A major barrier for first time home buyers is obviously the tighter lending standards since the housing bubble burst. I can assure you I have local bankers that can help you move forward during these stricter times, bankers that have always been conservative even during the most loose time periods and have not been put to the stricter guidelines for previous mistakes.  “If you can get the financing, it’s a great time to buy a home with the prices this low. Another strong indicator to me besides the sudden increase in home sales is the slight rise of mortgage interest along with the strong presence of investors that have lifted home sales.

I can help you make this happen, give me a call at 508-965-2378

NEWS YOU CAN USE

I can provide you with up-to-date information and statistics on local market conditions. These can differ substantially from what you hear in the media reports, which are often skewed to heighten drama.

MAXIMIZE POTENTIAL

Feel free to ask specific advise on home maintenance, or suggestions for upgrades that will enhance your property’s resale value. I am a Certified Stager and will gladly recommend small choices that will bring big dividends.

LOCAL INSIGHT

I’m always happy to provide information on community amenities such as parks, schools and trails or even local special events.

LET’S TALK VALUE

Request a market analysis when you need an estimate on your home’s current value for a potential refinance or for insurance, estate planning or property tax purposes.

I’m also available to discuss issues or new developments in the community that could affect property values

ACROSS THE MAP

I can help you or a family member secure the services of like-minded real estate transaction, so please don’t hesitate to call.

Working by referral is the commitment I have made to provide my clients with unsurpassed service whenever they need me, and to maintain long-term relationships that will offer added benefits for years to come.

My primary source of new business is referrals from people who already know and respect me. Since I don’t have to spend excessive amounts of time prospecting and promoting myself, I can focus my time and resources on the tasks that benefit you most, and always deliver truly exceptional service.

YOU CONTROL MY BUSINESS

I want to earn your confidence and your referrals; therefor I have a vested interest in making sure that you are completely satisfied at the end of our transaction together. My goal is that you will be so impressed that you can’t wait to tell your friends and family about me and the fantastic service you received.

SERVICE ABOVE AND BEYOND

I devote myself to serving the needs of my best clients like you before, during and after the sale. I will stay in touch and send you valuable information every month, and I’ll also call from time to time just to see if you need anything.

There are a number of ways I can help, such as researching your home’s current value, or suggesting improvements that will enhance its resale potential. And when you have a need for a particular trade or service, I know many reliable professional that I work with daily and would be happy to recommend. If there is ever something that I can do for you, please feel free to ask.

When we enlist the services of any professional, aren’t we really looking for someone we can trust-someone proven who comes highly recommended and is willing to go that extra mile?

According to a recent survey, nearly two-thirds of Americans don’t have a will-which leaves it up to a judge and the laws of the state to determine the distribution of these assets and belongings if they should pass away unexpectedly.

DOCUMENT YOUR DECISIONS

1. A Last Will and Testament provides for the care of minor children by establishing guardianship and dictates how you want your remaining assets divided among the heirs. An executor is named to oversee the distribution of assets and pay any taxes, debts or other obligations that are due.

2. A Power of Attorney allows a designated individual to handle critical financial transactions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This can include powers that range from signing checks for household expenses to arranging the sale of property or other personal or business assets.

3. A Trust is a separate legal entity that is structured to hold assets which you transfer to it. Trusts help prevent financial uncertainty, delays and family discord after death by directing the prompt distribution of the estate. Unlike a will, the contents of a trust typically avoid probate and are also kept private-and some can be used to reduce taxes.

4. An Advanced Healthcare Directive is a Living Will (which expresses your preferences concerning life-sustained procedures) or a Healthcare Power of Attorney (which allows an individual to make healthcare decisions on your behalf0 or both.

Average Payback: 103%  of  cost.

2. Bathroom Remodel- this includes updating fixtures, sink and all ceramic flooring and walls.This along with the kitchen are the most likely to bring return as far as interior remodel goes.

Average Payback: 102%  of cost.

3. Minor Kitchen Remodel- this may include new cabinet doors, wall oven,  counter top  & sink with new faucets and a new floor.

Average Payback: 98.5% of cost.

4. Attic Bedroom Addition- this includes expanding available bedrooms by adding a dormer, new windows and closet space.

Average Payback: 93.5% of cost.

5. New Replacement Windows- Although this remodel is something appreciated when lived in, most shoppers expect the windows to be in both functional and well insulated  condition.

Average Payback: 82% of cost

In the Northeast median prices fell to $239,000 from $260,300 in August, and declined 1.4 percent from the previous year. “In my opinion with all the foreclosures and short sales that have saturated the market during this past year it is pretty clear that the market has somewhat sustained its value.”

In the Midwest, the prices fell to $139,700 in September from $149,600, and fell 5.2% from the previous year. The Northeast showed the least decline while the Midwest showed the heaviest decline. “My opinion again but I’m sure we will all look back at these years as the years of opportunity. How many of us will actually take advantage of this?”

The South saw its price drop to $149,500 from $155,000 in August, That was down 2.6% from September 2009. “From what I’ve been hearing median price of $149,500 seems pretty high. I have a few friends that have bought lovely 3 bedroom ranches in the $50,000-$60,000 range.”

The median price in the West declined to $213,600 from $214,700. On a yearly comparison however the West was down 4.9%  “Remember real estate has always been trends of peaks and valleys, none last forever.”

1. CURB APPEAL- first impression only happens once so it is important to grab their attention along with their desire to further investigate your home. Pruning trees, mulching flower beds and removing unnecessary clutter is essential. Painting the front door a vibrant color is always a good touch. Remember keep the outside of your home neat throughout the selling process is a very important step in capturing a potential buyer!

2. CLUTTER- we’ve talked about the importance of the exterior grabbing the eye of any potential buyer but the process must continue indoors where the clutter is more likely to occur. Personal pictures should be reduced to a bare minimum to avoid someone focusing on them rather than the home itself. Kitchen counters, refrigerators, bookshelves should all be kept clean. So, for now take a box and clear all these items and store them away.

3. REARRANGING- sometimes items of clutter could be furniture. Removing furniture that is an eye sore or causing the room to look small and crowded is a big step in assuring the potential buyer sees the home for all it’s worth.  Storing these items away during the listing or completely ridding yourself of them depends on there condition, however either way they should be taken out of the home. Another good idea to clean clutter is before you put the home on the market is to have a garage sale.

4. ROOM FUNCTIONS- this means that the purpose of every room should be staged as it’s purpose. Dining rooms should appear as such and not be a catch all because of it’s lack of use. Patios and decks should represent a place to relax with nature and not a place for all outdoor items to be stored. Concentrate on making your home look as you would through the eyes of a buyer. Sometimes it’s best to walk through the home with a buyers eye and you’ll be surprised how many things will look different to you.

5. ATMOSPHERE- you want everyone walking into your home to feel welcomed. This means the home should smell good, feel light and airy creating a nice flow with no obstructions from room to room. Baking cookies and brownies before an open house is always a good way to fill the air with delight. Sometimes repainting the interior, changing carpets and old furniture is the only way to accomplish a nice fresh smelling home. Always make sure all light bulbs are in working order and have a higher than normal watt to assure a bright open field. Curtains and shades should be drawn and in good looking condition. The temperature should be comfortable during all seasons with a working fire in the winter a great touch.

2. Making a connection with the right real estate agent is crucial. Choose a professional who is dedicated to serving your needs-before, during and after the sale.

3. Pre qualification will make your life easier-take the time to talk to the bank or mortgage representative. Their specific questions with regards to income, debt and other factors will help us determine a price range that you will be comfortable with.

4. Buying a home is a process of elimination not selection. New properties arrive on the market daily so be open to all possibilities.

5. Do not limit your search to open houses, ads or the internet. Your best course of action is with a real estate agent who has the up to date information.

6. Open yourself to all avenues of funding especially if you are a first time buyer. There are numerous programs that you could qualify. for.

7. Presenting an offer, negotiating the price and the terms are the most benificial tactics we as your real estate agent can provide you.

8. Purchase adequate insurance. Advice from an insurance agent can provide you with answers to any concerns you might have.

9. Make a list of any concerns you have relating to issues such as crime rates, schools, power lines, neighbors, environmental conditions, etc. Be diligent so that you can have confidence in your purchase.

10. Have a Home Inspection and think about a Home Protection Plan.

1. Choosing a real estate agent who is not committed to forming a strong business relationship with you

2.  Making an offer on a home without being prequalified

3. Not knowing the total costs involved

4. Limiting your searches to open houses, ads or the internet

5. Thinking that there is only one perfect home out there

6. Not considering long term needs

7. Not following through on due deligence

8. Not having a home inspection

9. Not examining insurance issues

10.Not purchasing a home protection plan

These above items only represent a small portion of whats needed in the buying process, let me help you avoid any of the traps that you could fall into.

I want you to know how much I appreciate you. I strive to build positive business relationships by working exclusively with people I admire and respect, and who value the service I provide.

I work by referrals and lets face it, when we are seeking any service we are all looking for someone we can trust-someone proven who comes highly recommended and is already on our side.

I always have time for your referrals…..Bob Lima