BUYERS: How To Find Out What Is In Your Credit Report.

Anyone who has ever had a bank account, mortgage, credit card, car loan, or account with a retail store will invariably have a credit rating. Most information in your credit rating comes from companies you have credit with, as well as from certain public records such as tax liens, bankruptcies, judgments and lawsuits. It is important to know and understand your credit rating, how the information is compiled, and how it affects your ability to acquire a loan for your new home.

Credit reports are usually divided into five sections:
1. Your credit history.
2. Who has reviewed your credit history.
3. Information you have provided for the credit company.
4. Specific identification information about you.
5. Explanatory notes and comments.

Different states have different requirements and it is important that you check on what applies to you. There are three major credit-reporting agencies, Trans Union, Experian and Equifax.

Your REALTORŽ can recommend a reputable mortgage lender who has the reputation of providing excellent service and good rates. This lender will be able to immediately pull your credit report for your review and can make recommendations of how to make it better. The better your credit score, the higher your credit rating will be.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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BUYERS: Saving Thousands When You Buy Your Home! 

Buying a home is a great investment, possibly the largest investment you will ever make, so it seems logical that you would want to invest your money wisely when the time comes to purchase a new home. The following report will tell you simple but often-overlooked procedures that will allow you to maximize the dollars you spend on your new home.

Most homebuyers have two primary considerations when they start looking for a home. First, you want it to meet your needs and desires, and secondly, you want to get the best buy possible to obtain your new home. Successful homebuyers emerge from a sale with the features they want in their new home at the best price available in the market.

For starters, you must know what you are looking for in a home. You must have a list of needs as well as a list of desires, but be sure when choosing the actual home that you go with the one that fulfills most of your needs. It is not uncommon for someone to start out with very specific needs and wants but fall in love with a home offering different features. Ideally a house will come along that has all of your needs and desires, but sometimes that doesn't occur. Be careful not to get caught up in the excitement of home shopping and end up with a home that is not as close to perfect as possible.

You should be pre-approved for a loan by a professional mortgage lender. By understanding what you can afford, you will not spend time looking for homes that are out of your price range. You also need to understand the various financial aspects of the sale, from whether to spend more up front or make a smaller down payment and work with a larger loan. There are several costs to consider in the process of buying a home. Your REALTORŽ can recommend a reputable mortgage lender who has the reputation of providing excellent service and good rates.

Choose your Agent wisely. Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to help you locate your new home; they need
A. Experience at assisting buyers in locating the best home.
B. Ability to use technology to search the market thoroughly.
C. To review with you comparable home sales in the area you choose.
D. Information pertaining to new homes coming on the market that other agents do not know of.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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BUYERS: Benefits Of Owning Your Own Home.

There are many financial and personal reasons why you should own your own home rather than rent. The obvious reasons include pride of ownership, building your own equity instead of someone else's, no more landlords, and of course the tax benefits you reap. There are a multitude of other reasons why owning your own home can make your life better.

One of the most overlooked reasons for owning a home is the freedom you get once you have achieved this major goal in life. Many first-time homebuyers find that once they have bought a house, many other aspects of their personal life seem to fall in place. The security and piece of mind that come with home ownership is a great accomplishment in many people's lives, and once they have overcome the obstacles, they find that other goals they had set out to achieve become much easier to attain.

There is a great sense of belonging to the community once you own a home. You begin to feel more attached to the city and its people. You will find yourself more involved with community events - what is happening with the schools, roads and shopping centers in your area. Some new homeowners find themselves getting into local politics in order to create better surroundings, which is something renters seldom do.

Home ownership is a strong anchor for your life. You have something that represents a strong commitment and a sense of stability. Again, the aspect of freedom comes up - you won't have to worry about a landlord telling you it is time for you to move, your children won't have to worry about whether they will have to change schools, and you are blessed with the ability to plan for the future.

By owning a home, you will find yourself in more control of your immediate surroundings. You can change things and decorate to your tastes, and not be limited by the standards of a landlord. You do not have to seek someone else's approval if you decide to remodel or alter the landscaping. Your home truly is your castle.

If you have children, you will find that they feel more secure when coming home to a house that is not owned by someone else. There are no worries that they will be suddenly forced to change schools and reestablish their lives at the decision of someone else. You can also get to know your neighbors, and if they have children, lifelong friendships can be formed because everyone knows that they will be around each other for years and years.

One final aspect that cannot be overlooked is the pride that you feel when you own your own home. You have proven to yourself that you can achieve monumental goals and can give your family the security it needs to move forward in life. Once you have built up equity in your first home, you can leverage your equity to purchase a nicer home later.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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BUYERS: How To Have A Smooth Home Purchase!

Buying a new home can be an exciting time, whether it's your first home or your fifth. However, your savings, your credit rating, and your financial freedom are all on the line when purchasing a new home. You want to feel comfortable when it is time to sign on the dotted line and feel good about the home you are about to purchase. It's important not to let your emotions cloud your judgment when you set out to buy what is most likely the largest single item of your life - your new home.

Before you get to actually looking at homes, take the time to establish your needs and wants. Make a careful assessment of what you absolutely must have in your new home compared to what would just be nice. Be as specific as possible when determining your needs prior to purchase. It will save you much time and concern to do this before looking rather than getting into a new home only to discover that it doesn't meet your needs.

Determine how much you can afford in a home loan and get pre-approved. Set up a budget for monthly payments and be realistic. By assessing your financial situation and getting pre-approved, you can be certain that when you select a new home, you will have the financial backing to get you in as quickly as possible. When considering the purchase of a home, don't just look at your current financial status. You will probably be in this home for years, and many things can change. Take your future into account as well, looking at such things as job changes and a growing family.

Once you begin the process of searching for a home, don't let emotions cloud your judgment. Just because a house has a nice lawn or some interesting architectural features doesn't mean it is the perfect one for you. While it is important to consider the aesthetics of a property, consider that much of what you see can be changed. Never judge a house by how the current owner has decorated. Most likely, whatever is inside the house will be gone when the seller leaves, and it will be up to you to paint and decorate.

Take the time to view several homes. This doesn't mean look at every house available on the market, but look at enough properties to get a good feeling that you aren't just making an impulse buy. When you find the right home, all the work you do in this process will pay off.

Once you have selected a home that you feel is right, inspect it thoroughly. Be sure the home is inspected by a professional home inspection company, and go over that report with a fine-toothed comb. By taking the time to do this before making the purchase, you can save yourself an endless amount of stress after the fact. Don't take anything for granted. There are many pitfalls that can surface during the process, and it's vital that you take care of these problems before you move in. When inspecting your home, check for working utilities so there are no surprises later on. Check out all costs and expenses before you sign anything. Taxes, insurance and homeowner dues may appear, and you need to know all of them. Ask as many questions as possible and be very conscious of details.

Use your home-buying team as much as possible. Align yourself with the right real estate professional and you will have an entire team of reliable lenders, title representatives and home inspection companies available to you. Each of these people should work hand in hand with you and each other for your benefit.

Be sure to do a final walk through once all the previous owner's furnishings have been moved to be sure of no surprises. Be absolutely positive the property is in exactly the same condition that you agreed upon in the contract. Things that could not have been spotted before are often unintentionally overlooked.

Plan for flexibility. Closing dates are not carved in stone. Allow for certain contingencies and always have a back-up plan in the event that delays occur. These types of circumstances are not at all uncommon in real estate transactions, so it is important that you are prepared for them.

Any and all promises and agreements must be written. If it is not in writing, then assume that it doesn't exist. Even the best of intentions can be unintentionally misinterpreted, so take the time with your REALTORŽ to be certain that all agreements have been signed on paper.

Remember, your team will work best for you if you are honest and up front with them. Take the time to select the right team of professionals to get you into your new home and do everything possible to make this an enjoyable experience. They will return the favor by getting you into your new home as smoothly as possible.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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BUYERS: Want To Buy A Home With Zero Down?

If you are looking to buy a new home but think you either don't have the money saved up to afford a down payment or you don't want to liquidate all your current assets, there is a way around this dilemma. This report will inform you of ways you can purchase a home with no money up front.

If you find yourself caught in the endless cycle of paying your landlord's mortgage, why not take the time to examine what it would be like to build your own equity in a home and stop paying rent? The general perception of many potential homebuyers is that a substantial down payment is required in order to get you into a new home. It doesn't have to be this way. Because of this notion, many people believe they must save for years and years before they can qualify for a home loan. In the meantime, these people are paying for the real estate owned by someone else.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), or the Veterans Administration (VA) and many other government programs or grant programs are available for homebuyers with zero or little down. Hundreds of thousands homebuyers are realizing their dream of home ownership every year, and you can too.

A good real estate agent can tell you about existing lender and government programs that can get you into a new home with no money down. With a zero down payment program, you can begin to move into a home immediately and build your own equity. Qualifying for these zero down payment programs can be much easier than you think.

First, you need an excellent credit history. You should have no recent history of bad debts, and be able to prove that you can make consistent and timely payments on any current liabilities. You will be required to disclose all of your current liabilities in order to determine how much more mortgage you can qualify for. Liabilities will include such things as car payments and credit card debts. If those are paid off, the better loan you can get.

You must have at least three years of stable employment. This is either proof of employment for the past three years or financial statements for the same time if you are self-employed.

You will also need to be able to demonstrate that you can afford the taxes, insurance, and utilities that come up front on your home purchase. This will vary depending on the amount of your home purchase.

Under the terms of a zero down payment program, there will be several types of homes that you can get into. These properties include single-family homes, townhouses or condominiums. It is important to note that not all homes will qualify for the zero down payment program. An experienced and knowledgeable REALTORŽ will know what properties in your area can qualify under these programs and can assist you in finding the home that is right for you.

Buying a home with no money down can be an easy process. Consider the benefits of getting into a home that is yours and building equity every month, instead of renting and not having anything to show for it in the end. Plus, the interest you pay on your loan is a tax deduction. The appreciation in value of real estate is the basis of more wealth in this country than any other. Investment example: a $400,000 home that appreciates 10% is $40,000 equity in just one year, $44,000 in the second year and so on.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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RENTERS: Kiss Your Landlord Good Bye - Own Your Own Home!

The biggest problem many people face when making the move from renting to owning a home is the down payment. You've been making regular payments every month for rent and can't seem to accumulate enough capital for a more permanent home. Many times homes in your area appreciate in value faster than you can save. You should explore all possibilities and make every effort to purchase a home now and begin benefiting from the home's appreciation and the income tax deduction that come with home ownership. But saving for your down payment doesn't need to be the mountain you've made it out to be.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or the Veteran's Administration (VA) and many other government programs or grant programs are available for homebuyers with zero or little down. Hundreds of thousands of homebuyers are realizing their dream of home ownership every year and you can too.

1. You can make a much smaller down payment than you think.
Certain government programs, such as first-time buyers programs, are intended to assist people in getting into the housing market. Even if your spouse is a former homeowner, as long as your name was not on a home loan, you can still qualify as a first time buyer. It's vital that your real estate agent has knowledge of this area and can provide you with relevant information.

2. Your lender may be able to help with your down payment and closing costs.
Even if you do not have enough cash on hand to make a down payment, provided you own an asset (car, for example) free and clear and have no debt, your lender may be able to secure a loan against that asset to cover the down payment.

3. A seller may help you buy and finance your home.
Some sellers might consider holding a second mortgage for you in what is called a "seller take back." Under these circumstances, the seller acts as a lending institution. Rather than a large lump sum payment, you pay the seller a monthly mortgage installment.

4. Create a cash down payment without going into debt.
There are ways to borrow money for certain investments that can generate major tax refunds that you can use as a down payment for a new home. While money borrowed for these investments are technically a loan, the monthly amount paid can be small, and the money in both the investment and the home will be yours when all is done.

5. You do not need perfect credit to buy a home.
Provided you can come up with more than the minimum down payment or can secure a loan using other equity, many lenders will consider you for a mortgage. If you have a less-than-perfect credit rating, seeking a seller that will take back the mortgage can also be very helpful.

6. You should get pre-approved for a loan before shopping for a home.
It is very easy to get pre-approved and by doing so, you can shop for a home in peace. Mortgage professionals can obtain a written pre-approval in very little time, often over the phone. A written pre-approval certificate is like money in the bank. All it takes is a completed credit application and a certificate that guarantees you a mortgage to a specified level when you find the home you are looking for. This also strengthens your bargaining position when competing with other buyers on the home you want.

You should only work with a professional who specializes in home mortgages. Their services can make the difference between obtaining a home loan or being trapped paying rent forever.

7. Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist you with financing a new home? Does your agent ask questions of you in order to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you locate the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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A FEW POINTS ABOUT INTEREST RATES!!

Less is more

If you're new to investing or real estate and don't know the first
thing about interest rates, here's a good tip: the higher the interest
rate, the more expensive it's going to be. High interest rates mean
you will have to pay back more on the money you borrow. Another good
rule of thumb is that affordability increases if you use an
adjustable rate mortgage (it's easier to qualify this way). Of
course, there will be a wide range of prices that you can choose
from, depending on what kind of financing you choose.

Not even the Fed knows for sure

The Fed holds a considerable amount of power, but they can't control
everything. Mortgage interest rates are affected by many unpredictable
political, economic and social events. So there is no guarantee what
direction interest rates will go, despite the forecasts of the
experts. Therefore, make your financial decision based on where
things are today including your budget, your needs and your future
plans.

Locking in rates assures your lowest interest

If you do decide you want to lock in at a certain interest rate, you
will need to complete a loan application and send it to your lender as
soon as possible. This must be done so that your commitment doesn't
run out before your loan is approved. Follow up and be se sure that
the lender is receiving all of the necessary documentation. Get a
property appraisal, which usually costs about $300, through your loan
agent as soon as possible.

Don't obsess and miss a good real estate deal

Although rising interest rates can create more problems for home
buyers, waiting and hoping for low rates is not necessarily a smart
move. You may end up paying a higher price. Also, refinancing is
always an option in the event that interest rates come down.

Visit again soon! I have more information that you will need!

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Want To Know What A BUYER´S Agent Is?

A real estate buyer's agent represents the consumer who is purchasing a property in the transaction. This agent owes full responsibility and loyalty to the homebuyer. He or she has solely the buyer's best interests in mind throughout the entire transaction process. The agent is compensated by the buyer through a negotiated fee or in some states by the commission based on the selling price of the property. It is important for the consumer to discuss the buyer agent's compensation and for the parties to agree to terms with a written contract prior to viewing properties. This agreement should detail the responsibilities of both parties throughout the process of buying a home. It should be noted that in some states legislation has been enacted to protect the buyer to the point that without a written agreement, the agent represents a seller throughout the entire transaction. Be sure to consult your real estate agent for complete details when you first start the search for purchasing any real estate property.

There are many benefits to using a buyer's agent. These agents will:
1. Evaluate the specific needs and wants of a homebuyer and locate properties that fit those specifications.
2. Assist the buyer in viewing properties and either accompany the client on the showings or preview the properties on behalf of the client to insure that the identified specifications are met.
3. Research the selected properties to identify any problems or issues to help the consumer in making an informed decision prior to making an appropriate offer on the property.
4. Present the offer to the seller's agent on behalf of the client.
5. Negotiate on behalf of the buyer to help obtain the property at the best possible price.
6. Review and explain all legal documents to their clients.
7. Recommend and assist in securing adequate financing.
8. Provide a list of potential qualified vendors such as movers, attorneys, home inspectors, etc.

Most importantly, when working with a buyer's agent, the homebuyer will know and trust that they are fully represented throughout the entire transaction process.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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SELF-EMPLOYED BUYERS: The Best Way To Get A Mortgage!

Self-employed borrowers present one of the most challenging areas of mortgage underwriting. Qualifying self-employed people often requires time, energy, and patience. A fair and honest qualification requires a special set of skills.

Most mortgage companies underwrite their loans based on guidelines established by the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), or the Veterans Administration (VA). These organizations share similar underwriting guidelines for self-employed borrowers. Additionally, some lending institutions have non-standard sources to draw upon for the purpose of making loans available to those who do not fit into specific guidelines.

Generally, there is a standard set of guidelines that pertain to employment and income. They include:

1. Two or more years of self-employment.
2. Owning 25 percent or more in a business.
3. A two-year minimum average income. This is done to even out fluctuations common to self-employed borrowers.
4. A positive overall economic outlook in the area for the particular business you own.
5. No significant decline in income over the period analyzed.

Self-employed borrowers are generally evaluated along similar guidelines that salaried borrowers are by determining if the borrower has sufficient income to support the mortgage payment and a willingness to repay all debt provided on a credit report. However, the methods used in the analysis of the self-employed borrower's income are different.

A salaried borrower's gross salary is used for qualification most of the time. This method is not adequate for the self-employed because the daily operation of the business must be supported by gross receipts along with income to the owner. This requires analyzing the borrower's federal income tax returns and other schedules, depending on the type of business, to determine net income.

The growth, viability, and stability of the business field are also taken into account in determining the ability of the borrower to meet ongoing obligations. The length of self-employment time and overall experience in the field must also be considered. Because of the subjective nature of underwriting these loans, it is important for the borrower and the lender to put together a narrative along with documentation to support the income claim needed for the transaction.

There are several new loan programs available today for the self-employed. Lenders do their best to qualify people with the lowest rates and lowest down payments. They also attempt to complete the transaction with the fewest verification documents. Most loan programs have the same requirements for different types of self-employment. Programs are available for first-time buyers, move-up buyers, or investors regardless of their employment. However, some loan programs will be stricter for self-employed individuals.

If a borrower can't qualify because tax write-offs decrease his new income too much, a problem common among self-employed borrowers, lenders will then look to see if the borrower has enough independent income to pay the mortgage and other debt obligations. They will carefully inspect tax returns and check to see any possible way to get a self-employed businessman into a new home. Generally, two years of tax return history will be analyzed to account for fluctuations and track income patterns. Simple common sense is often a prevailing factor when reviewing these documents.

As for newly self-employed applicants, they represent a special situation. Verifying previous employment history to determine a track record of skills, length of employment and work environment can be taken into account. Previous income helps establish the financial history, as well as indicates whether the move to self-employment represents a logical process or a complete departure from an established profession. There are some things to keep in mind. If the borrower recently had a bad year but had previous successful years, qualification is still possible. One bad year may be the result of a divorce, death, or medical illness. Provided the business had been previously successful, don't assume that you can't be qualified.

As a self-employed borrower, you must be willing to spend the time to work with an agent and a mortgage consultant specific to your situation. Careful scrutiny of tax returns will be necessary and meetings will be done person-to-person - not over the phone. The process may be a little more involved than a typical home loan, but the extra work will ultimately result in the most important part of the purchase - getting you into a new home.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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BUYERS: After The Contract Is Signed, The Next Steps.

You've signed the contract and are looking forward to moving into your new home, but there are a few steps that cannot be overlooked. By following these easy steps, you will ensure yourself a smooth move into your new home.

First, get the home inspected. Arrange a time to return to the property for the inspection, typically a few days after the contract has been signed. A professionally licensed inspector will accompany you through the home and point out repairs or discrepancies if they exist. The seller will then be notified of these problems and will usually agree to take on the repairs.

Set up an appointment with your mortgage consultant and be prepared with the following financial statements: W-2 forms or signed tax forms for the past two years, copies of your most recent bank statements (current and consecutive for at least two months), copies of your most current pay stubs or proof of income if self-employed. Be prepared to pay an appraisal fee at this time if you have not already done so.

Work with your real estate agent to choose a title or settlement company for you and provide them with the necessary paperwork. The settlement company has the responsibility of making your transaction legal. They will do the title work, examine the survey, prepare mortgage documents and all the necessary closing paperwork. After the settlement, they will prepare packages for your mortgage lenders, accounting and title insurance, life documents with the county, and release escrow.

You will need to provide proof of homeowner's insurance at this time. You have the right to choose your own insurance company. If you have not selected one, work with your real estate agent for a referral to a reputable company.

Obtain certified funds for the settlement. The title company will be able to tell you a few days in advance the exact fees that will be due.

Conduct a final walk through of the home. Be sure to note any discrepancies from the home inspection that has already been completed. By taking the time to go through this process in a detailed and timely manner, your transition into your new home will be easy and stress-free! Now is also the time to transfer all the utilities into your name.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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MOVING TIPS

Easing the Transition to Your New Home
Use the right boxes, and pack them carefully

Professional moving companies use only sturdy, reinforced cartons.
The boxes you can get at your neighborhood supermarket or liquor store
might be free, but they are not nearly as strong or padded, and so
can't shield your valuables as well from harm in transit.

Use sheets, blankets, pillows and towels to separate pictures and
other fragile objects from each other and the sides of the carton.
Pack plates and glass objects vertically, rather than flat and
stacked.

Be sure to point out to your mover the boxes in which you've packed
fragile items, especially if those items are exceptionally valuable.
The mover will advise you whether those valuables need to be repacked
in sturdier, more appropriate boxes.

The heavier the item, the smaller the box it should occupy. A good
rule of thumb is if you can't lift the carton easily, it's too heavy.
Label your boxes, especially the one containing sheets and towels,
so you can find everything you need the first night in your new home.

For your family's safety and comfort

Teach your children your new address. Let them practice writing it on
packed cartons. You can lighten your load and reduce any storage space
you need to rent by hosting a garage or yard sale.

Fill two "OPEN ME FIRST" cartons containing snacks, instant coffee or
tea bags, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and brushes, medicine and
toiletry items (make sure caps are tightly secured), flashlight,
screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a
pan or two, paper towels, and any other items your family can't do
without. Ask your van foreman to load one of these boxes, so that
it will be unloaded at your new home first. Why the second box? In
case the movers are delayed getting to your house on the day of the
move.

Keep your pets out of packing boxes and away from all the activity on
moving day.

Let all your electrical gadgets return to room temperature before
plugging them in.

Since you may need to call old neighbors or businesses from your new
home, pack your phone book.

Work hand in hand with your mover

Give the mover's foreman your reach numbers and email addresses so
you can stay in contact.

Read the inventory form carefully, and ask the mover to explain
anything you don't understand. Make a note of your shipment's
registration number, and keep your Bill of Lading handy.

If you're moving long distance, be aware that your property might
share a truck with that of several other households. For this reason,
your mover might have to warehouse your furniture and belongings for
several days. Therefore, ask your mover whether your goods will remain
on the truck until delivered. If they have to be stored, ask whether
you can check the warehouse for security, organization and
cleanliness.

Thanks for visiting! Come again!

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How To Achieve The No-Stress Move! 

Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful situations that a person can endure, so it is vital that you find ways to make the transition as easy as possible. There are two distinct types of stress that one faces when changing homes. First, there is the financial aspect of the move. Finding the right home at the right price, negotiating the purchase with a seller, filling out the lengthy paperwork involved, and handling the escrow can all take its toll. Then there is the emotional aspect of the move, and this is often where the greatest amount of stress is felt. A competent and professional real estate agent can make the financial steps of the process easy, but if your emotional needs are unfulfilled, you may find yourself tired and frustrated and not acting in your own best interest.

It's important to begin with the end of the process in mind. When you know the exact result you want to end up with, the process of getting there becomes much easier. Take the time to analyze how your life will be once you have moved into your new home and how it will be better than your current situation. Take the time to write out the improvements to your life and keep this with you at all times during the transaction. Having a physical copy of your goal will energize you to achieve it, regardless of any setbacks. This will be an emotional anchor that can keep you mentally in place.

Be flexible throughout the process. Allow yourself financial peace of mind by overestimating the costs. Many things can happen between the time you begin looking for a home and closing the sale. Hidden costs, problems with the inspection, or fluctuating interest rates can all pop up at any time during the transaction. By allowing yourself flexibility, you can compensate for sudden changes that otherwise might bring a halt to the process. If you anticipate and prepare for these problems, you can avoid getting angry or frustrated when things don't go exactly as planned.

A good REALTORŽ can review the step-by-step procedure in purchasing a home. Trust the process and stay focused on your ultimate goal of home ownership and you will find the process will go smoothly. Trust that your agent and the team they have assembled are working in your best interests.

Work with people who are willing to educate you on every step of the process. The more knowledge you acquire when buying a new home, the more at ease you will feel. Understanding that things don't always go exactly according to the original plan is key, so take the time to learn about the step-by-step procedures. Have confidence in your REALTORŽ and yourself. Ask every question on your mind, no matter how seemingly insignificant it is. When buying a new home and moving, there are no stupid questions.

Sometimes, the best way to remedy a situation is to remove it from your mind completely for a little while. Seek out a form of entertainment that you know relaxes you and embrace it. Maybe you like to play a sport or watch movies. Use your hobbies and enjoyable pastimes to relieve your stress.

Moving can be especially hard if you have children. For adults, living in a home for a few years represents just a small portion of their lives, but children who have lived in a home for most or all of their lives will face a much more difficult time when changing homes. Even just those few years represent a much larger portion of a child's life.

Familiar things such as friends, schools, the streets where they played and the shops they were accustomed to visiting will be changing. Everything in their home will be new. The impact on a child starts the first time they hear about moving and can be very uncertain. It is important to include your children in as many aspects of your new home as possible. Instead of just letting them decorate a new room, take them to the store and let them help choose new paint or carpet, the decorations, and whatever else that will give them the opportunity to feel like the new house is really a home.

Teenagers can have a hard time if they have an established life in high school, especially when they have close friends or a boyfriend/girlfriend. Teenagers already view themselves as adult members of the family, so be sure to treat them as such. Expect that your kids may be even more distressed after the move when they must restart their lives from scratch. Give your teenagers a long distance allowance to keep in touch with those they left behind, but also encourage them to join as many clubs and sports at school as possible in order to build a new life with new friends and a new environment. There are so many different ways that moving can be stressful on both you and your family, it is important to take the time and steps necessary to make the transition as easy as possible. Remember, the most important part is that you are starting a new life filled with new possibilities and opportunities. By making the most of these opportunities, you can have a successful move for you and your family.

Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for to help you get the most home for the money?

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Back to Buyers Info Back to Top

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Sellers
Proven Steps To Sell Your House For TOP DOLLAR
SEVEN SELLING MISTAKES YOU DON'T WANT TO MAKE
How A Good Real Estate Agent Can Maximize Your Profits
Mistakes To Avoid that Can Delay Your Sale
Steps To Selling Your House For The Highest Possible Price
How To Easily Increase The Value Of Your House
Moving Up To A Larger Home, Avoid These Mistakes
How To Prepare To Pass The Home Inspection
MOVING TIPS
How to Acheive the perfect move
ABSENTEE OWNERS: How To Have A Quick and Easy Sale - and Get TOP DOLLAR

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SELLERS: Proven Steps To Sell Your House For TOP DOLLAR.

Selling your home is one of the most important things you will ever do in your life. This simple system will provide the tools you need to maximize your profits, maintain control, and reduce the stress that comes with the home-selling process.

Know why you are selling and keep it to yourself. The reasons behind your decision to sell affect everything from setting a price to deciding how much time and money to invest in getting your home ready for sale. What is more important to you? The money you walk away with, the length of time your property is on the market, or a combination of both? Different goals will dictate different selling strategies. However, it is critical that you do not reveal your reasons to anyone else, because it could come back to haunt you at the negotiating table. When asked, simply explain that your housing needs have changed.

Be sure to do your homework before setting a price. Settling on an offering price should not be done lightly. In a hot seller's market, should you set your asking price too low, be prepared to receive offers over and above your asking price. However, remember that pricing your house too high is very dangerous. The average homebuyer will view and compare dozens of homes on the Internet at the same time they are considering yours. This means that they have a basis of comparison, and if your home doesn't compare favorably with others in the price range you have set, your home will sit on the market and prospective buyers will not take you seriously. The longer your home sits on the market, the more likely people will think that there is a problem with it.

Work with your agent to find out what homes in your own and similar neighborhoods have sold for in the past three to six months. Research what current homes on the market are listed at. It's the same process that buyers will undertake when assessing the value of your home.

Find a good real estate agent that represents your needs. Nearly three quarters of all homeowners claim that they would not use the same real estate agent who sold their last home. Dissatisfaction boils down to poor communication and lack of feedback, which will ultimately result in lower prices and strained relationships.

Be sure to maximize your home's sales potential. Each year, corporate America spends billions of dollars on product packaging and design. Appearance is critical, and it would be foolish to ignore this fact when selling your home.

You may not be able to change your home's location or floor plan, but you can do a great many things to improve its appearance. The look and feel of your home generates greater emotional response from prospective buyers than any other factor. Before showings, clean like you have never cleaned before. Scrub, scour, and otherwise make everything spotless. Fix everything, no matter how insignificant it may appear. Present your home to get the best possible reaction from those viewing it. Your home's condition and how it shows will greatly affect your sales price and time on the market.

Allow buyers to imagine themselves living in your home. The decision to buy a home is based a high level of emotion. Prospective buyers are trying on your home the same way they would try on a new suit before buying it. If you follow them around pointing out improvements or making excuses for a lack of upkeep, you make it difficult for them to feel comfortable enough to imagine themselves as the new owners.

Make it simple for prospects to obtain information on your home. You would be surprised to know that some marketing tools that most agents use to sell house (such as traditional open houses) are generally not very effective. In fact, only about one percent of homes are sold at an open house.

Prospects calling for information on your home value their time as much as you do. The last thing they want to be subjected to is either a game of telephone tag with an agent or unwanted sales pitches. Make sure the ads your agent places for your home are attached to a 24-hour information hotline with a specific identification number for your home which gives prospects detailed information at all times. It has been proven that three to five times more buyers call for information on a home when they have access to a free-recorded message rather than talking with an agent directly. Remember, the more buyers you have competing for your home, the better. It will set up an auction-like atmosphere that puts you in the driver's seat.

Ask your agent what he or she can find out about the buyers. In the negotiation process, your objective is to control the pace and direction of the sale. If you know the buyers' motivations, whether they need to move quickly, and whether or not they have enough money to pay for the home, will give you the upper hand once negotiations begin. Make sure that the contract is complete. For your part as a seller, you must be certain to disclose everything about the property. Smart sellers proactively go above and beyond legal requirements to disclose all known defects to their buyers in writing. If the buyer knows of a problem beforehand, they cannot come back to you with a lawsuit later on. Provide a detailed list and have the buyer sign for items that do not stay.

All terms, costs, and responsibilities have to be spelled out in the contract. Do not divert from this contract. For example, if the buyer requests to move in before the agreed upon date, you should say no. Once these terms are all in place, it is dangerous to deviate and could potentially lead to the collapse of the whole sale.

Finally, if you need to move out before you sell your home, steam clean the carpets, paint all the walls, and have a gardener water and maintain your lawn. Make sure that your agent markets it as being vacant, available for a quick close and immediate occupancy.

Choose your agent wisely. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Back to Sellers Info Back to Top

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SEVEN SELLING MISTAKES YOU DON'T WANT TO MAKE!

Mistake #1 -- Pricing Your Property Too High

Every seller obviously wants to get the most money for his or her
product. Ironically, the best way to do this is NOT to list your
product at an excessively high price! A high listing price will cause
some prospective buyers to lose interest before even seeing your
property. Also, it may lead other buyers to expect more than what you
have to offer. As a result, overpriced properties tend to take an
unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a lower
price.

Mistake #2 -- Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for the Market Value

Unfortunately, a re-finance appraisal may have been stated at an
untruthfully high price. Often, lenders estimate the value of your
property to be higher than it actually is in order to encourage
re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be lower.
Your best bet is to ask your REALTORŽ for the most recent information
regarding property sales in your community. This will give you an
up-to-date and factually accurate estimate of your property value.

Mistake #3 -- Forgetting to "Showcase Your Home"

In spite of how frequently this mistake is addressed and how simple it
is to avoid, its prevalence is still widespread. When attempting to
sell your home to prospective buyers, do not forget to make your home
look as pleasant as possible. Make necessary repairs. Clean. Make sure
everything functions and looks presentable. A poorly kept home in need
of repairs will surely lower the selling price of your property and
will even turn away some buyers.

Mistake #4 -- Trying to "Hard Sell" While Showing

Buying a house is always an emotional and difficult decision. As a
result, you should try to allow prospective buyers to comfortably
examine your property. Don't try haggling or forcefully selling.
Instead, be friendly and hospitable. A good idea would be to point out
any subtle amenities and be receptive to questions.

Mistake #5 -- Trying to Sell to "Looky-Loos"

A prospective buyer who shows interest because of a "for sale" sign he
saw may not really be interested in your property. Often buyers who do
not come through a REALTORŽ are a good 6-9 months away from buying, and
they are more interested in seeing what is out there than in actually
making a purchase. They may still have to sell their house, or may
not be able to afford a house yet. They may still even be unsure as
to whether or not they want to relocate.

Your REALTORŽ should be able to distinguish realistic potential buyers
from mere lookers. REALTORŽs should usually find out a prospective
buyer's savings, credit rating, and purchasing power in general. If
your REALTORŽ fails to find out this pertinent information, you should
do some investigating and questioning on your own. This will help you
avoid wasting valuable time marketing towards the wrong people. If
you have to do this work yourself, consider finding a new REALTORŽ.

Mistake #6 -- Not Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities

It is extremely important that you are well-informed of the details
in your real estate contract. Real estate contracts are legally
binding documents, and they can often be complex and confusing.
Not being aware of the terms in your contract could cost you thousands
for repairs and inspections. Know what you are responsible for before
signing the contract. Can the property be sold "as is"? How will deed
restrictions and local zoning laws affect your transaction? Not
knowing the answers to these kinds of questions could end up costing
you a considerable amount of money.

Mistake #7 -- Limiting the Marketing and Advertising of the Property

Your REALTORŽ should employ a wide variety of marketing techniques.
Your REALTORŽ should also be committed to selling your property; he or
she should be available for every phone call from a prospective buyer.
Most calls are received, and open houses are scheduled, during
business hours, so make sure that your REALTORŽ is working on selling
your home during these hours. Chances are that you have a job, too,
so you may not be able to get in touch with many potential buyers.

Come back soon!

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SELLERS: How A Good REALTOR Can Maximize Your Profits.

Most of us are not aware of the trends and fluctuations of the real estate market. Likewise we don't know the steps necessary to maximize profits on the sale of our home. We rely heavily on the real estate agent to lead us down the path of profits. Considering your home is typically the most valuable asset you possess, doesn't it make sense to list with someone who will be able to generate the most money in a sale?

This report was designed to empower you with critical information necessary to evaluate an agent's qualifications and help you identify the professional that will best serve your needs. The more meticulous you are in your search for an agent, the higher your profits will be.

Start by doing some research. Find out who the most active real estate agents are in your market. Ask friends, relatives and co-workers for referrals, then compile a list and find out how the agent markets his or her listings to sell.

Place a call to each of the agents on your list. Document how quickly they return your call. Remember, they will be returning calls to your prospective homebuyers. Do an initial interview over the phone so when you meet, you will be prepared.

At the meeting, request a step-by-step 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN for your sale including everything from title to escrow so you know exactly what services the agent will provide. Evaluate the team that your potential agent has assembled. Top producers will have established relationships with lenders, title reps, and inspectors. They are there for your benefit. Should any of these people not be prepared to handle any aspect of the sale, then you are not receiving the best possible service.

Request a complete report of your property with ideas for improvements, cosmetic changes or structural repairs that can add value to your property. A small investment up front can pay huge dividends at the time of the sale. Also request detailed information about current market conditions, the competition of other homes for sale and proper pricing. Have your agent educate you on all aspects regarding your sale. Insist that all potential buyers be pre-qualified to purchase your home. Screen out unwanted prospects before getting to the final stages of negotiating.

Request a complete net sheet, minus commissions and fees, so you know exactly how much money you will profit at the time of the sale.

Insist on a step-by-step marketing plan of how your home is going to be marketed and sold. Look for innovative ways to attract homebuyers. Demand 24-hour advertising, lead accountability, and tracking services. These services do exist and you should make sure they are part of your home's marketing.

Investigate the agent's marketing strategy. Do they waste their time cold calling all day or do they have a MARKETING PLAN in place to attract qualified buyer prospects? Do they contact those leads? Also find out what type of direct mail campaign the agent has in place. Is it professional? Does the mailing generate buyer prospects that would be interested in purchasing your house?

What type of advertising will they use? Insist that the advertising be well written and professional in appearance. They should be advertising, at a minimum, in a homes magazine, in the local newspaper and with yard signs. The quality of the advertising will directly affect how well your home will be perceived.

Have a written and well-conceived negotiating strategy. A sound negotiating strategy can make thousands of dollars of difference when the final sale goes through, so your agent must have a plan in place for this aspect.

Finally, have a written closing checklist. You need to know how to conclude the sale of your home in an orderly and legally sound manner.

A strong, qualified agent must meet all the requirements listed in this report if they are truly going to sell your property for TOP DOLLAR.

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Back to Sellers Info Back to Top

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 SELLERS: Mistakes To Avoid That Can Delay Your Sale!

Mistake #1: Not taking the time to enhance your home's showing.
When potential buyers drive past your home, their first impression will be based on what they see on the outside. If the buyer is disappointed, they probably won't want to take the time to go inside, no matter how nice the inside may look. Many sales are already closed before the buyer walks inside, based solely on the outside appeal of the house. There are many things you can't change, such as location or lot size, but you can enhance the appearance of your home with a few minor alterations and some serious cleaning. Ask your REALTORŽ what can be done to make your home more attractive. A good agent will know what buyers look for.

Mistake #2: Insisting that your home is shown only when it is convenient for you.
While no one wants their dinner disturbed by strangers trooping through the house, often the only time buyers can see your home is after work hours or on weekends. Plan ahead. Keep the house orderly and make time away from home. If possible, plan events to take weary children away from home showings. Sure, a last minute showing might be a minor inconvenience, but it also may be the last buyer who sees your house before deciding to buy it.

Mistake #3: Attempting to hide problems with your home.
Be honest with your REALTORŽ and your potential buyers with regards to the property relating to health, safety, or environment. It's common today for inspections to be a part of the sales contract, and during the inspections most problems will be discovered anyway, but hiding the truth can kill a sale and land you in court. It's much better to factor the costs of repairs into the sale rather than face lawsuits after the fact.

Mistake #4: Inadequate marketing methods.
In most cases, you will have to advertise your home. Marketing today requires much more than a "for sale" sign on the lawn. Prospective buyers with their busy schedules don't have the time to simply look through the classified ads. Your home should be marketed 24/7 hours a day with an information hotline and virtual home tour on the Internet. Ask your REALTORŽ what strategies are in place so that you can be sure your property is generating potential leads 24/7.

Mistake #5: Failing to look at your home from the buyer's perspective.
Sellers tend to become too comfortable with the clutter that surrounds their home. Buyers may tolerate such mess in their own homes, but the homes they are looking at to buy must be spotless. A repair, no matter how small, is something the buyer will look at as an added expense and inconvenience when purchasing the home, and can thus use it to negotiate a lower price.

Mistake #6: Offering explanations about your home during showings.
Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable when the homeowners are not present. If you do remain home, resist the urge to offer explanations, point out perceived flaws or offer to repair items that the buyer might not have noticed or question your REALTORŽ about. People differ in preferences. The less said, the better.

Mistake #7: Not understanding how to price your home properly.
Determining the market value of your home is one of the most challenging aspects of the entire selling process. If the list price is too high, you'll limit showings and offers. Some home sellers believe they have to price the property high so that they can accept a lower offer or have room to negotiate. Potential buyers who may have otherwise liked the home don't bother to come by because of the high asking price. It's important to know and understand how the current market works. A buyer is more likely to make a full price offer on a home that is priced right before making a low offer on a home that is priced too high. A top-producing agent will know how to advise you to price your property correctly to generate the most profit.

Mistake #8: Not planning your move before your home sells.
Many sellers don't plan their move early enough, then they feel totally overwhelmed when it comes time to vacate the property. Have your move organized before a contract is ever signed. Don't wait until the last minute to get an estimate from a moving company. When you do things last minute, the price can skyrocket and you don't have the time to shop around. Be sure to keep a record of your expenses during the move. Many of these expenses can be tax deductible. Take an inventory of everything you own so that you know the proper things arrive at your new home.

Mistake #9: Being inflexible or unwilling to compromise.
Sometimes it is necessary to be flexible when it comes to the sale of your home. If you're not willing to budge about the date you move out, price, necessary repairs, etc, the buyers can become discouraged or even angry. Agreeing to a repair that might cost a couple hundred dollars might actually save you much more on interest on your home loan in the long run. While you don't have to give away hard-earned equity, often sellers must look at the overall savings involved. Again, ask your real estate agent for advice. Choose your listing agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him/her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Back to Sellers Info Back to Top

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SELLERS: Steps To Selling Your House For The Highest Possible Price!

The ability to reap additional profits on the sale of your home can be accomplished easily enough if you make the right improvements. Making these changes early on can provide the prospective buyer with an enhanced feeling about your home, more space, more light, more rooms, closet space, privacy, warmth and security. Basic, simple and inexpensive improvements can provide an improved emotional appeal for a potential buyer.

For example, a crack in the wall can be (and should be) repaired with some simple plaster and touch-up paint. Though the feeling may not be conscious, it's just as important that the buyer feel an overall desire to buy your home. Included in this report are several different ways you can make your home shine and sell for the best possible price.

Decorate with pictures and mirrors to add style to the home. Mirrors can provide a greater sense of space when properly placed. Touch up the frames and then place the mirrors around your home. Be careful not to overdo it with too many mirrors.

One of the biggest complaints heard from potential buyers that there isn't enough closet space. Purchasing an inexpensive closet organizer and installing it in any or all of your closets can make all the difference. You can also try putting a rod across one corner of a bedroom for hanging clothes. The idea here is to be creative so that the "fake closet" looks as though it were part of the room.

Wallpaper is inexpensive, quick, and simple. The right wallpaper can brighten the room or hallway and bring it back to life. Make sure to choose something with a neutral design or pattern. Remember, you are trying to sell the home and move out.

Buyers are easily turned off by a nasty, dingy floor. Whether you have wax, wooden or tile floors, do whatever you can to make them shine again. For wax floors, either rent a floor machine or call a professional for an estimate and a description of what they will do to restore your floor. If you have carpeted floors, either steam clean them or have carpet samples available and explain to the buyers you will pay x amount for them to install the carpet of their choice.

Having houseplants is not only healthy for you but creates a feeling of warmth around them. Many indoor plants are far less expensive than you might imagine. Attractive ceramic or brass pots can add a designer flair to your home. Hanging plants such as Boston ferns are inexpensive, easy to care for and would go great in your new home when you move.

Give your bathroom a face-lift by adding a coat of fresh paint, some decorative moldings, tile grout, and maybe a new designer faucet and showerhead. Perhaps more important than anywhere else in the house, clean your bathrooms relentlessly.

However, these simple dress-up tips are nice for quick and easy improvements, but there are other factors that will also affect your home's resale value. These have much more to do with the legality and contracts and inspections that are necessary when selling a home. Each and every one is just as important as the overall appearance of the home.

First of all, you must price your property correctly and at a competitive market value when you list it. The market is so competitive that even overpricing by a few thousand dollars can be the difference on selling or not. The problem with an overpriced home is that it can minimize the number of offers, lower the number of showings, lower agent response, limit financing, limit the number of qualified buyers, and net less money for the seller.

You must make your home available for showings. Top agents will not show homes that they must search high and low for the key and access - they do not have time to rush around town all day chasing down and dropping off house keys. If you will be home during a showing, then put on some soft music and take a walk when the potential buyers come through, letting the buyer be at ease and letting the real estate agent do his or her job. Selling your home quickly can be a benefit if you need to leave immediately, but can cost you thousands of dollars. A buyer sensing the seller is distressed will make a lower offer. This is why pricing correctly is important - you should know all there is to know about the market before listing and work hand in hand with your agent.

Disclosing property flaws is vital in selling your home for the most possible money. Get professional assistance for all levels, from disclosing the flaw to fixing it. If you are unaware of a problem or attempt to cover it you, you risk losing the sale and finding yourself in court.

Perhaps the most important aspect of selling your home is choosing the right REALTORŽ for you. Just like offers on the house, don't take the first one through the door. Take the time get to know your real estate agent and make sure they are going to work in your best interests. Ask if they have a 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN they plan to implement to sell your home for the best possible price.

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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SELLERS: How To Easily Increase The Value Of Your House!
 

Whether you just want your house to look better or you are serious about getting your house ready for potential buyers to start viewing your house to purchase, Here are 38 valuable tips to get you on your way:

EXTERIOR:
1. Paint the exterior of your home to make it look cleaner and years younger. If your home has been painted within the last few months, have the trim painted again. The fresh smell of paint to the buyer shows that the seller has put forth effort to prepare the home for sale.
2. Trim shrubs, especially around walkways.
3. Park extra cars down the street.
4. Sweep debris from sidewalks, patios, and the front walkway.
5. Put away all toys, skateboards and bicycles.
6. Remove rusted swing sets and worn out patio furniture.
7. Move firewood off the ground and away from the house. On a termite inspection, firewood stacked next to the house might be listed as conducive to termite infestation.
8. Make sure the roof is in good condition.
9. Mow the lawn frequently. Weed and plant flowers.
10. Clean all windows and repair any broken panes.
11. Keep pets out of the way.
12. Clean up oil stains on the driveway.
13. Water yard only in the early morning or late evening to avoid water being tracked inside the home.
14. Move trashcans from out front of the house and out of walkways.
15. Clean the gutters.
16. Repair sprinkler heads so that the yard doesn't develop brown spots.

INTERIOR:
17. Put away all dishes, toasters, blenders, etc. from kitchen counters to create the illusion of spaciousness.
18. Organize the laundry room. Clean all clothing or keep it neatly in baskets or hampers.
19. Bathrooms should sparkle. Clean the faucets. If the shower curtain is worn, buy a new one.
20. All flooring should be cleaned and vacuumed.
21. Make the beds.
22. Remove all clothes from chairs or floors.
23. Remove unnecessary furniture items to create space. This will make your rooms appear larger.
24. Keep appliances, air conditioner and heater in perfect working order.
25. Seal or calk windows, tubs, showers and sinks.
26. Clean ashes from the fireplace.
27. Open drapes and blinds, and turn on all the lights.
28. Store away extra clothes and shoes so closets appear larger.
29. Remove knickknacks that look cluttered.
30. Remove potentially offensive posters or paintings.
31. Put toys away in the kids' bedrooms.
32. Move any valuable figurines or artwork that could accidentally get knocked over.
33. Place fresh flowers and plants throughout the home.
34. Keep pet areas clean and odor free.
35. Secure jewelry, cash, and prescription medication out of sight and out of reach.
36. Remove any extension cords or phone cords that might present a walking hazard.
37. Make sure that the temperature inside your home is comfortable during showings.
38. Be sure to place jewelry or any other valuables in a safe deposit box.

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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SELLERS: Moving Up To A Larger Home? Avoid These Mistakes!

Unlike the experience of buying a home for the first time, when you are looking to move up and already own a home, there are certain factors that you must consider. It's very important you evaluate these factors before you list your home for sale.

Not only is there the issue of financing to consider, but also the fact that you have to sell your present home at exactly the right time in order to avoid the financial burden of owning two homes or, just as bad, having no place to live during the gap between closings.

Most of us dream of improving our lifestyle and moving up to a larger home. The problem is that there's sometimes a discrepancy between our hearts and our bank accounts. You drive by a home that you fall in love with only to find that it has already sold or the asking price is way too high. Most homeowners get caught in this hit or miss strategy of house-hunting when there is a much easier way to go about the process. Your first move is to meet with a competent agent and discuss the sale of your house and necessary improvements to make. How much you will net from your sale will determine what you can purchase. Look at a few homes to get a general idea of availability so when you are ready to buy, you can do so quickly.

If you want to get the best price for the home you are already selling, there are certain things you must do to enhance its salability. The repairs and alterations don't have to be expensive. Even making minor investments can come back to you ten-fold in the price you are able to realize. Making minor improvements must be done before the house is put on the market in order to attain top dollar for your home.

You should plan to sell before you buy. This way you will not find yourself at a disadvantage when seated at the negotiating table feeling pressure to sell at a below-market price because you have to meet a purchase deadline. If you have already sold your home, you can buy a new one with no strings attached. If you do get a tempting offer on your home but have not made significant headway on finding a new home, you might want to put in a contingency clause that gives you reasonable time to find a home to buy. If the market is slow and you find your home is not selling as quickly as you anticipated, another option could be to rent out your home and put it on the market at a later date. This can be particularly effective if you are selling a smaller start-up home. You'll have to investigate the tax requirements if you choose this latter option. Better still, find a way to eliminate the situation altogether by getting your agent to guarantee the sale of your present home.

Be sure to get pre-approved for a loan before the process of buying and selling begins. There is never a cost or obligation involved with getting pre-approved for a loan and it will give you a significant advantage when you put an offer on the home you want to purchase. A pre-approved buyer will always look better to a seller than one who does not yet have financial backing.

Your biggest decision when buying and selling is deciding which to do first. Look for Guaranteed Trade-Up programs with your real estate agent. This means that if you find a new home before your current home is sold, the agent will buy your home from you in order to make your move hassle free.

With two transactions to coordinate together and with all the people involved in buying and selling homes, the chances of mix-ups and miscommunication increase dramatically. To avoid this be sure to work as closely as possible with your real estate agent.

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of them. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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SELLERS: How To Prepare To Pass The Home Inspection!

Home buyers may be as unique as the homes they are looking to buy, but they all share a common desire to ensure that the home they will call their own is as good beneath the surface as it appears to be. They will have concerns about the roof, the heating system, the floors and the walls and everything that they can't readily see with the naked eye. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you're looking for. Knowing what to look for can help you prevent little problems from growing into major problems.

Defective plumbing can manifest itself in two manners - leaking and clogging. A visual inspection can detect leaking, and an inspector will gauge water pressure by turning on all faucets in the highest bathroom and then flushing the toilet. If you hear the sound of running water, it indicates that the pipes are undersized. If the water appears dirty when the faucet is first turned on, this is a strong sign that the pipes are rusting. This can result in severe water quality issues.

An inspector will check your walls for a powdery white substance a few inches off the floor, and will look to see if you feel secure enough to store things right on your basement floor. A mildew odor is almost impossible to eliminate, and an inspector will certainly be conscious of it. It can cost you up to a thousand dollars to seal a crack in or around your basement foundation, depending on the severity and location. Adding a sump pump and pit could cost up to a thousand dollars, and complete waterproofing (an average sized 3-bedroom home) can go as high as ten to fifteen thousand dollars. You will have to weigh these figures into the calculation of what you want to net on your home sale.

Inadequate electrical wiring can be dangerous as it can easily lead to fires. Your home should have a minimum of 100 amps of service, and this should be clearly marked. Wire should be copper or aluminum. Home inspectors will look at octopus plugs as indicative of inadequate circuits and a potential fire hazard.

Insufficient insulation and an inadequate or poorly working heating system are the most common causes of poor heating. While a clean furnace, without rust on the heat exchanger, usually has life left in it, an inspector will ask and check to see if your furnace is over its typical life span of fifteen to twenty-five years. For a forced air gas system, a heat exchanger will come under particular scrutiny since one that is cracked can emit deadly carbon monoxide into homes. These heat exchangers cannot be repaired - they must be replaced.

Problems with the roof (water leakage, for example) can occur for many different reasons, such as physical deterioration of the shingles or mechanical damage from a windstorm. When gutters leak and downspouts allow water to run down and through the exterior walls, the external problem becomes a major internal one as well.

Damp attic spaces are a sign of ventilation, insulation and vapor barrier problems that can cause water to pool and form moisture, mold and mildew. This can lead to premature wear on the roof, structure, and building materials. The cost to fix this damage can easily run over two thousand dollars.

Rotting wood can occur in many places, such as doors, window frames, trim, siding, decks and fences. The building inspector will sometimes probe the wood to see if this is present - especially when wood has been freshly painted.

Re-bricking can be costly, but left unattended, these repairs can cause problems with water and moisture penetration into the home which in turn could lead to a chimney being clogged with fallen bricks, or could even lead to a total chimney collapse. These problems are far more dangerous than ignoring this potential hazard.

A fire hazard is created when more amperage is drawn on the circuit than was originally intended. 15 amp circuits are the most common in a typical home, with larger service for large appliances such as stoves and dryers. It can cost several hundred dollars to replace your fuse panel with a circuit panel.

More than a purchased security system, an inspector will look for the basic safety features that will protect your home such as proper locks on windows and patio doors, dead bolts on the front door, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all the bedrooms and on every level of the home. Even though pricing will vary, these components will add to your costs. Before purchasing or installing, you should check with your local experts.

An inspector will certainly investigate the underlying structure and foundation of your home, as structural integrity is vital to the life of the home.

When you put your home up for sale, it is important that you don't end up with any major surprises. By taking the time to check thoroughly the items listed in this report, you could save yourself thousands of dollars and the headache of a lawsuit down the road.

Choosing Your Agent Wisely:
Any agent will show enthusiasm and will want to list your house for sale but choose your agent based upon
A. Experience at listing and marketing houses for sale.
B. Ability to use technology to market your house world wide to buyers 24/7.
C. Reviewing with you a comprehensive Marketing Analysis of home sales in your area.
D. Ability to offer a written detailed 30-DAY MARKETING PLAN that will get your house sold at the highest possible price.

Working with a full-time professional real estate agent is a must. Choose your agent by asking questions of him or her. Find out how knowledgeable they are about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates to assist your new buyer with financing? A good listing agent can get your house sold quickly at TOP DOLLAR and help you find a new home.

Thank you for requesting a copy of this "FREE REPORT"

Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further? Don't waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I'm here to help!

I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don't hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

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MOVING TIPS

Easing the Transition to Your New Home
Use the right boxes, and pack them carefully

Professional moving companies use only sturdy, reinforced cartons.
The boxes you can get at your neighborhood supermarket or liquor store
might be free, but they are not nearly as strong or padded, and so
can't shield your valuables as well from harm in transit.

Use sheets, blankets, pillows and towels to separate pictures and
other fragile objects from each other and the sides of the carton.
Pack plates and glass objects vertically, rather than flat and
stacked.

Be sure to point out to your mover the boxes in which you've packed
fragile items, especially if those items are exceptionally valuable.
The mover will advise you whether those valuables need to be repacked
in sturdier, more appropriate boxes.

The heavier the item, the smaller the box it should occupy. A good
rule of thumb is if you can't lift the carton easily, it's too heavy.
Label your boxes, especially the one containing sheets and towels,
so you can find everything you need the first night in your new home.

For your family's safety and comfort

Teach your children your new address. Let them practice writing it on
packed cartons. You can lighten your load and reduce any storage space
you need to rent by hosting a garage or yard sale.

Fill two "OPEN ME FIRST" cartons containing snacks, instant coffee or
tea bags, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and brushes, medicine and
toiletry items (make sure caps are tightly secured), flashlight,
screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a
pan or two, paper towels, and any other items your family can't do
without. Ask your van foreman to load one of these boxes, so that
it will be unloaded at your new home first. Why the second box? In
case the movers are delayed getting to your house on the day of the
move.

Keep your pets out of packing boxes and away from all the activity on
moving day.

Let all your electrical gadgets return to room temperature before
plugging them in.

Since you may need to call old neighbors or businesses from your new
home, pack your phone book.

Work hand in hand with your mover

Give the mover's foreman your reach numbers and email addresses so
you can stay in contact.

Read the inventory form carefully, and ask the mover to explain
anything you don't understand. Make a note of your shipment's
registration number, and keep your Bill of Lading handy.

If you're moving long distance, be aware that your property might
share a truck with that of several other households. For this reason,
your mover might have to warehouse your furniture and belongings for
several days. Therefore, ask your mover whether your goods will remain
on the truck until delivered. If they have to be stored, ask whether
you can check the warehouse for security, organization and
cleanliness.

Thanks for visiting! Come again!

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How to Acheive the perfect move

Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful situations that a person can endure, so it is vital that you find ways to make the transition as easy as possible. There are two distinct types of stress that one faces when changing homes. First, there is the financial aspect of the move. Finding the right home at the right price, negotiating the purchase with a seller, filling out the lengthy paperwork involved, and handling the escrow can all take its toll. Then there is the emotional aspect of the move, and this is often where the greatest amount of stress is felt. A competent and professional real estate agent can make the financial steps of the process easy, but if your emotional needs are unfulfilled, you may find yourself tired and frustrated and not acting in your own best interest.

It's important to begin with the end of the process in mind. When you know the exact result you want to end up with, the process of getting there becomes much easier. Take the time to analyze how your life will be once you have moved into your new home and how it will be better than your current situation. Take the time to write out the improvements to your life and keep this with you at all times during the transaction. Having a physical copy of your goal will energize you to achieve it, regardless of any setbacks. This will be an emotional anchor that can keep you mentally in place.

Be flexible throughout the process. Allow yourself financial peace of mind by overestimating th