Gay Real Estate News

Residential Real Estate Developers and Builders Continue to Turn to Auctions to Sell Homes.

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

Real estate auctions are continuing to be a popular medium for builders and developers who are looking to sell luxury homes, and residential building lots in the current economic climate.

Using auctions to sell luxury homes and building lots means that builders and developers are able to reduce their waiting times to sell, and costs, by avoiding traditional sales methodology.

Paul Rogers, of Inland Real Estate Auctions, feels that auctions are a growing trend that would not have been a viable option years ago.

"In the current real estate climate, an auction may be the only avenue for a developer or builder looking to move inventory and quickly realize value," Rogers said.

Inland Real Estate Auctions currently has two luxury homes listed for auction in March. One is a 6,000 square-foot manor that is located in the western suburb of Oak Brook in Illinois, which comprises of 5-beds, 6-baths (pictured above - image 1), while the other residence is a 3,800 square-foot, 4-bed, 5-bath in Elm-wood, Illinois (pictured above - image 2).

The residences were originally priced at $2.9 million and $1 million respectively, and will be sold via sealed bid, with all bids considered.

In addition to these homes, 10 home sites in the sub-divisions of Frankfort, and the Bridges, of Monkena community Monkena will be sold. These residential sites were priced at $200,000 each and are expected to have a starting bid of $50,000 each. Regardless of price, at least three of these blocks will be sold.

For more information on these , and many more home auctions please visit www.inlandreauctions.com

Sources: Cunningham, John (2009) FReal Estate Auctions, Inc. to Auction More Home Sites and Luxury Homes; available online at http://www.inlandreauctions.com

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Residential Real Estate

Real estate auctions are continuing to be a popular medium for builders and developers who are looking to sell luxury homes, and residential building lots in the current economic climate.

Using auctions to sell luxury homes and building lots means that builders and developers are able to reduce their waiting times to sell, and costs, by avoiding traditional sales methodology.

Paul Rogers, of Inland Real Estate Auctions, feels that auctions are a growing trend that would not have been a viable option years ago.

"In the current real estate climate, an auction may be the only avenue for a developer or builder looking to move inventory and quickly realize value," Rogers said.

Inland Real Estate Auctions currently has two luxury homes listed for auction in March. One is a 6,000 square-foot manor that is located in the western suburb of Oak Brook in Illinois, which comprises of 5-beds, 6-baths (pictured above - image 1), while the other residence is a 3,800 square-foot, 4-bed, 5-bath in Elm-wood, Illinois (pictured above - image 2).

The residences were originally priced at $2.9 million and $1 million respectively, and will be sold via sealed bid, with all bids considered.

In addition to these homes, 10 home sites in the sub-divisions of Frankfort, and the Bridges, of Monkena community Monkena will be sold. These residential sites were priced at $200,000 each and are expected to have a starting bid of $50,000 each. Regardless of price, at least three of these blocks will be sold.

For more information on these , and many more home auctions please visit www.inlandreauctions.com

Sources: Cunningham, John (2009) FReal Estate Auctions, Inc. to Auction More Home Sites and Luxury Homes; available online at http://www.inlandreauctions.com

Image Source: www.inlandreauctions.com

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Residential Real Estate

Real estate auctions are continuing to be a popular medium for builders and developers who are looking to sell luxury homes, and residential building lots in the current economic climate.

Using auctions to sell luxury homes and building lots means that builders and developers are able to reduce their waiting times to sell, and costs, by avoiding traditional sales methodology.

Paul Rogers, of Inland Real Estate Auctions, feels that auctions are a growing trend that would not have been a viable option years ago.

"In the current real estate climate, an auction may be the only avenue for a developer or builder looking to move inventory and quickly realize value," Rogers said.

Inland Real Estate Auctions currently has two luxury homes listed for auction in March. One is a 6,000 square-foot manor that is located in the western suburb of Oak Brook in Illinois, which comprises of 5-beds, 6-baths (pictured above - image 1), while the other residence is a 3,800 square-foot, 4-bed, 5-bath in Elm-wood, Illinois (pictured above - image 2).

The residences were originally priced at $2.9 million and $1 million respectively, and will be sold via sealed bid, with all bids considered.

In addition to these homes, 10 home sites in the sub-divisions of Frankfort, and the Bridges, of Monkena community Monkena will be sold. These residential sites were priced at $200,000 each and are expected to have a starting bid of $50,000 each. Regardless of price, at least three of these blocks will be sold.

For more information on these , and many more home auctions please visit www.inlandreauctions.com

Sources: Cunningham, John (2009) FReal Estate Auctions, Inc. to Auction More Home Sites and Luxury Homes; available online at http://www.inlandreauctions.com

Image Source: www.inlandreauctions.com

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New Home Builders in America

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

There are more than 160,000 home builder's or renovation company's in America, according to a new research publication that was released on the 23rd of February, this year, by marketresearch.com

What is even more fascinating, is that while the home building and renovation industry has a '$500 billion' turnover annually, most American builders are not that big. In fact, some 80% of builders have approximately 10 employees and only build up to 20 homes a year.

The large home building companies in the US are identified as Centex, Dr. Horton, Lennar and Pulte, who typically build over 19,000 homes per annum.

It is estimated that more than 1.6 million homes are built annually and that the majority of these are single family homes.

While the economy has had an impact on the building industry it is also predicted that the fall in interest rates will spur on home sales during 2009.

Sources: Marketresearch.com (2009) Residential Real Estate Construction; available online at http://www.marketresearch.com

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Residential Real Estate

There are more than 160,000 home builder's or renovation company's in America, according to a new research publication that was released on the 23rd of February, this year, by marketresearch.com

What is even more fascinating, is that while the home building and renovation industry has a '$500 billion' turnover annually, most American builders are not that big. In fact, some 80% of builders have approximately 10 employees and only build up to 20 homes a year.

The large home building companies in the US are identified as Centex, Dr. Horton, Lennar and Pulte, who typically build over 19,000 homes per annum.

It is estimated that more than 1.6 million homes are built annually and that the majority of these are single family homes.

While the economy has had an impact on the building industry it is also predicted that the fall in interest rates will spur on home sales during 2009.

Sources: Marketresearch.com (2009) Residential Real Estate Construction; available online at http://www.marketresearch.com

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Residential Real Estate

There are more than 160,000 home builder's or renovation company's in America, according to a new research publication that was released on the 23rd of February, this year, by marketresearch.com

What is even more fascinating, is that while the home building and renovation industry has a '$500 billion' turnover annually, most American builders are not that big. In fact, some 80% of builders have approximately 10 employees and only build up to 20 homes a year.

The large home building companies in the US are identified as Centex, Dr. Horton, Lennar and Pulte, who typically build over 19,000 homes per annum.

It is estimated that more than 1.6 million homes are built annually and that the majority of these are single family homes.

While the economy has had an impact on the building industry it is also predicted that the fall in interest rates will spur on home sales during 2009.

Sources: Marketresearch.com (2009) Residential Real Estate Construction; available online at http://www.marketresearch.com

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Declining Interest Rates Generate Refinancing Interest

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

As interest rates fall, the number of American mortgage holders refinancing is rising. In fact, a CNNMoney.com article recently stated that according to the Mortgage Bankers Association, the last week of 2008 recorded a massive 48% rise in home loan applications, and 80% of these were from existing mortgage holders, looking to reduce their repayments.

The surge in refinancing interest, is undoubtedly linked to the global recession and the fact that home owners who are possibly under financial pressure are seeking ways to reduce their monthly obligations. However, even those couples or individuals who have an affordable mortgage that is at a higher interest rates can benefit from refinancing. As individuals and couples that successfully refinance their home can expect to save anything from hundreds to thousands a month, depending on the principal amount owing on their mortgage.

Therefore, if you have a high adjustable rate mortgage, are planning to stay in your home, and you can lower your mortgage rate by a percentage point or more it is strongly advised that you consider refinancing, so that you can save yourself hundreds and possibly even thousands per month in mortgage repayments.

Sources: Christie, Les (2009) Falling Interest Rates and Refinancing; available online at http://www.cnnmoney.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

As interest rates fall, the number of American mortgage holders refinancing is rising. In fact, a CNNMoney.com article recently stated that according to the Mortgage Bankers Association, the last week of 2008 recorded a massive 48% rise in home loan applications, and 80% of these were from existing mortgage holders, looking to reduce their repayments.

The surge in refinancing interest, is undoubtedly linked to the global recession and the fact that home owners who are possibly under financial pressure are seeking ways to reduce their monthly obligations. However, even those couples or individuals who have an affordable mortgage that is at a higher interest rates can benefit from refinancing. As individuals and couples that successfully refinance their home can expect to save anything from hundreds to thousands a month, depending on the principal amount owing on their mortgage.

Therefore, if you have a high adjustable rate mortgage, are planning to stay in your home, and you can lower your mortgage rate by a percentage point or more it is strongly advised that you consider refinancing, so that you can save yourself hundreds and possibly even thousands per month in mortgage repayments.

Sources: Christie, Les (2009) Falling Interest Rates and Refinancing; available online at http://www.cnnmoney.com

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Your Dream Home is Now Affordable

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

With the drop in home prices and mortgage interest rates, now has never represented a better time to buy a home.

CNNMoney.com recently ran a feature on its site that was fascinating, as it intoduces you to several families, and couples, who have secured their dream homes for well under what they would have paid a few years ago. These homes are located in California, Colorado, Michigan, Virginia, New York and Florida, and the article is a real eye opener in relation to just how affordable housing is becoming, nationwide.

One example of a couple taking advantage of current home prices is Scott Furr and his partner Damian Hetherington (pictured above) who moved to Palm Beach, Florida, after selling their North Carolina condo in 2003. The couple who intended to buy a home in Florida, soon discovered that the homes they liked were well and truly out of their reach, financially.

"The real estate market was exploding here in Florida, and it placed many desirable homes out of reach," Furr told CNNMoney.

By 2009 prices had changed in the Florida area, and Furr and Hetherington found a home that not only appealed to them, but was also within their budget (pictured above). The home which had originally listed for $425,000 in November of 2007, was still for sale in 2009, and reduced to $325,000 in a short sale on a $390,000 mortgage.

Furr and Hetherington offered $285,000 on the property, and then haggled on price. The pair soon discovered that they were to be the proud owners of the stylish four-bed, two-bath, 2,800 square-foot Mediterranean styled home.

As Furr told CNNMoney, "I feel the bust was badly needed, and it opened up an opportunity that we otherwise would not have had." 

With homes now ripe for the picking, it is time if you have been thinking of buying, to grab a mortgage, and head-on-down to the real estate orchard, before those tasty fruit go past their used-by-date.

Sources: CNNMoney.com (2009) The Bust or Boon; available online at http://www.cnnmoney.com

Image Source:  Furr, Scott (2009) published by www.CNNMoney.com

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Image Source:  Furr, Scott (2009) published by www.CNNMoney.com

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The $8,000 First Home-buyers Tax Credit

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

There has been a little confusion over the $8,000 first home-buyers tax credit that is a part of President Obama's stimulus package. So in order to clarify the cloud of misconception that surrounds this new home bonus, let's look at the first home-buyers tax credit in greater detail.

The tax credit is a one off payment of $8,000 that will be given to eligible individuals or couples by way of a tax credit in the 2008/2009 financial year. To be eligible for the full $8,000 first home-buyers grant, home-buyers must purchase a home before November the 30th of this year, and buyers must not have owned a home in the last three years. For example - if you owned a home six years ago and have been renting, you are now eligible for the first home buyers grant.

In addition to these requirements, your income must be under $75,000 if you are single, and under $150,000 if you are purchasing as a couple. However, if you earn over this amount you can still apply for the tax credit, but it may mean that you will receive a smaller credit based on your income.

According to a recently published CNNMoney.com article, Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors expects the new bill to bring some 300,000 new home-buyers into the market.

The only criticism of the grant is that it is a tax credit, so the $8,000 is available only when an individual, or couple, file their 2008/2009 tax return, and this means that the $8,000 is unavailable at the time of purchasing, which many feel does not help with down payments.

However, this means that if you owe money on your taxes for the 2008/2009 financial year that the IRS will deduct this amount from your $8,000, or, if you have a tax credit that the IRS will add your $8,000 payment to your credit and then send you a healthy refund.

Sources: Lee, Christie (2008) Final Score: $8,000 for homebuyers; available online at http://www.cnnmoney.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

There has been a little confusion over the $8,000 first home-buyers tax credit that is a part of President Obama's stimulus package. So in order to clarify the cloud of misconception that surrounds this new home bonus, let's look at the first home-buyers tax credit in greater detail.

The tax credit is a one off payment of $8,000 that will be given to eligible individuals or couples by way of a tax credit in the 2008/2009 financial year. To be eligible for the full $8,000 first home-buyers grant, home-buyers must purchase a home before November the 30th of this year, and buyers must not have owned a home in the last three years. For example - if you owned a home six years ago and have been renting, you are now eligible for the first home buyers grant.

In addition to these requirements, your income must be under $75,000 if you are single, and under $150,000 if you are purchasing as a couple. However, if you earn over this amount you can still apply for the tax credit, but it may mean that you will receive a smaller credit based on your income.

According to a recently published CNNMoney.com article, Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors expects the new bill to bring some 300,000 new home-buyers into the market.

The only criticism of the grant is that it is a tax credit, so the $8,000 is available only when an individual, or couple, file their 2008/2009 tax return, and this means that the $8,000 is unavailable at the time of purchasing, which many feel does not help with down payments.

However, this means that if you owe money on your taxes for the 2008/2009 financial year that the IRS will deduct this amount from your $8,000, or, if you have a tax credit that the IRS will add your $8,000 payment to your credit and then send you a healthy refund.

Sources: Lee, Christie (2008) Final Score: $8,000 for homebuyers; available online at http://www.cnnmoney.com

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Credit Card Company Chaos or Greed?

By Jeff Adolph

Home Owner Credit

Reduction of credit limits and the increase of interest rates in a time when consumers can ill afford it, are become common practice with credit card companies, and this is expected to have an adverse affect on credit scores.

In a time when foreclosure is high, and loans are becoming harder to acquire it is apparent that credit card companies are tightening their belts, which is costing their consumers dearly.

According to the Atlanta Journal - Constitution, American Express, for example, is informing its customers that it is reducing their credit limits, and yet most of the card holders who were notified have impeccable payment histories, and excellent credit ratings. Factors affecting a customers credit limit according to the article, include the mortgage lender that the customer uses, where the customer owns a home to especially if the region has experienced a substantial decrease in home prices, and the customers spending habits. All of which, are outraging American Express consumers nationwide.

Senate Banking Committee Chairman, Christopher Dodd, according to the Boston Globe, is equally as concerned about these credit card changes, as consumers. In fact, Dodd is proposing new credit card company regulations to prevent what he refers to as 'gouging'.

"At a time when our economy is in a crisis and consumers are struggling financially, credit card companies in too many cases are gouging them, hiking interest rates on customers who pay on time and consistently meet the terms of their credit card agreements," Senator Dodd stated.

What is even more perplexing is American Express have applied for, and been granted, Federal Reserve approval to become a commercial bank. This means that they now have access to bank bail out funds which are a part of the federal rescue plan, which American taxpayers have paid for.

Article Source: Hammerberg, Jeff (2009) Is American Express Biting the Hand that Feeds It?; available online at www.WiredPRNews.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Home Owner Credit

Reduction of credit limits and the increase of interest rates in a time when consumers can ill afford it, are become common practice with credit card companies, and this is expected to have an adverse affect on credit scores.

In a time when foreclosure is high, and loans are becoming harder to acquire it is apparent that credit card companies are tightening their belts, which is costing their consumers dearly.

According to the Atlanta Journal - Constitution, American Express, for example, is informing its customers that it is reducing their credit limits, and yet most of the card holders who were notified have impeccable payment histories, and excellent credit ratings. Factors affecting a customers credit limit according to the article, include the mortgage lender that the customer uses, where the customer owns a home to especially if the region has experienced a substantial decrease in home prices, and the customers spending habits. All of which, are outraging American Express consumers nationwide.

Senate Banking Committee Chairman, Christopher Dodd, according to the Boston Globe, is equally as concerned about these credit card changes, as consumers. In fact, Dodd is proposing new credit card company regulations to prevent what he refers to as 'gouging'.

"At a time when our economy is in a crisis and consumers are struggling financially, credit card companies in too many cases are gouging them, hiking interest rates on customers who pay on time and consistently meet the terms of their credit card agreements," Senator Dodd stated.

What is even more perplexing is American Express have applied for, and been granted, Federal Reserve approval to become a commercial bank. This means that they now have access to bank bail out funds which are a part of the federal rescue plan, which American taxpayers have paid for.

Article Source: Hammerberg, Jeff (2009) Is American Express Biting the Hand that Feeds It?; available online at www.WiredPRNews.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Home Owner Credit

Reduction of credit limits and the increase of interest rates in a time when consumers can ill afford it, are become common practice with credit card companies, and this is expected to have an adverse affect on credit scores.

In a time when foreclosure is high, and loans are becoming harder to acquire it is apparent that credit card companies are tightening their belts, which is costing their consumers dearly.

According to the Atlanta Journal - Constitution, American Express, for example, is informing its customers that it is reducing their credit limits, and yet most of the card holders who were notified have impeccable payment histories, and excellent credit ratings. Factors affecting a customers credit limit according to the article, include the mortgage lender that the customer uses, where the customer owns a home to especially if the region has experienced a substantial decrease in home prices, and the customers spending habits. All of which, are outraging American Express consumers nationwide.

Senate Banking Committee Chairman, Christopher Dodd, according to the Boston Globe, is equally as concerned about these credit card changes, as consumers. In fact, Dodd is proposing new credit card company regulations to prevent what he refers to as 'gouging'.

"At a time when our economy is in a crisis and consumers are struggling financially, credit card companies in too many cases are gouging them, hiking interest rates on customers who pay on time and consistently meet the terms of their credit card agreements," Senator Dodd stated.

What is even more perplexing is American Express have applied for, and been granted, Federal Reserve approval to become a commercial bank. This means that they now have access to bank bail out funds which are a part of the federal rescue plan, which American taxpayers have paid for.

Article Source: Hammerberg, Jeff (2009) Is American Express Biting the Hand that Feeds It?; available online at www.WiredPRNews.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Home Owner Credit

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The Changing Face of Real Estate

By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

Real estate agents who may be finding the world of realty a little tougher since the economic downturn are expanding their horizons by becoming multi-skilled.

Realtors that have found the current economy challenging are going back to school and mastering new skills, such as short sales, and how to market foreclosed homes. 

Realtors are adapting to a changing marketplace in order to survive , and they are learning to deal with lenders, as well as have more patience with the selling process.

President of an American property appraisal service, Jim Hancock, recently told reporter Susan Respess in an interview that, "It's a crazy market right now."

Realtor, Carrie Paulk also interviewd by Respess said, " I would not have wanted to deal with these foreclosures a year ago. I feel like a car salesman, telling the bank, 'can you take $40,000 on an $80,000 lot.' But the only way the economy is  going to come back is if we absorb these things."

Article Source: Respess, Susan (2009) Foreclosures Changing the Way Realtors do Business; available online at www.tribune-gorgian.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

Real estate agents who may be finding the world of realty a little tougher since the economic downturn are expanding their horizons by becoming multi-skilled.

Realtors that have found the current economy challenging are going back to school and mastering new skills, such as short sales, and how to market foreclosed homes. 

Realtors are adapting to a changing marketplace in order to survive , and they are learning to deal with lenders, as well as have more patience with the selling process.

President of an American property appraisal service, Jim Hancock, recently told reporter Susan Respess in an interview that, "It's a crazy market right now."

Realtor, Carrie Paulk also interviewd by Respess said, " I would not have wanted to deal with these foreclosures a year ago. I feel like a car salesman, telling the bank, 'can you take $40,000 on an $80,000 lot.' But the only way the economy is  going to come back is if we absorb these things."

Article Source: Respess, Susan (2009) Foreclosures Changing the Way Realtors do Business; available online at www.tribune-gorgian.com

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By Jeff Adolph

Residential Real Estate

Real estate agents who may be finding the world of realty a little tougher since the economic downturn are expanding their horizons by becoming multi-skilled.

Realtors that have found the current economy challenging are going back to school and mastering new skills, such as short sales, and how to market foreclosed homes. 

Realtors are adapting to a changing marketplace in order to survive , and they are learning to deal with lenders, as well as have more patience with the selling process.

President of an American property appraisal service, Jim Hancock, recently told reporter Susan Respess in an interview that, "It's a crazy market right now."

Realtor, Carrie Paulk also interviewd by Respess said, " I would not have wanted to deal with these foreclosures a year ago. I feel like a car salesman, telling the bank, 'can you take $40,000 on an $80,000 lot.' But the only way the economy is  going to come back is if we absorb these things."

Article Source: Respess, Susan (2009) Foreclosures Changing the Way Realtors do Business; available online at www.tribune-gorgian.com

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Residential Real Estate

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What the $787 Billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Means to Home Buyers and Mortgage Holders

By Jeff Adolph

Home Buying Legislation

President Obama's signing of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the stimulus package, is set to offer new home buyers and those with existing mortgages some relief.

The stimulus package contains some goodies for new home buyers, and those who currently hold mortgages, and are finding themselves in a tough financial situation.

For first home buyers an $8,000 or 10% tax credit will be applied to the purchase price of their home providing that the buyers meet certain guidelines, these being:

1. The house purchased is the buyers main place of residence;

2. The home was purchased on the 01/01/09-12/01/09; and

3. The buyer/s earn less than $75,000 (single), or $150,000 (joint) in the 2009 financial year.

In addition to this, $2 million of the stimulus plan is expected to be awarded to the testing of foreclosure prevention methods, which will aid families who are currently struggling to meet mortgage repayments.

For mortgage holders who are finding it difficult to meet repayments, the Mortgage Relief Plan, will provide the following:

1. Offer lending incentives to lenders, so that current sub-prime mortgage holders can have their terms adjusted  to enable them to meet mortgage repayments are avert foreclosure;

2. Review and change bankruptcy legislation, so that judges can reduce mortgages to fair market value, thus allowing borrowers to repay debt;

3. Offer Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae 4-5M loan holders the option of refinancing their mortgages at cheaper rates, so that they can afford to meet repayments;

4. Offer low mortgage rates to middle-class families who are considering taking out a new mortgage.

Article Source: trulia.com (2009) Stimulus Bill and Mortgage Relief; available online at www.trulia.com

Image Source: Microsoft Clipart and www.trulia.com

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© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

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By Jeff Adolph

Home Buying Legislation

President Obama's signing of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the stimulus package, is set to offer new home buyers and those with existing mortgages some relief.

The stimulus package contains some goodies for new home buyers, and those who currently hold mortgages, and are finding themselves in a tough financial situation.

For first home buyers an $8,000 or 10% tax credit will be applied to the purchase price of their home providing that the buyers meet certain guidelines, these being:

1. The house purchased is the buyers main place of residence;

2. The home was purchased on the 01/01/09-12/01/09; and

3. The buyer/s earn less than $75,000 (single), or $150,000 (joint) in the 2009 financial year.

In addition to this, $2 million of the stimulus plan is expected to be awarded to the testing of foreclosure prevention methods, which will aid families who are currently struggling to meet mortgage repayments.

For mortgage holders who are finding it difficult to meet repayments, the Mortgage Relief Plan, will provide the following:

1. Offer lending incentives to lenders, so that current sub-prime mortgage holders can have their terms adjusted  to enable them to meet mortgage repayments are avert foreclosure;

2. Review and change bankruptcy legislation, so that judges can reduce mortgages to fair market value, thus allowing borrowers to repay debt;

3. Offer Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae 4-5M loan holders the option of refinancing their mortgages at cheaper rates, so that they can afford to meet repayments;

4. Offer low mortgage rates to middle-class families who are considering taking out a new mortgage.

Article Source: trulia.com (2009) Stimulus Bill and Mortgage Relief; available online at www.trulia.com

Image Source: Microsoft Clipart and www.trulia.com

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© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

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By Jeff Adolph

Home Buying Legislation

© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

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How to Find Open Houses in the Areas You Want to Live In

By Jeff Adolph

Open Houses

Whether you are looking to buy a new home locally, or in another state there are several ways that you can find open houses, which may lead you to your dream home's front door. Here are the easiest ways to find open houses in the areas that you are interested in.

1) Find a Realtor - Realtors are not only a great investment when you are selling a home, but also when you're buying, as they take the guesswork out of finding the right home for you. If you are looking to buy a new home locally or in another state find a find a local Realtor, as they are often familiar with the area and can offer you some excellent advice.

When you find a Realtor you are comfortable with, sit down and discuss your wants and needs in a home, and then ask them to notify you when anything becomes available.

2) Join Online Realty Sites - many sites, such as Trulia.com are multi-listing services which allow you to register and then have open houses e-mailed to your inbox. And best of all, you can list your preferences so that you only have the homes that you are interested in sent to you. Preferences include, city, state ot zip, property type, price range, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the size of a property in square meters. In addition to this, you can also search through the listings online yourself, and find homes that you may be interested in.

3) Local Newspapers- buy local newspapers in the area you are looking to buy in, or subscribe to their online publication so that you can review local realty listings, and find open houses to view.

Image Source: Microsoft Clipart

Update - reader 'Open House Finder' kindly offered a link to aid reader's to find open homes across America - http://www.findeveryopenhouse.com

Thanks this is greatly appreciated!

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By Jeff Adolph

Open Houses

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6 Tips for Managing Vacant Properties

By Jeff Adolph

'Ask a Realtor'

During the off season – especially during an exceptionally slow real estate market – many sellers worry that their vacant listings may suffer from physical deterioration, a loss of curb appeal, or even vandalism. Here are six tips for helping to care for property without getting stressed out about potential problems. Follow them and even during the doldrums of winter that vacation condo at the beach or the vacant house with the sale sign in the yard does not cause any added angst.

#1

Invest in Curb Appeal

The first thing to do with a vacant listing – and it is a good idea even for listings that are occupied – is to put the lock box out of view. Seeing a lock box hanging from a front door knob is a telltale sign that nobody is home. Keep the yard trimmed and manicured and put a fresh coat of paint on the front door. Make sure the entranceway is lighted at night, and that windows facing the street on ground level are covered with sheer curtains or blinds that let in light but protect from prying eyes.

#2

Notify Neighbors and Local Police Patrols

Just as you might while vacationing, enlist the help of neighbors or local police to keep a watchful eye on the house. A neighbor may be willing to park an extra car in front of your property from time to time, to create the illusion that it is occupied. Have someone trustworthy enter the home once a week to give it a once-over and check for any signs of trouble or needed repairs.

#3

Spend a Little on Utilities – But Not Too Much

Homes that sit vacant often suffer from being closed up and not ventilated, and this can cause a musty odor, mildew or mold, or even warping of wood and peeling paint. To keep the structure healthy, set heat or air conditioning units to come on when they hit extreme thermostat readings. That way if the inside of the house gets above 85 degrees it has a chance to cool off, and if it drops below 45 it will re-warm before freezing. Set water heaters to their vacation settings to conserve energy. Should you decide to turn off all of the utilities while the premises are vacant, consult a home repair and maintenance contractor to advise you how to professionally prepare plumbing pipes, boilers, chimneys, and other major components before leaving the house completely “unplugged” for a long period of time.

#4

Hire a Property Management Agent

By paying a nominal monthly fee it is possible to hire professional property managers to take care of all these things and more, so that you don’t have to worry about them yourself. There are even certified management companies with special training, schooling, and industry credentials. Your local Realtor should be able to help find and recommend someone.

#5

Work with a Professional House Sitter

Others work as house sitters, and will maintain a home in exchange for free or reduced rent. Hire those who are bonded and insured and have a verifiable track record and excellent references. By choosing the right tenant to act as a house sitter it is possible to get peace of mind while bartering for minor repairs or chores – or receiving discounted rent to help you make your monthly mortgage payment until the home sells.

#6

Use a Staging Company

The ultimate showcasing strategy for vacant listings involves hiring a professional staging company. These businesses combine real estate marketing and home decorating experience to set up houses to look like model homes. Using a staging company means that the home will be made to look its best in terms of interior decorating, which can dramatically improve success when potential buyers tour the property. They can use your furnishings or bring in furniture and accessories to match any style of home, from Victorian historical houses to sleek modern urban lofts or casual beachfront condos.

Leaving properties empty and neglected not only detracts from their marketability and attractive allure, but it can lead to extraordinary expenses that no homeowner wants to incur – or to an outright emergency. Termites or carpenter ants can destroy an entire home in a remarkably short period of time. Rodents or birds that find their way into an attic can wreak havoc, and a small amount of dampness can explode into toxic mold that is capable of rendering a house unsafe to inhabit.

But visiting a vacant property on a regular basis and giving it a quick walk-through inspection to check for potential problems can usually prevent any of these unwanted complications. Investing even a few minutes per week is all it takes to check on a home. Doing it can be one of the most valuable yet easily affordable investments that you can make to protect your real estate assets. 

To find a qualified real estate agent to help you in buying, selling, managing, or locating investment property, just visit www.GayRealEstate.com or call toll free 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). These brokers specialize in serving the worldwide GLBT community.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

*RealQuestions RealAnswers*

Click on Comments below and share your thoughts and opinions, ask a real estate question or offer story suggestions...

-----------------------------------------------------------------

© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

Proudly Sponsored By:

By Jeff Adolph

'Ask a Realtor'

During the off season – especially during an exceptionally slow real estate market – many sellers worry that their vacant listings may suffer from physical deterioration, a loss of curb appeal, or even vandalism. Here are six tips for helping to care for property without getting stressed out about potential problems. Follow them and even during the doldrums of winter that vacation condo at the beach or the vacant house with the sale sign in the yard does not cause any added angst.

#1

Invest in Curb Appeal

The first thing to do with a vacant listing – and it is a good idea even for listings that are occupied – is to put the lock box out of view. Seeing a lock box hanging from a front door knob is a telltale sign that nobody is home. Keep the yard trimmed and manicured and put a fresh coat of paint on the front door. Make sure the entranceway is lighted at night, and that windows facing the street on ground level are covered with sheer curtains or blinds that let in light but protect from prying eyes.

#2

Notify Neighbors and Local Police Patrols

Just as you might while vacationing, enlist the help of neighbors or local police to keep a watchful eye on the house. A neighbor may be willing to park an extra car in front of your property from time to time, to create the illusion that it is occupied. Have someone trustworthy enter the home once a week to give it a once-over and check for any signs of trouble or needed repairs.

#3

Spend a Little on Utilities – But Not Too Much

Homes that sit vacant often suffer from being closed up and not ventilated, and this can cause a musty odor, mildew or mold, or even warping of wood and peeling paint. To keep the structure healthy, set heat or air conditioning units to come on when they hit extreme thermostat readings. That way if the inside of the house gets above 85 degrees it has a chance to cool off, and if it drops below 45 it will re-warm before freezing. Set water heaters to their vacation settings to conserve energy. Should you decide to turn off all of the utilities while the premises are vacant, consult a home repair and maintenance contractor to advise you how to professionally prepare plumbing pipes, boilers, chimneys, and other major components before leaving the house completely “unplugged” for a long period of time.

#4

Hire a Property Management Agent

By paying a nominal monthly fee it is possible to hire professional property managers to take care of all these things and more, so that you don’t have to worry about them yourself. There are even certified management companies with special training, schooling, and industry credentials. Your local Realtor should be able to help find and recommend someone.

#5

Work with a Professional House Sitter

Others work as house sitters, and will maintain a home in exchange for free or reduced rent. Hire those who are bonded and insured and have a verifiable track record and excellent references. By choosing the right tenant to act as a house sitter it is possible to get peace of mind while bartering for minor repairs or chores – or receiving discounted rent to help you make your monthly mortgage payment until the home sells.

#6

Use a Staging Company

The ultimate showcasing strategy for vacant listings involves hiring a professional staging company. These businesses combine real estate marketing and home decorating experience to set up houses to look like model homes. Using a staging company means that the home will be made to look its best in terms of interior decorating, which can dramatically improve success when potential buyers tour the property. They can use your furnishings or bring in furniture and accessories to match any style of home, from Victorian historical houses to sleek modern urban lofts or casual beachfront condos.

Leaving properties empty and neglected not only detracts from their marketability and attractive allure, but it can lead to extraordinary expenses that no homeowner wants to incur – or to an outright emergency. Termites or carpenter ants can destroy an entire home in a remarkably short period of time. Rodents or birds that find their way into an attic can wreak havoc, and a small amount of dampness can explode into toxic mold that is capable of rendering a house unsafe to inhabit.

But visiting a vacant property on a regular basis and giving it a quick walk-through inspection to check for potential problems can usually prevent any of these unwanted complications. Investing even a few minutes per week is all it takes to check on a home. Doing it can be one of the most valuable yet easily affordable investments that you can make to protect your real estate assets. 

To find a qualified real estate agent to help you in buying, selling, managing, or locating investment property, just visit www.GayRealEstate.com or call toll free 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). These brokers specialize in serving the worldwide GLBT community.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

*RealQuestions RealAnswers*

Click on Comments below and share your thoughts and opinions, ask a real estate question or offer story suggestions...

-----------------------------------------------------------------

© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

Proudly Sponsored By:

By Jeff Adolph

'Ask a Realtor'

During the off season – especially during an exceptionally slow real estate market – many sellers worry that their vacant listings may suffer from physical deterioration, a loss of curb appeal, or even vandalism. Here are six tips for helping to care for property without getting stressed out about potential problems. Follow them and even during the doldrums of winter that vacation condo at the beach or the vacant house with the sale sign in the yard does not cause any added angst.

#1

Invest in Curb Appeal

The first thing to do with a vacant listing – and it is a good idea even for listings that are occupied – is to put the lock box out of view. Seeing a lock box hanging from a front door knob is a telltale sign that nobody is home. Keep the yard trimmed and manicured and put a fresh coat of paint on the front door. Make sure the entranceway is lighted at night, and that windows facing the street on ground level are covered with sheer curtains or blinds that let in light but protect from prying eyes.

#2

Notify Neighbors and Local Police Patrols

Just as you might while vacationing, enlist the help of neighbors or local police to keep a watchful eye on the house. A neighbor may be willing to park an extra car in front of your property from time to time, to create the illusion that it is occupied. Have someone trustworthy enter the home once a week to give it a once-over and check for any signs of trouble or needed repairs.

#3

Spend a Little on Utilities – But Not Too Much

Homes that sit vacant often suffer from being closed up and not ventilated, and this can cause a musty odor, mildew or mold, or even warping of wood and peeling paint. To keep the structure healthy, set heat or air conditioning units to come on when they hit extreme thermostat readings. That way if the inside of the house gets above 85 degrees it has a chance to cool off, and if it drops below 45 it will re-warm before freezing. Set water heaters to their vacation settings to conserve energy. Should you decide to turn off all of the utilities while the premises are vacant, consult a home repair and maintenance contractor to advise you how to professionally prepare plumbing pipes, boilers, chimneys, and other major components before leaving the house completely “unplugged” for a long period of time.

#4

Hire a Property Management Agent

By paying a nominal monthly fee it is possible to hire professional property managers to take care of all these things and more, so that you don’t have to worry about them yourself. There are even certified management companies with special training, schooling, and industry credentials. Your local Realtor should be able to help find and recommend someone.

#5

Work with a Professional House Sitter

Others work as house sitters, and will maintain a home in exchange for free or reduced rent. Hire those who are bonded and insured and have a verifiable track record and excellent references. By choosing the right tenant to act as a house sitter it is possible to get peace of mind while bartering for minor repairs or chores – or receiving discounted rent to help you make your monthly mortgage payment until the home sells.

#6

Use a Staging Company

The ultimate showcasing strategy for vacant listings involves hiring a professional staging company. These businesses combine real estate marketing and home decorating experience to set up houses to look like model homes. Using a staging company means that the home will be made to look its best in terms of interior decorating, which can dramatically improve success when potential buyers tour the property. They can use your furnishings or bring in furniture and accessories to match any style of home, from Victorian historical houses to sleek modern urban lofts or casual beachfront condos.

Leaving properties empty and neglected not only detracts from their marketability and attractive allure, but it can lead to extraordinary expenses that no homeowner wants to incur – or to an outright emergency. Termites or carpenter ants can destroy an entire home in a remarkably short period of time. Rodents or birds that find their way into an attic can wreak havoc, and a small amount of dampness can explode into toxic mold that is capable of rendering a house unsafe to inhabit.

But visiting a vacant property on a regular basis and giving it a quick walk-through inspection to check for potential problems can usually prevent any of these unwanted complications. Investing even a few minutes per week is all it takes to check on a home. Doing it can be one of the most valuable yet easily affordable investments that you can make to protect your real estate assets. 

To find a qualified real estate agent to help you in buying, selling, managing, or locating investment property, just visit www.GayRealEstate.com or call toll free 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). These brokers specialize in serving the worldwide GLBT community.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

*RealQuestions RealAnswers*

Click on Comments below and share your thoughts and opinions, ask a real estate question or offer story suggestions...

-----------------------------------------------------------------

© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

Proudly Sponsored By:

By Jeff Adolph

'Ask a Realtor'

© 2006+ Jeff Adolph GayRealEstate USA

Proudly Sponsored By: