As the official "busy" selling season starts I awake this morning with thoughts swirling in my head about things I have learned over the last few years -- and tips I have for some sellers. Now that I have had a cup of coffee in me, let's get started!
1. Attachment to your home: Something I realize before I even go on an appointment is that a seller usually, genuinley loves and is attached to their home. That is plain and simple. The home could be big, small, clean, filthy, overcrowded, nicely decorated, in disrepair or remodeled....any condition, really. As human beings, we tend to form attachments to places and things -- even if we think we don't! My advice for sellers: Admit you are attached to something about your home and start to let go. Sometimes what may seem as the smallest of attachments can cloud judgement later on - and sometimes cause a deal to stall.
2. Presentation of your home: Sellers tend to like what they have in their home and how it is decorated. Some buyers are not able to see past wallpaper or bedspread colors and patterns. Try as they might, these buyers look at the whole package, failing to realize the package they are buying does not include the bedspread. As a seller, the best thing you can do is depersonalize your home - and tone it down. If you know your style is busy and eclectic, try to pack up some of the busier pieces. Put away some of your personal photos, knick knacks, etc. A cleaner look will help you sell your home and all potential buyers see the best of your home!
3. Photos of your home: Remember that the photographs are taken to help draw buyers in. The more, the better. The exception? If you have rooms that lack decent lighting, or walls with wood paneling (that are dark and make a room look smaller). As REALTORs (R) we will take photos and post the best representation of your home. Sometimes, 5 out of the 10 photos are not helpful -- so we won't post them - all to help the potential buyers see your house in its best light!
4. Pricing your home: REALTORS (R) want to get your house sold! In order to do that, sometimes that means pricing your home for less than what you think it is worth. Zillow's Zestimates are not fully accurate -- big shock! Funny thing is, I usually have people quoting Zillow only when it gives a higher price than what they are told they can get....Usually, though, Zillow so off base, it can't be supported with true Comparable Properties. The folks at Zillow have succeeded in making the average internet surfer think they know the value of their home -- or their neighbors'....that's about it! Trust your REALTOR (R) and their market knowledge - if you don't, get a second opinion!
5. Showing your home: It seems there has been an increase in Appointment Only listings -- I speak from experience. A house can still be sold while making an appointment, and it certainly takes away from the hassle of being disturbed while the baby is napping -- but guess what? Sometimes buyers are visiting from out of town, or maybe they just happened to drive by your house on the way to another....so, accessibility becomes a real plus! If there is a lock-box, your house can get shown easier. I know it can be a drag, but in today's market it is more important than ever. Many people are looking at vacant homes that are easy to see. The average seller has the advantage if they have a lock box -- why not show off your great home at every chance you get? The objective is to sell your home...make it easier to get the job done!
In closing, I have listed 5 points of advice I think will help when selling your home. As your REALTOR(R) my objective is yours -- to get the job done!!! Stay tuned for Buyer Tips -- coming soon!
Stacy
Monday, February 22, 2010
Monday, November 30, 2009
25 days till Christmas! Countdown to 2010!
Well, the holidays are officially upon us! Can you stand it? The endless commercials for toys and products that will most likely end up running out of batteries or in a landfill somewhere in a few months??!! This year the Dover's are trying to be intentional about everything we buy - for instance, each kid is getting their own tree! Keeley's orange tree has been planted, Zack wants a lemon tree and Ian wants an apple tree. While I loved to garden as a child, I am finding it just as rewarding now - but requiring more effort!
The Dover garden is growing and indeed, we will have/or are yielding plenty of our own peas, pumpkins, tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and basil (we have TONS if anyone needs any, please let me know!!) We have started composting with my gift to myself of a new compost bin!!! I purchased it from the city of Glendora for $25!!! What makes this possible is of course because we have our own land and we can do with it what we please.....but it doesn't take much! Anyone with a small patch of dirt can grow things!! So as we approach the holidays, I encourage you all to consider planting a seed of some kind - literally and figuratively. Being intentional about what is planted is our responsibility as human beings (at least I think so).
We will all fail at times, but we can keep trying!!! And if you are looking for a place to plant your garden, and are thinking you might want to lease - or buy a place that makes it possible - I am always here! Those of you that know me and may have even been my clients have seen how I take pride in the leg-work, the research and the true responsibility that comes with finding your HOME. With the great tax credits for new and existing home buyers, this is a wonderful time to intentionally purchase a place that you can plant your seeds!
If you are ready to put down your roots, give me a call!!! And if you are like me, and are still testing the ground to see what grows - I wish you the best of luck on your efforts!!!
May 2010 be a time to focus on and realize the abundant blessings already yours!
The Dover garden is growing and indeed, we will have/or are yielding plenty of our own peas, pumpkins, tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and basil (we have TONS if anyone needs any, please let me know!!) We have started composting with my gift to myself of a new compost bin!!! I purchased it from the city of Glendora for $25!!! What makes this possible is of course because we have our own land and we can do with it what we please.....but it doesn't take much! Anyone with a small patch of dirt can grow things!! So as we approach the holidays, I encourage you all to consider planting a seed of some kind - literally and figuratively. Being intentional about what is planted is our responsibility as human beings (at least I think so).
We will all fail at times, but we can keep trying!!! And if you are looking for a place to plant your garden, and are thinking you might want to lease - or buy a place that makes it possible - I am always here! Those of you that know me and may have even been my clients have seen how I take pride in the leg-work, the research and the true responsibility that comes with finding your HOME. With the great tax credits for new and existing home buyers, this is a wonderful time to intentionally purchase a place that you can plant your seeds!
If you are ready to put down your roots, give me a call!!! And if you are like me, and are still testing the ground to see what grows - I wish you the best of luck on your efforts!!!
May 2010 be a time to focus on and realize the abundant blessings already yours!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Time Flies!
Wow! I have been BUSY! As you may already know, I have had my best year yet in real estate! Despite economic woes in nearly all business sectors, and many facing pay-cuts and unemployment, the real estate market is bouncing back!
What has caused the surge in home purchases? From my perspective several factors have caused this.
1. Interest rates remain low - we are under 7% folks, this is awesome!
2. FHA is a mere 3.5% down - and most loans are going FHA (Not much of a difference in interest rates)
3. Prices have been slashed everywhere - what a great time for a discount purchase!
4. More sellers are ready to move up since prices are lower on the high end of homes!
5. Reality has set in - people realize that prices won't get so high as they were in 2002-2006 - but, the the economy is reliant on the housing industry in so many different ways - so there MUST BE STABILIZATION!
6. The FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS TAX CREDIT of up to $8,000 - which is set to EXPIRE November 30, 2009.
If you have not heard, most homes do not stay on the market for extended periods of time anymore - and if they do - it's usually due to the same old truths: priced too high and not properly marketed.
Most homes - including my own listings - have multiple offers - and sellers realize this!
I am so excited to approach the last quarter of 2009 as one of the top 18 REALTORS(R) in ERA's Broker council! I am as dedicated as ever to provide my clients with the utmost in service and professionalism.
If you or anyone you know if looking for a REALTOR(R) please pass on my information today!!!
*Don't forget to look for my new ad in the latest edition of HOMES & LAND*
As always,
Stacy Dover - REALTOR (R) - Building Dreams starts with Community!
Honesty, Integrity...Service you can TRUST!
What has caused the surge in home purchases? From my perspective several factors have caused this.
1. Interest rates remain low - we are under 7% folks, this is awesome!
2. FHA is a mere 3.5% down - and most loans are going FHA (Not much of a difference in interest rates)
3. Prices have been slashed everywhere - what a great time for a discount purchase!
4. More sellers are ready to move up since prices are lower on the high end of homes!
5. Reality has set in - people realize that prices won't get so high as they were in 2002-2006 - but, the the economy is reliant on the housing industry in so many different ways - so there MUST BE STABILIZATION!
6. The FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS TAX CREDIT of up to $8,000 - which is set to EXPIRE November 30, 2009.
If you have not heard, most homes do not stay on the market for extended periods of time anymore - and if they do - it's usually due to the same old truths: priced too high and not properly marketed.
Most homes - including my own listings - have multiple offers - and sellers realize this!
I am so excited to approach the last quarter of 2009 as one of the top 18 REALTORS(R) in ERA's Broker council! I am as dedicated as ever to provide my clients with the utmost in service and professionalism.
If you or anyone you know if looking for a REALTOR(R) please pass on my information today!!!
*Don't forget to look for my new ad in the latest edition of HOMES & LAND*
As always,
Stacy Dover - REALTOR (R) - Building Dreams starts with Community!
Honesty, Integrity...Service you can TRUST!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
First Time Buyers are EVERYWHERE!
The past month has kept me very busy! It is wonderful to see so many people able to finally afford a home in Southern California! Over 50% of the population can now afford the median priced home in California! This is astounding! As a result, I have been working with first-time buyers like never before!
I have properties listed that are in escrow with first time buyers, and I have many prospective buyers I have been taking out to various locations to view properties. I have been from Los Angeles to Fontana and I can say this for sure: Properties in the $300,000 range are getting multiple offers! Here are a few tips if you are starting your search:
1. Make sure you are working with a licensed REALTOR - someone that can advise you of the market, trends and how to make a good offer!
2. Once you have found a REALTOR - stay loyal! They will loyally work for you and need to know you are committed. If you are asked to sign a buyer's agreement, whether a one-page contract or a standard Buyer Broker Agreement - do not be afraid! If you are a serious buyer, these documents will only protect your rights as a buyer - and assure you are receiving the highest level of service!
3. Be realistic! IF you are looking at bank owned, or any other As-is homes, remember, you are getting a great deal, but expect to put money into the home -- even if it is as basic as a toilet or light fixtures. Great deals are out there, but the homes need basic amenities as well.
4. Get pre-qualified with a DIRECT LENDER. Many banks are requiring direct lenders! This is easy and free of charge - call me if you need a local lender.
5. Stay open to the area you want to live in. Make a list of priorities and if you cannot find your home in one place - be willing to look somewhere else.
6. Stay focused and committed! Buying a home is a huge step - make sure you are ready to stick with the purchase!
7. If you are getting an FHA loan be sure any condos or homes with associations are HUD approved for FHA loans. I learned that if this is not the case, a certification is not an easy process.
As always, I can help am here to answer your questions!
Stacy Dover - REALTOR
I have properties listed that are in escrow with first time buyers, and I have many prospective buyers I have been taking out to various locations to view properties. I have been from Los Angeles to Fontana and I can say this for sure: Properties in the $300,000 range are getting multiple offers! Here are a few tips if you are starting your search:
1. Make sure you are working with a licensed REALTOR - someone that can advise you of the market, trends and how to make a good offer!
2. Once you have found a REALTOR - stay loyal! They will loyally work for you and need to know you are committed. If you are asked to sign a buyer's agreement, whether a one-page contract or a standard Buyer Broker Agreement - do not be afraid! If you are a serious buyer, these documents will only protect your rights as a buyer - and assure you are receiving the highest level of service!
3. Be realistic! IF you are looking at bank owned, or any other As-is homes, remember, you are getting a great deal, but expect to put money into the home -- even if it is as basic as a toilet or light fixtures. Great deals are out there, but the homes need basic amenities as well.
4. Get pre-qualified with a DIRECT LENDER. Many banks are requiring direct lenders! This is easy and free of charge - call me if you need a local lender.
5. Stay open to the area you want to live in. Make a list of priorities and if you cannot find your home in one place - be willing to look somewhere else.
6. Stay focused and committed! Buying a home is a huge step - make sure you are ready to stick with the purchase!
7. If you are getting an FHA loan be sure any condos or homes with associations are HUD approved for FHA loans. I learned that if this is not the case, a certification is not an easy process.
As always, I can help am here to answer your questions!
Stacy Dover - REALTOR
Happy Earth Day!
As more of the world becomes aware of what is being dubbed "green living" or Eco-friendly, the California Association of REALTORS is publishing tips for green living. Given the heat these past couple of days, and the plants wilting around me, I thought this weeks' tip was very appropriate:
C.A.R. Green Tip of the Week: More drought tips
Californians may face water rationing this summer. In response, the California Landscape Contractors Association has provided tips for use by homeowners and businesses.
. Do not use high nitrogen fertilizers during a drought. They encourage growth but the plants will need more water.
. Heavily mulch all flower and soil beds. Mulch helps keep water in the soil. Do not use rocks/gravel because they add heat to the soil and moisture evaporates faster.
. Mow grass higher to promote deeper root growth and hold more moisture. Aerate the lawn and fill the holes with compost so the water can infiltrate deeper.
For more green real-estate-related tips and discussion, visit C.A.R.’s green blog (http://blogs.car.org/) and C.A.R.’s Green Web site (http://green.car.org/).
C.A.R. Green Tip of the Week: More drought tips
Californians may face water rationing this summer. In response, the California Landscape Contractors Association has provided tips for use by homeowners and businesses.
. Do not use high nitrogen fertilizers during a drought. They encourage growth but the plants will need more water.
. Heavily mulch all flower and soil beds. Mulch helps keep water in the soil. Do not use rocks/gravel because they add heat to the soil and moisture evaporates faster.
. Mow grass higher to promote deeper root growth and hold more moisture. Aerate the lawn and fill the holes with compost so the water can infiltrate deeper.
For more green real-estate-related tips and discussion, visit C.A.R.’s green blog (http://blogs.car.org/) and C.A.R.’s Green Web site (http://green.car.org/).
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Good News for the Housing Market
I have a quick update on the current housing market!! Guess what? it is good news!!!
The word is spreading....
** Suze Orman (Financial Guru) is telling everyone to invest in REAL ESTATE!!!
** On this morning's TODAY show, a financial expert stated that he believes this spring's selling season will be "THE BEST SELLING SEASON IN 3 YEARS!!"
** The housing crisis is widepsread in America, but . . . out of the thousands of counties in this country just 35 counties in the entire US are actually in a depressed market!
* Over 90% of the people in this country are PAYING THEIR MORTGAGES ON TIME!!!!
** Through out the U.S., over 4.9 MILLION HOMES SOLD IN 2008!!
** The market in our area is UP SIGNIFICANTLY!!! As of January 2008, there were 338 open escrows. As of January 2009, there were 950 open escrows!
** The largest demographic currently purchasing homes is FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS aged 24-34. Just a few short years ago, only 8% of people in this group could afford the median priced home. Now, thanks to favorable market conditions, 59% of 24-34 year old first time home buyers can now afford a median priced home!
What does this mean for you? If you are a buyer - things are better than they have been for years! Coupled with the federal and state tax credits, you are actually getting PAID to buy a home! This has never happened before! And, if you are a seller, HOLD ON tight!!! The market is just getting started!! The current upswing will continue as incentives are great, interest rates ARE VERY LOW and inventory is plentiful!!
BUY - OR - SELL NOW AND LOOK SMART LATER!!!
AS ALWAYS -- I AM HERE TO HELP!
HONESTY, INTEGRITY . . . SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST!
STACY DOVER
Monday, March 2, 2009
New Home Buyer Tax Credit!!!
If you have not found the low interest rates, low homes prices and vast inventory reason enough to buy - that is - if you are STILL ON THE FENCE!!!! Well, you now have more reason to GET OFF THE FENCE, STOP PAYING SOMEONE ELSE"S MORTGAGE with your rent money and BUY!!!! Here's why: According to the California Association of REALTORS (R) A $10,000 state tax credit will benefit a projected 10,000 new-home buyers starting Sunday and, in turn, could help beleaguered home builders, the California Building Industry Association said yesterday.
The measure, costing $100 million over the next three years, was included in the budget compromise passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last week. “What we've been missing in the market the last couple of years are people,” said Tim Coyle, senior vice president for government affairs of the builders group. “Already, with the news of this tax credit being authorized and signed into law last Friday, we're beginning to see interest in people who we need desperately to return back to housing markets where they haven't been for so long,” Coyle said.
In the Glendora area, we still have some homes available in the LYONS home development and of course, Azusa's Rosedale development. I can help you navigate your way throught the new home process. Even if you are looking to purchase a new home, you need a REALTOR (R) to represent your best interest. If you are interested in a new home purchase, let me take you through the models. I can register you, guide you and help negotiate in YOUR BEST INTEREST and this is of NO COST TO YOU!
As always, please call me with any of your questions. I am your real estate professional and I can help you with all of your real estate needs!
Stacy
Honesty, Integrity...Service you can TRUST!
The measure, costing $100 million over the next three years, was included in the budget compromise passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last week. “What we've been missing in the market the last couple of years are people,” said Tim Coyle, senior vice president for government affairs of the builders group. “Already, with the news of this tax credit being authorized and signed into law last Friday, we're beginning to see interest in people who we need desperately to return back to housing markets where they haven't been for so long,” Coyle said.
In the Glendora area, we still have some homes available in the LYONS home development and of course, Azusa's Rosedale development. I can help you navigate your way throught the new home process. Even if you are looking to purchase a new home, you need a REALTOR (R) to represent your best interest. If you are interested in a new home purchase, let me take you through the models. I can register you, guide you and help negotiate in YOUR BEST INTEREST and this is of NO COST TO YOU!
As always, please call me with any of your questions. I am your real estate professional and I can help you with all of your real estate needs!
Stacy
Honesty, Integrity...Service you can TRUST!
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