't gained ground to give buyers security.Now this can be the very best time to take advantage of the interest rates and the deals that you can find with the home values falling in most neighborhoods. This could be a win win for you if you have that blanket of security.
If you are unsure as to what to do, such as rent vs buy...buying is still the way to go. I will tell you to hire an agent that can find you a property in an area that will retain its value and look out for things that could keep it from selling in the future, if you did need to get out quick.
A lot to think about, but security is something that comes within and with in your financial portfolio to decide if now is the time to purchase.
Til next time Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Keller Williams Realty

Where are All The Good Buyer's Agents? Some Need to Be Fired!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:49:01 -0700

One thing that I am starting to notice in the Kansas City Metro area are lazy buyer's agents. I believe when a buyer chooses an agent to work hard for them it doesn't mean that the agent should have their buyer sign a buyer agent's contract and then tell them to go find a home on their own and and then come back to your buyer's agent only to write the offer, without being actively involved in the search process... NOT!
That is so wrong! Buyers need to work with an agent that will show them all of the properties that they want to look at, they need to get the data that will help show the price point the offer should come in at, the buyer's agent needs to ask the questions that the buyers need answers for...
Buyers if you are working with an agent that doesn't show you the properties, or give you data or information needed to make an intelligent decision. Fire that buyer agent!
Make sure you are working with an agent that can be available when you need them to be, do not expect the seller's agents to always show you the properties, when you have your own agent. That is what you need to do, to protect your interest.
Remember, look for agents that work full time and are dedicated to you and your house hunting!

The Diva Team
Becky Alumbaugh
Keller Williams Realty Partners, Inc.

Realtors, Ask Yourself...Did the Cheese Move; Did you Follow or Stay Behind!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 22:56:47 -0700

I know all of you have heard about the book; Who Moved My Cheese? I read it several times, it is an easy read but boy does it have a world of meaning for Me as a Realtor! I was continuously going to work doing the same routine and expecting the same results..even in this marketplace that is forever changing.

But one day, I woke up and decided that I wanted a change in my direction for my team and my overall real estate goals; I wanted to be in an office with life and ideas that were being shared by other successful agents. I was tired of never having the opportunity to charge my own battery and being my own cheerleader.

I made that change this past week, and my battery is charged and I have new challenges and goals, but guess what they are "stretching" me and I am excited about the opportunity that I have within my new office! My team is energized and is working on their own goals and accountability. I believe that change is a good thing, I believe in this marketplace it is wise to change up your selling strategy and find creative ways to get your listings sold!

The cheese moved and I found it! I'm good for another 10-15 years! The Diva Team is rocking and rolling and catching the energy we need to stay focused!

Until next time.....Becky Alumbaugh, Keller Williams Realty Partners, Inc. The Diva Team

Happy New Year! Are You Going to Take Advantage of the Tax Credits?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:45:22 -0800

The New Year is here in all of its glory and according to all of the real estate experts the 1st quarter is going to be the time to buy or sell. Why? The main reason is for the tax credit perks that are in effect until April 30, 2010. This is the date that you need to have a contract down on a home. The closing date needs to be on or before June 30, 2010.
Does this sound like something that you want to be a part of? If you are a 1st time home buyer you will receive $8000. approx. on your purchase.
Now for people that have lived in a home for 5 years out of the last 8; you too qualify for $6500. approx. if you buy another home.
In either scenario, don't wait til the month of March to decide to do something. If you are a seller, you need to be putting your home on the market ASAP! This will give you the most time available to get it under contract and have time for you to purchase, all before 4/30/2010.
If you are a buyer, you want to have choices and not be competing for the same home some other buyer is looking at. You also, want to allow time to do inspections and make sure the home you put a contract on doesn't have any issues that would cause you to not go forward...if it is after 4/30...you have now just lost out!
My advice on either, is to begin early! Get your chosen Realtor and get your home ready to go on the market or get out and start house hunting! This 1st quarter is going to be a busy one..more than normal.

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols, #18 in the Top 25 Realtors of 2009 KC Business Journal

Are You in Your Dream Home?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:56:37 -0800

Are you living in your dream home? A simple yes or no to this question. So, you are asking yourself is this my "forever" home? Do I like my floorplan? Is there a neighborhood that you have driven through just because you like the feel of the surroundings and the homes. This is something that you need to ask yourself when saying yes or no.

The government offering tax credits not only for 1st time homebuyers, is now having other possible buyers/current homeowners think through their financial situations to decide if they want to take advantage of the $6500.00 tax credit and the low interest rates we are currently experiencing.

If you have lived in your home for 5 years consecutively out of the last 8 years then you qualify. This tax credit and the 1st time tax credit expire 4/30/2010 to have an accepted offer/contract. The contract then has to close by 06/30/2010. Most real estate experts say there will be no more of these offered after the above dates.

If you are thinking about moving, give it some serious thought, the 1st quarter will be strong in the Kansas City Metro Area, due to the credits and the interest rates. If you have questions or want to find out more about this information....please contact The Diva Team.

Until next time...Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols, Top 25 Realtor in the Business Journal for 2009 for the entire Kansas City Area

Don't Wait to List Your Home...Beat the Crowd!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:11:55 -0800

Becky Alumbaugh's Blog

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Sellers, Get Your Homes on The Market Now! Beat the Crowd...

Written by Becky Alumbaugh,

Our team firmly believes that the sellers who are serious about selling their homes need to take advantage of the tax credits, low interest rates and less competition. Why? Everyone is thinking you need to hold off to closer to the springtime. Wrong!
The 1st quarter of 2010 will begin with a bang! The serious buyers who are 1st time home buyers or buyers who have lived in their home 5 consecutive years out of the last 8; will qualify for the tax credits that the Government has passed.
The buyers need to have a valid contract on or before April 30, 2010. They will need to close before June 30th, 2010. Everyone is predicting that the spring market will begin earlier than usual! The inventory currently shows a slight dip in the resale homes that is pushing towards a normal market. Eventually, the homeowners will be able to get more for their money than they used to, especially because of the low interest rates.
These are all good reasons to give a real estate expert a call! Get ready for a good 2010; at least the 1st quarter. www.kcdiva.com

Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Tax Credits Will Help A lot of Homeowners

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:13:58 -0800

We are now at the end of 2009...November and December are months that we are trying to get our last transactions taken care of. We are also trying to plan for 2010; a business plan. This plan will guide and direct which way the team will grow. This year, I know hasn't been the best for a lot of people and for some homeowners, but 2009 was a better year than this time last year.
The Diva Team is anxious to see what the new year will bring. We are so glad that the 1st time home buyer's tax credit was extended and that the $6500. tax credit for existing homeowners who have lived in their home 5 out of the last 8 years; is eligible if deciding to buy a different home.
Both of these will end April 30, 2010 and closing can be scheduled and completed thru July 1, 2010.
Do I think this will make a difference? I do! I believe if you are not in the home that you want to be in as the rates start upward now would be the most ideal time ,the next 7 months, to buy and sell!
If you have questions regarding the tax credits, please contact me.
Again, 2009 has been an incredible year for my team, however, we look forward to 2010 with a lot of positive energy!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Absorption Pricing....It is An Honest Way to Get Your Home Sold!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:14:58 -0700

Sellers if your house is not getting showings or you haven't heard from your Realtor in awhile..it may be time to communicate with your real estate expert.
Find out the absorption rate in your subdivision or zipcode..to see how many homes sell each month and find out how long it will be until your home should sell. Especially if your home has sat awhile and it wasn't one of "the shiny pennies".
Absorption pricing is something that I use..especially when we have a time frame to get the property sold in or if it was an expired property that I took over from another agent. Absorption pricing takes facts about your sub or zipcode and looks at the big picture/ugly picture of where you have to be on pricing to get it sold in the amount of time that you are looking at.
If your listing agent doesn't use this...it may be helpful to have them find out about this. If you are looking for another agent, give The Diva Team a call to utilize this absorption pricing; it is brutally honest.It works and I would be glad to show you.

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

My Top 10 Reasons Why Your House May Not Be Selling!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:46:45 -0700

The market has been slower the past couple of weeks..but I am starting to see the showings pick up on our listings in the Kansas City Area. I am finding that for the most part the sellers are listening to their agents to see what needs to be done to get it Sold!

I have my own Top 10 Reasons Why Your House May Not Be Selling!

10. Smoking in the house.

09. Animal smells that are not corrected and the glad plug ins only makes worse. (Get rid of)

08. Looking out the back door to see the train tracks.

07. The curb appeal is not great.

06. The carpet is mismatched in every room.

05. You walk into the home and feel that you are in a time machine.

04. The Seller not accomodating the buyers for showing times.

03 The basement is not finished for the price you are wanting.

02 Location, Location and Location

01 Over Priced for the Condition

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, Reece and Nichols, The Diva Team

Webinars...Speakers Make Sure You Have Material Worth Listening To....

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:52:14 -0700

Have you ever listened to a speaker on a webinar that just bored you to tears? Well, I have the one for you...This speaker today took 20 minutes out of 1 hour to talk about himself. Oh, my goodness....that was just crazy.

I, being the way I am, kept typing messages to tell him to move on that time is money and where is the content that you promised to share. I know this speaker better have a "real" job....this isn't going to get him to the bank.

A lesson to learn....if you are going to speak don't talk in circles, as this man did. I didn't hear any material that I could utiize. Granted it was free through a FSBO vender who sponsors this speaker....not sure I would continue.

Sad, but I think I could produce more content than the entire 35 minutes I could stand before shutting it down....I believe from the comments, I wasn't the only one.

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team Reece and Nichols

Ten Reasons Why You Should Be a First Time Homebuyer..LOL

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 19:31:14 -0700

Buyers now is the time to take advantage of the low interest rates and if you are a 1st time homebuyer, get the $8000.00 tax credit before it ends on November 30, 2009. This means there are 71 days approx. to pre-qualify, find, put under contract, do inspections and close! Get your running shoes on........

I know that NAR is pushing and other groups to continue this tax credit and possibly open it up to all buyers...but face it; we don't know if that is going to happen or not! Also, the interest rates will be moving upwards, so you will qualify for less of a home.

I believe if you have any motivation to be a homeowner in the United States...this would be it....but here are a few other reasons that take on a lighter approach.

10. Tired of hearing your parents telling you that you really should Move out!(You are now 40!)

09. Tired of bringing your friends to your parent's home to get harassed with old stories about your past...

08. Tired of your parents threatening to have you pay rent...

07. Your parents borrowing money from you because you have plenty in the bank...

06. Tired of hearing the neighbors through your thin walls in your apartment...

05. Tired of not being able to own a pet; without a huge deposit...

04. Being able to paint and decorate the way that you have always wanted to....

03 Being able to stay up ALL NIGHT LONG....PLAY MUSIC AS LOUD AS YOU WANT....

02 Run around the house in the buff, just because you can....

The Number 1 Reason to be a homeowner.... Leave the toliet seat up; because you Can!

Just making light of being a 1st time homebuyer...in reality $8000.00 from the Government is huge..take it and run!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, Reece and Nichols, The Diva Team

Reflect Realtors; Tomorrow is September, 11, 2009....We Are a Lucky Group!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:34:10 -0700

My Realtor Friends,

Tomorrow is the anniversary of 9-11; Take a moment out of your busy schedule to pay tribute to those that lost their lives on this day; and also in the wars in Iraq/Afghanstan. I am going to take a lap around a park for this cause; this is something that our community has organized. I thought I would take a little time away from my hectic Friday schedule. A time to reflect and count my blessings; big and small. Remember, my kiddo, Jacob, has been in Iraq, guess what, last Wednesday night he called and said he was back in the states,Minnesota, heading to Alaska! Wow, I was surprised and so overjoyed for him being on American Soil. It didn't matter that I may not see him for another month or two; all that mattered is that my American Hero has made it thru another deployment; only if it's to get ready for another one. For All of Us!

So, When those darn buyers or sellers are making your day or hour, pure hell! Remember, those that have really experienced a true hell! You will learn to have patience or find humor in the situation. When the "dumba--" doesn't listen to you, and they lose the deal to another buyer. Or the seller that will not listen to the expert they hired, because they just became the authority of what you do........Take a moment and Reflect!

To all my Realtor friends....enjoy life...it is so short!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Crazy Deal Hunters....Look at the Comps.....Get Real The Market Is!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:45:17 -0700

Real Estate has been interesting this past week. I have seen the market improving on one hand and on the other I still see some agents allowing their buyers to still think they are going to steal non foreclosure properties away. It's very crazy and REAL!

Let's take the 1st transaction where the buyer wanted a property that was listed in the mid 230's; they settled $4000.00 from the asking; very fair for both parties! The seller was firmer than what the "old market" was suggesting. The buyer understood the value and truly loved the property. It was a shiny penny. This deal was smoothly put together!

The other transaction involves a buyer who offered $50,000 below what the sellers were asking. This house is not in distressed condition, it is not vacant, it is in a very nice neighborhood, it hasn't been on the market a long time...and guess what the comps are showing most properties are selling $5000.00 under where the current listing price is...All Comps supported this; I believe the agent should have educated the buyer more and I believe the buyer doesn't realize that the market is starting to be a more "Normal Market" for sellers and buyers.

Inventory is reducing and the pricing is staying steady in the Kansas City Areas...I believe in these 2 cases we saw what is becoming more normal in the first instance...and the 2nd one we are seeing less of; because of the education the Realtor is giving to the buyers.

I believe we will always see those "crazy deal hunters" but...Realtors try to put the facts in front of these type of buyers. See if they can really see some reason! Everyone thinks say the word Cash and they will come down 50,000; NOT!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

BUYERS BUYERS BUYERS...COME OUT WHERE EVER YOU ARE!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:28:47 -0700

Buyers, Buyers, Buyers come out where ever you are! The $8000. tax credit is quickly going to be a faint memory. The 1st time home buyers are missing an opportunity to take advantage of this money. Do you realize that this tax credit could pay for a lot of furniture, school loans, a down payment on a car, new carpet, a fence, a trip etc.

November 30th is the last day to close on a home to be able to collect this cash from the government. Do not wait to get it under contract and expect to close within in 2 weeks; You need to be writing contracts now and thru the end of October. The contracts that are written in November are cutting it close..in case there are any inspections, financing, appraisal and other problems that come up during the home buying process.

If you know of a buyer that is just not certain about owning...please have them talk to their accountant or just run the numbers themselves..as long as you choose a home that has good resale potential so when you do sell, it will be easier to get it Sold! Don't bite off too much, make sure you are not house poor..but, instead comfortable with the monthly payment.

Grab your favorite Realtor and get out there tomorrow!

Until Next Time, Becky Alumbaugh, Reece and Nichols

Wow, Was That A Nervous Buyer or What....

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:29:53 -0700

Today was a very unforgettable day for my buyer. It was our 1st outing to actually look at homes together. Well, he met me at a what I will call a very undesirable house. The biggest turn off was probably the pea gravel for the flooring in the kitchen and entryway. Wow, isn't that pea gravel made for the outside of properties?

Next, our 2nd property was in another area of Kansas City....we took the interstate to get to where the property was...Well, he was following me...I was driving "My Diva Car"..when all of a sudden the semi 2 cars in front of me slammed on its brakes; Wow, all the cars went flying to get stopped without hitting one another going 65 or 70 mph; my heart dropped & I missed everyone by inches.... Oops, I forgot my "cowboy buyer" luckily he had gotten out of harms way. He had been referred to me...the previous client mentioned I was a "Hoot" never boring, very good at my job; but they had forgotten to tell him that I was a Nascar Driver........

Guess what, it wasn't the 2nd house..but I brought him to one of my own listings and He Loved It! He is writing on it! I wonder if that is just to keep his time with me to a minimum!! LOL!!

Thank God, I'm alive....another satisfied client!!

Until Next Time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Seller Motivation....What does that mean?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:39:55 -0700

Real estate transactions happen when the seller or buyer has motivation to make the offer come together...What do I mean with this statement, let me explain.
A buyer never knows what type of sellers they get on the other side of the deal until there is an offer. If the sellers are moving for a career change, job transfer, divorce, marriage, children etc. there will be more of a motivation to get the offer together. They usually have a plan that is thought out and ready to put in place. They have high motivation.
Less motivated sellers are those that may just want to move...not sure where or why..so when an offer comes in and there is a gap of getting it pulled together, these less motivated sellers may be more difficult to work with to pull it together. They don't have their final destination yet and therefore, can't see the vision.
It is so important for sellers to really think about their decision to move before they get that offer..they need to have a plan or direction. Also, their agent needs to prepare them for what they could be faced with in this market.
Overall it should be a win win for all involved, as long as all parties are prepared and have the motivation that will make it happen.
Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Short Sales.....We Should Rename Them L O N G Sales....Don't You Agree?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:28:45 -0700

Short Sales...Don't we mean L O N G sales? I've had it with the Bank of A_ _ _ _ _ _ I have presented 3 different contracts for almost full price, and guess what? I have lost each buyer due to the "circle jerk" method this lender seems to have taken on. By the way, we are talking about the same property and get a contract together..falls thru....get another one...falls thru..you know the routine.

The 1st contract seemed to mysteriously get into the hands of a mitagator that took it upon herself to give the homeowners a better rate and a new mortgage....Problem, the homeowners don't live in the house or even in the same state. This without any verbal communication with me.."she had stone walls around her" and there was no phone number that had her name on it! The sellers were not even notified...a package was found in the door at the vacant property..papers to be signed. Crazy!

Next contract, was put into the hands of a mitagator that put them into the "Buyers Walked" pile...without the buyers knowing they had walked...guess what they Walked/Ran!

Third just gave up before it even got started again...........

I have my CDPE, (Certified Distressed Property Expert) but I refuse to work with this bank due to the method of madness; the system is so frustrating when in reality, the 1st mortgage would of been paid in full and the 2nd mortgage with this same lender, as well, would of had more money..than they will now get...NONE!

I love to help people and I am not a quitter; however, I don't know how I can beat or even work with a system that is so confused.........

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Ten Things You Should Know When You Interview a Realtor

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:48:33 -0700

1. I believe a Realtor needs to be full time; not doing several things, but doing just real estate.
2. It is not about how many years in real estate, but how many deals/transactions.
3. Check out the Realtor's website; not just the company they work for. See if they have their own.
4. Make sure they share with you their listing presentation; including the marketing plan for your home.
5. Did the Realtor look around your home on the inside and outside?
6. Did they arrive on time?
7. Did the Realtor present some solid statistics that show why you should use them?
8. See how much the Realtor understands about new technology; websites, etc.
9. Don't hire the Realtor that cuts commission 1st thing; what will they do when they are negotiating on your behalf. Give in?
10. Do they have testimonials or referrals that you can follow up on?

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, Reece and Nichols, The Diva Team

Tax Credit $8000; Renters Now is The Time To Buy!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 22:25:14 -0700

Renters now is the time to buy your 1st home....Get out of those apartments and get someone to assist you with the process of buying your 1st home!
1. The 1st thing you will want to do is find a Realtor that will listen to you. A Realtor that is a full time because in this market financing rules etc are changing constantly. Someone that you feel comfortable with and trust their expertise. (Like Me....)
2.Next you will need to find out what you are qualified for..so you will need to talk to a lender that is recommended by your family, friends or Realtor. Someone that has a great track record and knows about the market; not a newbie.
3. Once you have your prequalification letter, the Realtor will set you up on searches or listen to what you are wanting and where you have already been thinking about looking....
4. At this point, you begin looking at the homes you have chosen to look at.
5. How many Houses do you look at? You will know when you find the right one..but remember in this market, the shiny pennies to do stay around very long. We are seeing multiple offers on properties that are anywhere from 100-175,000; so look at enough, but if you know it is the perfect home or almost perfect..don't wait....it will be gone!
6. Comparative Market Analysis of the property that you have decided to write an offer on is very helpful in deciding where you should start the bidding process, also listen to the Realtor...and have them call to see if other offers are coming in. This will assist with the offer writing...if there are other offers; your best offer should be the 1st. Otherwise, it may not be your best....
7. Once you have it under contract..Inspections take place and then renegoiations happen to resolve the things that are needing fixed...or the buyer can walk.
8. The appraisal is ordered..title work done...and then finally the closing table.
Being a 1st time home buyer is exciting and can be very easy if you choose the right Realtor to help you! Please don't forget December 1st is the last day to get the $8000. tax credit from the government! You have to be closed on that date or before to qualify!
Good Luck Home Buyers! The inventory is still high......and the interest rates are low! Happy House Hunting!
until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

Rates are Low....Are You In Your Dream Home?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:27:27 -0700

Statistics in the Kansas City area for July have come out and it looks like the buyer still has an edge on the home market in both the new and existing home sales. Home sales; new and existing homes combined; are up 1% from 1 year ago.
We are seeing more buyers in the markeplace taking the leap of faith and buying. I have actually been seeing multiple offers come in on properties. This is a welcome problem for most sellers. The 1st time homebuyers are still the strongest group of buyers getting off the fence; due to the tax credit of $8000.00. This is ending December 1st, 2009.
If you are a seller that has a home that isn't getting the traffic that you need to get it sold; you may want your Realtor to use absorbtion pricing. It will help show you in your sub or zipcode how long it could take to get your house sold or you may want to do this to get your property sold quicker.
The Diva Team uses this approach; especially when we are dealing with properties on the market awhile or we take on a new lisitng for us, but it has been on the market with another agent.
I believe that the housing market in the Kansas City area is getting healthier and it is a good time to buy and sell, especially if you are not in your dream home, rates are still low!!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team

Sellers, Do You Know If Your Home Has Marketability?

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:58:12 -0700

Have you heard of A Marketability Report. The Diva Team utilizes this report that assists homeowners who are thinking of listing their homes or homeowners that have had their home on the market and they don't know what they could do differently,to get it SOLD.
The simple checklist goes over items in the house that you may not of even thought of when putting your home on the market. As simple, as making sure the locks on the front door turn easily and that the spider webs are gone...remember we utilize the garage more than the front doors.
The report goes over attention items outside the house,as well as the inside of the home.
Have you ever really took a look at the curb appeal of your home in "buyer's eyes"...try it...we all get used to the way our home looks. It may be a gutter that is hanging down or some chipping paint by the front door...crazy as it seems, buyers are looking for shiny pennies.
The Marketability Report is something that can Gage how ready your home is for the market or maybe what needs to be done to get it SOLD!
The Marketbility Report is something I have talked about on my radio show and it is something that may give you some ideas! Besides always the Price.......

Until Next Time,
Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

New Incentive.....You've Got to be Kidding! 106 Days Left for the $8000 1st Time Buyers Tax Credit

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 21:10:33 -0700

I'll start with saying there is only 106 days left before the tax credit of $8000. for 1st time homebuyers goes away. On the other hand I heard that there is going to be an incentive for trading RV's in For Homes; this would be replacing the..clunkers for cash and the $8000.00 tax credit.

Kidding! I said that today in our sales meeting....can you believe that I think some people thought I was serious....LOL

Enough jokes...The market in Kansas City and the burbs is really picking up. The 1st time homebuyers are alot of that business. It seems that everytime I have a buyer and they really like a property..I call to make sure there is no offer coming in...many times there have been multiple offers.

That is so exciting to see the market pick back up and to see people out again looking...I hope after the incentive is gone; that the government will do something else after the new year. It would be nice to give an incentive for all buyers.

Life is good in Kansas City!

Until next time, Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols

107 Days Before the 1st Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Goes Bye Bye......

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 19:55:23 -0700

Did you know that there are 107 Days before the 8000.00 tax credit for 1st time homeowners will disappear? Remember that is the number of days that you have to have it closed to get this money from the government. If you write a contract on Dec. 1st; it will not count. You have to close on the home you are buying before that time.

Also, Thanksgiving is a few days before that...don't wait until the last minute..if there are problems getting the loan closed; you will be out of luck.

Some of you pestimists are saying; there will be another tax credit..I'm going to wait..maybe, maybe not; do you want to chance it? Also, the rates will go up and that is a fact, that we are about to witness.

Again, if you are on the fence get off and find you a Realtor! I would be glad to assist....107 Days sounds like a lot of days; but it will come quick. Remember it takes about 30 days to close or more...so realistically if you wait to the last minute, the end of October would be the lastest to be safe on getting it closed on time.

Until next time....Becky Alumbaugh, Reece and Nichols #10 YTD; The Diva Team

My Son is Coming Home This Autumn...Give Praise to All of Our Soldiers!

Becky Alumbaugh, Realtor, SFR (Reece and Nichols Realtors) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 21:58:00 -0700

A Realtor's job is a tough one..we deal with a lot of craziness with people and situations..but just think of our service men and women overseas..that is such a tough job that they do, because they believe in all of us...Democracy!

My Son, Jacob Thomasson, with the U.S. Army in Iraq is going to be on American soil in later September. He is a forward observer with the infantry. That is a very risky task and he takes this job very seriously with total passion!

If you have a moment to think of the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan..and please pray for their safe return to their families. In some cases, just to go again!

But, what a beautiful moment when your soldier comes home even for just a month...it is one of life's greatest moments to hold My Son, that embrace seems forever..you do not want to let go! (He was in Bosnia last year)

I Love My Country and I Love My Son and All the Other Soldiers That Give of Themselves So We Can Have Our Freedom! Stop a Moment and Praise Them!

Until Next Time...Becky Alumbaugh, The Diva Team, Reece and Nichols