5 Tips to Creating Stress-Free Nevada County Homes

Many people have trouble relaxing, even in their Nevada County homes. Why? Frequently, it’s because of too much visual stimuli such as unfinished projects, knickknacks and clutter.
You may think the answer to being able to relax is to move into a “better” home. However, what usually happens is that you move your unfinished projects and clutter with you. Instead, if you take the time to get organized, you may find – like many owners who have backed out of a sale – that you don’t need to move, you just need to re-organize.
Take a moment from your busy, stressful life to read these tips and discover how you can improve and de-stress your personal castle:
1. Add money to your wallet. Unwanted or unused items can be turned into cash. eBay and Craigslist are two heavily-used websites where you can sell your unwanted/unused items. Make a little cash and clear the clutter.
2. Be generous. If you don’t want to sell your items, don’t throw them away. Donate them to places such as Goodwill. Online, there’s FreeCycle, where you can share your items and give them away to those who really need them.
3. Keep it clean. Set up a system to decide what to do with mail. Many people end up with piles of mail throughout the house. Rather than letting it pile up, decide the day you get it where that mail goes: trash, take action or file away.
4. Include your family in the de-clutter process. After all, your spouse and kids live there, too. As well, if others have a chance to give their input, they may be more willing to keep your Nevada County home organized. Let others in your family have a part in the decision-making process and implementation.
5. Take stray worry off your mind. You may be subconsciously worried about things in your home. Reduce the potential stress by creating a sense of safety. For instance, make sure your smoke detectors are working, that you have a radon meter (if necessary) and a carbon monoxide detector.
You may be thinking, “Home isn’t what stresses me out.” Are you sure? You might be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you’ll be when your home is de-cluttered. Your Nevada County home can truly become a place where you leave the stress at the door.
If you’re looking for a home to relax in after a hard day, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com] for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County home
Links:
Goodwill
http://www.goodwill.org/get-involved/donate/
FreeCycle
http://www.freecycle.org
Keep your home organized
http://www.lifeorganizers.com/cm_articles/102_10_ways_to_declutter_your_home_280.html

What Future Buyers Are Looking For In Nevada County Homes for Sale

Owners of Nevada County homes for sale are wondering, “What are buyers looking for?” This is especially true if the home has been on the market for a while. Well, homeowners aren’t the only ones. Several companies, including Better Homes and Gardens and Avid Ratings, the exclusive research provider for the National Association of Home Builders, have researched this question.
So, what are buyers looking for in national and Nevada County homes for sale? In a 2010 Avid Ratings homebuyer’s study, over 22,000 homeowners, who bought their homes in the past nine years, provide some clues. In short, the study says practicality beats out extras any day.
The days of formal dining rooms, oversized backyard patios and community clubhouses are gone. Swimming pools aren’t that big a deal, but neither are upstairs laundry rooms or home theaters. These extras have been replaced by practicalities such as:
· Children’s playground
· Walking paths
· Large kitchens (with island if possible)
· Home office or study
· Main-floor master bedroom
· Two-car garages
· Oversize showers with seating
As well, although buyers are willing to have less space, they’re big on “green” features such as high-efficiency windows, insulation and appliances.
The home survey by Better Homes and Gardens reveals much the same information. Homeowners and potential buyers pointed towards downsizing into smaller, greener homes. Again, high-efficiency appliances topped the interest levels, with a lean towards Energy Star appliances.
The home office is still a priority, although it doesn’t have to be dedicated space; many would be perfectly happy with a multi-purpose space, instead. The real key, however, is no wasted space, along with ample storage.
If you’re considering doing any amount of remodeling to excite potential buyers, the information contained in these surveys are priceless. If you’re one of the owners of Nevada County homes for sale thinking your house is too small, it’s great news. If you thought you might upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances, you’re on the right track. Consider what you can do to make your home more “future buyer” friendly!
If you’d like to sell your home or are looking for a more energy-efficient home, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County homes for sale
Links:
Avid Ratings
http://www.avidratings.com/
Homebuyer’s study
http://articles.latimes.com/2010/apr/04/business/la-fi-lew4-2010apr04/2
Home survey by Better Homes and Gardens
http://rismedia.com/2010-01-21/looking-ahead-cents-and-sensibility-top-priorities-for-homeowners-in-2010/

4 Reasons You Should Buy Nevada County Real Estate in a Down Market

The national and Nevada County real estate markets are constantly fluctuating, falling somewhere between more inventory and lower prices and less inventory and higher prices. People are often frightened when the home inventory rises, but a declining real estate market may just be the perfect time to find your next home.
Here are 4 reasons why you should consider buying Nevada County real estate in a down market.
1. Inventory. When the market is down, more homes are for sale. This means you have more homes to choose from, which makes it easier to find a home in your dream neighborhood or closer to work or school.

2. Negotiation. There’s a reason down markets are called “buyers’ markets.” Sellers want to sell their homes, and they are often willing to do whatever it takes. This means you have the advantage and can buy a home for a great price. You can also ask the seller for other incentives like paying all or a portion of your closing costs.

3. Mortgage Rates. When the real estate market begins falling, interest rates get cut. This can mean considerable savings for you over the course of your mortgage. You can even buy a larger home within your price range than you can when the market is booming.

4. Investment. Even though doom and gloom is forecasted in a down market, your home will still most likely go up in value or at least retain its value. Keep in mind that your home is your most personal investment. It’s a place where you will create memories and maybe even raise a family.

If you’re considering buying a home, let me help you find a wonderful home at a great price. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Keyword/Tag: Nevada County real estate

Links:

Buying Nevada County real estate in a down market
http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/Waittobuy.htm

Negotiation
http://www.repair-home.com/son/buyers_market.htm




Mortgage Rates
http://www.bankrate.com/

3 Tips to Buying an Eco-friendly Home for Sale in Nevada County

Buyers are becoming more concerned about their personal environment, from eco-friendly carpeting to energy efficient appliances. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County, but aren’t sure how to find it, here are a few tips on what to look for:
1. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) – Although the number is growing, only a few builders are employing eco-friendly practices during construction. However, those that do can qualify for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation. These homes are designed for better IAQ, which means a healthier home for you. Rest assured, if a builder meets this designation they’ll tell you about it. However, just in case – ask!
2. Energy Efficient – If it qualifies for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation, the home for sale in Nevada County will also be energy efficient. However, if you’re not looking at a newly built home, look for those homes that are Energy Star efficient. According to the Energy Star website, “These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.”
3. Eco-friendly – Energy Star and EPA qualifications aside, you can also find homes in which the seller has made eco-friendly changes that will help you even though they may not meet the guidelines for qualifications. For instance, solar paneling, wind turbines and geothermal heating aren’t covered by the EPA or Energy Star qualifications by themselves, but they’re eco-friendly and can lower your utilities.
An eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County may be hard to find, but the numbers are growing. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly home, I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.
Keyword/Tag: Home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
EPA Indoor airPlus
http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/about.html
Energy Star efficient
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index
Geothermal heating
http://www.geoexchange.org/

3 Things You Shouldn’t Say No To With a Home for Sale in Nevada County

The point of having your home for sale in Nevada County is to… well, sell it, isn’t it? I mean, it makes logical sense, right? Yet, too often, home sellers seem to think that selling is as easy as “hire agent, put sign in front, sold.”
This attitude, especially in a slow real estate market, has left many a seller empty-handed. They say “no” when they should have said “yes.” They have all these reasons why they won’t “A, B or C,” rather than just doing “A, B or C” for their home for sale in Nevada County.
What am I talking about? Well, here are just a few of those “don’t say no” things:
Buyer Incentives
Listen – a slow market or not, you do have competition. What does this mean? You may have the best house on the block, but if your neighbor’s house has higher perceived value, yours will be left sitting there.
By offering buyer incentives such as a home warranty plan, pre-paid homeowner association fees or credit toward the closing costs, you’re giving the buyer more perceived value. Let’s face it; buyers want the best bang for their buck.
Home Showings
When an agent calls and asks if they can show your home, say YES! It doesn’t matter if they want to show it in five minutes or five hours, your answer should be yes. If your home doesn’t get seen, it won’t get sold. That person you said “no” to might have been your ideal buyer.
Virtual Tours
Buyers like to be able to view a potential home online first. The best way for them to do this is with a virtual real estate tour, looking at the home with a 360-degree view. Because this is such a quickly growing trend (some buyers ignore listings without them), you can’t afford to pass it up.
If you have a home for sale in Nevada County and it’s been on the market for a while, you may have said “no” to too many things. Take some time to look at what you can do to market your home better. These pointers may very well make all the difference!
If you’re trying to market your home and need a professional, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
Home warranty plan
http://www.ahswarranty.com/homeowners/homewarranty101/homewarranty101.html
Home showings
http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/Sellers-Dont-Be-Difficult-When-Showing-Home/1718
Virtual real estate tour
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_tour

3 Tips to Buying an Eco-friendly Home for Sale in Nevada County

Buyers are becoming more concerned about their personal environment, from eco-friendly carpeting to energy efficient appliances. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County, but aren’t sure how to find it, here are a few tips on what to look for:
1. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) – Although the number is growing, only a few builders are employing eco-friendly practices during construction. However, those that do can qualify for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation. These homes are designed for better IAQ, which means a healthier home for you. Rest assured, if a builder meets this designation they’ll tell you about it. However, just in case – ask!
2. Energy Efficient – If it qualifies for the EPA Indoor airPlus designation, the home for sale in Nevada County will also be energy efficient. However, if you’re not looking at a newly built home, look for those homes that are Energy Star efficient. According to the Energy Star website, “These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.”
3. Eco-friendly – Energy Star and EPA qualifications aside, you can also find homes in which the seller has made eco-friendly changes that will help you even though they may not meet the guidelines for qualifications. For instance, solar paneling, wind turbines and geothermal heating aren’t covered by the EPA or Energy Star qualifications by themselves, but they’re eco-friendly and can lower your utilities.
An eco-friendly home for sale in Nevada County may be hard to find, but the numbers are growing. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly home, I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.
Keyword/Tag: Home for sale in Nevada County
Links:
EPA Indoor airPlus
http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/about.html
Energy Star efficient
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index
Geothermal heating
http://www.geoexchange.org/

3 Things You Shouldn’t Say No To With a Home for Sale in Nevada County

The point of having your home for sale in Nevada County is to… well, sell it, isn’t it? I mean, it makes logical sense, right? Yet, too often, home sellers seem to think that selling is as easy as “hire agent, put sign in front, sold.”
This attitude, especially in a slow real estate market, has left many a seller empty-handed. They say “no” when they should have said “yes.” They have all these reasons why they won’t “A, B or C,” rather than just doing “A, B or C” for their home for sale in Nevada County.
What am I talking about? Well, here are just a few of those “don’t say no” things:
Buyer Incentives
Listen – a slow market or not, you do have competition. What does this mean? You may have the best house on the block, but if your neighbor’s house has higher perceived value, yours will be left sitting there.
By offering buyer incentives such as a home warranty plan, pre-paid homeowner association fees or credit toward the closing costs, you’re giving the buyer more perceived value. Let’s face it; buyers want the best bang for their buck.
Home Showings
When an agent calls and asks if they can show your home, say YES! It doesn’t matter if they want to show it in five minutes or five hours, your answer should be yes. If your home doesn’t get seen, it won’t get sold. That person you said “no” to might have been your ideal buyer.
Virtual Tours
Buyers like to be able to view a potential home online first. The best way for them to do this is with a virtual real estate tour, looking at the home with a 360-degree view. Because this is such a quickly growing trend (some buyers ignore listings without them), you can’t afford to pass it up.
If you have a home for sale in Nevada County and it’s been on the market for a while, you may have said “no” to too many things. Take some time to look at what you can do to market your home better. These pointers may very well make all the difference!
If you’re trying to market your home and need a professional, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Links:
Home warranty plan
http://www.ahswarranty.com/homeowners/homewarranty101/homewarranty101.html
Home showings
http://www.frontdoor.com/Sell/Sellers-Dont-Be-Difficult-When-Showing-Home/1718
Virtual real estate tour
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_tour

Nevada County Real Estate Seller Strategies 101: Common Sense Curb Appeal

Advice for home sellers is everywhere! Turn on the TV, radio, or computer and you’re practically bombarded with ideas on how to prepare your Nevada County real estate to get it sold.
Curb Appeal: It’s Elementary, My Dear Watson
Sometimes the simplest solution is right under your nose. Sure, renovations, additions, upgrades and updates are great—and should not be overlooked. But common sense says buyers make their first judgment of homes for sale based on the homes’ exterior.


Increasingly Discerning Buyers in Today’s Nevada County Real Estate Market
Today’s real estate market is challenging for sellers, all the more reason why every little detail matters. Buyers know they are in a strong buyer’s market and literally won’t put up with any rubbish, when window shopping for homes.
Before a potential buyer even considers stepping a foot inside your home, they want to see curb appeal—and not just any curb appeal, mind you. The discerning home buyer of today wants everything “just so.”


Here’s what buyers are looking for:
· Precision lawn care: That means weekly mowing and edging in the warm months and snow or ice removal in the cold months. The perfect lawn features mowing done in precise straight lines resulting in a very symmetrical, uniform look. Don’t forget to trim around the driveway, stones, garden, trees, and especially the sidewalk.
· No junk lying around: Pack rats, you know who you are! Put things in storage. Don’t have an RV blocking your driveway or bikes and toys strewn everywhere.
· Beautify: Pick up leaves, weeds, branches and other debris. Plant beautiful flowers. You can even buy pre-bloomed flowers and replant.
· Splash o’ Color: Paint the house, garage, doors and shutters in neutral, updated colors.
· Fix and Re-Finish: Wooden decks and porch railings should be in tip-top shape.


You’ve got a Friend!
To help you get the most out of your precious Nevada County real estate, I’m here for you. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com

Links:
Strong buyer’s market
http://realestate.msn.com/buying/article_bankrate.aspx?cp-documentid=4185633
Curb Appeal
http://homebuying.about.com/cs/sellerarticles/a/curb_appeal.htm
Precision Lawn Care: http://www.bobvila.com/HowTo_Library/In_Pursuit_of_the_Perfect_Lawn-Lawn_Care-A1747.html

Buying a Home with a Nevada County Real Estate Agent

If you have never purchased a home before, you may not yet recognize how crucial it is to acquire the services of a professional Nevada County real estate agent.
Buying a home will probably be the most expensive purchase you ever make. Therefore, you undoubtedly should consider enlisting the help of a REALTOR® who has experience, extensive knowledge of the area and integrity.
Benefits of using a professional Nevada County real estate agent
Having your own buyer’s agent to walk you through the entire home buying process saves you a lot of time and stress, as well as money.

You decide:

· Size of home desired

· Style preferred

· Location

· Price range

That’s easy! With this basic information, your agent begins the hard part: searching for the perfect home for you and successfully guiding you through the purchase process.

Your agent helps with:

Generating a small defined list of good choices
· Forming a realistic budget
· Financing
· Determining what a home is really worth
· Making offers for you
· Negotiating with the seller
· Alleviating stress that’s a part of any transaction of this magnitude
· Overseeing your home inspection
· Renegotiating any problems found in the home inspection
· Explaining and demystifying taxes, interest, and other particulars
· Finalizing all the paperwork and details with the lender, seller and title company
· Closing on the sale

All the hours your agent invests assisting you and making sure your best interests are looked after financially, legally and emotionally are well worth the real estate commission he or she receives after you finalize your purchase. And typically, as the buyer, you don’t pay the commission. The seller pays it!
Where to find a professional Nevada County real estate agent
I specialize in helping people just like you buy homes. Let's get started! Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com

Links:
Buying A Home
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/topics/buying_a_home
Benefits of using a professional Nevada County real estate agent
http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/tp/Whyhireagent.htm
Real estate commission
http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/a/Whopaysagents.htm

5 Tips to Creating Stress-Free Nevada County Homes

Many people have trouble relaxing, even in their Nevada County homes. Why? Frequently, it’s because of too much visual stimuli such as unfinished projects, knickknacks and clutter.
You may think the answer to being able to relax is to move into a “better” home. However, what usually happens is that you move your unfinished projects and clutter with you. Instead, if you take the time to get organized, you may find – like many owners who have backed out of a sale – that you don’t need to move, you just need to re-organize.
Take a moment from your busy, stressful life to read these tips and discover how you can improve and de-stress your personal castle:
1. Add money to your wallet. Unwanted or unused items can be turned into cash. eBay and Craigslist are two heavily-used websites where you can sell your unwanted/unused items. Make a little cash and clear the clutter.
2. Be generous. If you don’t want to sell your items, don’t throw them away. Donate them to places such as Goodwill. Online, there’s FreeCycle, where you can share your items and give them away to those who really need them.
3. Keep it clean. Set up a system to decide what to do with mail. Many people end up with piles of mail throughout the house. Rather than letting it pile up, decide the day you get it where that mail goes: trash, take action or file away.
4. Include your family in the de-clutter process. After all, your spouse and kids live there, too. As well, if others have a chance to give their input, they may be more willing to keep your Nevada County home organized. Let others in your family have a part in the decision-making process and implementation.
5. Take stray worry off your mind. You may be subconsciously worried about things in your home. Reduce the potential stress by creating a sense of safety. For instance, make sure your smoke detectors are working, that you have a radon meter (if necessary) and a carbon monoxide detector.
You may be thinking, “Home isn’t what stresses me out.” Are you sure? You might be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you’ll be when your home is de-cluttered. Your Nevada County home can truly become a place where you leave the stress at the door.
If you’re looking for a home to relax in after a hard day, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com for more information.



Goodwill
http://www.goodwill.org/get-involved/donate/
FreeCycle
http://www.freecycle.org
Keep your home organized
http://www.lifeorganizers.com/cm_articles/102_10_ways_to_declutter_your_home_280.html

Cool Your Nevada County Home for Less This Summer

We’re all trying to live greener lives, but nothing zaps your energy or your will to live greener in your Nevada County home like summer heat.
The summer heat can also assault your wallet. In fact, you can easily watch your utility bill double during the summer months.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to cool your Nevada County home for less money and less impact on the environment this summer. Here’s how.
1. Prep your home. Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances. Don't use your oven. In the afternoon, close your windows and outside doors and keep window coverings drawn. At other times, use fans to create a cross breeze.

2. Raise your thermostat. When you’re not home, raise the thermostat to 80 degrees. Lower it two or three degrees when you are home and use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Moving your thermostat from 75 to 80 will lower your consumption by 15%. Your Nevada County home will still feel comfortable, and you will notice significant savings on your next utility bill.

3. Take a look at your windows. You’d be surprised to find out how much heat enters your home from old, single pane windows. Newer energy efficient windows with double panes block more heat and keep more cool air inside. If you can’t afford new windows now, at least cover the ones you have with heavy curtains or shades to keep out heat.

4. Check for leaks. Leaky duct work and poorly sealed doors can let as much cool air out of your home as an open window. Walk around your home checking under your doors and around your windows to feel for escaping air. Hire a professional to check your air conditioning systems for you. Take the time to have duct leaks repaired and seal air leaks.

5. Dress appropriately. There’s no reason to keep your home so cold that you have to wear extra layers of clothing when you’re inside. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. You’ll be more comfortable in slightly warmer temperatures. Keep light throw blankets handy for anyone who easily gets cold under a ceiling fan.

Implementing even one or two of these tips in your home can save you money and help the environment.

Want to buy an energy efficient home? I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com to learn more.


Links:

Ceiling fans
http://www.eereblogs.energy.gov/energysavers/post/Stay-Cool-for-Less-Money-with-a-Ceiling-Fan.aspx

Energy efficient windows
http://www.efficientwindows.org/

Seal air leaks
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11280

4 Tips for Buying Nevada County Homes for Sale

We, meaning the real estate industry, say, “It’s a buyer’s market!” Buyers think that means that deals are available out in the big wide world of Nevada County homes for sale. Although that’s true, it’s not the whole truth. The whole truth is that money pits, bad deals and half-hearted sellers still exist. Without careful consideration, you may not get the deal you expected.
If you’re in the market for one of the Nevada County homes for sale, follow these tips to help you get a great deal:
1. Go back to school. In other words, do your homework. Yes, due to the buyer’s market, you have an advantage, but you still need to do your research. Talk with a real estate agent who specializes in the area and look at the prices of homes sold within the past year. The main point of the research is to find out how much homes are actually selling for in the area in which you want to live, and to determine if you can afford to buy there.
2. Line up the home team. Be prepared to jump on a deal as soon as you find it. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Gather your real estate agent, home inspector and insurance agent. By having this team of real estate professionals on hand, the transaction will be smoother and faster.
3. Look for motivation. There are motivated sellers and not-so-motivated sellers who just “think” they “might” want to sell if “the right buyer” comes along (quotes are so handy, aren’t they?). You don’t have to guess which is which, however. Has the price been reduced? Is the home vacant? These clues lead to a motivated seller, willing to genuinely negotiate to get the home sold.
4. Don’t buy angry. One of the worst mistakes a buyer can do is to get into a war with the home seller. Emotions grab hold and you find yourself in a fierce competition based on who’s going to WIN WIN WIN! If you find yourself in this situation, learn how to negotiate and listen to your real estate agent’s advice. If you don’t, your great deal can turn into a big mess.
There are plenty of Nevada County homes for sale out there and great deals to be had, but being cautious is the best way to get the best deal.
Are you a motivated seller or a buyer looking for a great deal? I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com to get started!

Pre-approved for a mortgage
http://www.smartmoney.com/personal-finance/real-estate/7-tips-for-getting-a-preapproved-mortgage/
Motivated sellers
http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/f/022908_MotivSlr.htm
How to negotiate
http://www.smartcreditinfo.com/home_negotiate.html

Nevada County Real Estate – A Little Humor Goes a Long Way

If you pay attention to national and Nevada County real estate at all, especially if you access news on the internet, it has to be confusing. I read stories online, and I’m amazed by the conflicting information, and I worry about how it must come across to individuals trying to buy or sell Nevada County real estate.
For instance, only a month or two ago, experts were concerned that we didn’t have enough of a housing supply. Now, online sites like the Wall Street Journal are reporting that the U.S. actually has 103 months worth of foreclosed homes – a heavy load that would take 9 years to get rid of. Honestly, it often gives me a headache. Occasionally, it makes me laugh - in a slightly horrified, appreciating the irony type of way.
I felt the need to lighten the load a bit and share something humorous with you. The idea for this blog came from a friend of mine, who asked her 10-year-old son what he’d learned in Social Studies that day. He replied, “Nothing. We’re still looking for the government.”
Yesterday, I came across a page from Kensington Realty Advisors on which they share a bit of real estate humor. Here’s an excerpt: “LODGING - All employees are encouraged to stay with relatives or friends while on Company business. If weather permits, public areas such as parks and parking lots should be used as temporary lodging. Bridges may provide shelter in periods of inclement weather.”
Will this help you sell your house? Probably not, but it might.
You have to keep a little humor going. Tons of clichés fill our vocabulary: “when the chips are down,” “when life gives you lemons,” “look on the bright side.” They all add up to the same message, that you can’t take life too seriously – even the life of real estate.
So – when a buyer walks into your piece of Nevada County real estate, looks around and notices a big puddle in the back yard, you can always tell them you were starting a pool.
Want to work with a professional real estate agent who knows how to get the job done while keeping life in perspective? Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.
Links:
U.S. actually has 103 months worth of housing supply
http://blogs.wsj.com/economics/2010/04/24/number-of-the-week-103-months-to-clear-housing-inventory/
Kensington Realty Advisors
http://www.kra-net.com/humor/h_travel.htm
The life of real estate
http://funnyrealestatejokes.com/

6 Things to Consider When Looking at Condos in Nevada County

Let’s face it. A lot of people like the idea of the easy lifestyle condos in Nevada County provide. While there are a multitude of positive reasons to buy a condo, many people are so glamorized by the idea that they fail to make sure condos fit their needs.
Before you jump in and buy one of the condos in Nevada County, make sure you also consider what some people consider the downside to owning a condo:
1. Space – Buying a condo means sharing an interest in it. What you own is your personal “box of air.” The rest of the condo - the common areas - is shared between the other owners.
2. Neighbors – Because you share walls and common areas, there’s a high chance that you’ll be able to hear them as they move about their own space. You’ll run into them more often, and have to coordinate with them in issues regarding the common areas.
3. Reselling – If you own a condominium and think you might resell it later, be aware that condos in Nevada County are typically more sensitive to the real estate market and take longer to recover than traditional single family homes.
4. Fees – You’ll have to pay monthly condo fees to take care of the maintenance of the common areas and for amenities you may not use, such as a swimming pool or fitness facility.
5. Rules – All condominiums have CC&Rs, or Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions. The CC&Rs may not fit your lifestyle. They can include noise level restrictions, types of renovations, owning a pet or even the type of curtains you use.
6. Association – Instead of property management professionals, the association is made up of homeowners. It may be weak or inefficient, and you might have to get approval to make renovations or rent out your unit.
Condos in Nevada County are great to own, but they aren’t for everyone. Make an informed decision before buying one, and you’ll be a happy owner.
If you’re looking to buy the perfect condo, I’d love to help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Links:
Buying a condo
http://loan.yahoo.com/m/primer14.html
Monthly condo fees
http://condojuice.com/2010/02/04/condo-fees-how-much-should-you-pay/
Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
http://homebuying.about.com/od/glossaryc/g/CCandRs.htm

6 Reasons to List Your Nevada County Home for Sale

You don’t list your home for sale on a whim; you don’t just decide you don’t like the one you have. Selling a home carries significant financial, emotional and family repercussions. Selling your home is one of those life decisions, the ones you discuss with your spouse, look over with professionals and use experts to move forward.
While you might have been able to list your home for sale and have it sold quickly at the beginning of the decade, that’s no longer the case. Now, you have to be truly motivated in order to get your home sold. Unmotivated sellers, those without concrete reasons, are not serious sellers.
If you’re a motivated seller, on the other hand, you have several new marketing weapons at your disposal. These include government incentive programs, short sale practices, state-of-the-art technology and creative marketing plans to help consummate the transaction.
Are You A Motivated Seller?
So, think about it. Are you a motivated seller? There are a number of reasons people are motivated to sell. These reasons include:
1. Lifestyle Change – The time for a quieter way of life has arrived. The nest may be too empty. You may want more freedom and less household commitment. In any case, a change of lifestyle is a very strong motivation to sell.
2. Relationship Changes – Partners get together and partners divide. Marriage, divorce and newborns all set the stage for household change.
3. House Too Small – As families expand, it can be more cost effective to move rather than over-improve. For example, it can cost over $10,000 for a room extension on your home.
4. Time to Upgrade – Prior to the recession, American families moved an average of seven times per marriage. Although those numbers have dropped some, we do still seem to seek the greenest pastures.
5. Changes in Neighborhood - Many homeowners move because of local community issues. A school system may trim budgets or the homes may not be increasing in value. A desire for neighborhood change could be your motivation.
6. Health Issues – People with health issues who cannot continue or afford household upkeep are moving to smaller, more protected and service oriented communities. If this is you, you can definitely consider yourself a motivated seller.
If you’re motivated and have a home for sale, you already know the market is competitive. However, professional representation, an astute marketing plan and expanded reach can help you locate the perfect buyer.
Are you a motivated seller? This professional real estate agent would be honored to help you get your home sold. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.


Links:
Disconnect Your Emotions
http://www.examiner.com/x-13206-Chicago-Residential-Examiner~y2010m2d23-Chicago-Home-Sellers-Series--The-Emotion-of-Selling
Marketing weapons
http://www.freeshipping.org/blog/9-tips-to-sell-your-home-in-2010/
$10,000 for a room extension
http://www.costhelper.com/cost/home-garden/add-room.html

3 Reasons to Have Your Nevada County Home Built With Sustainable Design

Some potential homeowners just don’t want a pre-lived in home. They’d rather have their house built to their own specifications. They want a home that fits their needs exactly. If this is you, don’t worry; we understand. However, if you want to build a new home, take a good look at the future before you decide on a design.
The Future of Design
Thinking of the future might bring ideas of fantastic scientific miracles like smart houses that vacuum themselves. While building your home, also consider using sustainable design. Here are just a few reasons why sustainable design is a great idea:
1. Government mandates and incentives – Under the current administration, sustainable design is a big thing. In fact, many cities are passing mandates and offering incentives that encourage green building. In places such as Austin, Houston, Seattle and Portland, sustainable design is no longer a trend; it’s standard practice. Before having your home built, check into the homeowners’ incentives for green building.
2. Cost of sustainable design – While sustainable design may be a little more costly than standard home building, don’t just assume that it is. Check with green building contractors as well as standard contractors and compare pricing. Keep in mind that the cost of the design is usually paid back with greatly reduced utility bills. Also, remember that it may be easier and cheaper to build a sustainable home rather than remodel one to be green later.
3. Resale value – Although you may not ever want to move from your home once it’s built, you never know what will happen in the future. A sustainable design can up the resale value of the home by as much as 15%.
Between the government incentives, the cost savings and the resale value, your Nevada County home with a sustainable design may end up being the best investment you ever made!
If you’re looking for a green home or a contractor to build one, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.

Links:

Incentives
http://www.greenhomeguide.org/resources/incentives.html
Cost of sustainable design
http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/greenbuildinginformation/do_sustainable.html
Remodel one to be green
http://www.cityofseattle.net/dpd/GreenBuilding/SingleFamilyResidential/Resources/RemodelingGuides/default.asp

Things to Consider When Buying Nevada County Homes

Many home buyers walk into prospective homes with an "as is" attitude. They fail to consider that the home sellers may be willing to make repairs or updates in order to get the home sold.
This isn't hard to understand. Most people do not buy homes frequently so they aren’t familiar with exactly what they can and cannot ask for. A home isn’t like a car that you might purchase new every few years, or clothes that you shop for all the time and know how to investigate, compare, and price appropriately.
This lack of knowledge is possibly the best reason for seeking the help of a qualified professional REALTOR®. They handle home purchases daily and can help you with what to watch out for, what price to pay and what you can and can't haggle over. They’ll even handle the negotiations for you.
Let’s get back to repairs, updates or price reductions you may want to have your agent negotiate for you:
· Electrical Wiring: Especially in older homes the wiring is likely to be old, outdated or even hazardous. Make sure you have the wiring thoroughly inspected. This is not a cheap fix. If there are problems, they should be solved before you purchase, or you should be offered a greatly reduced price to reflect the cost to you of replacement. This is a very important item and even if you accept a price reduction do not be tempted to simply enjoy the extra cost benefits without using it to make the needed repairs. Bad wiring is a fire hazard that can destroy your purchase, not to mention be fatal if not fixed.
· Breaker Boxes: Older homes may still have fuse boxes. These are very outdated and some may even use types of fuses that are hard to find. While updating an old fuse box to a breaker switch box isn't extremely expensive, it should be done by a qualified electrician. This is something that should be done before you buy. It isn't worth asking for a price reduction, but it also isn't something you should have to deal with when you move into your new home.
These are just a couple of negotiable items to think about when you look at a prospective purchase.
If you would like more information on things to consider when viewing a home, I can help. Contact me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

http://homebuying.about.com/od/realestateagents/tp/findagent.htm
Qualified professional REALTOR®

Bad wiring
http://www.bobvila.com/HowTo_Library/Bad_Wiring--T827.html

Short Sales: A Viable Option for Distressed Nevada County Real Estate

I know the words “short sale” may scare you. But please take just a minute to learn why short sales have become a viable option for your real estate if you’re considering foreclosure.
Once deemed difficult to get, hard to close and rough on the credit score, corrective measures have been taken to improve the valued short sale. And, the winners are those who understand how short sales work in Nevada County real estate.
If you are faced with a house underwater or considering foreclosure or a short sale option, please understand the game has changed.
Short Sales Before versus Now
In early 2009, the typical short sale had less than a 50% chance of success. Banks were skeptical, unprepared and unwilling to accept losses. No longer!
Thanks to aggressive changes made by the Federal Government, the short sale has become the preferred option for distressed buyers, sellers and lenders.
· The administration has thrown incentives to first mortgage holders, second mortgage holders and new lenders.
· Primary lien holders in who agree to a short sale can receive as much as $3,000 from the government.
· Secondary lien holders, who previously were often asked to step away empty handed, now can receive up to $6,000 for formal releases.
Additionally, there used to be more serious credit devastation for the short sale seller. In some cases, outright releases were not provided. The administration has stepped in to protect these distressed sellers. Today’s short sale has less credit impact on the seller as would the credit impact of a foreclosure.
Now that short sales are a viable option, the market has exploded. Short sales increased by 4% between November, 2009, and February, 2010. Activity will only continue to increase.
If you would like to find out whether a short sale could benefit your distressed Nevada County real estate, give me a call now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.

How short sales work
http://realestate.aol.com/information/short-sale?flv=1
The short sale has become the preferred option for distressed buyers, sellers and lenders.
http://money.cnn.com/2010/03/29/real_estate/short_sale_explosion/
Short sales are a viable option
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/08/business/08short.html

Setting the Right Selling Price for Nevada County Real Estate

The debate is as old as the real estate industry. Does a low, highly competitive selling price for Nevada County real estate actually generate a faster, more profitable sale than a slightly inflated price with a willingness to negotiate? Yes, it is an age-old debate. Yes, it has never been more important that sellers make informed decisions about their asking price and negotiating strategy.
A seller with an unreasonable opinion of their home’s value is either a wishful thinker or does not have the benefit of an accurate comparative market analysis and a real estate agent who specializes in the area.
Get Real, Know the Facts
When sellers decide to list their home in the real estate market, they usually have an opinion of value based on reported sales of similar properties. Consciously or subconsciously, most homeowners follow the real estate activity of surrounding homes.
However, every real estate transaction stands independently. In today’s market, buyers and sellers negotiate to capitalize on tax incentives, green-initiative improvements, closing fees, homeowner credits and local incentives. Thus, the “neighborhood selling price” may not represent the price you can actually get for your home.
Real estate agents use differing strategies to secure listings and set sales prices. Therefore, a seller who requests proposals from three different real estate agents may well get three different opinions of value:
1. One agent may want the listing at any price and be willing to accept an owner’s requirement for a high asking price just to land the listing.
2. Another agent may be conservative and encourage a low asking price in the hopes of generating superior demand. This strategy was effective in the boom years of 2006 and 2007.
3. A third agent may combine his knowledge about the property, the neighborhood and today’s real estate market to come up with the optimal listing price.
The Optimal Listing Price
Responsible real estate agents view the property from three postures.
1. First we inspect the property, top to bottom. We understand its history, the neighborhood, its strengths and its weaknesses.
2. Next, we do our research. We compile a complete, relevant list of recent sales, a thorough list of properties on the market and a comparable list of recently concluded real estate transactions.
3. We balance this information against the cost of new construction. We factor in what improvements might be necessary to stage the home more effectively. And, we use this quantitative analysis, called a comparative market analysis, to recommend a strong selling price designed to garner demand.
This is not a whimsical exercise. This is about establishing the maximum selling price your Nevada County real estate should achieve.
To further discuss how you can realize the greatest real estate value for your home, contact me today at 530-913-2019 or by email at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Links:
Comparative Market Analysis
http://realestate.about.com/od/ac/g/comparative_mkt.htm
Negotiating strategy
http://tdre-online.com/tms/art_negt2.htm
Cost of New Construction
http://www.b4ubuild.com/faq/faq_0002.shtml

Renting versus Buying Homes in Nevada County

Before you start looking for homes in Nevada County, you need to decide whether to rent or buy. Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to look at your situation and decide which is best for you.
To help you with that decision, here’s an examination of the pros and cons of renting and buying homes in Nevada County:
· Pros of Renting. Maintaining a home properly takes a certain level of time and commitment. When you rent, you are not responsible for the lawn, major repairs or maintenance. If you have to leave the area on short notice, you won’t be tied down to a home that needs to sell in order for you to move.
· Pros of Buying. Because of low interest rates and house prices, many renters find that their current rent payments are similar to what their mortgage payments would be. Unlike rent payments, mortgage payments add up and create equity in your home. Additionally, owning your own home provides tax deductions.
· Cons of Renting. The most significant con of renting is the fact that you get no tax deduction. If you have to move suddenly, you may have to pay extra money to break the lease. You may even have decorating restrictions, like not putting nails in the walls.
· Cons of Buying. To buy a home, you will need a down payment, which can be difficult for some people to acquire. There’s also the possibility that you may lose money on the home if you have to sell it before you’ve built equity in it or if your local market declines in value. Also, it can take considerable time and money to maintain homes in Nevada County.
After you’ve considered all the pros and cons, there’s one more tool I recommend to help you make an informed decision: Use a free online rent versus buy calculator.
If you’d like help deciding whether buying or renting is right for you, give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com. I’ll put together some current home prices to help you determine what your house payments would be, and I’ll also help you figure out what you can afford.

Links:
Pros and Cons of Renting and Buying http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/BuyorRent.htm

Cons of renting
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/899629/the_cons_of_renting_an_apartment.html?cat=54

Rent vs. Buy Calculatorhttp://www.ginniemae.gov/rent_vs_buy/rent_vs_buy_calc.asp?Section=YPTH

Nevada County Real Estate Agents Sell Ugly Houses, Too!

So, you’ve decided you want to sell your house. You know it qualifies as one of those “ugly houses,” but you don’t want to do any work to your home. You especially don’t want to do major repairs or updates like replacing all the windows with broken seals.

You may think that means real estate agents will not want to list your home for sale. Think again. Nevada County real estate agents sell ugly houses, too!

Here’s what you should expect if you have an ugly house that you don’t want to make improvements to:

· A lower price: Maybe you don’t have the time, energy, money or know how to make improvements to your home. That doesn’t mean it won’t sell, it just means the price has to be low enough to convince a buyer that it’s worth the time and money they’ll have to spend to get it into shape. An experienced Nevada County real estate agent can do the necessary research to come up with the right price to get your home sold.

· A smaller number of potential buyers: In today’s market, most homebuyers are looking for that perfect home. The one they can move in to without doing any work. Since your home doesn’t fit that description, you’ll lose those homebuyers. Typically, homes like this will sell to Nevada County real estate investors or buyers who enjoy fixing up houses.

· A longer time on the market: Because of the smaller number of potential buyers, it may take a bit longer to sell your home. Because of the lower price, you’ll probably have several lookers, but getting someone to purchase it will most likely take longer than normal.

Don't say you're going to sell your house someday, when you get all the repairs and upgrades completed, if you know in your heart that isn’t reality. Sometimes it's worth taking a lower price and moving on.

Whether your home is gorgeous, ugly or somewhere in between, I can help you get it sold. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County real estate

Links:

Windows with broken seals
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1388200/how_to_fix_a_broken_window_seal_.html?cat=6

Nevada County real estate investors
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate_investor

Fixing up houses
http://moneyning.com/housing/pros-and-cons-of-fixer-upper-home-or/

New Home Construction in Nevada County Scheduling Delays

Creating a home for your family, from the ground up, can be an exciting experience. But with the numerous steps involved in building a Nevada County home, and the sometimes unexpected setbacks that can plague new construction, it can also be a stressful experience.

Knowing what potential setbacks lurk ahead can help you come up with a realistic schedule for the building of your Nevada County home. Having a good idea of what can go wrong and preparing for the possibility of a setback will help lower your stress and make the process go much smoother.

Following are some of the setbacks commonly experienced in new construction:

Weather: Depending on the stage of the home building process you’re in, rain can cause a work stoppage. If you’re building your home during a time of year when there’s typically a lot of rainfall, you’ll probably have setbacks, especially if you’re just starting the building process during this time.

Building permits: If numerous permits are required before building can begin, there may be a delay. Permits can involve a lot of paperwork and time. Also, agencies which issue permits may not move as quickly as builders and homeowners would prefer.

Reworks: Most people building a home visit the building site frequently to keep an eye on work in progress and make sure that what they’ve asked for is being done. Even when you take this precaution, there are times when things will be done incorrectly. This will slow down work because the incorrect item will need to be removed, reordered (in most cases) and then reinstalled.

These are just a few of the things which can get a Nevada County home building schedule out of whack.

To take some of the pressure off you, hire a professional real estate agent who has experience working with new construction. An agent can keep tabs on the building progress and make sure the work schedule stays as close to the original timeline as possible and follows the new home construction checklist.

If you’re interested in having a new home built, I can guide you through the process and make sure you get exactly what you want. Give me a call before you go builder or home hunting at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.
Keyword/Tag: Nevada County home

Links:

Building of your Nevada County home
http://www.life123.com/career-money/real-estate/building-new-home/index.shtml

Building permits
http://www.census.gov/const/www/newresconstindex.html

New home construction checklisthttp://www.askthebuilder.com/B317_New_Home_Construction_Checklist.shtml

Make the Transition to a New Nevada County Home Easy on Your Kids

Moving to a new Nevada County home and, in some cases, to a new location all together, can be an exciting event. It can also be a difficult thing, especially for children.

When a move means a new home, new school and new friends, children realize they’re leaving their comfort zone for the unknown. This can be frightening, especially to very young children.

Along with packing up boxes and making plans for a move, parents need to spend time thinking about how to make the transition as easy as possible for kids. Following are some suggestions for doing just that:

Make a scrapbook: Let your kids take pictures of friends and places they would like to remember. Then put together a scrapbook you and your kids can take to your new home and look at, especially when homesickness strikes.

Listen to your kids: Children often have fears that they don’t share with their parents. Your children may be very ambivalent about moving, but afraid to say so or don’t know how to put it into words. Take time to discuss the move with your children. Ask them how they feel about the move and then talk out any fears they may have. Don’t dismiss the fear of making new friends by simply saying “of course you’ll make new friends.” Explain that you’ll also be without friends and together you’ll meet new people.

Visit your new Nevada County home: If possible, take your children to the home you’ll be moving into. Let them visit their new school, walk around the neighborhood and play at the local park. Giving them a chance to visit the place they’ll soon call home will help alleviate some of their fears and perhaps even get them excited about the move. If physically visiting your new home isn’t possible, virtually visit it. Help your children explore their new hometown online.

Need to move to a new home? Whether you want to move within Nevada County or you need to relocate to another state, I can help. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.


Keyword/Tag: Nevada County home

Links:

Make a scrapbook
http://www.scrapbookscrapbook.com/

Discuss the move with your children
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/moving.html

Explore their new hometown online
http://www.imovingboxes.com/kids-love-newhouse.html

Looking for the Perfect Nevada County Home

When you first decide to look for a new home, whether you are a first time buyer, or you currently own your own Nevada County home, it is an exciting experience. Visions of perfection begin to dance in your head. Grand expectations and all of your fondest dreams begin to spring into being. But how do you balance dreams with reality so that you get what you need and maybe some of what you dream of?
Condition Counts
You can get great deals on amazing homes when they need a little repair. However, that is a big trap if you don't take into consideration how adept you are with a hammer and nails. If home repair isn't up your alley, that's not a sin. But, it is unwise to buy a fixer-upper if you're not into fixing or not financially prepared to hire professionals to do the fixing.
Wide Open Spaces
Rural living or huge parcels of property can be very appealing. The desire to own a big spread with rolling lawns can make you feel like a real land baron—until you have to maintain it. There are other aspects to looking at property removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Lack of convenience that might seem like a good thing will soon become just inconvenient. Consider the trade-offs if your idea of a perfect Nevada County home isn't exactly in the city.
Don't Settle
While you need to be realistic if your budget isn't unlimited, you should not settle for less than what you truly need. Take the time to determine exactly which features are most important to your family. Consider:
· Which rooms will be most used
· How many people will be living in the house
· How many bedrooms you need
· How many bathrooms are necessary
Don't try to squeeze into something that won't fit those needs. If you have to wait a little while until you can afford a home that is the right size, it will be worth it to avoid the frustration of being dissatisfied with something as important as your new home.
If you would like more information on what to consider before buying a home, I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

LINKS:
Home repair
http://www.essortment.com/home/overpricingcomm_syow.htm

Rural living
http://www.stretcher.com/stories/03/03oct20b.cfm

A home that is the right size
http://www.ourfamilyplace.com/homebuyer/findahome.html

Is Your Nevada County Home Prepared for Disaster?

No, I'm not talking about the economic crisis, or any other type of personal disaster. I'm talking about the kind that Mother Nature doles out with predictable uncertainty. Your home can never be prepared to the extent of knowing when disasters will happen, but you can be ready for anytime they do.

Know What Type of Disaster is Most Likely

While some types of natural disasters can happen anywhere such as fires and floods, other types like earthquakes, landslides, tornadoes and hurricanes are less likely in certain regions. For example, tornadoes are unlikely in California and earthquakes are less common in Wisconsin.

Different types of disasters require different preparations so knowing what your home is most likely to experience is of great benefit. For instance, you do not want to be underground in an earthquake, but in a tornado picking the lowest spot in a home such as a basement is wise.

Gather Supplies

Some things are common to all types of disaster preparations. Having these items on hand should be on every homeowner's "must have" list.

· Extra blankets

· Water

· Several days worth of food (best if prepared or easy to make without electrical appliances)

· Candles or other forms of emergency lighting

· Battery operated radio

· Dust mask

· Can opener

· Moist towels

· Emergency escape plans

· Shelter listings

· Pet food (if you have pets)

· Fire extinguishers (every home should have at least one per floor if not more)

· Infant supplies (if applicable)

Plan for Fast Action

Have disaster plans worked out for a variety of disaster types:

· In the event of a fire, have an escape plan prepared for every level of your home.

· If your home is in a flood zone, have sandbags ready and stored for use at a moment's notice.

· For tornado safety, know the best place in your home to go for shelter.

Being prepared can save you a lot of grief. Disasters are a nuisance at best and fatal at worst. By planning for the worst, you’ll get through them in the best manner possible.

If you need more information on preparing your Nevada County home for a disaster, I can help. Call me now at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

LINKS:

Disaster preparations

http://www.72hours.org/

Escape plans

http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/escape/

Is a Reverse Mortgage on Your Nevada County Condo a Good Idea?

Did you know that cash could be hiding in your Nevada County condo? If you are sixty-two or older, you may be able to qualify for a reverse mortgage, and never have to make a mortgage payment as long as you live in the home. Let me tell you a little more about a reverse mortgage:

What Is A Reverse Mortgage?
A reverse mortgage uses the equity in your condo to make payments to you. You aren’t required to make any payments for as long as you live in your home. The loan doesn’t become due until you have not lived in the home for at least twelve months. Your home can pass to your descendents if they refinance the loan themselves. The money can be used for any purpose you want.

Funds are received as a lump sum, a line of credit, or a monthly payment. You’ll have access to more money with the line of credit, but the interest rate is variable. If you decide on a lump sum or a monthly payment, you will have a higher interest rate. The line of credit can be a credit card or like a checking account. You can buy groceries, gas and pay your bills out of this account.

The reverse mortgage process is similar to the conventional mortgage process. The property will need an inspection and appraisal. There are origination fees and closing costs associated with this type of loan.

Who Qualifies for a Reverse Mortgage?

The first requirement is age; only those sixty-two or older are able to qualify. There are no income or credit requirements to be approved for a reverse mortgage. Some lenders even let you roll the down payment and closing costs into the loan, so that you don’t have pay any money up front.

The loan is based on the age of the youngest borrower. The older you are, the more money you will qualify for. The good news is that the money will not affect your Social Security benefits or Medicare.

There are advantages and disadvantages to a reverse mortgage, so be sure to do your homework before making this important decision.

If you have questions about reverse mortgages, or would like to discuss buying or selling a condo, give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com.

LINKS:

What is a reverse mortgage
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hecm/rmtopten.cfm

Who qualifies for a reverse mortgage
http://www.mortgageloanplace.com/lending-guide/reverse-mortgages/top-10-things-to-know-about-reverse-mortgages

Advantages and disadvantages to a reverse mortgagehttp://www.reversemortgageadviser.com/pros-cons-benefits-disadvantages-pitfalls-reverse-mortgages.htm

How to Throw a Block Party at Your Nevada County Home

If you’ve ever been to a block party, you know it is a great way to gather your neighborhood friends together for some fun. You can easily throw a block party everyone who lives near your home will love. Here’s how:
1. Enlist the help of your neighbors. Throwing a block party at your home is a major undertaking, so you will need all the help you can get. Ask others in your community to help you plan, decorate, prepare food, and clean.
2. Get permission. You don’t want your party broken up by the police or fined by the homeowner’s association. Find out from your municipal government if you are required to get a permit for a block party. Follow up with your homeowner’s association and make sure they will allow the block party.
3. Select a theme. Themed parties are easier to plan and more fun for the guests. For example, if you choose a beach theme, you know what colors and accessories to use in the decorations: anything blue or tan, coconuts, beach balls, and Frisbees. You also know to serve beach foods like hamburgers and hotdogs.
4. Plan a menu and decorate. Keep the menu and decorations simple to prepare and easy to clean. Choose food that can be eaten without utensils, like finger foods and sandwiches. Don’t use elaborate decorations.
5. Have fun. The most important part of your block party is the party itself. Give yourself permission to enjoy the party and the company of your neighbors. Talk to people. Laugh with your neighbors. Participate in any games you play. This is your night to shine.
6. Clean up. If you planned properly and have enough help, clean up shouldn’t be too overwhelming. Make sure the area where you held the party is completely litter-free and looks better than it did before the party. Don’t give your homeowner’s association any reason to prohibit future block parties.
Getting to know neighbors makes life more enjoyable. Throwing a block party is a great way to accomplish that while also having fun.
Let me help you find a Nevada County home in a great neighborhood. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresa rock@hotmail.com.
LINKS:
Party decorations
http://www.orientaltrading.com/
Finger foods
http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Course/Finger-Foods
Clean up
http://www.hgtv.com/ah-cleaning-tips-hints/party-cleanup/index.html

How to Identify Your Perfect Nevada County Real Estate Agent

When you begin your search for the perfect house it usually starts with a search for the perfect real estate agent. A good agent can help you with every aspect of buying a home.
They know the proper price ranges, what properties are available that match your needs and all of those pesky legal details required for closing. Your Nevada County real estate agent will keep things moving and make sure deadlines are met and everything goes smoothly.
Here are four tips to help you choose a real estate agent:
Meet Them Face to Face
Perfect harmony should be as instantaneous as love at first sight. You simply know you hit it off with someone, or you don't. Don't fight the feelings if you have doubts. Even the best Nevada County real estate agent isn't going to have a connection with everybody. There will be one that is perfect for you. Keep looking.
Ask Questions
When you do find a real estate agent you have a connection with, ask questions. There needs to be more than just a friendship between you. Make sure the agent has a real grasp of the area, the types of houses that are available, and seems in tune to what you are looking for.
Assess
Do they listen to your needs? If they’re not listening to what you want, move on. Did they answer your questions thoroughly? If they were unable to answer your questions or purposely avoided answering any of your questions, this is not the right agent for you.
Answer Their Questions
Your Nevada County real estate agent will have plenty of questions for you too. They want to be sure you can afford a new home. Don't be offended by what may seem like personal questions. They need this information in order to give you the best advice.

If you’re searching for your perfect real estate agent, I’d be honored if you’d interview me for the job. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com to schedule a face-to-face meeting.

How to Buy the Right Deck Stain for Your Nevada County Home

If your Nevada County home needs a face-lift, you can instantly brighten up the appearance of your house by staining your deck. There are many different types of wood stain sold at home improvement stores. You will need to keep a few things in mind when choosing wood stain:
What kind of wood are you staining? Different types of stain are made for different kinds of wood. Some stains are specifically made for pre-treated wood only. Untreated wood requires special care and specific stain and sealant products.
What color deck do you want? Most stains will look like natural wood when dried. You can choose from oak to redwood and even cherry woods to match your home.
What are the weather conditions where you live? Since the secondary purpose of most stains is to act as a sealant, you will need to pick the type that will be most beneficial to your deck. Some stains protect against ultra-violet rays and others are made to protect against wood rot and mildew.
How much stain do you need to buy? You will need to calculate the square footage of your deck to know what quantity of paint to buy. Check the labeling on the stain. Some brands require more than one coat for the best results.
After you have chosen the stain for your deck, pick up a few supplies to apply the stain:
· Buy work gloves to keep your hands from becoming discolored by the stain.
· Most home improvement stores will have paint pans and brushes for sale near the stain.
· Because stain is very thin, it tends to drip easily. You may find that a paint pad will apply the stain more efficiently than a paintbrush.
Want more tips on how to improve your home’s appearance? Subscribe to my blog now. It is fast and free.

How to be a Strong Buyer of New Nevada County Homes

During a slow market, buyers have the biggest advantages of all. That’s why now is a great time to buy Nevada County homes. You can haggle without feeling guilty because you have the upper hand. Then, as the market bounces back, you get the extra bonus of rising prices making your home worth more than it was when you bought it.Even in this buyers’ market, you need to be a strong buyer. Otherwise, you could crumble when faced with negotiating prices or needed repairs. Three ways to be a strong buyer of homes:· Walk in to any home for sale with a set idea of the value of property in the area. This means taking a little time to do your homework. When you know the prices of the area, you can't be run over by a forceful seller who is determined to convince you his price is firm. This knowledge also helps you deal with sellers who are emotionally attached to their homes and can't price them according to true market value.· Walk into a home for sale with an experienced REALTOR®. When you have a professional REALTOR® by your side, you are not alone. You do not have to be self-conscious or even be the 'strong one.' Your agent will do all your negotiating for you. You will also benefit from their intimate knowledge of the area and what to look for in a Nevada County home.· Walk into any home for sale knowing your needs and price range. Going home shopping without a clear concept of what you want and can afford can lead to emotional decisions. That can be hazardous for your pocketbook too. If you would like more tips on how to be a strong buyer of Nevada County homes, give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at Teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Nevada County Homes and Lawns: Growing Greener Grass

If you're anything like me, you've driven through neighborhoods, admiring the Nevada County homes and immaculate lawns. You've pictured your dry, brown yard, wondering how these homeowners managed to get their lawns looking so great.
Here are a few tips and tricks that can help achieve that plush, green grass that everyone hopes for:
1. Choose a type of grass seed that's right for your climate zone.
There are three climate zones: Warm, transitional and cool. Warm season grass is better for lawns in the South, cool season for the North, and transitional for Central. The best bet for the transitional zone is either a mixture of warm and cool season grass or using the same seeds as the warm zone.
2. Plant at the right time.
Throw grass seed on the ground at the right time, and it’ll grow.
· Warm zone grasses - sown in the spring, once the soil is warm enough for sprouts to grow.
· Cool zone grasses – sown in the fall, generally between August 1 – 15 for the far North, and August 15 – 30 for the warmer areas.
3. Cut at the right height.
No matter what zone the homes with gorgeous green lawns are in, you may notice that the lawns all seem to be about the same height. There’s a reason for that. Lawn care experts say you should never cut your grass shorter than two inches.
4. Use the right mower.
You want to use mulching lawnmowers, replacing the blades every season to keep them sharp for cleaner cuts. These lawnmowers turn the clippings into perfect grass-feed, which takes care of about half of the feed for the season.
5. Have a good watering schedule.
The best time to water a lawn is first thing in the morning. You want to water all at once instead of in short spurts, soaking your lawn with about one inch each time you water. Cool zone lawns should be watered whenever it's been dry for a week. Lawns for warm zone homes should be watered twice a week during the summer. Want to buy a home with a lush lawn? I can help. Give me a call today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com.

Dos and Don'ts of Buying a Nevada County Home in Foreclosure

Whether you’re looking for an investment property or a home for your family, a foreclosure might be a good deal for you. However, buying a foreclosure is different from buying a home from a seller and requires different considerations. Before you sign a contract, consider what you should and should not do when buying a home in foreclosure.· DO consider the cost of repairs. Foreclosures are sold “as is.” That means the bank will not make any repairs to the home in foreclosure before closing, so you will be responsible for them. For example, if the home needs a new roof, make sure you have enough money to pay for it. DO get a home inspection. In a traditional home sale, the seller is required to tell you about any defects or problems they’ve had with the home. However, a bank does not have to supply a disclosure statement because they have not lived in the house and do not have any information about defects. Make sure you hire a professional home inspector to check the structural integrity and condition of the home.· DO be prepared to wait. Buying a foreclosure usually takes longer than buying through a traditional sale. You will have to look through and sign stacks of paperwork. In some states, banks are required to go through the court system to sell a foreclosure which can take time.· DON’T buy a home just because the price is low. Banks like to sell their foreclosures as close to market value as possible. If the price is exceptionally low, there’s a reason why. Make sure you know it. Home repairs can easily add up, turning what you thought was a bargain into a money trap.· DON’T expect to flip the home for a quick profit. Despite what the get-rich-quick-buying-foreclosures crowd tells you, foreclosures don’t automatically mean you’re getting a steal, nor can you always quickly sell them. Buy a foreclosure because it’s an affordable home for you and your family, not as a way to build an overnight fortune.When you take your time and do your homework, buying a Nevada County home in foreclosure can be a great bargain. I can help you find well-priced foreclosures. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com

Buying Nevada County Homes – Why You Might Not Want to Wait

Surprising numbers of potential homebuyers are holding off on buying Nevada County homes. They see the housing prices drop and are waiting for them to go lower. They see the mortgage rates and are waiting for them to drop further. If this is you, you might want to rethink your strategy and take a real look at potential Nevada County homes.
Here are two crucial reasons why you might not want to wait any longer:
1. Interest Rates on the Rise - Thanks to the Federal Reserve buying $1.23 trillion worth of mortgages, interest rates have been kept somewhere between 4.93% and 5.09% for a 30-year fixed-rate loan. That’s about 0.4 % lower than it might be without the Fed’s help. However, by the end of 2009, the Federal Reserve had already started implementing a phase out of the mortgage program. With the Fed program closing at the beginning of this month, it’s not a question of whether mortgage rates will rise, but when, how much and how fast. The experts don’t expect them to climb very high, stopping somewhere between 5.5% and 6% by the end of 2010.
2. Lower Home Prices - Home prices, predicted to drop another 5% in 2010, will also make some difference in overall cost. Putting the falling home prices together with the currently low interest rates, you still have a chance to get a great home at a great deal – for a little
while longer.
Instead of waiting for lower costs that may never come, consider where you are now:
• Do you have good credit?• Are you pre-approved (not pre-qualified) for a mortgage loan?• Do you know how much home you can afford?• Are you certain (or as certain as you can be) of your job stability?
It’s very possible that the market will never be better than it is right now for buyers. It’s a buyers’ real estate market, with the scales tipped to make homeownership as cheap as it can get. If you can afford to buy now, but are waiting for things to get even better, reconsider – you might wait yourself into a market you can no longer afford!
Ready to take advantage of this buyers’ market and purchase one of the Nevada County homes for sale? I can help. Call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.

Where Can I Find XYZ On the Nevada County Real Estate Market?

If you’re like me and other real estate agents, home sellers, homebuyers and homeowners, you’re always looking for a great resource for information on the real estate market. You have questions and you want answers.
• What are the mortgages like in this area? • What are the current selling prices for homes? • What’s a specific neighborhood like?• Is there anything besides the economy affecting the Nevada County real estate market?
For instance, you want to know current market trends. Are they stabilizing? Are things still sliding down hill? Is there a buying trend sellers can take advantage of to market their homes? While a professional real estate agent will help you sell or find a home, it doesn’t hurt for you to do some research on your own to become more knowledgeable. Who knows, you may come up with some ideas we haven’t thought of!
So where can you find reliable information on the real estate market? On the Internet, there are thousands, perhaps millions, of informational sites. Below are just a few of my personal favorites:
CNNMoney.com (real estate) – The information on CNN Money.com has no bias in terms of convincing you to sell or buy. Where are home prices falling? Where are they strongest? What information do you need to know as a buyer or seller? From mortgages to pricing and market stability, you can find it here.
RISMedia.com – If you can’t find it on CNN Money, you can most likely find it on RISMedia. Home improvement, financing and foreclosure information are just a few of the topics. As well, because RISMedia is actually involved in real estate, you can find the latest market information.
DQNews.com – DataQuick provides real estate data on a state-by-state basis or on a specific area. While the information can be a little technical for the non-real-estate-professional, if you want to know how the Las Vegas region is doing for home sales, or the average mortgage rates in Missouri, DQ can help. Depending on your area, you may have to pay for the data, but it’s fairly inexpensive and can give you great information.
If you’re interested in the Nevada County real estate market in any way, bookmark this blog and the listed sites for easy reference. The more you know, the better you can prepare for upcoming trends, good or bad!
If you’re trying to sell your home, or are looking for your dream home to buy, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.

Taking the Plunge and Buying Nevada County Real Estate Makes Perfect Sense

There has truly never been a better time to think about buying a new home. The current economy has created a buyers’ market like never before. This works to your advantage, and the fact that the real estate market is recovering means that buying Nevada County real estate as a future investment is a smart move.Consider New Construction Builders are faced with unsold homes in developments and are willing to make deals. They are interested in all reasonable offers, and, especially if you have pre-approved financing, will negotiate with your real estate agent to give you better price and terms. It is in their best interest to get their existing homes sold. Best Mortgage Rates in Current History. You can take advantage of the low mortgage rates to get fantastic payments on your new Nevada County real estate. These low rates won't last forever, so if you have good credit and solid employment, buy now to make your new home truly affordable.Tax CreditsIf you or your spouse has never owned a home, or if neither of you have owned a home as a principle residence in the past 3 years, buying a home now makes financial sense. You will get a large tax rebate at the end of the year for making a home purchase now. However, you must act immediately because you have to have a binding contract signed no later than April 30, 2010, and close on the home no later than June 30, 2010, in order to qualify for this first-time home buyer tax credit.If you’re a repeat home buyer, you too might qualify for a tax credit. Again, you must act fast. The same dates apply for this repeat home buyer tax credit as for the first-time home buyer tax credit. Affordability and AvailabilityThe market is wide open for buyers now, and finding the perfect home at a reasonable price is easier than ever before. Waiting too long can prove to be a very costly decision. The market is getting stronger and tax credits are coming to an end. Over the course of the next year, it will become increasingly more difficult to buy Nevada County real estate at prices and rates now available.If you would like more information on the intelligence of buying a new home now, please call me today at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com. I look forward to talking with you!

Homeowners Do It Yourself Project: Staining Kitchen Cabinets

You’d like to remodel your kitchen, but like many Nevada County real estate owners, you need to do it as inexpensively as possible. Consider cutting costs by staining the kitchen cabinets yourself.Here’s the basic 4-step process to staining kitchen cabinets for your Nevada County real estate.1. Gather supplies: 120-grit and 220-grit sandpaper, wood conditioner, paintbrushes, tack cloths, rags, stain and polyurethane. Some experts recommend water-based stain and sealer because they’re easier to work with, while others insist on oil-based products because of their durability. Do some research to make the right choice for you.
2. Prepare the wood: Using 120-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the wood in the direction of the grain. This prevents scratches. Remove all of the loose dust with a tack cloth. Then sand the cabinets again, this time using 220-grit sandpaper. This creates a smooth finish. Remove all the loose dust with a tack cloth and apply a coat of wood conditioner to the cabinets. Let it dry completely.
3. Stain the wood: Brush on a coat of stain with a paintbrush following the grain of the wood. Then take a rag and rub the stain into the wood using a circular motion. Finish the staining by wiping along the grain of the wood one final time to ensure an even finish. Let the stain dry completely.
4. Seal the wood: Apply two coats of polyurethane following the manufacturer’s directions. Once you’ve sealed the cabinets, make sure you give them ample time to cure.Staining the cabinets for your Nevada County real estate kitchen remodel can save you a lot of money. Just be sure you take the time to do a quality job. You’ll be living with the results for a long time, so make sure it looks good.

Nevada County Real Estate, Buyers and Technology

Technology has improved our lives over the last ten years, but it’s also caused some problems along the way for Nevada County real estate buyers.

As a buyer, you naturally want to take advantage of every tool and service available to make it easier to find the home of your dreams. However, the Internet, which is one of the most common places for people to shop for Nevada County real estate nowadays, has also become a place where the unscrupulous hang out. You can’t believe everything you read online, even when it comes to shopping for homes online.

If you’re trying to find a home, here are two things you need to be aware of:

Home Valuation Sites
Many potential buyers find an interesting home and then research the home value. This is commendable and just plain good sense. You want to make sure you’re not overpaying. Thanks to the Internet, we have sites like Zillow and Realtor.com that provide home valuations.

The problem is that these sites hardly ever agree on the home value. They can differ as much as 20% or more. While home valuation sites are an excellent place to get a ballpark estimate, you shouldn’t base your buying price on their information alone. Hire a reputable Nevada County real estate agent who knows the surrounding area and recent sale prices.

Dream Home or Nightmare
One of the best things to happen for real estate agents and sellers alike is the ability to post digital photos and walk-through videos of the homes they’re selling. This is also great for you, as the buyer, because you can view the homes without going anywhere.

Unfortunately, many buyers take those images and videos at face value. Thanks to some high-tech graphics programs, however, you can’t guarantee that what you see is what you get. Videos and images can both be manipulated to show you the best face of any piece of property.

Any time you see a home online that you’re interested in, it’s a good idea to check Google Maps and use the Street View option. At the very least, you can usually see the front and sides of the home. If you’re still interested, visit the home in person, or, if that’s not possible for some reason, ask your Nevada County real estate agent to visit the home and take pictures for you.

If you’re trying to find your dream home, I can help. Call me at 530-913-2019 or email me at teresaprock@hotmail.com for more information.

No More State Tax on Forgiven Debt

Distressed homeowners no longer have to pay California state income tax on debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification. Enacted into law yesterday, Senate Bill 401 generally aligns California's tax treatment of mortgage debt relief income with federal law. For debt forgiven on a loan secured by a "qualified principal residence," borrowers will now be exempt from both federal and state income tax consequences. The existing federal exemption is for indebtedness up to $2 million, whereas the new California exemption is for indebtedness up to $800,000 and forgiven debt up to $500,000.
"Qualified principal residence" indebtedness is defined as debt incurred in acquiring, constructing, or substantially improving a principal residence. It includes both first and second trust deeds. It also includes a refinance loan to the extent the funds were used to payoff a previous loan that would have qualified.
The tax breaks apply to debts discharged from 2009 through 2012. Californians who have already filed their 2009 tax returns may claim the exemption by filing a Form 540X amendment. Taxpayers who do not qualify for the above exemptions (e.g., second home or rental property) may nevertheless be exempt under other provisions. Most notably, taxpayers who are bankrupt are exempt from debt relief income tax. Also, taxpayers who are insolvent are exempt from debt relief income tax to the extent their current liabilities exceed current assets.
For more information about mortgage forgiveness tax consequences, go to California Franchise Tax Board's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Extended webpage and the Internal Revenue Service's Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and Debt Cancellation webpage. The full text of Senate Bill 401 is available at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/.

This article is compliments of the California Association of realtors.