Negotiating Tips for Homebuyers By Susan M. Keenan The real estate market experiences fluctuations just like any other industry. Currently, it is a buyer's market, which means buyers have the upper hand when it comes to buying a home. Since there are more homes on the market waiting to be sold than there are buyers who are willing or able to purchase them, a lot of negotiating can happen and most of it is going to be in the buyer's favor. Homebuyers will find the following negotiating tips helpful... Read More
Decorating Styles that Sell By J. A. Young Sellers that are looking to spruce up their décor before placing their home on the market can benefit from contemporary and sophisticated styles. Some decorative styles simply have more appeal to most homebuyers. It's always ideal to make the home into as blank a slate as possible without being completely bland. Most contemporary features and decorative styles allow future homebuyers to imagine... Read More
How to Host an Easy Thanksgiving Potluck By B. Conrad While Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful time for family members and friends to gather and share stories of the year just passed, few people relish the thought of cooking an entire meal for dozens of guests. The stress involved in creating a feast of turkey and all the trimmings, along with pumpkin pie and other delectable desserts, can quickly take the fun out of Thanksgiving celebration. This year, why not cut... Read More
Homeowners, Protect Your Investment from Mold Courtesy of NewsUSA In these difficult economic times, it has never been more important to protect what for many people is their most significant investment: their home. And one way to do that is to keep mold at bay-because not only does mold present health concerns, but it also can damage your home.
Areas of your home that are continually wet-like the insides of walls or attics and basements, often out of view-will eventually shorten the life of your home and lead to expensive repairs. Research shows that if you keep moisture out of your home, you'll likely avoid mold. In the presence of moisture, mold will grow on virtually any surface-steel... Read More
Cost-effective Tips on Winterizing Your Home Courtesy of ARAcontent Each fall, the temperatures begin to drop and heating bills begin to rise, causing many homeowners to tighten their budgets. What many people do not realize is that there are cost-effective ways of preparing a home for the winter, which will save money in the long run.
Autumn is a great time to begin projects that will increase the heating efficiency in the winter as well as the cooling effectiveness during the summer months. Gina Carlson, the Academic Director for the Interior Design program at The Art Institutes International Minnesota, offers these helpful and low-cost... Read More
Featured Listings
Trump Parc Rental! Unique opportunity to live in Trump with all of it's great amenities. Large 1 br w/deluxe everything! $3150
Furnished Executive Rental Waterfront townhome with 3 bedrooms plus a loft. Offrs 2.5 baths, 2 decks and more Short or long term, $3000
Here is a list of approved condos for FHA financing. Unfortunately they are not listed by address but by complex name. A condo not on this list can submit for approval so long as the by-laws do not have a right of first refusal in them.
An email was forwarded to me the other day that really makes you think. It started off by describing a classroom environment where students were challenging their Physics teacher. The teacher made a point by telling the kids that one grass hopper on the train tracks wouldn't slow a train but a billion would.
Now lets turn that around for the US economy and here is all you have to do. It's called take an extra minute to read the "made in" part of the label.
A person observed at Lowes the other day that most of their hose attachments were made in China, At Ace Hardware, they were made in the US. Hershey's candy is no longer American, it's made in Mexico. So is Colgate toothpaste but Crest is made in the US. GE light bulbs are made in Mexico while other bulbs made here are just as good and far cheaper!! Bounce dryer sheets are made in Canada. Try the other cheaper ones, I did, they are just as good!
As I have started reading labels I am realizing how much is not made here. We need to support the jobs here, it could be yours, a friends or a neighbors. Let's help our fellow americans keep their jobs and create more! Start reading labels!
There are thousands of real estate companies around the country both big and small. Most of them require that an agent joining them sign a contract. Know that this is NOT a standardized contract. Each company will have their own rules, restrictions, compensation plans and penalties for a large variety of things, but biggest would be leaving them. Yes a penalty for leaving them! It is very important that you read and understand your entire contract, if you don't, have a legal professional do it for you so that you understand it COMPLETELY!
Too often a trusting agent, especially a new one, signs a contract without reading it prior, only to understand it later and after the fact. A great new agent with another company was looking at a Keller Williams office, the model, the team environment, everything and determined he was at the wrong place, he wanted to make a move. Problem was, his contract. There was a monetary penalty for leaving and a "No Compete" within a 20 mile radius! Essentially it put him out of business if he left. He says he's told they don't enforce it but who wants to be the guinea pig and test that or take that risk in this market? Ouch!
Another story I heard was a company requiring a current contract. In order to get agents to re-sign when their old term was up, they let it expire, then when the agent goes to collect their commission on a sale, they get paid only 50%. That is say 20 or 30% less than their normal split. Of course the agent is furious as it is explained to them that without a contract, they only get only 50%. Which often results in a frustrated agent, signing without reading the new contract, which of course has new stuff in it they wouldn't even think of. The assumption is, it is the same as the old one.
Read folks, you have to read or get legal advice!!! I will share with you that here at Keller Williams, we don't require big contracts. In fact, if you decided to leave, you can take your listings with you. We are like the risk free company. Truely!! And we are more than that. There's no back stabbing among agents when you have profit share at every office. Yes, profit share! Weekly free trainings in every office for every level of agent. A complete web site for every individual agent branded to them! Oh and the opportunity to keep 100% of your compensation. Just ask me about it, I share!!!
Back to the point. If you are contemplating getting your license, shop around and READ your contract! If your current company is asking you to sign a new contract, READ the contract. And if you've already signed? Consult an attorney if you don't like what you are discovering now.
To check out an agent web site by KW, check out mine at www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com
The Wall Street Journal reported today that the Senate has reached an agreement in extending the tax credit for first time home buyers. While it's passage is not yet certain the agreement extends the existing credit that is worth up to $8000 for first time home buyers and offers a new credit of up to $6,500 for some existing homeowners who have been in their current home for a five year period during the last 8 years. Lawmakers also raised the qualifing income limits to $125,000 for single tax payers and $250,000 for joint tax payers. This is up from the current $75,000 and $150,000 and should make a substantial difference.
Under the new rules, buyers must have a sales agreement in hand by April 30, 2010 and must close by June 30. This still faces final vote in the full Senate and the House.
While there are some ligitimate companies out there, the vast majority are scammers when it comes to saving you from foreclosure. They typically represent that they can get your loan modified for you. All you have to do is pay them an up front fee and they offer to take care of the rest. Not! The payee likely will disappear with your money.
Upfront cash required is a major red flag. If they want money ahead of time and they guarantee to help you with your mortgage payments or to amend the loan at all, you have got be wary. In 20 states it is illegal for companies to get paid in advance for services like these unless it with one's one private attorney.
If you are seeking to amend your loan your best bet is to try to first work directly with your lender. You can also seek help with the Department of Housing and Urban Development who work without charge to help homeowners who may be eligable for loan modifications. Additionally, most real estate attorneys are very versed in the process and can assist you as well.
Time Is Running Out!By Victoria Lorusso If you were thinking of taking advantage of the $8000 tax credit and you have not made an offer on a home yet, you better get moving! You must close by December 1, 2009 to be eligible for the credit. Still shopping for a home? Avoid anything that needs bank approval. The likely hood of an approval happening in time is a very long shot. Banks are taking 3 months and longer for these approvals. There are some very good buys out there and I'm seeing some nice increase in activity. So don't loose out. Call me to help you find the right home for you or your friends.
Positive Trends: is the Housing Market Headed for Recovery? By Deanna Sletten After four months of rising home sales, the housing market is looking brighter. The National Association of Realtors reported that between April and July existing home sales experienced increases each month with July leading with a 7.2% increase. It has been five years since the real estate market has seen such an upward trend and it has led many in the industry to believe that the market has finally bottomed out and is heading for recovery... Read More
Brighten Your Kitchen with a Beautiful New Backsplash By E. E. Kane The backsplash in a kitchen is more than a catch-all for flying food and water droplets. It is a highlight, and if it is done right, it will enhance the style without attracting undue attention. Use the following ideas to install a new, enlivening backsplash in your kitchen.
1. Paint By far the cheapest material, paint is always an affordable choice for a new look... Read More
New Rules in Mortgage Lending By Angela Baca New rules from the Fed have changed mortgage-lending practices. Although the new rules were put in place to help protect consumers, they may also cause an increase in loan processing time.
Amendment to Regulation Z On July 14, 2008, the Fed amended Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) to prohibit unfair, abusive, or deceptive practices by mortgage lenders and to restrict other practices. Lenders face new... Read More
Stimulus Helps Homeowners Save Money Courtesy of ARAcontent "What's in it for me?" Homeowners will love the answer to that question as they learn more about the new federal economic stimulus bill. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, generally known as the stimulus package, offers special tax credit incentives to homeowners to encourage energy efficiency-the best part is it's easy.
Homeowners can get up to $1,500 maximum tax credit... Read More
Autumn Décor Accents By J. A. Young Fall is the season of cool, crisp weather, brilliant scenery and bountiful harvests. Bringing the autumn indoors is a way to transform your décor with both subtlety and a richness of color and warmth. Here are a few ways you can add fall accents to your home.
Get Ornamental Gourds Not just the requisite pumpkin for the porch, but several small to large ornamental gourds to be used as a dining room table centerpiece, as a coffee table prop and even to place here and there on the book shelves. Ornamental gourds come in many sizes and shapes and their appeal is great during the harvest season.
Decorate with Flowers in Seasonal Colors Add a wreath to the door abundant with fall blooms dried and interspersed on a grapevine. Consider hydrangea, yarrow and goldenrod for a warm welcome into your home. Also, place bouquets of dried flower arrangements throughout your home-each with fall.... Read More
Victoria Lorusso | Keller Williams Prestige Properties | 203-324-9600
1 Broad St., Stamford, CT
Be One of The First in Trump!
1BR/1.5BA Condo
$3,150/month
Bedrooms
1
Bathrooms
1 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage
1,106
Parking
1 dedicated
Pet Policy
No pets
Deposit
$6,300
DESCRIPTION
Fantastic opportunity for luxury living in the heart of Stamford. Absolutely brand new and never lived in before. 1 br condo with open floor plan, deluxe marble baths, walk-in closet ++. Located on the 16th floor of Trump Parc you'll enjoy all the amenities this great building has to offer including a pool, billiard room, lounge, theatre and gym. Walking distance to tons of shops, a huge array of restaurants and just steps to the train. This is offered by a private owner in the building. Don't miss this great opportunity. There are no other rentals offered in this building!
The market is really starting to heat up and it feels great! I have 2 signed contracts today, offers on 2 of three condos and serious interest in the third. Looks like it's going to be a great second half of the year. How's your market?
Healthy Alternatives to Asbestos a Priority for Connecticut Home Owners
Used in millions of homes and buildings built prior to 1980, many civilians are still being exposed to asbestos in public facilities, restaurants, schools, shipyards and other industrial locations. As one of the small states in the country, it is ironic that Connecticut is one of the largest in terms of asbestos exposure risks. There are an estimated 600 locations in the state that have been known exposure sites. All of the known exposure sites occurred in the cities of Hartford, New Haven and Fairfield. There are many things to consider in the real estate industries.
Asbestos is often in old fireproofing, roofing, vinyl flooring, pipe and boiler insulation, and some roads and cement pipe and cement sheet products. Citizens of Connecticut should be aware that when purchasing or remodeling older homes, exposure to asbestos may potentially become a health concern.
Although exposure to asbestos does not always lead to related illnesses, frequent exposure greatly increases those odds. Asbestos exposure can cause a severe lung ailment known as malignant mesothelioma. This rare form of asbestos lung cancer accounts for nearly three percent of all cancer diagnoses in the country. Mesothelioma treatment is unfortunately almost always unsuccessful and physician prognosis is poor. There were 498 fatalities relating to asbestos in Connecticut between 1979 and 1999. Of those deaths, 249 can be attributed to mesothelioma. Needless to say, the mesothelioma survival rate is discouraging news to anyone who gets this cancer.
The removal of asbestos must be performed by licensed abatement contractors who are specially trained in handling hazardous materials. It is highly recommended that those who believe they live or work in an area where asbestos are found to leave it undisturbed. Contractors come equipped with protective gear in case its fibers become airborne immediately after it is broken up.
The removal of hazardous materials must be performed by an abatement contractor who is trained and licensed in handling toxic substances. The Connecticut Department of Public Health administers an asbestos program that aims to reduce potential exposure to asbestos. Found in over 3,000 products in the state, they provide assistance in the safe inspection, removal and disposal of asbestos-contaminated areas by following state regulations.
With increasing technology and public initiatives, green alternatives exist which allow for an asbestos free environment. The United States Green Building Council (USGBC), in a study conducted in 2003, estimated a savings of $50-$65 per square foot for well-constructed green buildings in the U.S. These asbestos alternatives will not only reduce energy costs, but allow for a clean, healthy home, free of health damaging materials. To start your search for a home now, go to www.HomesofFairfieldCounty.com
Updates on local market, Industry related topics, new listing announcements. Link to auto-notification of new listings for your search criteria in Ct. real estate
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
The real estate market experiences fluctuations just like any other industry. Currently, it is a buyer's market, which means buyers have the upper hand when it comes to buying a home. Since there are more homes on the market waiting to be sold than there are buyers who are willing or able to purchase them, a lot of negotiating can happen and most of it is going to be in the buyer's favor. Homebuyers will find the following negotiating tips helpful... 
Sellers that are looking to spruce up their décor before placing their home on the market can benefit from contemporary and sophisticated styles. Some decorative styles simply have more appeal to most homebuyers. It's always ideal to make the home into as blank a slate as possible without being completely bland. Most contemporary features and decorative styles allow future homebuyers to imagine... 
While Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful time for family members and friends to gather and share stories of the year just passed, few people relish the thought of cooking an entire meal for dozens of guests. The stress involved in creating a feast of turkey and all the trimmings, along with pumpkin pie and other delectable desserts, can quickly take the fun out of Thanksgiving celebration. This year, why not cut... 
In these difficult economic times, it has never been more important to protect what for many people is their most significant investment: their home. And one way to do that is to keep mold at bay-because not only does mold present health concerns, but it also can damage your home.
Each fall, the temperatures begin to drop and heating bills begin to rise, causing many homeowners to tighten their budgets. What many people do not realize is that there are cost-effective ways of preparing a home for the winter, which will save money in the long run.
After four months of rising home sales, the housing market is looking brighter. The National Association of Realtors reported that between April and July existing home sales experienced increases each month with July leading with a 7.2% increase. It has been five years since the real estate market has seen such an upward trend and it has led many in the industry to believe that the market has finally bottomed out and is heading for recovery... 
The backsplash in a kitchen is more than a catch-all for flying food and water droplets. It is a highlight, and if it is done right, it will enhance the style without attracting undue attention. Use the following ideas to install a new, enlivening backsplash in your kitchen.
New rules from the Fed have changed mortgage-lending practices. Although the new rules were put in place to help protect consumers, they may also cause an increase in loan processing time.
"What's in it for me?" Homeowners will love the answer to that question as they learn more about the new federal economic stimulus bill. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, generally known as the stimulus package, offers special tax credit incentives to homeowners to encourage energy efficiency-the best part is it's easy.
Fall is the season of cool, crisp weather, brilliant scenery and bountiful harvests. Bringing the autumn indoors is a way to transform your décor with both subtlety and a richness of color and warmth. Here are a few ways you can add fall accents to your home.
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