Making something grow is a gratifying and simple hobby that one can enjoy at any age. If you'd like to give gardening a try, anytime is a good time to start. Here are a few basics for success:
Gardeners are one of the largest hobby groups in the world. Gardening can be as simple as a few containers or as complex as a few acres. Regardless of the scale, the same basic rules apply:
1. Realize that gardening is more of a process than a project. Plants take time to grow and along with the plants, you will grow patience. Accept the fact that not everything you attempt is going to look like a magazine cover. Also remember that some of the things you do may be great.
2. Learn about your gardening space. Indoors or out, locate where and when the sun shines. Pay special attention to the soil. Do a soil test to determine what type garden soil you have. Amend it or choose plants suited to it.
3. Learn about yourself. How much time and money do you want to invest? Gardening can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. It's always a good idea to start small, finding more to do is seldom a problem.
4. Learn about plants, especially the ones you like. Whatever plant you chose to grow, from turfgrass to orchids, do some homework. If for some reason the plants you like most aren't recommended for your garden site, keep looking. You're sure to find something you like just as well, maybe even better.
5. Water, fertilize and prune regularly as recommended on the plant tag.
6. Get some good tools. You don't need one of everything to begin with. A spade, rake, trowel and pruners have started many exceptional gardens.
7. Learn to recognize symptoms before they become problems. Pests, diseases and environmental stressors of lawns and houseplants usually start small, giving you time to react and correct them. Knowing the problem allows you to select the right treatment.
8. Ask questions. You shouldn't have any trouble finding experienced gardeners who are more than willing to share advice and opinions.
9. Be safe. Follow product instructions carefully, especially pesticide and fertilizer.
10. Keep a record or journal of what works and what doesn't. Use this information when planning for next season.
11. The plant tag is a good source of information. Sunlight and water requirements, mature size and shape, planting instructions, bloom time, pruning needs and more are all right at your fingertips.
12. Gardening can be strenuous; sore muscles and blisters are often the result of a gardening session. Doing a few basic stretching exercises and investing in a good pair of gloves are worth the time and effort.
13. Perhaps most importantly, although gardening can be hard work, don't forget to have fun.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Title Insurance: Who Needs It?
You do, but make sure you know your options.
During the real estate transaction (especially if you're a first-time buyer), you're hit with so many foreign terms, fees and requirements your head spins. One of those strange and unfamiliar costs is title insurance. In most cases, borrowers have no option—either you get title insurance (among other requirements) or you don't get a loan.
The lender says you need it, you want the loan to go though, so you buy title insurance. Great. So what is title insurance?
When you buy a home you want to make sure that the people selling it actually have full and legal title. The party who conducts closing will check this out by going down to the local property records office to research the history of ownership.
But—and here's the tricky part—those records down at the property office may be official, but they may also be wrong. It's also possible that the person who does the title search can make a mistake and also that important information may simply not be recorded.
For instance, maybe a bill against the property was not recorded or some taxes were not been paid. Or, suppose that 40 years ago the property you want to purchase was owned by Smith. Let's also imagine that Smith was a bigamist with an extra spouse. Will this matter show up on the local property records? Not likely. Does the additional Smith spouse have an ownership claim against the property? That may only be clear after a lot of legal wrangling—and if you lose, you could lose the house.
There may be other odd and bizarre claims as well. Was an owner an alcoholic? Insane? A drug user? Is there a contractor with a claim against the property? Such issues can "cloud" titles and neither lenders nor owners want clouds.
One form of title insurance, "lenders" coverage, is designed to protect (who else?) your lender in case of title problems. "Lenders" coverage is required and generally provides protection up to the original mortgage amount—if you buy a home for $300,000 and get a $250,000 mortgage, then $250,000 is as much coverage as you can get with a lender's policy. If there's a claim, the title insurer will fight on your behalf and if there's a claim the policy will pay off the loan if necessary. This is good news for you because you won't owe the lender a dime if you lose in court.
But there are also some options.
For instance, you can also get "owners" coverage. This will protect your equity—that $50,000 in the example above not covered by the lender's policy. And you can often get an "inflation rider" with an owner's policy—as the value of your home goes up, so does the value of your title coverage.
While title insurance is required by virtually all lenders, there is one big exception: Loans made in Iowa. In Iowa, the state says that attorneys and others who do title work must participate in a title guarantee program. If there's a title error, the state fund provides coverage.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
2011's Strongest and Weakest Markets
Home prices are expected to rise in 40 percent of major metropolitan areas, according to Veros Real Estate Solutions, a research firm that provides information to the mortgage industry.
The markets Veros expects to be strongest are:
1. San Diego/Carlsbad/San Marcos, Calif.
2. Kennewick/Richland/Pasco, Wash.
3. Pittsburgh
4. Fargo, N.D.
5. Washington, D.C. metro area
The five markets Veros expects to be weakest are:
1. Reno/Sparks, Nev.
2. Orlando/Kissimmee, Fla.
3. Boise City/Nampa, Idaho
4. Deltona/Daytona Beach/Ormond Beach, Fla.
5. Port St. Lucie/Fort Pierce, Fla.
Source: HousingWire.com, Kerry Curry (12/22/2010)
The markets Veros expects to be strongest are:
1. San Diego/Carlsbad/San Marcos, Calif.
2. Kennewick/Richland/Pasco, Wash.
3. Pittsburgh
4. Fargo, N.D.
5. Washington, D.C. metro area
The five markets Veros expects to be weakest are:
1. Reno/Sparks, Nev.
2. Orlando/Kissimmee, Fla.
3. Boise City/Nampa, Idaho
4. Deltona/Daytona Beach/Ormond Beach, Fla.
5. Port St. Lucie/Fort Pierce, Fla.
Source: HousingWire.com, Kerry Curry (12/22/2010)
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
10 Real Estate Predictions for the New Year
RISMEDIA, December 22, 2010—The start of a new year is often a time of reflection, as well as a time of anticipation for the future. It’s no different for real estate professionals, many of whom have weathered the recession and are now optimistic about 2011. From the return of new construction to the creation of healthier homes, the following are 10 residential real estate trends they see for the coming year:
1.) Building is back: After three years of little to no new development, John Wozniak of Wheaton, Illinois-based J. Lawrence Homes said the builder is excited about 2011. “After a couple of very challenging years, the market for new-construction housing is showing signs of life. Slowly but surely, homes are selling and new properties are breaking ground, such as the two communities we opened this year in Lynwood and North Aurora,” he said. “We’ve had encouraging sales and I believe they point to an uptick for 2011.”
2.) Apartments continue to thrive: If there has been one bright spot over the past few years in the real estate industry, it has been the rental market.
“People have realized the many benefits of renting, from having more flexibility with your housing commitments to a higher level of finishes and amenities. And, this demand will continue to outpace supply,” said Steve Fifield, president of Fifield Cos. “Appraisal Research reports that Chicago’s Class A downtown apartments are at a nearly 95 percent occupancy rate, and those numbers will continue to stay very strong for 2011.”
3.) Opting for established: The mega-communities in the exurbs are a thing of the past, said Brian Brunhofer of Meritus Homes. Instead, 2011 will see builders move toward smaller neighborhoods or pockets of homes in established communities. “Close-knit communities with respected homeowner associations, mature landscaping and neighbors waiting to greet you – that attractive quality of life is going to appeal to buyers much more in 2011.”
Seconding the movement toward established communities is Jeff Benach of Lexington Homes. “Buyers are looking for a safer investment for their home purchase,” he said. “We won’t see them roll the dice like in the past on a fast-growing town in a far-out suburb. They want a proven area with access to retail development and employment corridors. They don’t want to wait for the surrounding area to be built. They want everything already in place,” he said.
4.) Make it modern: Chalk it up to “Mad Men” or simply a pendulum swing in taste, but either way transitional and warm-modern design will be prevalent in 2011, said Brian Goldberg, a partner in LG Development Group. “Our clients are looking for a cleaner approach to the style of their homes – more mid-century and less traditional with a warm and tailored aesthetic,” he said.
Ray Hartshorne, principal of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, agrees. “From the single-family side, our clients are gravitating toward modern design instead of strictly traditional, that is simple, clean line exteriors and open floor plans that are comfortable for the family and versatile for entertaining,” he said. “In the multi-family sector, now more than ever, we are seeing an interest in contemporary-themed and luxurious interior design for lobbies and common areas.”
5.) Buying for the long term: The Census shows the average person moves about 11 times, but Jim Chittaro, president of Smykal Homes, predicts that number will slowly decrease. “Thankfully, the idea of a home as a short-term moneymaker is essentially gone, so when people do buy, they’ll do it with the intention of staying put for closer to 10 years rather than two to three,” he said
This means people will be studying floor plans more closely, to ensure the home will grow with them, Chittaro continued. “Buyers want to be sure the home will suit their needs not only now, but down the road, whether they plan to expand their family or prepare for kids to leave the nest,” he said. “Floor plans that can adapt to lifestyle changes with flexible features like second family rooms should do well in 2011.”
Brunhofer agrees that more buyers will be looking for a home for the long haul. “It’s not just floor plans that buyers are going over with a fine-tooth comb,” Brunhofer said. “Our buyers are very careful about school districts. They want to know they can send all of their children to a school with a proven track record and not have to relocate a few years down the road to ensure a good education.”
The shift to long-term buyers will also put long-term builders in the spotlight. “People are hesitant to buy a home from a builder or secure a mortgage from a lender they don't perceive to be well-established,” said Benach. “Buyers want to know their builder is committed to them and the community, and that it’s not about making a quick buck or boosting a shareholder’s financial interest. That personal connection is really important.”
6.) Upping the ante on amenities: In 2011, developers will continue to create new and exciting amenities to differentiate their properties and keep them relevant in the marketplace, said Tony Rossi, president of RMK Management Corp. “Renters are looking for something special, like an outdoor grilling area or special events like dance lessons,” he said.
But it’s not just enhanced outdoor spaces in apartments that will matter in 2011. Benach thinks condo and townhome buyers will also place a higher importance on outdoor space in the coming year, especially those who live in an urban setting.
“People may realize they don’t need to live with as much square footage inside their home, so to compensate they’ll want a place to call their own outside their home,” said Benach.
7.) High-tech takes over: Running your home entertainment system, appliances and lighting from a centralized control panel is old news. Going forward, we’ll see more homeowners want a smart phone app that can control their residence remotely, noted Goldberg.
“Each year, the demand increases for home technology that makes homeowners’ lives easier,” he said. “We’ll get to a point, and some of our clients are almost there, where homeowners can leave work and by activating an app on their phone have all of their home electronics queued up when they walk in the door – the oven is preheated, lights come on and a TV show turns on when motion sensors recognize they’ve walked into the room. It may sound like a movie, but some of this technology we can build into homes now.”
8.) Smaller homes stay the course: The average size of a new home decreased for the first time in decades from 2008 to 2009, and that trend will continue into 2011, said Benach.
“This trend is fueled by first-time buyers with smaller budgets, requiring smaller homes,” he said. “New buyers will have to be more conservative with their mortgages and will need to pay a higher percentage for a down payment, which means they’ll need a home with a smaller price,” he said. “People won’t be buying more than they need. So to meet their needs, we’ll see builders continue to trim the size of their homes and look for new ways to make square footage work harder.”
9.) Green and gorgeous: As the green movement continues to grow, high-end builders and developers have found ways to make homes both green and gorgeous. “The old mind set was that a green home couldn’t also be stylish and sophisticated. It was as if the two concepts were mutually exclusive,” said Hartshorne. “But new products and forward-thinking design have proved that today’s homeowners can have both. Also, building a green home doesn’t have to break the bank. We are constantly being introduced to attractive, sustainable building materials that are more cost effective than in the past.”
10.) Healthy homes: When you consider a study by the National Institutes of Health that found the number of people with allergies is as much as five times higher than 30 years ago, the trend toward building homes with a healthier environment will also gain ground in 2011, said Goldberg.
“Indoor air quality, low VOC paints and adhesives, and all-around healthier materials are becoming more and more of a concern for people building homes – especially for those with children,” he said.
Rick Croce, from Wheaton-based Smykal Renovations, said this trend applies to existing homes, too. “Due to the economy, many people have decided to stay put in their existing home, which means they’ll be investing in changes to make it look better and live healthier,” he said. “We expect to be pricing out more jobs that include installing HVAC systems with better filtration, using low-VOC materials and even replacing old doors and windows to safeguard against exterior pollutants.”
1.) Building is back: After three years of little to no new development, John Wozniak of Wheaton, Illinois-based J. Lawrence Homes said the builder is excited about 2011. “After a couple of very challenging years, the market for new-construction housing is showing signs of life. Slowly but surely, homes are selling and new properties are breaking ground, such as the two communities we opened this year in Lynwood and North Aurora,” he said. “We’ve had encouraging sales and I believe they point to an uptick for 2011.”
2.) Apartments continue to thrive: If there has been one bright spot over the past few years in the real estate industry, it has been the rental market.
“People have realized the many benefits of renting, from having more flexibility with your housing commitments to a higher level of finishes and amenities. And, this demand will continue to outpace supply,” said Steve Fifield, president of Fifield Cos. “Appraisal Research reports that Chicago’s Class A downtown apartments are at a nearly 95 percent occupancy rate, and those numbers will continue to stay very strong for 2011.”
3.) Opting for established: The mega-communities in the exurbs are a thing of the past, said Brian Brunhofer of Meritus Homes. Instead, 2011 will see builders move toward smaller neighborhoods or pockets of homes in established communities. “Close-knit communities with respected homeowner associations, mature landscaping and neighbors waiting to greet you – that attractive quality of life is going to appeal to buyers much more in 2011.”
Seconding the movement toward established communities is Jeff Benach of Lexington Homes. “Buyers are looking for a safer investment for their home purchase,” he said. “We won’t see them roll the dice like in the past on a fast-growing town in a far-out suburb. They want a proven area with access to retail development and employment corridors. They don’t want to wait for the surrounding area to be built. They want everything already in place,” he said.
4.) Make it modern: Chalk it up to “Mad Men” or simply a pendulum swing in taste, but either way transitional and warm-modern design will be prevalent in 2011, said Brian Goldberg, a partner in LG Development Group. “Our clients are looking for a cleaner approach to the style of their homes – more mid-century and less traditional with a warm and tailored aesthetic,” he said.
Ray Hartshorne, principal of Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, agrees. “From the single-family side, our clients are gravitating toward modern design instead of strictly traditional, that is simple, clean line exteriors and open floor plans that are comfortable for the family and versatile for entertaining,” he said. “In the multi-family sector, now more than ever, we are seeing an interest in contemporary-themed and luxurious interior design for lobbies and common areas.”
5.) Buying for the long term: The Census shows the average person moves about 11 times, but Jim Chittaro, president of Smykal Homes, predicts that number will slowly decrease. “Thankfully, the idea of a home as a short-term moneymaker is essentially gone, so when people do buy, they’ll do it with the intention of staying put for closer to 10 years rather than two to three,” he said
This means people will be studying floor plans more closely, to ensure the home will grow with them, Chittaro continued. “Buyers want to be sure the home will suit their needs not only now, but down the road, whether they plan to expand their family or prepare for kids to leave the nest,” he said. “Floor plans that can adapt to lifestyle changes with flexible features like second family rooms should do well in 2011.”
Brunhofer agrees that more buyers will be looking for a home for the long haul. “It’s not just floor plans that buyers are going over with a fine-tooth comb,” Brunhofer said. “Our buyers are very careful about school districts. They want to know they can send all of their children to a school with a proven track record and not have to relocate a few years down the road to ensure a good education.”
The shift to long-term buyers will also put long-term builders in the spotlight. “People are hesitant to buy a home from a builder or secure a mortgage from a lender they don't perceive to be well-established,” said Benach. “Buyers want to know their builder is committed to them and the community, and that it’s not about making a quick buck or boosting a shareholder’s financial interest. That personal connection is really important.”
6.) Upping the ante on amenities: In 2011, developers will continue to create new and exciting amenities to differentiate their properties and keep them relevant in the marketplace, said Tony Rossi, president of RMK Management Corp. “Renters are looking for something special, like an outdoor grilling area or special events like dance lessons,” he said.
But it’s not just enhanced outdoor spaces in apartments that will matter in 2011. Benach thinks condo and townhome buyers will also place a higher importance on outdoor space in the coming year, especially those who live in an urban setting.
“People may realize they don’t need to live with as much square footage inside their home, so to compensate they’ll want a place to call their own outside their home,” said Benach.
7.) High-tech takes over: Running your home entertainment system, appliances and lighting from a centralized control panel is old news. Going forward, we’ll see more homeowners want a smart phone app that can control their residence remotely, noted Goldberg.
“Each year, the demand increases for home technology that makes homeowners’ lives easier,” he said. “We’ll get to a point, and some of our clients are almost there, where homeowners can leave work and by activating an app on their phone have all of their home electronics queued up when they walk in the door – the oven is preheated, lights come on and a TV show turns on when motion sensors recognize they’ve walked into the room. It may sound like a movie, but some of this technology we can build into homes now.”
8.) Smaller homes stay the course: The average size of a new home decreased for the first time in decades from 2008 to 2009, and that trend will continue into 2011, said Benach.
“This trend is fueled by first-time buyers with smaller budgets, requiring smaller homes,” he said. “New buyers will have to be more conservative with their mortgages and will need to pay a higher percentage for a down payment, which means they’ll need a home with a smaller price,” he said. “People won’t be buying more than they need. So to meet their needs, we’ll see builders continue to trim the size of their homes and look for new ways to make square footage work harder.”
9.) Green and gorgeous: As the green movement continues to grow, high-end builders and developers have found ways to make homes both green and gorgeous. “The old mind set was that a green home couldn’t also be stylish and sophisticated. It was as if the two concepts were mutually exclusive,” said Hartshorne. “But new products and forward-thinking design have proved that today’s homeowners can have both. Also, building a green home doesn’t have to break the bank. We are constantly being introduced to attractive, sustainable building materials that are more cost effective than in the past.”
10.) Healthy homes: When you consider a study by the National Institutes of Health that found the number of people with allergies is as much as five times higher than 30 years ago, the trend toward building homes with a healthier environment will also gain ground in 2011, said Goldberg.
“Indoor air quality, low VOC paints and adhesives, and all-around healthier materials are becoming more and more of a concern for people building homes – especially for those with children,” he said.
Rick Croce, from Wheaton-based Smykal Renovations, said this trend applies to existing homes, too. “Due to the economy, many people have decided to stay put in their existing home, which means they’ll be investing in changes to make it look better and live healthier,” he said. “We expect to be pricing out more jobs that include installing HVAC systems with better filtration, using low-VOC materials and even replacing old doors and windows to safeguard against exterior pollutants.”
Friday, December 17, 2010
10 States Losing the Most Residents
Using data from Moody’s Economy.com, Forbes identified the top-10 states where more residents are leaving than arriving.
The factors that encourage outbound migration from these states are mostly economic — high employment and high cost of living — although both Louisiana and Mississippi have been affected by natural disasters.
The 10 states that have said goodbye to the most residents are:
1. New York
2. Illinois
3. Ohio
4. Nebraska
5. Kansas
6. Iowa
7. Louisiana
8. North Dakota
9. South Dakota
10. Mississippi
Source: Forbes, Jenna Goudreau (12/08/2010)
The factors that encourage outbound migration from these states are mostly economic — high employment and high cost of living — although both Louisiana and Mississippi have been affected by natural disasters.
The 10 states that have said goodbye to the most residents are:
1. New York
2. Illinois
3. Ohio
4. Nebraska
5. Kansas
6. Iowa
7. Louisiana
8. North Dakota
9. South Dakota
10. Mississippi
Source: Forbes, Jenna Goudreau (12/08/2010)
Owners Recoup More with Exterior Home Projects
As part of the 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, REALTORS® recently rated exterior replacement projects among the most cost-effective home improvement projects, demonstrating that curb appeal remains one of the most important aspects of a home at resale time.
“This year’s Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report highlights the importance of exterior projects, which not only provide the most value, but also are among the least expensive improvements for a home,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “Since resale value can vary by region, it’s smart for home owners to work with a REALTOR® through the remodeling and improvement process; they can provide insight into projects in their neighborhoods that will recoup the most when the owners are ready to sell.”
Nine of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior replacement projects. The steel entry door replacement remained the project that returned the most money, with an estimated 102.1 percent of cost recouped upon resale; it is also the only project in this year’s report that is expected to return more than the cost. The midrange garage door replacement, a new addition to the report this year, is expected to recoup 83.9 percent of costs. Both projects are small investments that cost little more than $1,200 each, on average. REALTORS® identified these two replacements as projects that can significantly improve a home’s curb appeal.
“Curb appeal remains king – it’s the first thing potential buyers notice when looking for a home, and it also demonstrates pride of ownership,” said Phipps.
The 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 80 markets across the country. Data are grouped in nine U.S. regions, following the divisions established by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the 13th consecutive year that the report, which is produced by Remodeling magazine publisher Hanley Wood LLC, was completed in cooperation with REALTOR® Magazine.
REALTORS® provided their insight into local markets and buyer home preferences within those markets. Overall, REALTORS® estimated that home owners would recoup an average of 60 percent of their investment in 35 different improvement projects, down from an average of 63.8 percent last year. Remodeling projects, particularly higher cost upscale projects, have been losing resale value in recent years because of weak economic conditions.
According to the report, replacement projects usually outperform remodel and addition projects in resale value because they are among the least expensive and contribute to curb appeal. Various types of siding and window replacement projects were expected to return more than 70 percent of costs. Upscale fiber-cement siding replacement was judged by REALTORS® the most cost effective among siding projects, recouping 80 percent of costs. Among the window replacement projects covered, upscale vinyl window replacements were expected to recoup the most, 72.6 percent upon resale. Another exterior project, a wood deck addition, tied with a minor kitchen remodel for the fourth most profitable project recouping an estimated 72.8 percent of costs.
The top interior projects for resale value included an attic bedroom and a basement remodel. Both add living space without extending the footprint of the house. An attic bedroom addition costs more than $51,000 and recoups an estimated 72.2 percent nationally upon resale; a basement remodel costs more than $64,000 and recoups an estimated 70 percent. Improvement projects that are expected to return the least are a midrange home office remodel, recouping an estimated 45.8 percent; a backup power generator, recouping 48.5 percent; and a sunroom addition, recouping 48.6 percent of costs.
Although most regions followed the national trends, the regions that consistently were estimated to return a higher percentage of remodeling costs upon resale were the Pacific region of Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington; the West South Central region of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas; the East South Central region of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee; and the South Atlantic region of the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.
The regions where REALTORS® generally reported the lowest percentage of costs recouped were New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont), East North Central (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin), West North Central (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota), and Middle Atlantic (New York and Pennsylvania).
“It’s important to remember that the resale value of a particular improvement project depends on several factors,” said Phipps. “Things such as the home’s overall condition, availability and condition of surrounding properties, location and the regional economic climate contribute to an estimated resale value. That’s why it is imperative to work with a REALTOR® who can provide insight and guidance into local market conditions whether you’re buying, selling or improving a home.”
Results of the report are summarized in the January issue of REALTOR® Magazine. To read the full project descriptions, access national and regional project data, and download a free PDF containing data for any of the 80 cities covered by the report, visit www.costvsvalue.com.
Source: NAR
“This year’s Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report highlights the importance of exterior projects, which not only provide the most value, but also are among the least expensive improvements for a home,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “Since resale value can vary by region, it’s smart for home owners to work with a REALTOR® through the remodeling and improvement process; they can provide insight into projects in their neighborhoods that will recoup the most when the owners are ready to sell.”
Nine of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior replacement projects. The steel entry door replacement remained the project that returned the most money, with an estimated 102.1 percent of cost recouped upon resale; it is also the only project in this year’s report that is expected to return more than the cost. The midrange garage door replacement, a new addition to the report this year, is expected to recoup 83.9 percent of costs. Both projects are small investments that cost little more than $1,200 each, on average. REALTORS® identified these two replacements as projects that can significantly improve a home’s curb appeal.
“Curb appeal remains king – it’s the first thing potential buyers notice when looking for a home, and it also demonstrates pride of ownership,” said Phipps.
The 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 80 markets across the country. Data are grouped in nine U.S. regions, following the divisions established by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the 13th consecutive year that the report, which is produced by Remodeling magazine publisher Hanley Wood LLC, was completed in cooperation with REALTOR® Magazine.
REALTORS® provided their insight into local markets and buyer home preferences within those markets. Overall, REALTORS® estimated that home owners would recoup an average of 60 percent of their investment in 35 different improvement projects, down from an average of 63.8 percent last year. Remodeling projects, particularly higher cost upscale projects, have been losing resale value in recent years because of weak economic conditions.
According to the report, replacement projects usually outperform remodel and addition projects in resale value because they are among the least expensive and contribute to curb appeal. Various types of siding and window replacement projects were expected to return more than 70 percent of costs. Upscale fiber-cement siding replacement was judged by REALTORS® the most cost effective among siding projects, recouping 80 percent of costs. Among the window replacement projects covered, upscale vinyl window replacements were expected to recoup the most, 72.6 percent upon resale. Another exterior project, a wood deck addition, tied with a minor kitchen remodel for the fourth most profitable project recouping an estimated 72.8 percent of costs.
The top interior projects for resale value included an attic bedroom and a basement remodel. Both add living space without extending the footprint of the house. An attic bedroom addition costs more than $51,000 and recoups an estimated 72.2 percent nationally upon resale; a basement remodel costs more than $64,000 and recoups an estimated 70 percent. Improvement projects that are expected to return the least are a midrange home office remodel, recouping an estimated 45.8 percent; a backup power generator, recouping 48.5 percent; and a sunroom addition, recouping 48.6 percent of costs.
Although most regions followed the national trends, the regions that consistently were estimated to return a higher percentage of remodeling costs upon resale were the Pacific region of Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington; the West South Central region of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas; the East South Central region of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee; and the South Atlantic region of the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.
The regions where REALTORS® generally reported the lowest percentage of costs recouped were New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont), East North Central (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin), West North Central (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota), and Middle Atlantic (New York and Pennsylvania).
“It’s important to remember that the resale value of a particular improvement project depends on several factors,” said Phipps. “Things such as the home’s overall condition, availability and condition of surrounding properties, location and the regional economic climate contribute to an estimated resale value. That’s why it is imperative to work with a REALTOR® who can provide insight and guidance into local market conditions whether you’re buying, selling or improving a home.”
Results of the report are summarized in the January issue of REALTOR® Magazine. To read the full project descriptions, access national and regional project data, and download a free PDF containing data for any of the 80 cities covered by the report, visit www.costvsvalue.com.
Source: NAR
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Survey: Consumers Comparison Shop for Everything Except Their Mortgage
RISMEDIA, December 15, 2010—Consumers today are expert comparison shoppers, always on the hunt for the best deal, but when it comes to their mortgage, borrowers often lock in their first home loan offer.
According to a new LendingTree survey of 1,317 homeowners conducted online by Harris Interactive in September, 96 percent of American consumers compare prices when shopping for anything, but nearly 40 percent obtain just one home loan quote. By comparison, when shopping for a home computer, consumers research an average of 3.1 models before making a purchase. This explains why fewer than 3 in 10 (28 percent) borrowers are very confident they received the best possible deal on their current mortgage.
Based on a nationally representative sample of current homeowners who were involved in shopping for their home loan, the study revealed 85 percent of consumers use the web to comparison shop, yet just more than 1 in 5 (21 percent) shopped online first for mortgage rates. Additionally, although nearly 40 percent obtain just one home loan quote, more than 9 in 10 borrowers (91 percent) understand interest rates vary between lenders.
Frustration also appears to be at the root of this shopping dilemma. According to the survey, 70 percent of borrowers find shopping for a mortgage frustrating, citing the complexity of the terms (21 percent) and time-intensiveness nature of the process (20 percent).
The survey also reveals:
• Though it is a decision that will affect them for the next 15-30 years, nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of homeowners spent the equivalent of a full working day or less shopping for their home loan. Even more shocking? One in 10 spent the amount of time it takes to brush their teeth.
• Twenty-three percent of homeowners recognize they could save more than $100 a month by reducing their mortgage rate by one percent.
• Women are more than twice as likely as men to say they were not at all involved with shopping for their mortgage or when refinancing (16 percent versus seven percent, respectively).
According to a new LendingTree survey of 1,317 homeowners conducted online by Harris Interactive in September, 96 percent of American consumers compare prices when shopping for anything, but nearly 40 percent obtain just one home loan quote. By comparison, when shopping for a home computer, consumers research an average of 3.1 models before making a purchase. This explains why fewer than 3 in 10 (28 percent) borrowers are very confident they received the best possible deal on their current mortgage.
Based on a nationally representative sample of current homeowners who were involved in shopping for their home loan, the study revealed 85 percent of consumers use the web to comparison shop, yet just more than 1 in 5 (21 percent) shopped online first for mortgage rates. Additionally, although nearly 40 percent obtain just one home loan quote, more than 9 in 10 borrowers (91 percent) understand interest rates vary between lenders.
Frustration also appears to be at the root of this shopping dilemma. According to the survey, 70 percent of borrowers find shopping for a mortgage frustrating, citing the complexity of the terms (21 percent) and time-intensiveness nature of the process (20 percent).
The survey also reveals:
• Though it is a decision that will affect them for the next 15-30 years, nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of homeowners spent the equivalent of a full working day or less shopping for their home loan. Even more shocking? One in 10 spent the amount of time it takes to brush their teeth.
• Twenty-three percent of homeowners recognize they could save more than $100 a month by reducing their mortgage rate by one percent.
• Women are more than twice as likely as men to say they were not at all involved with shopping for their mortgage or when refinancing (16 percent versus seven percent, respectively).
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Why NOW is the prime time to buy a home...
Home affordability is at an all-time high.
The median mortgage payment on the median priced home as a percentage of the median household
income is lower than it’s been in a generation.
Mortgage rates are at rock bottom.
It’s hard to imagine interest rates going much lower, and when they start to inch back upwards, monthly
payments and total loan costs will spike upwards.
Home prices are back on the rise.
After declining for 30 months, home prices are trending back upward. The time get in to the market is NOW!
Sellers are motivated.
This means that buyers have the upper hand! From banks looking to dispose of foreclosed properties to homeowners who are fiercely competing among an excess of housing inventory, buyers have untold choices and negotiating power.
Financing is readily available!
Banks are back in the game and ready to lend to well-qualified buyers.
Owning vs. renting is increasingly favorable.
Since 2009, the average principal and interest payment has fallen below the average rental rates, and the gap is now wider than it’s been in the past 22 years.
Home ownership is still at the core of the American Dream!
Owning a home is critical to financial stability and wealth building. It’s a forced savings account, a place to live and a fabulous tax deduction.
The median mortgage payment on the median priced home as a percentage of the median household
income is lower than it’s been in a generation.
Mortgage rates are at rock bottom.
It’s hard to imagine interest rates going much lower, and when they start to inch back upwards, monthly
payments and total loan costs will spike upwards.
Home prices are back on the rise.
After declining for 30 months, home prices are trending back upward. The time get in to the market is NOW!
Sellers are motivated.
This means that buyers have the upper hand! From banks looking to dispose of foreclosed properties to homeowners who are fiercely competing among an excess of housing inventory, buyers have untold choices and negotiating power.
Financing is readily available!
Banks are back in the game and ready to lend to well-qualified buyers.
Owning vs. renting is increasingly favorable.
Since 2009, the average principal and interest payment has fallen below the average rental rates, and the gap is now wider than it’s been in the past 22 years.
Home ownership is still at the core of the American Dream!
Owning a home is critical to financial stability and wealth building. It’s a forced savings account, a place to live and a fabulous tax deduction.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Forecast: Fewer foreclosures on horizon
WASHINGTON – Dec. 10, 2010 – U.S. credit bureau TransUnion predicted Thursday the number of delinquent mortgage accounts would drop by nearly 20 percent next year.
The number of delinquent accounts – those with payments 60 days past due – is predicted to fall to 4.98 percent by the end of 2011 from 6.89 percent at the end of 2009.
“This is a welcome contrast to the year-over-year increases of 54 percent between 2006 and 2007, 53 percent between 2007 and 2008 and 50 percent between 2008 and 2009,” TransUnion said in a press release.
Steve Chaouki, group vice president in TransUnion’s financial services business unit, said the decrease in delinquencies could be attributed to “a slowly improving unemployment picture and continued stabilization in housing markets.”
“While there is continued price pressure in many markets, we expect a rise in property values along with some stabilization of values in those states and markets hardest hit by the recession,” he said.
TransUnion said Nevada would see a 24.77 percent drop in its delinquency rate next year while Arizona’s rate would drop 24.27 percent. In Florida, the rate would drop 23.9 percent.
“Interestingly, the states projected to experience the greatest decrease in mortgage delinquencies – Nevada, Arizona and Florida – are the same areas expected to have the highest 60-day mortgage delinquency rates at the end of next year,” TransUnion said.
The states most in need of improvement, in other words, are expected to experience the highest rates of improvement.
Copyright © United Press International 2010
The number of delinquent accounts – those with payments 60 days past due – is predicted to fall to 4.98 percent by the end of 2011 from 6.89 percent at the end of 2009.
“This is a welcome contrast to the year-over-year increases of 54 percent between 2006 and 2007, 53 percent between 2007 and 2008 and 50 percent between 2008 and 2009,” TransUnion said in a press release.
Steve Chaouki, group vice president in TransUnion’s financial services business unit, said the decrease in delinquencies could be attributed to “a slowly improving unemployment picture and continued stabilization in housing markets.”
“While there is continued price pressure in many markets, we expect a rise in property values along with some stabilization of values in those states and markets hardest hit by the recession,” he said.
TransUnion said Nevada would see a 24.77 percent drop in its delinquency rate next year while Arizona’s rate would drop 24.27 percent. In Florida, the rate would drop 23.9 percent.
“Interestingly, the states projected to experience the greatest decrease in mortgage delinquencies – Nevada, Arizona and Florida – are the same areas expected to have the highest 60-day mortgage delinquency rates at the end of next year,” TransUnion said.
The states most in need of improvement, in other words, are expected to experience the highest rates of improvement.
Copyright © United Press International 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
This Month In Real Estate
The housing market continues its uneven and gradual recovery without the aid of the tax credit. Experts believe this will be the trend moving forward. Interest rates hit another record low but have started moving back up as the overall economy improves.
Despite a less-than-expected employment report, consumers seem to be feeling brighter about the future. While the Consumer Confidence Index about the Present Situation rose only slightly, the Expectation Index showed substantial improvement. As we enter into the holiday gift-buying season, consumers are expected to be out shopping and buying more gifts for under the tree this year. Reports indicate a 13-24% increase in retail sales from last year. Consumer spending accounts for about half of all economic activity in the US; as long as consumers are spending and using debt responsibly, this is a positive indicator for economic growth.
This march back up continues to provide excellent opportunities: an ample selection of homes, affordable prices, and historically low interest rates. Experts anticipate both the economy and the housing market will continue on a path to a complete recovery.
Home Sales
Home sales dropped slightly in October, compared with the previous month, despite a temporary moratorium on foreclosures, which have recently represented more than one third of sales activity. Sales were up 15% from July when the tax credit expiration caused a drop-off in sales. The most significant indicator of a market rebound, however, appears to be the October pending sales report. A 10.4% increase in pending sales, which measures homes under contract, signals stronger home sales activity in the coming months as the homes under contract close.
Home Price
Home prices have shown considerable stability when compared with the previous several years. October’s median home price declined slightly, down less than 1% from the previous month and year. A recent study shows an increased interest in smaller homes. Smaller homes often mean smaller price tags, depending on location. While the market currently provides many opportunities for buyers, sellers look forward to the general trending upward of home price as the market’s stability without government support grows deeper roots.
Inventory
There are fewer homes on the market. Total inventory fell to 3.86 million in October from 4 million in September. The month’s supply* of homes on the market fell to 10.5 months. While still at a relatively high level, months of inventory has shrunken substantially since July’s 12.5 months. As lending standards continue to loosen and return to historical norms, more people will be able to buy their first home, move up, or invest and take advantage of the abundant opportunities in the current market – including historically low interest rates, highly affordable prices, and an ample but shrinking selection of homes.
* Month’s supply of inventory measures how many months it will take to sell all the homes that are for sale, if no new homes come on the market and buyers continue to buy at the same pace or rate.
Affordability
Housing is at record affordability levels. Prospective home buyers stand to benefit from the lowest mortgage rates in decades, as well as advantageous home prices. The home price-to-income ratio, 13.5% in October, continues to remain well below the historical standard. Stabilizing home prices and rising interest rates are anticipated to begin drawing affordability back up toward more normal levels.
Source: National Association of Realtors - October housing data released November 23.
Interest Rates
Mortgage rates hit another record low of 4.17% on November 11 after which they rose to close to 4.4% for the remainder of the month. Historically low rates have contributed to real savings for buyers who will continue to realize those savings for as long as they own the home. As overall economic recovery gains traction, rates must rise to keep inflation in check. Industry economist Lawrence Yun anticipates rates to be between 5.4% and 6% by the end of 2011.
Type | Rate |
| 30 year fixed | 4.46% |
| 15 year fixed | 3.81% |
| 5/1-year ARM | 3.25% |
| 30 year average for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage | 8.9% |
Source: Freddie Mac, Rates as of December 2.
This Month's Video
Topics For Home Owners, Buyers & Sellers
Prime Time to Buy
Homes Have Never Been More Affordable
For most individual home buyers, there are only a few factors that really matter:
• Can I afford this home?
• Is it a good investment?
• Does it meet my family’s needs?
So it’s a bit surprising that the most important housing statistic has gone largely unreported: homes have never been more affordable. Affordability, measured by the median mortgage payment on the current median-priced home ($171,000) as a percentage of the median household income ($62,141), is lower than it’s been in a generation. The chart below shows affordability at a record level, having significantly improved since the height of the recent housing boom in 2006.
For more detail, check out Keller Williams Realty’s 7 Reasons Why Now Is a Great Time to Buy a Home!
Sources: National Association of Realtors, KW Research
Thursday, December 2, 2010
At closing, who pays for what?
Whether you're the buyer or the seller in a real estate transaction, there will be closing costs. Who pays for what, is the big question. In the following text you'll find the traditional distribution of expenses associated with a purchase of real estate. Many of these items can be negotiated by either party at the time of the offer, excluding some expenses required by the lender to be paid specifically by the seller.
The buyer typically pays for:
The buyer typically pays for:
- Escrow fees
- Document preparation (if applicable)
- Notary fees
- Recording charges for all documents in buyer's name
- Termite inspection (according to contract)
- Tax proration (from date of acquisition)
- Homeowner's transfer fee
- All new loan charges (except those required by lender for seller to pay)
- Interest on new loan from date of funding to 30 days prior to first payment date
- Inspection fees (roofing, property inspection, geological survey, etc.)
- Home warranty (according to contract)
- Lender's policy
- Fire insurance premium for the first year
- Real estate commission
- Escrow fees
- County documentary transfer tax
- Applicable city transfer/conveyance tax (according to contract)
- Document preparation fee for the deed
- Any loan fees required by buyer's lender
- Payoff of all loans in seller's name
- Interest accrued to lender being paid off
- Statement fees, reconveyance fees and any prepayment penalties
- Termite inspection and/or repairs (according to contract)
- Home warranty (according to contract)
- Any judgments, tax liens, association liens, etc against the seller
- Tax proration (for any taxes unpaid at time of title transfer)
- Any unpaid HOA dues
- Recording charges to clear all documents of record against seller
- Any bonds or assessments(according to contract)
- Any and all delinquent taxes
- Notary fees
- Title insurance premium: Owner's policy
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
11 Reasons to List Your Home During the Holiday Season
- People who look for a home during the holidays are more serious buyers.
- Serious buyers have fewer homes to choose from during the holidays and less competition means more money for you.
- Since the supply of homes will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home. Less demand means less money for you.
- Houses show better when decorated for the holidays.
- Buyers are more emotional during the holidays, so they are more likely to pay your price.
- Buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays than they do during a working week.
- Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax purposes.
- January is traditionally the month for employees to start new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until spring to buy, you must be listed now to capture that market.
- You can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days of the holidays.
- You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year.
- By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a "non-contingent buyer" during the spring when many more houses are on the market for less money allowing you to sell high and buy low.
Economic factors impact Florida’s housing market in October
ORLANDO, Fla. – Nov. 23, 2010 – Statewide year-to-date existing home sales in Florida showed positive momentum in October: 143,398 single-family existing homes sold for a 7 percent increase over the same period a year ago, though uncertainty over job growth, restrictive credit and foreclosure issues had a dampening effect on housing activity last month, according to industry analysts. The latest housing data released by Florida Realtors® also reported a 33 percent rise in statewide year-to-date condominium sales compared to a year ago, with a total of 59,966 units sold.
In the latest industry outlook from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said several factors are slowing the housing market’s recovery, including the recent foreclosure moratorium. “Nonetheless, there appears to be a pent-up demand that eventually will be unleashed as banks resolve their issues with foreclosures and the labor market improves,” he said. “However, tight credit and appraisals coming in below a negotiated price continue to constrain the market.” Yun called for a gradual rise in home sales as buyers respond to historically low mortgage interest rates and favorable affordability conditions.
A total of 5,147 existing condos sold statewide in October compared to 5,398 units sold during the same month a year earlier for a decrease of 5 percent. Nine of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) reported higher existing condo sales last month, according to Florida Realtors. The statewide existing condo median sales price last month was $82,400; in October 2009 it was $105,200 for a 22 percent decrease. The national median existing condo price was $165,400 in September, according to NAR.
Meanwhile, in the year-to-year comparison for existing home sales, a total of 11,888 single-family existing homes sold statewide last month compared to 14,980 homes sold in October 2009 for a decrease of 21 percent. Florida’s median existing-home sales price in October was $136,600; a year earlier, it was $140,900 for a 3 percent decrease. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less.
The national median sales price for existing single-family homes in September was $172,600, down 1.9 percent from a year earlier, NAR reported. In California, the statewide median resales price was $309,900 in September; in Massachusetts, it was $295,000; in Maryland, it was $243,134; and in New York, it was $229,102.
In October, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.23 percent, significantly lower than the 4.95 percent average during the same month a year earlier, according to Freddie Mac. Florida Realtors’ sales figures reflect closings, which typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.
© 2010 Florida Realtors®
In the latest industry outlook from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said several factors are slowing the housing market’s recovery, including the recent foreclosure moratorium. “Nonetheless, there appears to be a pent-up demand that eventually will be unleashed as banks resolve their issues with foreclosures and the labor market improves,” he said. “However, tight credit and appraisals coming in below a negotiated price continue to constrain the market.” Yun called for a gradual rise in home sales as buyers respond to historically low mortgage interest rates and favorable affordability conditions.
A total of 5,147 existing condos sold statewide in October compared to 5,398 units sold during the same month a year earlier for a decrease of 5 percent. Nine of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) reported higher existing condo sales last month, according to Florida Realtors. The statewide existing condo median sales price last month was $82,400; in October 2009 it was $105,200 for a 22 percent decrease. The national median existing condo price was $165,400 in September, according to NAR.
Meanwhile, in the year-to-year comparison for existing home sales, a total of 11,888 single-family existing homes sold statewide last month compared to 14,980 homes sold in October 2009 for a decrease of 21 percent. Florida’s median existing-home sales price in October was $136,600; a year earlier, it was $140,900 for a 3 percent decrease. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less.
The national median sales price for existing single-family homes in September was $172,600, down 1.9 percent from a year earlier, NAR reported. In California, the statewide median resales price was $309,900 in September; in Massachusetts, it was $295,000; in Maryland, it was $243,134; and in New York, it was $229,102.
In October, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.23 percent, significantly lower than the 4.95 percent average during the same month a year earlier, according to Freddie Mac. Florida Realtors’ sales figures reflect closings, which typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.
© 2010 Florida Realtors®
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
5 First Time Home Buyer Tips
Whether you've spent years saving to buy a home or you're not sure if it's something that's even realistic for you, the questions surrounding a "first-time" home purchase can feel quite overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you figure it out.
1. Get "pre-qualified" for a loan.
Being pre-qualified for a loan determines how much house you can afford. It will also allow you to move more swiftly when you find the right house, especially if there are others interested in the same property.
2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even 1/2 of a percentage point can make an enormous difference in how much you pay over the life of the loan. For example, the difference in a monthly payment on a $100,000 loan at 8% vs. 7.5% is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.
3. Use a Buyer's Agent.
A buyer's agent is legally bound to represent the buyer's best interest in a real estate transaction. Generally the buyer's agent is compensated by the seller at the time of closing. There are some limitations to using a buyer's agent, however. Before you decide, have a Realtor explain the advantages of using a buyer's agent.
4. Determine features that help or hurt resale value.
In some areas, a pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes the home harder to sell. In a neighborhood with mostly 2 car attached garages, a single car or detached garage may have an impact on the sale and future value of the property. Your Realtor can help you determine which features would be most beneficial.
5. Rate the houses you tour.
After touring each home, write down what you liked most and what you liked least. Develop a rating system that will help you narrow the field down to "your best choice". Don't be afraid to look at several homes. Be sure to take a "second look" at the 2 or 3 homes that you liked most and eliminate all others.
Please feel free to call me, Ken Gordon, for more information. (321) 684-9900 I'm your Realtor, I work for you.
1. Get "pre-qualified" for a loan.
Being pre-qualified for a loan determines how much house you can afford. It will also allow you to move more swiftly when you find the right house, especially if there are others interested in the same property.
2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms.
A difference of even 1/2 of a percentage point can make an enormous difference in how much you pay over the life of the loan. For example, the difference in a monthly payment on a $100,000 loan at 8% vs. 7.5% is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.
3. Use a Buyer's Agent.
A buyer's agent is legally bound to represent the buyer's best interest in a real estate transaction. Generally the buyer's agent is compensated by the seller at the time of closing. There are some limitations to using a buyer's agent, however. Before you decide, have a Realtor explain the advantages of using a buyer's agent.
4. Determine features that help or hurt resale value.
In some areas, a pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes the home harder to sell. In a neighborhood with mostly 2 car attached garages, a single car or detached garage may have an impact on the sale and future value of the property. Your Realtor can help you determine which features would be most beneficial.
5. Rate the houses you tour.
After touring each home, write down what you liked most and what you liked least. Develop a rating system that will help you narrow the field down to "your best choice". Don't be afraid to look at several homes. Be sure to take a "second look" at the 2 or 3 homes that you liked most and eliminate all others.
Please feel free to call me, Ken Gordon, for more information. (321) 684-9900 I'm your Realtor, I work for you.
When Is a Real Estate Agent a REALTOR®?
A real estate agent is a REALTOR® when he or she becomes a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, The Voice for Real Estate®, the world's largest professional association. The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and abides by its strict Code of Ethics.
Founded in 1908, NAR has grown from its original nucleus of 120 members to more than 1 million today. NAR is composed of REALTORS® who are involved in residential and commercial real estate as brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors, and others who are engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry.
Members belong to one or more of 1,700 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS® and can join one of our many institutes, societies, and councils. Additionally, NAR offers members the opportunity to be active in our appraisal and international real estate specialty sections. REALTORS® are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
Founded in 1908, NAR has grown from its original nucleus of 120 members to more than 1 million today. NAR is composed of REALTORS® who are involved in residential and commercial real estate as brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors, and others who are engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry.
Members belong to one or more of 1,700 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS® and can join one of our many institutes, societies, and councils. Additionally, NAR offers members the opportunity to be active in our appraisal and international real estate specialty sections. REALTORS® are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
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