Candace Carlson’s Blog

Candace Carlson’s Bloghttp://candacecarlson.com/This is a blog to help you get information about today's real estate marketen-usFri, 23 Apr 2010 16:06:00 GMT10GDRSSFeeds v1.0Home Buyers/Sellers Optimistichttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/23/home-buyerssellers-optimistic<div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 12pt" class="article_title">First-Time Home Buyers, Sellers Optimistic </span></div> <div align="left"> </div> <div align="left"><br /> </strong><font size="2" face="Arial">More than 48 percent of first-time buyers expect home prices to increase by this time next year, according to a recent real estate survey. </font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">The survey posed questions to people who had bought or sold a home in the last year.</font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">Sixty percent of first-time home buyers say they didn’t understand the process of buying a home, and more than 85 percent of both first-time buyers and sellers said that using a real estate professional was important. </font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">The top three skills valued in a real estate professional by both buyers and sellers were knowledge of the area, trustworthiness, and responsiveness.</font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">More than 80 percent of buyers believe now is a good time to buy a home. First-time home buyers rated these three factors as the most influential in their decision:</font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">• </font><font size="2" face="Arial">Current housing prices: 66 percent</font><br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">• </font><font size="2" face="Arial">Home Buyer tax credit: 63 percent</font><br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">• </font><font size="2" face="Arial">Low loan rates: 60 percent</font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">In choosing a home, 95 percent of first-time home buyers thought price was the most important consideration, but 90 percent were also very concerned about neighborhood safety.</font><br /> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">About 54 percent of first-time sellers think home prices are more affordable now than they were this time last year, and 50 percent were selling because they were purchasing a property they saw as more attractive and better suited to their needs.</font></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/23/home-buyerssellers-optimistic" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/23/home-buyerssellers-optimistic#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/23/home-buyerssellers-optimisticFri, 23 Apr 2010 16:06:00 GMTHome Staging Tips That Focus on Largest Customer Segmentshttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/15/home-staging-tips-that-focus-on-largest-customer-segments  <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">The busy spring buying and selling season is underway and as a stagng expert, I am  offering staging tips to get your home ready for sale. A quicker home sale can be reached by keeping in mind the needs of the home’s most likely buyer and creating a fresh inspiring look just for them, according to Pulte Homes expert Janice Jones, national vice president of merchandising.</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">“Everyone understands the value of de-cluttering, cleaning and refreshing a home in today’s competitive market,” Jones said. “The difference between a ‘For Sale’ and a ‘Sold’ sign often boils down to effectively staging a home to appeal to young singles, families or empty nesters—the three largest customer segments that are likely to buy your home. Home sellers should have a good idea of the type of buyer who will make an offer and, since everyone likes an updated home, some simple refreshes can achieve an updated look and feel.”</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">Jones recommends conducting a technology overhaul prior to staging your home. “Old technology will date your home and you seldom have a second chance to make a positive first impression,” she said. “Flat screen TVs, lap top computers, iPods with docking stations and wireless technology have eliminated the need for large bulky entertainment centers or massive desks designed to hide wiring. Once you’ve rid your home of bulky, dated stereos and TVs, it’s time to hone in on attracting prospects.”</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 9pt">For singles</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">, Jones recommends emphasizing sleeping spaces and the living room, which are critical to this group. “Singles will spend a lot of time in the living room and the bedroom, which are their sanctuaries from the outside world. As a result, there is no need to set the dining room table with place settings,” Jones said. “Instead, focus on a simple TV stand with clean lines, a flat screen TV and candles in the bedroom and bathroom.”</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 9pt">Young families tend to revolve around children</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">. Items that help this demographic envision themselves living in the space include age-appropriate bedding, linens and towels, a bright rug near play areas, and strategically placed toy chests with open tops. Since kids often play or watch TV on the floor, eliminate the coffee table to create a living room that appears larger and more inviting. Jones notes to remember about the garage when staging for families. “Organize children’s toys and sports equipment to showcase the garage’s storage capacity without compromising functionality,” she said.</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 9pt">Empty nesters tend to seek an upgrade in quality features</span></strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">. Upgrading bath accessories like towel bars and toilet paper holders or decorative hanging lights to a better quality and newer style will make an impact. If the budget allows, upgrading the refrigerator, stove and dishwasher can draw in a buyer. Lighting is also a key feature for this group. Jones advises ensuring living spaces maximize natural light. If lighting is less than ideal, add lamps or a ceiling fan with light fixtures. It’s important to open heavy blinds or window coverings when showing the home.</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">An absolute “must” for home stagers regardless of which demographic being targeted is color. Most sellers are instructed to use neutral colors when repainting. However, adding the right punch of color to accent walls can create depth, enhance kitchen cabinets, or bring a boring bathroom to life.</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">Homeowners can find color in simple accessories, like throw pillows, coffee table books, and decorative canisters. Neutral colors in flooring materials, upholstery pieces and window dressing work well because they enhance brighter accents.</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 9pt">When choosing colors, Jones cautions homeowners to be aware of their sensory impact:</span></strong></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Red is stimulating and encourages self confidence</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Orange promotes happiness and celebration</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Yellow is uplifting and light-hearted</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Blue is calming in softer tones and promotes clarity in deeper tones</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Green is the color of nature—it feels fresh and rejuvenating</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Aqua is restful while pink is gentle and sweet—making a great pair</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">- Purple tones bring out a sense of compassion</span></p> <p style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 5pt"><span style="font-family: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; font-size: 9pt">“The key is to experiment and put yourself in the shoes of the prospective home buyer,” Jones said. “It may be helpful to ask a friend or relative for a brutally honest opinion before and after you start staging. You may be surprised how little changes—with a little budget—can make a huge difference to a prospective buyer.”</span></p><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/15/home-staging-tips-that-focus-on-largest-customer-segments" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/15/home-staging-tips-that-focus-on-largest-customer-segments#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/04/15/home-staging-tips-that-focus-on-largest-customer-segmentsThu, 15 Apr 2010 15:41:00 GMT64 Days and Counting!http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/25/64-days-and-counting<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">There are only 64 Days left to take advantage of the Homebuyer Tax Credit. </div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">Some of the most commonly asked questions are: <br />           <br />            "Do I have to sell my current home in order to take advantage of the move up buyers tax credit?" The answer is no!! As long as you have lived in your current home for more than five consecutive years, you will qualify.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span> <div>                <span style="font-size: 12pt">  "Is there a cap on the cost of a new purchased home?" The answer is yes! There is an $800,000 cap, any amount above $800,000 makes it ineligible for any portion of the credit.</span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div>               <span style="font-size: 12pt">   "In the existing homeowners credit, must the new house cost more than the new house?" The answer is no, thus for example individuals who move from a high cost area to a lower cost area and whom meet all eligibility requirements will qualify.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></span></div> <div> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/25/64-days-and-counting" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/25/64-days-and-counting#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/25/64-days-and-countingThu, 25 Feb 2010 14:29:00 GMT4 Reasons to Sell Nowhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/12/4-reasons-to-sell-now<div class="date_page"><br /> Daily Real Estate News  <strong>|  </strong> February 8, 2010</span>  <strong>|  </strong><span class="featurebox_normal_link"> <script type="text/javascript"> addthis_pub = 'rmostaff'; addthis_logo = 'http://www.addthis.com/images/yourlogo.png'; addthis_logo_background = 'EFEFFF'; addthis_logo_color = '666699'; addthis_brand = ''; addthis_options = 'delicious, digg, favorites, facebook, fark, google, reddit, magnoliacom, newsvine, furl, yahoo, technorati, twitter, icerocket'; document.write('<a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" title="" target="" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')"><img src="http://www.realtor.org/wps/wcm/connect/0a94d9004a0e169ba586adf0c17838b5/tools_addthis.gif?MOD=AJPERES&CACHEID=0a94d9004a0e169ba586adf0c17838b5" border="0" width="16" height="16" alt="" /> Share</a></span></div></div>');</script><a onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" title="" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()" href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" target="" s_oidt="0" s_oid="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php"><img border="0" src="http://www.realtor.org/wps/wcm/connect/0a94d9004a0e169ba586adf0c17838b5/tools_addthis.gif?MOD=AJPERES&CACHEID=0a94d9004a0e169ba586adf0c17838b5" width="16" height="16" alt="" /> Share</a></span></div> <div></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/152/addthis_widget.js"></script><span class="article_title">4 Reasons to Sell Now</span> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial">Selling a property in this tough market can seem like a challenge. Here are four factors that actually make this a good time to post a For-Sale sign.</font><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong><font size="2" face="Arial">1. Sell low and buy low</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">. Because all property values are down, the loss on the property a home owner sells is really only a paper loss because the next property he buys also will be a bargain. If he buys smartly, when prices come back up in a few years, he’ll be in better shape.</font><br /> <br /> <strong><font size="2" face="Arial">2. Down-payment help is widely available</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">. While nothing-down loans have disappeared, it is easy to find down-payment assistance for lower-income and first-time home buyers. Programs vary all over the country, but one good way to find them is to search online for “down-payment assistance programs” and the name of your region.</font><br /> <br /> <strong><font size="2" face="Arial">3. Your uncle has money to share</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">. Besides the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit and the $6,500 move-up credit, there are an array of energy tax credits that can make home improvements pay off in cash.</font><br /> <br /> <strong><font size="2" face="Arial">4. Good help is available</font></strong><font size="2" face="Arial">. Really talented real estate practitioners, contractors, and designers are available and eager for business.</font><br /> <br /> <em><font size="2" face="Arial">Source: McClatchy Tribune, Kate Forgach (02/07/2010)</font></em><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/12/4-reasons-to-sell-now" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/12/4-reasons-to-sell-now#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/12/4-reasons-to-sell-nowFri, 12 Feb 2010 13:46:00 GMTWe Would Love Your Feedback!!http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/09/we-would-love-your-feedbackI<span style="font-size: 12pt"> started this blog to help buyers and sellers with a few tips to help make the buying and selling proccess a little easier. I have noticed that there are a few of you out there that are reading it. I would<strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>love</strong> </span></strong>to know what you think of the content that I have been putting in this, or if I need to focus a little more on specific things.<strong> I would also be more than happy to answer any questions that anyone may have about any of the content.</strong> I will continue to post as much pertanent information as I can. I look forward to hearing your comments!!</span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/09/we-would-love-your-feedback" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/09/we-would-love-your-feedback#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/09/we-would-love-your-feedbackFri, 12 Feb 2010 13:46:00 GMTMove-up Tax Credithttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/04/move-up-tax-credit<p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Hello Everyone, Here is some info for you that you may want to know! <p> </p> </span> <p> </p> <p><strong><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.5pt; font-weight: bold">6 Surprising Facts About the Buyer Tax Credit</strong></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">The homebuyer tax credit is not as simple or straightforward as you might think. Here are some nuances that will affect homebuyers who plan to use it.</span> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <ul type="disc"> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">To qualify for the move-up tax credit, a home owner must have occupied the same principal residence for five of the last eight years consecutively. <p> </p> </span> <p> </p> </li> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">Buyers can elect to claim the credit on either their 2009 or their 2010 tax return, whichever is best for them. <p> </p> <p> </p> </span></li> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">Buyers who claim the credit in 2009 can’t file electronically because the Internal Revenue Service hasn’t put the required forms on line. The wait for a refund is three or four months. <p> </p> </span> <p> </p> </li> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">The home can be a mobile home or travel trailer that is fixed to land owned or leased by the home owner. A mobile home or travel trailer that is actually mobile doesn’t qualify. <p> </p> </span> <p> </p> </li> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">The home can’t be purchased from a close relative, including a parent, spouse, child, grandparent or grandchild. <p> </p> </span> <p> </p> </li> <li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt">A buyer who earns no taxable income or doesn’t owe any federal income tax can qualify for the tax credit and file a tax return just to claim it.</span></li> </ul><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/04/move-up-tax-credit" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/04/move-up-tax-credit#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/02/04/move-up-tax-creditThu, 04 Feb 2010 15:55:00 GMTCraigslist Rental Scamhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/28/craigslist-rental-scam<span class="blglarge"><span style="font-size: 12pt"><span style="color: red" class="blglarge">Craigslist Rental Scam</span><br /> <em>January 28, 2010.</em> NWMLS has been notified of a scam involving the placement of active residential listings on Craigslist as rentals. The perpetrator is posting the address, listing photos, and marketing remarks in these false ads. When a consumer inquires about the property, the scam artist responds and states that he is in West Africa for a prayer crusade and asks the consumer to fill out a rental application, which seeks personal information from the consumer.</span></span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/28/craigslist-rental-scam" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/28/craigslist-rental-scam#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/28/craigslist-rental-scamThu, 28 Jan 2010 11:50:00 GMTThe Eccentricity Factorhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/25/the-eccentricity-factor<div><span style="font-size: 12pt">                    Are you reducing the number of potential buyers because you haven’t listed with an agent? Some house shoppers will be apprehensive about engaging a “for sale by owner” simply because it’s not the norm. Anxieties and apprehensions will steer some people away from visiting your home. For a lot of buyers, an established brand name and a sales professional with polish are more palatable. Ask yourself whether your decision takes you outside the real-estate mainstream.</span> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt">                  By using an effective, experienced real-estate agent, he or she  can be a big help in selling your home in today's sluggish market. But finding such a Realtor may not be so easy. Some agents these days are pinching pennies. A lot of them think you can just put something on Craigslist and it will sell, and that's not how it works anymore. Often there is work to be done prior to even listing the property. To ensure you're doing business with a solid real-estate professional, contact some of his or her previous clients and ask about their experience.</div> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/25/the-eccentricity-factor" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/25/the-eccentricity-factor#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/25/the-eccentricity-factorMon, 25 Jan 2010 18:03:00 GMTFHA Official Announcementhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/23/fha-official-announcement<div><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong><u>FHA officially announced today</u></strong> that the upfront fee will increase from 1.75% to 2.25% for FHA case numbers pulled after April 4th.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">This will not be a huge issue but it is just one more reason to try and get your buyers into contract ASAP.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">April 5th- Fha loans will costs your client an extra .50% of the loan amount.  (IE $300,000 loan extra $1,500 added to their loan).</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">April 30th- Must have First Time and Repeat Buyers in Contract to get the tax credit.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">June-30th- Must close Tax credit transactions by this date.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">Also as I continue to mention the Federal Reserve's mortgage rate lowering program is set to expire the end of March so expect higher rates in April.</span></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/23/fha-official-announcement" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/23/fha-official-announcement#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/23/fha-official-announcementSat, 23 Jan 2010 13:34:00 GMTAre You Ready To Take The Plunge?http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/19/are-you-ready-to-take-the-plunge<div><span style="font-size: 12pt">           I attended a very enlightening seminar this morning. The gentleman that spoke was Brian Buffini. He was very entertaining and informative and  although his seminars are geared towards educating the Realtor, he provided great incite about todays real estate market that would benefit any perspective buyer or seller. According to Brian the recovery of the real estate market could take up to five years. <br />            That being said, if you're a prospective first time home buyer or a move-up buyer who hasn't purchased, you need to. In an unexpected and unprecedented move, Congress legislated a third Extended Home buyer Tax Credit in place effective November 7th ,2009, set to expire April 30th, 2010. But unlike the previous two tax credit rounds, this one includes current homeowners, not merely first-time buyers. It's a double bonus-buy for American Homeowners!</span> </div> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt">            As a seller you may be asking yourself "what good does this do me?" Well the race is on, interest rates are low and there are many buyers hoping to take advantage of the current market. Which means that you are more likely to get your house sold quicker and closer to the "realistic asking price!"</div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/19/are-you-ready-to-take-the-plunge" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/19/are-you-ready-to-take-the-plunge#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/19/are-you-ready-to-take-the-plungeTue, 19 Jan 2010 15:34:00 GMTDaily Tip #23 and #24http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/18/daily-tip-23-and-24<div style="text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt">Tip #23</span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Make sure you get a written disclosure of all known defects!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">           <span style="font-size: 12pt"> The good news for buyers is that the law now requires sellers to make complete disclosure of known material defects. Make sure you get it in writing. <strong>And carefully consider how these defects might affect what you're willing to pay.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong></strong></span> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><strong></strong> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><strong></strong> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #24</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Know your hidden costs!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">            <span style="font-size: 12pt"> There's more to buying a home than the mortgage. Don't forget to factor in <strong>mortgage insurance, appraisal fees, transfer taxes, title insurance and every</strong> <strong>other dollar you'll have to spend</strong> in order to know what you're<strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline">really</span> paying for your new home.</strong></span></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/18/daily-tip-23-and-24" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/18/daily-tip-23-and-24#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/18/daily-tip-23-and-24Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:02:00 GMTDaily Tip #20, #21 and #22http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/17/daily-tip-20-21-and-22<div style="text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt">Tip #20</span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Don't be pressured into a quick deal if it doesn't feel right!</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">          <span style="font-size: 12pt">While you want to move expeditiously once you're in negotiations, don't let the other side pressure you into a quick close. <strong>It may be a sign that there's something you should know, but don't</strong>. And the reason could be worth money.</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #21</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Don't be afraid to negotiate!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">            <span style="font-size: 12pt"> You may be the type of person who prefers a hard-and-fast price tag on everything. "I don't like to haggle," you say. <strong>But negotiation is the key to getting a</strong> <strong>good deal</strong>. If your goal is to get the best home possible for the least amount of money, then <strong>you had better be prepared to play.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong> </strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #22</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Stay out of bidding wars!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">             <span style="font-size: 12pt">   Sometimes, the seller's Realtor will try to scare a hesitant buyer with the threat of another serious buyer. Don't fall into this trap--it will only cost you money. <strong>If there is another buyer, then the seller's agent will try to get a bidding war going. In these situations, whoever wins also loses because the buyer ends up overpaying.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt">                 If there isn't another buyer, there's a good chance that "the other deal" will fall through and the seller's agent will come calling. <strong>Be sure to let the other side know that you <span style="text-decoration: underline">might </span>be interested if that happens before you walk away.</strong></span></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/17/daily-tip-20-21-and-22" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/17/daily-tip-20-21-and-22#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/17/daily-tip-20-21-and-22Sun, 17 Jan 2010 10:11:00 GMTDaily Tip #17, #18 and #19http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/16/daily-tip-17-18-and-19<div style="text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt">Tip #17</span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Keep your own situation to yourself!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">           <strong> </strong><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong>Information can be used against you as well</strong>. How ,much you're willing to spend, the size of mortgage you can afford, your move-in deadline--it all can be used to extract more money out of your pocket. <strong>Be sure to tell your agent</strong> <strong>everything he or she needs to know to be effective on your behalf</strong>--how much you have for a down payment, the size of the mortgage you can afford, etc. However <strong>keep your personal circumstances and to yourself</strong>.  <br /> </span><span style="font-size: 18pt"><br /> </div> </span> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><font size="5"></font> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"><font style="font-size: 18pt" size="5">Tip #18</font></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Use time to your advantage!</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">             <span style="font-size: 12pt">Just as you have a time frame in which you wish to buy, the seller almost certainly has a deadline of his own. <strong>If you can learn the seller's deadline, it's another piece of information that can be used to negotiate a better deal.</strong></span><strong> </strong></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #19</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Check your emotions at the door during negotiations!</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">            <span style="font-size: 12pt"> <strong>One of the costliest mistakes you can make is letting the sellers know</strong> <strong>how much you love their home</strong>. Once you've let it slip, you can just about forget about negotiating the price--the other side knows how motivated you are. In fact, <strong>a seller may see it as an opportunity to squeeze a little more money out of</strong>  <strong>you</strong> even when you've made a good offer to start.</span> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">               <span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong> No matter how wonderful a home is, no matter how much you want it, keep it to yourself.</strong></span> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/16/daily-tip-17-18-and-19" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/16/daily-tip-17-18-and-19#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/16/daily-tip-17-18-and-19Sat, 16 Jan 2010 15:30:00 GMTDaily Tip #15 and #16http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/15/daily-tip-15-and-16<div style="text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt">Tip #15</span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Ask for a written comparative analysis.</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">           <span style="font-size: 12pt">One way to ensure that you don't offer too much for a home is to <strong>ask your</strong> <strong>agent to prepare a written comparative market analysis</strong>. A CMA will show you the sale prices of comparable homes in the neighborhood. <strong>It also lists the asking prices of other homes in the area currently on the market.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt">            You may find that the asking price is above what comparable homes in the neighborhood are actually selling for. Or you might even find another home in the are that's a better bargain. <strong>When you make an offer, you can use the CMA as evidence to sjw the seller why you believe your offer is a reasonable one.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><strong></strong> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #16</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Learn as much as you can about the seller's situation.</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">             <span style="font-size: 12pt"> It's true what they say: Knowledge is power. <strong>The reasons a behind a sale can often be used to your competitive advantage during negotiations</strong>. For example, a seller whose company has transferred him to another city is probably more motivated to sell than someone who is still looking for a new home.</span> <div> </div> <div>                       <span style="font-size: 12pt"> Other signs of a motivated seller include a <strong>vacant house, or a house that's been on the market for several months with several reductions in the asking price.</strong></span></div> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/15/daily-tip-15-and-16" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/15/daily-tip-15-and-16#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/15/daily-tip-15-and-16Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:31:00 GMTDaily Tip #12, #13, and #14http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/14/daily-tip-12-13-and-14<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #12</div> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Choose a home with an eye toward future needs!</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">       <span style="font-size: 12pt">Buying a home is a big investment. If you can a little today to buy a home that you can grow in--whether it's having a child, running a business, or having room to build an addition--do it. <strong>In the long run, it will probably be less expensive than moving up to a marginally larger home when the need does arise.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #13</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline"><br /> Once you are ready to buy, move quickly.</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt"></span> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify">       <span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong>Good properties move fast</strong>. once you've made up your mind to buy a home and you've lined up your Realtor, <strong>be prepared to make decisions quickly</strong>. If you find the right home today but aren't ready to buy until tomorrow, you may already be<strong> too late.</strong></span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #14</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Clarify who your agent is!</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><strong>           </strong><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong>Make sure you know who the agent you're talking to represents</strong>. Any agent has a responsibility to be <strong>open</strong> and <strong>honest</strong> with you and to let you know who he or she represents--the buyer, the seller or both.</span></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/14/daily-tip-12-13-and-14" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/14/daily-tip-12-13-and-14#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/14/daily-tip-12-13-and-14Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:03:00 GMTDaily Tip #11http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/13/daily-tip-11<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #11</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Not all fixer-uppers are good buys!</span></span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="justify">               <span style="font-size: 12pt">You may be the sort of person who looks at a home in need of significant work as a <strong>challange</strong> and an <strong>opportunity</strong> to make money. Many people have bought fixer-uppers at below-market rates, invested a little sweat equity or more than a little money on renovation, then eventually <strong>put it back on the market at a profit.</strong></span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt">                 But if it is'nt priced low enough, <strong>you won't recoup your investment of time, trouble and expense.</strong> Before you proceed, do a careful evaluation of what you'll have to invest and <strong>consult with your Realtor to learn what you can <span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>reasonably</strong> </span></strong><strong>expect to make when you put the home back on the market</strong>. And be sure to include the <strong>unexpected</strong>--there's no such thing as a "sure thing."</span></div> <div align="center"> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/13/daily-tip-11" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/13/daily-tip-11#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/13/daily-tip-11Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:03:00 GMTDaily Tip #10http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/12/daily-tip-10<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #10</div> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Hire a Professional Home Inspector!</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">                  <strong>In my experience, spending a few hundred dollars on a professional home inspection is the best investment you'll ever make</strong>. A professional inspector brings experience in examining a great many homes, good evaluation standards and an unbiased perspective. And <strong>a written report can be an excellent negotiating tool.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">A Typical Inspection Looks At:</div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#1- Foundation (slab, crawlspace, basement, etc.)</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#2- Electrical, heating and plumbing systems</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#3- Floors, walls and ceilings</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#4- Attic</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#5- Roof</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#6- Siding and trim</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#7- Porches, patios and decks</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#8- Garage</span></div> <div style="font-size: 18pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 14pt">#9- Property drainage</span> <div> </div> <div>                 <span style="font-size: 12pt">Make sure you accompany your inspector on the tour. <strong>You'll learn a lot about the home you're thinking of buying.</strong></span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong></strong></span> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">                  Once you have your evaluation, the decision to proceed is your. <strong>A home inspector only gives you a professional opinion of the home's condition, not advice as to whether or not you should buy.</strong></span></div> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/12/daily-tip-10" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/12/daily-tip-10#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/12/daily-tip-10Tue, 12 Jan 2010 15:49:00 GMTDaily Tip #9http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/11/daily-tip-9<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline">Tip #9</span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Don't ignore red flags when evaluating a home's pluses and minuses.</div> <span style="font-size: 12pt"><u style="font-size: 12pt"></u> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><font size="3"></font> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><font size="3"></font> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><font style="font-size: 12pt" size="3">            When evaluating the advantages and drawbacks of a particular property, be sure you know the difference between acceptable and unacceptable problems.</font></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"> <div> </div> <div>             <span style="font-size: 12pt">      Some issues--peeling paint, worn carpeting, ugly wallpaper---are cosmetic and can be easily remedied. <strong>In fact, you can use these "problems"</strong> <strong>during negotiations to lower the asking price</strong>--after all, you'll need to spend money to bring the house up to snuff. Make careful note of what you see that can be used to your advantage. Don't nit-pick, however<strong>---if taken to extremes, you can end up alienating the seller and creating a hostile atmosphere.</strong></span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">                      Other problems may be warnings to walk away. <strong>Major foundation cracks, evidence of previous water damage, signs of serious dry rot or termite</strong> <strong>damage, antiquated electrical systems or plumbing</strong>--any one of these may be cause to reconsider your interest.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"><font face="#ce_temp_font#">                       Don't let a house's positive attributes blind you to very real problems. If you do, the chances are good that<strong> you'll end up spending much more money than you ever expected down the line</strong></font><strong>.</strong></span></div> </div> </span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/11/daily-tip-9" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/11/daily-tip-9#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/11/daily-tip-9Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:41:00 GMTDaily Tip #7 & #8http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/08/daily-tip-7-8<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 18pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Tip #7</span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Show a little interest in everything you see.</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">           As you tour the homes on your "short list," find something to admire in each one. If you don't show any interest until you've finally fallen in love with a home, then you've just put yourself at a competitive disadvantage. <strong>Never let anyone know how badly you want a home---it will cost you money.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">                                                                 <span style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline">Tip #8</span></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Shop with your head not your heart.</div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">             Don't forget the purpose of your "Needs" and "Desires" lists. Shopping for a home is an emotional process. <strong>Your heart will cost you money; using your head will save it.</strong></div> </span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/08/daily-tip-7-8" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/08/daily-tip-7-8#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/08/daily-tip-7-8Sun, 10 Jan 2010 15:13:00 GMTDaily tip #6http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-6<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Tip #6</div> <div> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center">Use your agent to narrow the prospect list.</div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">         </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify">      <span style="font-size: 12pt">A good agent brings to the table an in-depth knowledge of the current housing inventory in his or her area, <strong>and continually updates that knowledge by touring homes as they are placed on the market. </strong>This is to your advantage. Trying to personally see every available home that might fit your needs would be an <strong>overwhelming</strong> proccess. If you are thorough in communicating your needs and what you can realistically afford, then your agent can help you narrow down the list of prospective homes to those that best suit your needs. <strong>This will save you much time and energy.</strong></span> <div> </div> <div>           <span style="font-size: 12pt"> When the time comes to settle on one home, you can do it with the confidence that you've made a well informed choice.</span></div> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-6" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-6#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-6Sat, 09 Jan 2010 19:23:00 GMTDaily Tip #5http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-5<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff">Tip #5</span></span></div> <div><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> </span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff">It's a cliché, but..... location, location, location</span></span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">      </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">       The desirability ans resale value of your home-to-be depend on location more than any other single factor. Again, don't let emotion get in the way of a wise investment. <strong>No home is an island, and the value of yours is affected by the homes that surround it.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">         Assuming you've already considered the elements that make up a desirable community--character, quality of schools, access to work places and services, recreational facilities, etc.-----there are several elements that combine to create a good location.</div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">          <strong>Your first consideration is the neighborhood</strong>. Every neighborhood has its own unique character; you need to make sure you'd be comfortable in the one you're thinking of living in. <strong>Take a long work and observe carefully</strong>. Do people take care of their yards and homes? Are the yards fenced? Do children play in the streets? <strong>Talk to the neighbors and ask questions that give you a better feel for the area.</strong> But be careful not to appear judge mental---you might be talking to a future neighbor.</div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">           If the neighborhood is to your satisfaction, look at homes on the market in the area. Extremely large homes surrounded by smaller ones tend to appreciate less than a large home among other large homes. Conversely, the smallest home in the neighborhood tends to be "pulled up" by the other homes on the block. <strong>However, it might take longer to sell a smaller home when the time comes because many people are unwilling to pay extra for the neighborhood.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">            <strong>The outer edge of a neighborhood is usually not good for resale value</strong>. There are noticeable dividing lines between unlike neighborhoods. It could be a difference in architectural styles, home size, property use or something else. Look for a home in the middle of a community of similar homes; <strong>it will hold it's value better.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">              An exception to this rule is a house on the edge of a neighborhood bounded by woods, park land, a golf course or other open space. <strong>Natural boundaries appeal to buyers, and these "edge" homes can actually command a</strong> <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>better</strong></span> price</strong>. Of course, the exception to this rule is when there's an unpleasant use planned for the open space. An open field with a babbling brook is nice; e new freeway, strip mall or factory isn't</div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">                 Other things that can negatively affect property values are traffic, sounds, smells, etc. Be sure to give the neighborhood a long, hard look. The home you're interested in may be perfect, but <strong>if the neighborhood has problems, your investment won't be worth as much when the time comes to sell.</strong></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="center"><u></u> </div> <div style="font-size: 14pt" align="justify"><u></u> </div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-5" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-5#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-5Fri, 08 Jan 2010 12:03:00 GMTDaily Tip #4http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-4<div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff">Tip #4</span></span></span></span></div> <div><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> </span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline">Make sure you Realtor knows what you are looking for</span>.</span></span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="justify">           <span style="font-size: 12pt">Once you have a clear, detailed picture of the home you want, make sure your agent has the same picture. <strong>This communication is critical</strong>. Otherwise, you'll both waste your time looking at homes you're really not interested in. Also make sure you Realtor knows your priorities. <strong>Your shared goal is to</strong> <strong>find a place that meets all of your needs</strong>; your Realtor will then try to satisfy as many of your desires as possible.</span></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><span style="font-size: 12pt">         A good Realtor will ask you several questions about what you're looking for and what you can afford. And they'll listen carefully to your answers.</span></div><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-4" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-4#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-4Thu, 07 Jan 2010 11:42:00 GMTDaily Tip #3http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-3<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 12pt"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> <span style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline">Tip #3</span></span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> </span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline">Pick a winning team to help you</span>.</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">              </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"><span style="font-size: 10pt">               <span style="font-size: 12pt"> From picking a mortgage to picking the right home to inspections to negotiating the best deal, it can be exhausting for even the hardiest souls. That's why most people have a Realtor in thier corner.</span></div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify"> </div> <div style="font-size: 12pt" align="justify">                <span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong>A good agent has the knowledge and experience that comes from years of helping both buyers and sellers</strong>. He or she has a team of other profesionals to put at your disposal---lenders, lawyers, home inspectors, movers, etc.</span> <div> </div> <div>                       <span style="font-size: 12pt">Most sellers you encounter are certainly going to have a profesional in their corner. <strong>Having a pro on your team is the best way to make sure you get the best deal possible.</strong></span></div> </div> </span></span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-3" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-3#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/05/daily-tip-3Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:31:00 GMTDaily Tip #2http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/daily-tip-2<div align="center"><span style="color: red"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="color: red"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-size: 18pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Tip #2</span></span></span>         </span></span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: red"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff">                </span></span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: red">  <span style="font-size: 14pt"> <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="font-size: 14pt"><span style="text-decoration: underline">Shop for a mortgage before you shop for a home.</span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="justify">         <span style="font-size: 12pt">Getting a loan approval is the smart way to shop for a home. <strong>It tells sellers that you're a serious</strong> <strong>prospect</strong>, and you know in advance the maximum mortgage you can afford. Make sure you get a commitment in writing. I've seen many buyers make the mistake of learning what they qualify for but not getting that preapproval in writing.</span>           </div> <div align="justify">         </div> <div align="justify"><strong>        </strong><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong>The good news is that it's easier than ever to qualify for a home loan.</strong> Lenders have modified qualification rules and created programs designed to help poeple even if they have problems in thier credit or employment histories. Many programs call for dramatically reduced down payments--the biggest obstacle for first time home buyers in particular.</span></div> </span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/daily-tip-2" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/daily-tip-2#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/daily-tip-2Tue, 05 Jan 2010 12:29:00 GMTHome Buying 101http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/home-buying-101<div style="font-size: 12pt"><span style="color: #0000ff">It is my hope to provide you with on going information and some humor regarding the real estate market here in Washington, primarily the Eas tside, and maybe some other parts of the country. Over the next three weeks I will be suppling a daily tip.</span></div> <div> </div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> <span style="font-size: 18pt"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff">  Home <br /> Buyers:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> </span></span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"> <span style="font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline">How To Avoid Paying Too Much!</span> </span></span></span></div> <div align="center"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="color: #0000ff"><span style="font-size: 12pt">A Simple Guide to help Avoid Overpaying for Your Home.</span></span></div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">        <strong> <span style="font-size: 12pt"><span style="font-size: 10pt"> Whether you're a first-time buyer or an old pro at the real estate game, buying a home can be a daunting process. It's an emotional time filled with difficult choices---and each decision you make has money riding on it. </span></span>      </strong></span></div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">      Finding the right home to meet your family needs is hard enough. But knowing how to avoid paying too much for that home once you've found it is another job entirely.</span></div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">          <strong><span style="font-size: 10pt"><strong></strong><strong>As someone who has helped countless buyers find their dream homes and save money at the same time, I've developed this guide to help </strong></span></strong><span style="font-size: 12pt"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt"><strong>you avoid the</strong> <strong>pitfalls </strong></span></strong><strong style="font-size: 10pt">inherent in the home-buying process</strong></span>. I'll show you not only how to make sure you've found the right home, but also how to negotiate a price to your advantage.</span></div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">            In today's complex, fast-paced market, you can't afford to learn these lessons through trial and error.<span style="font-size: 12pt"> <strong><span style="font-size: 10pt"><strong>The tips contained in this report will go a long way toward making you a savvy buyer</strong><strong>.</strong></span></strong></span> </span></div> <div align="left"> </div> <div align="left"> </div> <div style="font-size: 18pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #000000">Tip #1</span></span></div> <div style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 14pt; text-decoration: underline" align="center"><span style="color: #000000"><br /> Know what you're shopping for before you start.</span></div> <div style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 14pt" align="center"> </div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="color: #000000">            <span style="font-size: 12pt"> Before you begin shopping, that there are two homes out there vying for your interest-<strong>the one that meets your needs vs. the one that fulfills your desires</strong>. In a perfect world, you'd find a home that satisfies both. But since this isn't a perfect world, your going to find yourself confronted with choices.</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">          <span style="color: #000000">   Do you choose the three-bedroom home with room for your family to grow, or the one with the big back yard and deck that's perfect for entertaining? Is having a big kitchen more important to you than a few extra rooms?</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="color: #000000"><span style="font-size: 12pt">               When you start shopping, you're going to find homes you fall in love with for different reasons. <strong>That's why you should list the features you want before you start shopping</strong>. Put your wish list into two categories--"Needs" and "Desires"--and prioritize the items you come up with.</span></span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div style="font-size: 10pt" align="left"><span style="font-size: 12pt">               <span style="color: #000000"> Understanding what you really need as opposed to what you'd like to have will help you keep your priorities straight as you shop around<strong>. I've seen people fall in love with a home for the wrong reasons, then regret their purchase when the home fails to meet their needs.</strong> </span> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt"> </span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt">               <span style="color: #000000"> Don't let emotion cloud your judgment. <strong>Satisfy your needs first</strong>. If you find a home that meets your needs and fulfills some of your desires, so much the better. The important thing is to know the difference before you get caught up in the excitement of the hunt.</span></span></div> </div> </span></span><P><a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/home-buying-101" target="_blank">Permalink</a> | <a href="http://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/home-buying-101#comments" target="_blank">Comments</a></P>Candace Carlsonhttp://candacecarlson.com/blog/2010/01/04/home-buying-101Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:04:00 GMT