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
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
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
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
Monday, June 14, 2010
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
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
Friday, June 11, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
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
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
Sunday, June 6, 2010
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
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
Thursday, June 3, 2010
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/
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/
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
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
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
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
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
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
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