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Life@Home Newsletter

By
Commercial Real Estate Agent with Century 21 Boardwalk 6502376872
The CENTURY 21 NewsletterJanuary - 2008
Avoiding an Identity Crisis
On the Market
Revised Resolution
Brandon Ball

I am pleased to present you with the latest issue of Life@Home. Delivered to home buyers, sellers and owners on a monthly basis, this electronic newsletter is designed to give you the real estate information that is important to you. In each issue, you will find practical tips and articles related to buying, selling or owning a home, as well as the latest news on real estate trends. I hope that you enjoy this issue of Life@Home. If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Avoiding an Identity Crisis
The right information in the wrong hands can lead to some terrible outcomes. Identity theft is a crime on the rise, one that can wreak havoc on your finances and credit history, two key components in your ability to purchase a home.

Broadly defined, identity theft is when someone steals your personally identifiable information (PII) and uses it without your knowledge to commit fraud. For example, someone could use your information to access an account you own (i.e. checking or s avings) or use it to open new lines of credit and make purchases without your knowledge.

The best way to protect yourself is to be proactive. There are thousands of articles online and in print about what you can do. Take the time to research how you can be safer. It is much easier to take precautions now than to untangle your jumbled finances and repair damaged credit after your identity has been stolen.

Below are examples of some of simplest things you can do to protect your PII.

. Never give out your social security number (SSN) unless it is absolutely necessary. Instead offer to provide a less sensitive piece of information. Do not carry your social security card in your wallet or provide it on job applications. If you are invited for an interview, it can be supplied at that time.

. If you use online banking services, do not use the same password on different accounts. Instead create specific keys for each account and use a combination of letters and numbers (SY56G6Y).

. Use a shredder with cross-cutting action to destroy account statements, bills and other documents that contain sensitive information.

. Monitor your credit by requesting a free credit report every six to 12 months.

. Follow up on suspicious charges on your credit cards or unusual activity in other accounts. Reacting quickly can be key to keep the fraud from escalating.

On the Market
What makes one home sell in a few weeks while another may linger on the market for what seems like seasons? Well, each case is different, but it almost always boils down to one of these four factors.
Price - A home that is priced right will attract buyer attention. A fair and reasonable asking price that is in keeping with market demands will pique consumer interest and ultimately make the property more appealing.

Condition - Unless they are searching for an investment property, m ost buyers are looking for a structurally sound home that has been well-maintained. In addition, a home that "shows well" is likely to sell quicker. This means the home is clean, well-kept, updated and appealing to today's buyer.

Location - The better the location, the more likely the property will demand buyer attention. This could mean a single-family home in a charming town with an exemplary school system. Or it could mean a wonderful apartment in a great section of the city.
Market - Whether it is a "buyer" or "seller's" also influences how long a property is up for sale. When the advantage is with the buyers, you may need to make allowances, such as a lower asking price or favorable terms to help your property attract a bid. Your seller agent is your greatest resource during your home sale. He or she can further explain how these factors will influence your particular listing.
Revised Resolution
Try a new approach to your New Year's resolution. Choose one specific goal for each area of your life. For example, under the heading of family - one family activity each month. Under home - landscape the front yard. Health - walk three days a week. Achieving one goal in each area can really make difference.


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