http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/ San Diego Real Estate information and other random thoughts... en-us http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/3180442/as-one-buyer-put-it-i-don-t-even-have-time-to-do-the-three-s-before-there-are-multiple-offers- <p></p><p>The reality of today's San Diego real estate market. Low, low inventory of good homes.. Working with a qualified, experienced Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) is the only way to go. Seller pays the compensation to your broker and you have the advantage over other buyers in this tough market that is constantly changing.</p> <p>Agent Kim Boekholder in Utah shares some funny quips from buyers in her area regarding the current buyer's market ..</p><div>Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/3179840/as-one-buyer-put-it-i-don-t-even-have-time-to-do-the-three-s-before-there-are-multiple-offers-">Kim Boekholder (Broker, Relocation,IMSD) Salt LakeHomes For Sale,UtahReal Estate (Results Real Estate 801.580.5624)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><span><span>The local market has exploded with buyers. </span><span>&nbsp;They are everywhere and they are bidding on everything. &nbsp;A traditional seller who prices their home correctly will surely have multiple offers. &nbsp;My buyers have been in </span><span>multiple offer situations </span><span>from the price range of 60,000 all the way up to $400,000. &nbsp;</span><br><br><span>Below are this weeks quotes:</span><br><br><span>&ldquo;Forget it, there are even multiple offers on homes that need to be knocked down. &nbsp;I&rsquo;m done looking until more homes become available to look at.&rdquo;</span><br><br><span>&ldquo; I&rsquo;m taking a break. &nbsp;I can&rsquo;t compete, I can only offer what I can afford. &nbsp;I will never beat out people who are paying cash.&rdquo;</span><br><br><span>&ldquo;Do I have to submit an offer before I even see the home?&rdquo; </span><br><br><span>&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want to see anymore short sale, foreclosure or HUD homes.&rdquo; &nbsp;I&rsquo;m sick of the bidding process, multiple offers and being the first offer but the agent holding the offer until there is a multiple offer situation.&rdquo; &nbsp;</span><br><br><span>&ldquo;Find me a traditional seller or I won&rsquo;t go see homes until you do.&rdquo;</span><br><br><span>&ldquo;How are there multiple offers, its a new listing today and I haven&rsquo;t even finished my three s&rsquo;s for the day?&rdquo;</span><br><br><span>Sellers, if you have been considering selling your home or had it for sale in the past and took it off the market, now is the time to seriously reconsider.</span><br><strong></strong><br></span></p> <p><span>WE NEED YOUR HOMES ON THE MARKET</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span>call me to find out what your home is worth</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information"><strong>Kim Boekholder Broker, Results Real Estate, LLC&nbsp;</strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a></p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information"><strong></strong><strong>Specializing in&nbsp; Relocation</strong>&nbsp; &nbsp;CDPE, IMSD, AHS, EPRO</a></p> <p><strong><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information">Real Estate Consulting/Marketing</a></strong></p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information"><strong></strong><strong>Mobile: 801-580-5624 &nbsp;</strong></a></p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information">kim@resultsrealestateutah.com&nbsp;</a></p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Salt Lake Home For Sale Information"><strong><em>http://www.kimshomesforsale.com</em></strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></p> <p><a href="http://kimshomesforsale.com" title="Utah Homes For Sale Your IMSD specialist"><img title="IMSD Logo Utah Realtor" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/7/0/4/5/ar131375939954075.JPG" height="42" alt="IMSD Logo Utah Realtor" width="161"></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;<a href="http://pinterest.com/kimboekholder" title="Pin it to Pinterest "><img title="Pin It" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/6/1/4/6/ar132812836164167.png" height="50" alt="Pin It " width="50"></a><a href="http://plus.google.com/u/0/109866392083234185398" title="Google +"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/9/6/7/7/ar132812839177697.JPG" height="61" alt="" width="61"></a><a href="http://facebook.com/utahomesforsale" title="Follow Me on Facebook"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/8/3/6/9/ar132812842496383.JPG" height="61" alt="" width="61"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/kimshomes" title="Follow Me On Twitter"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/7/1/4/4/ar132812844944179.JPG" height="61" alt="" width="61"></a><a href="http://activerain.com/boekholder" title="Subscribe to my blog"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/3/3/8/2/ar132812847428334.JPG" height="61" alt="" width="61"></a><a href="http://youtube.com/kimshomesforsale" title="Follow KimsHomesForSale on Youtube"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/4/2/7/ar132812850872443.JPG" height="61" alt="" width="61"></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></strong><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" class="addthis_button"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-plus.gif" height="16" alt="Share" width="16">&nbsp;Share</a>&nbsp; this information with others.&nbsp; Thank you&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Factiverain.com%2Fboekholder" class="pin-it-button">Pin It</a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:01:24 -0700 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/3180442/as-one-buyer-put-it-i-don-t-even-have-time-to-do-the-three-s-before-there-are-multiple-offers- http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/3081903/what-does-a-real-estate-agent-sell-the-answer-may-surprise-you- <p></p><p>Fellow agent Richard makes a great point. Most home buyers and sellers don't realize this fact and a huge number of agents don't even relate to the reality of what it is that we really do. Anyone can show a buyer a house or put a sign in a seller's yard and list it on the multiple listing service. What we do beyond that point is what makes us great agents, prospers our business and makes for happy clients that refer us to their friends and family.&nbsp; I just got a great buyer myself from a substandard agent that was really a 'nice guy' to the buyer but did not provide the service required to instill trust and confidence in the client.</p><div>Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/3081146/what-does-a-real-estate-agent-sell-the-answer-may-surprise-you-">Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><img title="Newnan Historic Homes" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/3/1/9/8/ar133250762089134.JPG" height="265" alt="Newnan Historic Homes" width="424">Ask just about anyone what a real estate agent sells</strong> and the overwhelming response would be something along the line of &ldquo;houses.&rdquo;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>And while that may be true in a small fraction of the cases</strong>, most of the time the real estate agent is selling something else entirely.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Real estate agents and brokers do not sell houses or shopping centers or tracts of land.</strong></p> <h3 class="MsoNormal"><strong>We sell our services.</strong></h3> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Whether we are working for a buyer or a seller </strong>we are compensated for the service that we provide as a third party participant in the transaction. The owner of the property sells it. The buyer purchases it. The agents assist the parties along the way to a successful close.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>So in fact, we do NOT sell houses.</strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong>We sell ourselves!</strong></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><span><a href="http://twitter.com/cowetafayette"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/5/6/6/ar125053794666568.png" height="64" alt="Follow Me on Twitter" width="64"></a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/weisser"><img title="Follow Me on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/9/6/2/ar12505378126992.png" height="64" alt="Follow Me on Facebook" width="64"></a> <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/cowetafayette"><img title="Lets get Linkedin" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/2/5/1/0/ar12505379701524.png" height="64" alt="Lets get Linkedin" width="64"></a> <a href="http://www.cowetafayetteinfo.com%20"><img title="My Outside Blog" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/9/2/7/ar125053799672916.png" height="64" alt="My Outside Blog" width="64"></a> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/cowetafayette"><img title="Watch my Videos on YouTube" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/5/9/9/ar12505380399568.png" height="64" alt="Watch my Videos on YouTube" width="64"></a></span></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/0/9/2/7/ar129599295372902.JPG" height="174" alt="" width="175">All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of&nbsp;<a href="http://cowetafayetterealestate.com/" title="ERA United Realty Coweta Fayette Real Estate">Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia</a>. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. <strong>Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.</strong><br><a href="http://cowetafayetterealestate.com/" title="Coweta Fayette Real Estate">Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to</a> <a href="http://cowetafayetterealestate.com/" title="Coweta Fayette Real Estate Newnan homes for sale">search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit <strong>CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com!</strong></a>&nbsp;<a href="http://smokyphotos.com/" title="Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and vicinity">Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://northgeorgiaphotos.com" title="Photos of North Georgia">North Georgia Photos.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="http://northgeorgiaphotos.com" title="Photos of North Georgia by Richard Weisser">North Georgia Photos</a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:10:26 -0700 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/3081903/what-does-a-real-estate-agent-sell-the-answer-may-surprise-you- http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2853573/congress-looking-to-stick-it-to-the-middle-class-again-buyers-may-want-to-get-off-the-fence <p>The Cost of Financing the American Dream of Home Buying May Just go up AGAIN! National Association of Realtors just sent out a notice that the congress is thinking of making all the new homeowners pay for the extension of the payroll tax break. They are proposing that all federally backed loans; FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans come with even more fees to cover their ineptness of being able to cut out totally useless spending that they can't seem to stop.</p> <p>Once again the middle class that are trying to get ahead and have the American Dream are going to be forced to pay for a government that can't do their job and balance the budget by STOPPING the crazy spending! This 'guise' of saying they are for helping the middle class is once again proven to be bunk!</p> <p>Write or call your representatives and tell them that ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! - if they keep KILLING the housing market with their dumb ideas we will never get out of this mess! And THAT is my opinion</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Thu, 16 Feb 2012 19:52:39 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2853573/congress-looking-to-stick-it-to-the-middle-class-again-buyers-may-want-to-get-off-the-fence http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2829047/how-does-a-buyer-s-agent-work-a-not-so-short-story- <p class="MsoNormal"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>After getting several calls lately from prospective buyers asking me to rush out and show them a house &ldquo;today&rdquo;, and some even telling me they have an agent thank you, but just want to &ldquo;save some time&rdquo;, I realized that a large number of home buyers do not realize just exactly how a buyer agent works.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span><span><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/0/0/4/7/ar132892551674003.jpg" height="82" alt="real estate agent" width="110"></span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>First thing to know is that a real estate agent is the only profession that I can think of where we do the work<span>&nbsp; </span>before getting paid and sometimes NEVER get paid.<span>&nbsp; </span>A home seller picks an agent, signs a listing contract and puts the agent to work. The agent spends money on advertising, open houses, agent caravans, flyers, signs, lockboxes, web sites, and more, counting on the fact that the home will sell in the next 60-90 days and they will receive their compensation for all the time and work they have put into marketing the home to sell.<span>&nbsp; </span>For this reason the agent needs to have a reasonable, cooperative seller; meaning that the seller will allow a sign and lockbox, the seller will follow the stager&rsquo;s instructions to ready the home for sale, they will keep the home in &lsquo;show ready condition&rsquo; for showings at short notice, they will vacate the house for showing, preferably that they will get a home inspection BEFORE listing so they can take care of the issues that the buyer will find eventually when they have their own inspection, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, that they will price their home correctly from the get-go.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span>&nbsp; </span>Out of the compensation that a home seller compensates their listing agent with, comes a portion that will go to a buyer&rsquo;s agent that brings in a buyer that <span>buys the home</span>; (note that I said &lsquo;buys&rsquo; the home and not &lsquo;shows&rsquo; the home. <span>&nbsp;</span>Ergo no agent gets paid to show a home) Now out of that also goes payment to the agent&rsquo;s brokerage, advertising budget etc. etc, but that&rsquo;s another story.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>When the listing brokerage puts the home on the multiple listing service they offer a part of their compensation to the buyer&rsquo;s broker to bring a ready, willing and able buyer that purchases the property.<span>&nbsp; </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Many buyer agents are fine with accepting whatever the seller&rsquo;s brokerage is offering to pay them when their buyer purchases the home.<span>&nbsp; </span>Many buyer agents will also go to &ldquo;For Sale by Owners&rdquo; and ask them for compensation to bring a buyer willing to purchase their home, and the sellers are usually more than willing to.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/7/2/7/1/ar132892691117271.jpg" height="73" alt="computer search" width="110">&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Buyer agents do not get paid to look up listings, nor do they get paid to drive buyers around and show homes or open up their own listing so prospects can &lsquo;check it out&rsquo;.<span>&nbsp; </span>We get paid when our committed, qualified, buyer BUYS A HOME, and not before. We are willing to take time away from our families, gas up and wash our cars, and cull through pages and pages of listings, and show a buyer client homes, IF and only IF, the buyer is ready, willing and able to buy WITH US.<span>&nbsp; </span>Let me define:</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><strong>READY:</strong> You want (need) to buy in the next 0-3 months. Your lease is coming up, you are tired of renting or living with friends or family members, you are moving in from out of the area. You are not &ldquo;looking to see what&rsquo;s out there and if something is a KILLER deal then you might buy it&rdquo;.<span>&nbsp; </span>You have your financial house in order and have a loan approval or;</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><strong>WILLING</strong>: are willing to meet with our preferred loan officer to see what you can qualify for. You are willing to get your financial paperwork together so the loan officer can approve you, you are willing to take a few minutes on the phone or at their office to meet and discuss what you are looking for in payments etc. so that the loan officer can get the best program for you and assist you with credit clean up if needed. (Over 50% of credit reports have errors on them and the sooner you find out the sooner they can be corrected and you are on your way to getting the best rate and term on a loan) You are willing to commit to us as your buyer representative.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span><span><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/4/4/4/9/ar13289253594448.jpg" height="73" alt="credit score" width="110"></span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><strong>ABLE:</strong> You have a job, steady income. You have been paying your bills on time and you&rsquo;re not in the middle of a short sale, foreclosure, loan modification or bankruptcy.<span>&nbsp; </span>A bank account with some savings in it would be nice, but there are programs that allow for 100% gift money if you have someone willing to give you a cash contribution to help you qualify.&nbsp; </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Buyers on a longer time line or ones that are not in a hurry but waiting for that perfect home we do have a program for as well. We set up your search for you so you are sent listings daily that meet your criteria, but we call you maybe every two weeks to a month and not daily like our &ldquo;right now&rsquo; buyers.<span>&nbsp; </span>You tell us when you see &lsquo;the&rsquo; home or when you are ready to go on our fast track VIP buyer program. We know that not everyone is ready to go and that&rsquo;s why we have different buyer programs.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Once you take these steps and we know you are serious about buying a home &ndash; We go to WORK!<span>&nbsp;</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span>&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/0/3/5/ar132892564053092.jpg" height="89" alt="searching" width="110"></span>We scour the listings daily, if you are not in the area and the market is hot for good homes like it is now- We will go preview the homes, take photos and video and upload for you to take a look. Yes, we have buyers that purchase homes that they have not seen in person.<span>&nbsp; </span>We check expired listings, for sale by owners, call on properties that have been in escrow for a while to see if maybe it&rsquo;s a &lsquo;shaky buyer&rsquo; and maybe we can come in on back up if something happens. We work around your schedule to show you properties and get all the information about them so you can make an informed decision when making an offer. We negotiate the offer, schedule and attend all the inspections, negotiate repairs and other issues, read and decipher title reports, disclosures and escrow instructions. We are the liaison between you and the listing agent, escrow, title, inspection, home owner association, lender, appraiser- we hold it all together. Follow up, communication, follow up, we make sure each party is keeping the timeline so you have a smooth closing. We tell you when it&rsquo;s time to call your insurance company to get a homeowner&rsquo;s insurance quote, we call and schedule all your necessary inspections, home, septic, well, pool, roof and we attend them, we get you the information for changing over your utilities, trash, cable, we order your home warranty, we coordinate your loan signing with the lender, escrow and the notary, we do a final walk-thru of the home with you before closing and finally we get to hand you the keys to your new home on the day it records into your name. (Our favorite part!)</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span><span><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/0/5/8/5/ar132892569458502.jpg" height="110" alt="keys to your home" width="95"></span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span>&nbsp;</span>But, we are different from most other buyer agents in that our relationship is just beginning.<span>&nbsp; </span>We stop by in the first month to visit you in your new home to see how things are going. WE have lists of service providers that we can recommend for you when you need work done on your home or a good area service provider.<span>&nbsp; </span>We call regularly just to say &lsquo;hi&rdquo; and see if you need anything, we pop-by with small gifts throughout the year just to say &lsquo;we&rsquo;re thinking of you&rsquo; and we have annual get togethers for our clients just to say &ldquo;Thank you&rdquo; for your business and for your referrals. </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Let me let you in on a little secret about real estate law that almost every buyer agent violates. California law requires that <strong>before</strong> a real estate agent begins any real estate activity with a buyer or seller that they give a disclosure called <strong>Agency Disclosure</strong> (AD) and have the person sign that they received the disclosure and that it was explained to them. <span>&nbsp;</span>What this agency disclosure does is explain what an &lsquo;agent&rsquo; is and the three types of agency that can be found; Seller Agent, Buyer Agent, and Dual Agent (where the brokerage represents BOTH buyer and seller). This means that technically BEFORE an agent shows you a property they should be presenting you with an agency disclosure and explaining how agency works. They should also follow that up with a Buyer Representation Agreement which confirms a commitment between the agent and the buyer to work together exclusively to find the buyer a home.<span>&nbsp; <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/4/0/2/9/ar132892580092041.jpg" height="82" alt="ethics" width="110"></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Let me tell you what can happen when there are no &ldquo;Buyer Agency Agreements&rdquo; signed.<span>&nbsp; </span>Let&rsquo;s say you have a family member or good friend that you plan to have write your Purchase offer because you know them and maybe they are giving you a deal by sharing some of their compensation with you; or maybe you have one of these part-time agents that just &lsquo;don&rsquo;t have the time to show you homes when you want to see them, <span>&nbsp;</span>or they are on vacation and have not arranged for anyone to cover for them, so they tell you to go find something and then they will write the offer.<span>&nbsp; </span>So you call the listing agent for the home and say that you want to look at the home.<span>&nbsp; </span>I will say that 98% of the agents are so desperate for business that they won&rsquo;t ask you many questions, including the all-important question &ldquo;Are you working with an agent?&rdquo;, and they will run out to show you the home in the &lsquo;hopes&rsquo; that you buy it. <span>&nbsp;</span>You may even say to yourself; &ldquo;If they ask if I&rsquo;m working with an agent I will just say &lsquo;no&rsquo;&rdquo; because you think it doesn&rsquo;t matter. <span>This is why it matters</span>.<span>&nbsp; </span>The listing agent or one of their buyer agents drives out to show you the house, they answer your questions and leave thinking you&rsquo;ll call or they&rsquo;ll follow up and see if you want to make an offer.<span>&nbsp; </span>You LOVE the house and you call your friend, aunt, cousin or part-time agent to write the offer for you.<span>&nbsp; </span>The listing agent receives the offer and says &ldquo;wait a minute, I showed these people the house and they told me they had no agent&rdquo;. The listing agent&rsquo;s broker then calls your agent&rsquo;s broker because &ldquo;HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM&rdquo;- the listing agent has procuring cause and they are the ones entitled to the commission on the sale of the home with you as the buyer because THEY SHOWED YOU THE HOME and not your agent. So now you get to decide- do you really want the home?<span>&nbsp; </span>Because now either your agent is now the listing agent or your buyer agent friend is now working for FREE and not splitting anything with you.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>So the moral of this story: When you are ready to buy a home or thinking that you may be ready to start the process to buy a home. Find a good REALTOR and make a commitment to let them work for you and be willing to let them educate you on the reality of<strong> TODAY&rsquo;s</strong> market. Now is NOT the time to listen to your friends, co-workers or media &lsquo;experts&rsquo; on home buying. A good buyer agent will know what&rsquo;s happening with home prices, what the list to sale prices are, what kind of seller concessions make sense in this market, what kind of lender you need to work with- Not your &lsquo;average&rsquo; REALTOR that is doing 2-3 deals a year, but one that is putting in 2-3 offers a week for buyers, one that has good relationships with listing agents, escrows, inspectors, one that knows how to put an offer together that has a chance of getting accepted..- THIS is the agent you want working for you. This is <strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong>. Call us today to get started on your purchase of a San Diego home&hellip; and remember it doesn&rsquo;t cost you anything, but your commitment- and we <strong><span>guarantee your satisfaction in writing</span></strong>.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/3/5/6/7/ar132892593076535.jpg" height="90" alt="" width="148"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/2/7/1/ar132892618317292.jpg" height="200" alt="Stage Presence Homes" width="320"></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Fri, 10 Feb 2012 21:22:42 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2829047/how-does-a-buyer-s-agent-work-a-not-so-short-story- http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2809245/ten-things-to-remove-before-listing- <p></p><p>Agent Lindsey Hasford gives some great tips to sellers when getting their home ready to show. First impressions, safety and security are all covered here!</p><div>Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2791467/ten-things-to-remove-before-listing-">Lindsey Hasford (Coldwell Banker Vision)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p>Everyone has heard rumors of de-cluttering when it's time to sell your home. But, what does that really mean?&nbsp; Before going hog wild and moving out... here's a few of the most important things to consider removing before you list your home for sale.</p> <p>10. <strong>Personal photos</strong>. I don't always recommend removing photos of the 'family' but if you have hallways filled with photos or photos on every end table it is probably necessary. Buyers really DO get distracted by them. They will take them all in as they walk down the hall. Not only do they take away from the home, but it's really disturbing when a buyer is excited to 'know' the sellers. And, the buyers do look at them.<img title="home" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/9/8/8/ar132820588688942.jpg" height="374" alt="home" width="280"></p> <p>9. <strong>Bills and personal papers</strong>. I understand that you cannot remove these document from the home all together, but please take the time to organize them, box them up and put them out of sight. If you have bills laying out on the counter or kitchen table it's like an invitation for the buyers to 'peek' at them. Believe me - I discourage it - but it still happens. And as a seller you just don't want to leave the temptation behind.</p> <p>8.<strong> Money</strong>. I would love to say that every buyer (and Realtor) going through every home is honest, but I really don't want to test those waters. If you have cash, cash boxes or coin jars sitting out in the open... put them away. It's just better for everyone if it's out of sight. As Realtors we do what we can to protect your home, but your help makes a difference!</p> <p>7. <strong>Valuables</strong>. Jewelry, watches, valuable antiques.... anything that might be worth a bit of money that you wouldn't want to lose. Out of sight, out of mind. If buyers don't know they are there they won't think about it. I can't tell you how many homes I've been in where the jewelry is left on the dresser.... somehow it's uncomfortable. At least put it away.</p> <p>6. <strong>Guns and ammo</strong>. I don't care if they are in a case or out laying around or under a bed. It's better if you just plain old remove them from the home prior to listing. For some reason they make buyers (in my experience) feel really insecure. </p> <p>5. <strong>Shoes!</strong> If you have a pile of shoes at the door... ask yourself why. A pile of shoes gives a buyer two impressions. The first? That there isn't enough storage in your home. 2. That there are too many people living in the home. So, in order to avoid wondering on the part of the buyer... just put them away.</p> <p>4. <strong>Medicine.</strong> Take it out. Don't store it on the counter. Don't store it in the cabinet. Don't store it in the bathroom. Remove it. There have been many complaints over the years of potential buyers 'stealing' the medicine out of the cabinets. I have never had it happen on my time clock, but to avoid any trouble it's best to simply remove it. </p> <p>3. <strong>All things on your kitchen counter</strong>. Everything? Really? Yup. The cleaner you can leave the counter, the more buyers dream of being in there. Have you ever been in a cluttered kitchen? Does it feel inviting? How about a cleaned up kitchen? Does it make you wanna spend time there? Also, if you store things on the counter it gives the appearance that you do not have enough storage space. </p> <p>2.<strong> No more junk drawers</strong>. Seriously. Clean 'em out. There is nothing more tacky than a potential buyer opening the cupboards and drawers and having things sticking out everywhere. Box up all the notes, pens, tacks, and odds and ends and put them away. Chances are you don't dig in the drawer often anyways. </p> <p>1. <strong>Nothing but magnets</strong>.... and maybe not even that. Take a photo of your fridge, take everything off, wash the front (and side), and take another photo. It is really refreshing to walk into a home that has a clean fridge. The kids pictures are beautiful (believe me... my fridge is covered in them) but buyer's can't imagine their own children's drawing on there if it is covered with yours. And, the magnets... If they aren't decorative (and even then) they are generally more of a distraction to the room than a help. Consider it.</p> <p>There are many more ways to declutter a home for sale... but these are some important things to consider. For more information on selling your home in Minnesota... give me a call. </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p>_________________________________________________________________________________________</p> <p><em><strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In the meantime</strong></em>... if you are looking to move into the area... I'll wait for you to call!</p> <p><img title="logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/2/5/3/2/ar129538407323523.JPG" height="85" alt="logo" width="145"></p> <p><strong>Selling Real Estate in Minnesota! </strong></p> <p>If you are looking for professional real estate services I am only a ring away! I am looking forward to working with you. And, please feel free to share my name with anyone that you know who needs assistance buying or selling a home ~ I love referrals!<br><strong><img title="qr code" src="../..http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/4/2/1/ar129530081812443.png" height="101" alt="qr code" width="101"></strong><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong> Lindsey Hasford, REALTOR</strong><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Coldwell Banker Vision<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 231 Main Street - Elk River - MN 55330<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 763-241-5488 (office)&nbsp; 763-218-1347 (cell)<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; lindseyhasford@coldwellbankervision.com<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://www.hasfordhomes.com</p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:30:55 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2809245/ten-things-to-remove-before-listing- http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2776133/the-anatomy-of-a-serious-home-buyer <p></p><p>Fellow REALTOR Charita gives a great definition of what we busy REALTORS look for when committing our time and energy into a buyer. Whether you are in Birmingham or San Diego, the rules apply. As an Accredited Buyer Representative I am my buyer's best advocate and my time and experience go to work for the ones who commit to being my client.</p><div>Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2771120/the-anatomy-of-a-serious-home-buyer">Charita Cadenhead, Your Birmingham, AL Realtor&reg; &amp; Property Manager of Choice (Bham WIiRE Realty LLC )</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><strong><span><span>The Anatomy of a Serious Home Buyer</span></span></strong></p> <p>As a real estate agent, I help people who are actually ready to buy a home or those who are simply giving some thought to the idea.&nbsp; It's what real estate agents do.&nbsp; We realize that owning a home is something that many people dream of.&nbsp; Some prospective home buyers <img title="Serious Home Buyer" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/2/3/7/3/ar132775729137323.jpg" height="325" alt="Serious Home Buyer" width="305">simply have the desire to be homeowners while others actually have the ability to make that dream of home ownership a reality. &nbsp;But desire and ability does not a serious home buyer make.</p> <p>An experienced <strong>Birmingham real estate agent</strong> can usually identify a serious home buyer within minutes of being contacted by someone expressing an interest in buying a home. &nbsp;The following describes many of the home buyers that I have worked with that began there home search with me upon contacting me or shortly thereafter.</p> <ul> <li>They identify themselves - that almost seems like a no-brainer, but when I say they identify themselves, I mean they give me their first and last names and not treat that information like it's a guarded secret</li> <li>A serious buyer does not avoid questions as to whether they have spoken with a loan officer or been pre-approved for a mortgage loan</li> <li>They are willing to speak with a mortgage loan officer (even if only for gathering information )</li> <li>After a modicum of rapport has been established, they are willing to share contact information&nbsp; (phone number, email, text). Anyone that uses cell phones knows that calls get dropped all of the time. &nbsp;A serious home buyer doesn't mind sharing their contact information just in case we get disconnected or so that I can get back with them with more information after I've done a little homework</li> </ul> <p><strong>Once the home search begins, a serious home buyer will</strong></p> <ul> <li>Make themselves available where possible to view homes</li> <li>Answer or return calls in a time manner (days later does not constitute timely)</li> <li>Provide necessary information in a timely manner and understands that timing is everything once the search and negotiations have begun</li> <li>Make sure that they have the necessary funds and other resources in place so that they will be available when needed</li> <li>Usually realize very quickly what their money will and will not buy</li> <li>Take an active roll in the process (i.e. drive by areas that they are not familiar with to determine if the area is suitable of them, continue to conduct their search independently, ask questions)</li> <li>Not create debt once the process begins to find their new Birmingham Alabama home</li> <li>Keep the lines of communication open and not be evasive when asked questions</li> <li>Be willing to be guided by the knowledge and experience of their <a href="http://www.inandaroundbirmingha.com" title="Charita Cadenhead's website"><strong>Birmingham Alabama real estate agent</strong> </a>and not by the buyers lack of experience and knowledge of the complexities of the real estate transaction</li> </ul> <p>Make no mistake there are exceptions to these traits, but more often than not, serious home buyers will possess these qualities.&nbsp; The bottom line is this, it's one thing to contact a real estate agent just to ask questions and get some answers.....we welcome that. &nbsp;But it's another to contact an agent and expect them to commit to the home search of someone who is neither committed or a serious buyer.</p> <p>When you make that call to a real estate agent of your choice, please make it clear whether you're just seeking information or if you're actually ready to buy. And if you are not ready now, we'll be helping in giving you some information to prepare you for when you are ready.&nbsp; But remember,most of all, after a few minutes we'll already know which category you fall under.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1822633/dear-ar-newbies-a-letter-from-a-backdoor-ambassador" title="The Back Door Ambassador">Origin of BDAMB from Bham (The Back Door Ambassador Series)</a></p> <p><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2043706/well-i-ll-be-bdamb-bdamb-is-now-amb-from-bham-" title="AMB from Bham is Born">BDAMB Gains Access Through Front Door</a></p> <p>Charita Cadenhead, Your Metropolitan Birmingham, Alabama Real Estate Broker of Choice</p> <p>Got a question about Metropolitan Birmingham real estate? <a href="http://www.activerain.com/chcadenhead" title="My Active Rain Blog">Just ask Charita</a>. Need a <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1665402/anyone-know-of-a-good-real-estate-agent-in-birmingham-" title="Need a good Realtor in Birmingham Alabama">good Realtor(R)</a> to help you find a new home or sell the one you already own?&nbsp; Just shoot me an email.&nbsp; In need of a rental property?&nbsp; <a href="http://www.realbird.com/feed.aspx?id=A7C2F9B1" title="Subsribe to rental RealBird rental listing feed">Subscribe</a> to be notified whenever we list a new rental or home for sale.</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.charitacadenhead.com" title="Bham WIiRE Realty"><img title="Bham WIiRE Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/1/6/0/1/ar129769973010618.jpg" height="60" alt="Bham WIiRE Logo" width="150"></a>&nbsp; <img title="Member of the National Association of Realtors(C)" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/3/6/6/9/ar128370824496635.jpg" height="82" alt="NAR logo" width="63">&nbsp; <a href="http://www.bhammls.com/(eb4alyvof22y3y25m2xiax45)/PropertySearch.aspx?gateway_la_code=CADENCH&amp;AdvancedUI=True&amp;TP=LV" title="Search MLS"><img title="Search MLS" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/9/5/0/8/ar129769967280595.jpg" height="65" alt="Search MLS" width="289"></a>&nbsp; <br><a href="http://www.inandaroundbirmingham.com" title="Bham WIiRE Website">www.inandaroundbirmingham.com</a><br><a href="mailto:bhamwiire@gmail.com" title="Email Charita Cadenhead.">bhamwiire@gmail.com</a><br>(205) 527-1112 - cell<br>(205) 321-1200 - Office<br>(800) 496-7431 - Fax</p> <p><strong><span><span>One thing about being in real estate:&nbsp; I can't hide even if I tried.</span>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inandaroundbirmingham.com" title="Bham WIiRE Realty Website"><span>Bham WIiRE Realty</span></a><span>:&nbsp; We're Everywhere You Want to Be!</span></span></strong></p> <p><strong><span><span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bham-WIiRE-Realty-In-and-Around-Birmingham/125427324147886"><img title="Follow Us on Facebook" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/facebook.png" alt="Follow Us on Facebook"></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/?tab=mX#109418383341215175506/about"><img title="Follow Us on Google+" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/googleplus.png" alt="Follow Us on Google+"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/bhamwiire"><img title="Follow Us on Twitter" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/twitter.png" alt="Follow Us on Twitter"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/bhamwiire"><img title="Follow Us on LinkedIn" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/linkedin.png" alt="Follow Us on LinkedIn"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/bhamwiirerealty"><img title="Follow Us on YouTube" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/youtube.png" alt="Follow Us on YouTube"></a><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/BhamWiireRealtyLlc"><img title="Follow Us on RSS" class="fade" src="http://www.bhamwiire.com/wp-content/plugins/social-media-widget/images/heart/32/rss.png" alt="Follow Us on RSS"></a></span></span></strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.copyscape.com/plagiarism-finder/"><img title="Protected by Copyscape Plagiarism Checker - Do not copy content from this page." src="http://banners.copyscape.com/images/cs-pu-3d-234x16.gif" height="16" alt="Protected by Copyscape Plagiarism Finder" width="234"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Sun, 29 Jan 2012 21:17:04 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2776133/the-anatomy-of-a-serious-home-buyer http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2660218/types-of-listings <h2 class="articleTitle">Types of Listings</h2> <p>There are several different types of listing contracts, but very few of them are used. The "Exclusive Right to Sell" is the most common, but there is the "open listing," the "exclusive agency listing," and the "one-time show."</p> <h5><a name="Open%20Listing">Open Listing</a></h5> <p>The "open listing" is mostly used by people trying to sell their home by owner who are also willing to work with real estate agents. <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/0/0/9/0/ar132456668209009.jpg" height="150" alt="open house" width="200">Basically, it gives a real estate agent the right to bring buyers around to view your home. If their client buys your home, the agent earns a commission. There is nothing exclusive about an open listing and a <a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/For_Sellers/page_988128.html"><span class="kLink"><span><span class="kLink">home </span><span class="kLink">seller</span></span></span></a> can give out such listings to every agent who comes around.</p> <p>For that reason, no agent who accepts an open listing is going to market your home or put it in the <a href="http://www.mls.com/"><span class="kLink"><span><span class="kLink">Multiple </span><span class="kLink">Listing </span><span class="kLink">Service</span></span></span></a>. If your home fits the criteria for one of their clients, and it is convenient, they may be willing to show it to their client.</p> <p>That is all an "open listing" is good for.</p> <h5><a name="One-Time%20Show">One-Time Show</a></h5> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/7/0/0/ar132456657300768.jpg" height="158" alt="$" width="168"></p> <p>A "one-time show" is similar to an open listing in many respects, as it is most often used by real estate agents who are showing a FSBO</p> <p>(for sale by owner) to one of their clients. The home seller signs the agreement, which identifies the potential buyer and guarantees the agent a commission should that buyer purchase the home. This prevents the buyer and seller from negotiating directly later and trying to avoid paying the agent&rsquo;s commiss</p> <p>ion.</p> <p>As with an open listing, agents will not be spending money on marketing your home and it will not be placed in the Multiple Listing System.</p> <p>For more information on the best way to list your home contact Deb Espinoza at Stage Presence Homes at 619.913.7783.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:13:11 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2660218/types-of-listings http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2647175/selling-your-home <p><strong>Prepping Your Home for Resale? Get Ready to Take the Stage</strong><br><br><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/5/6/1/ar132381646516543.jpg" height="171" alt="clock" width="140">It may seem counterintuitive to put decorator touches on a home you've decided to sell, but "staging" your home-fixing it up and decorating it so it will appeal to the broadest range of potential buyers-pays real dividends. According to the Concord, California-based International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP), even in the 2007 market slowdown the average professionally staged home sold within 32 days, compared to 160 days for comparable non-staged homes. In fact, 93 percent sold within one month. And the best part? On average, they sold for an increase of 3 to 10 percent.</p> <p><br>Hiring a professional stager can cost from a few hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the amount of work in question, but will save you a lot of legwork and elbow grease. I am a member of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals and a Real Estate Professional. Stage Presence Homes is a full service Agency doing all we can for our clients.</p> <p>Here on some tips on things you can even do yourself:</p> <p><strong>INDOORS</strong></p> <p>&#8232;Staging allows potential buyers to visualize their lifestyle within your home. Your goal is to showcase your home at its cleanest, roomiest and brightest-while avoiding adding too much of your own personality. Here are some proven winners:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Paint&#8232;</p> <p>Freshen walls by painting them in a neutral hue.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Upgrade lighting&#8232;</p> <p>Replace out-of-date fixtures and use 100-watt bulbs to brighten the home for showings.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Renovate the kitchen and/or baths&#8232;</p> <p>Replace stained countertops, old faucets, unfashionable lighting and damaged floors with neutral choices. Cabinetry in an outdated finish can be inexpensively re-faced. In the kitchen, even entry-level stainless-steel appliances will give your kitchen a high-end look.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cut clutter&#8232;</p> <p>Don't overstuff your rooms. Pack away your knickknacks and limit furniture to the basics, storing side tables, loveseats, small bookcases and oversized toys out of sight.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Upgrade flooring</p> <p>&#8232;Use a steam cleaner on carpets, or, if you have hardwood underneath, consider ripping broadloom out altogether. Refinish hardwood if needed, as it's a strong selling point.<br>&nbsp;<br><strong>OUTDOORS</strong></p> <p>&#8232;Knowing that many potential buyers do "drive-bys" before committing to an open house or showing, exterior staging should maximize your home's curb appeal and make visitors want to come inside.&#8232;<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Repaint&#8232;</p> <p>If your porch, front door or siding needs painting, take care of it ASAP.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Re-roof&#8232;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/8/6/2/ar132381667026829.jpg" height="150" alt="clean" width="150"></p> <p>While it can be a big-ticket item, if you're due for re-roofing, it's better for you to have it done now than expect potential buyers to take on the hassle-many will simply pass on your house instead.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cut clutter&#8232;</p> <p>Get rid of any outdoor knickknacks like leftover holiday decorations, novelty yard ornaments or signs. The only outdoor accessory your front yard needs is tidy landscaping and landscape lighting.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Clean the driveway and sidewalk</p> <p>&#8232;Use a pressure washer to clean your sidewalk and driveway.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Freshen the porch</p> <p>&#8232;Replace an out-of-date mailbox, street number and porch light. Flank the front steps or front door with a pair of large urns with seasonal plants, for a pretty look.<br><br><br>For more information on getting your home ready to sell visit my website at StagePresenceHomes.com or contact me at DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com<br><br></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:07:11 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2647175/selling-your-home http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2646791/5-most-important-things-to-do-before-you-put-your-home-on-the-market <p><img title="Home with curb appeal" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/5/8/8/0/ar132379956908853.JPG" height="275" alt="House with curb appeal" width="400"></p> <p>For Sellers who want to get a good offer quickly on their home there are <strong>5 things that will stand out to buyers</strong> that you will want to address BEFORE you list your home:</p> <ol> <li>Garage door- Unfortunately builders have not figured out that this isn't the most attractive part of a home and they continue to put the garage in the center stage spot of a home. For this reason the garage door can make or break your curb appeal. If its an old wood one, or a twisted smashed in metal one, replace it. If it's just dirty then you may want to replace the top panel with the window panels and put a coat of paint on it. There are some new "faux' painters out there that can make your garage door look amazing for a few hundred bucks. Also clean the grease stains of the driveway and if there is severe cracking you may want to resurface or replace the driveway as well.</li> <li>Windows- Most buyers want a well insulated home and this includes new vinyl windows. For less than $300 each you can put retrofit vinyl windows in, they also look much better from the exterior than the old aluminum frame windows.</li> <li>Flooring- Carpets should be clean and stretched properly, without any lumping. Tiles and grout can be professionally cleaned by your local carpet guy with a special machine that makes the floor look brand new. After it's cleaned put a coat of sealer on to keep the grout in top condition. Buyers DO NOT want a flooring allowance, and your idea of an allowance won't be theirs. Put the new carpet in before you list your home. It will also be a benefit to replace baseboards with a new, wider style. The little details can make a difference.</li> <li>Exterior paint- The exterior of your home should be clean and fresh. If painting&nbsp;or a new stucco 'fog coat' isn't affordable then get a good power wash and at least freshen up the trim with a fresh coat of paint. A new coat of paint on your front door along with new door handles and locks and&nbsp;porch light&nbsp;shows as a welcome site when prospective buyers walk up.</li> <li>Bathrooms and kitchen- These are very important rooms to buyers. If you can't afford a full rehab to bring them up to date then give them a good, professional cleaning and replace fixtures. You may also want to replace lighting if your bathrooms have the 'hollywood' style strip of round ball lights above or around your mirrors or if your fixtures are the old&nbsp;gold brassy look.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>If you are looking to list your San Diego home, call Deb at Stage Presence Homes to come out and give you&nbsp;some ideas on how to make your house stand out and sell quickly for the highest price. You only get one chance to make a first impression! <a href="http://www.StagePresenceHomes.com" title="Stage Presence Homes San Diego Real Estate">Stage Presence Homes Real Estate</a></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:12:16 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2646791/5-most-important-things-to-do-before-you-put-your-home-on-the-market http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2626937/california-foreclosure-laws <div class="clearfix"> <div> <h2>Foreclosures in California are primarily administered out of court, although court foreclosures are allowed. Out-of-court foreclosures take about four months.</h2> </div> </div> <p><strong>Pre-foreclosure Period</strong></p> <p>Court foreclosures only occur if a lender desires a deficiency judgment. This process gives a borrower up to one year to redeem the property after the foreclosure sale.</p> <p>In almost all cases, foreclosures are handled out of court. The process begins when a lender file a notice of default with the county recorder identifying the default amount and the date the borrower must pay off the default. The notice is mailed to the borrower and other affected parties.</p> <p>Up to five business days before the trustee sale, the borrower may pay off the default plus any applicable costs of foreclosure and stop the foreclosure process. Three months after the notice of default is filed, the lender can schedule a trustee's sale of the property.<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/9/8/4/7/ar132275042774891.jpg" height="250" alt="house forclosure" width="250"></p> <p><strong>Notice Of Sale/Auction</strong></p> <p>At least 20 days before the trustee's sale, the notice of sale must be posted on the property and in one local public location. The notice is also published once a week for three weeks in a local newspaper, starting at least 20 days before the sale date. The notice is mailed to the borrower at least 20 days before the sale and to anyone who requests the notice. The notice must contain the date, time, and location of the sale, the property address, and the trustee's contact information. In addition, the notice of sale must be recorded with the county recorder at least 14 days before the sale.</p> <p>The trustee's sale is a public auction and the property is sold to the winning bidder. The trustee may require bidders to pay the full bid amount in cash or cashier's check. Anyone may bid at the sale, including the lender and any junior lien holders. A trustee's sale may be postponed by announcement at the sale. If a sale is postponed more than three times, a new notice of sale must be issued.</p> <p>After the sale is complete, the trustee transfers ownership to the winning bidder. The borrower does not have the right to redeem the property after the sale.</p> <p><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/Contact_Me/page_163209.html">Contact me at Stage Presence Homes for a list of homes in forclosure in your area.</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.responsiblelending.org/mortgage-lending/tools-resources/factsheets/california.html">Click here to see statistics on California forclosures. </a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:52:51 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2626937/california-foreclosure-laws http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2620257/how-to-choose-a-great-listing-agent <div>9 questions to find the best professional to sell your property.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The world is full of people who sell real estate. Some of them are smart, efficient, focused, versatile and willing to go the extra mile. And some of them aren't.<br> <br>Finding an agent who will sell your home using a range of marketing tools to get you the best deal possible in a reasonable amount of time, all while charging a fair rate, takes some effort. Interview at least three candidates before you sign a contract.<br> <br>Here, thanks to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alison_Rogers"><span class="yshortcuts">Alison Rogers</span></a>, author of Diary of a Real Estate Rookie, and a practitioner in <span class="yshortcuts">New York City</span>, are 10 questions you really want to ask so you can identify the best real estate agent to sell your property.<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/0/4/2/0/ar132236168002405.jpg" height="158" alt="money house" width="168"><br> <br><strong>How to determine what my home is worth?</strong> Ask potential agents how much they think they can sell your home for. If two agents say $600,000 and the third says $700,000, think hard. It's likely the high bid is an exaggeration to attract your business. In the trade it's known as buying a listing. In the end, you'll be the one who pays because the high price will scare away potential buyers before you inevitably drop the price. <a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/For_Sellers/page_988128.html">Stage Presence Homes</a> uses some very special, exclusive ways to help a seller choose the correct listing price and prepare their house for sale including the Seller Tour (ask for details*).<br> <br><strong>How will you market it?</strong> Running a few classified ads in the local paper, listing it on the Internet and holding an open house shouldn't be the only answers. The agent has numberable ways to market and should be able to talk about how she will reach out to your buyers.<br> <br><strong>How has your business changed in the last five years?</strong> If she doesn't talk about website tours and smart phones, chances are this is not a highly wired agent. Using new technology in conjunction with timeless sales techniques is a must. Your listing agent needs to use email.<br> <br><strong>Tell me how your last two deals surprised you?</strong> Every agent has a success<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/3/2/3/1/ar132236162013237.jpg" height="200" alt="" width="200"> story, but this question will give you a much better feel for what this practitioner is like as a salesperson. Current, specific information is more relavent than a "big fish" story.<br> <br><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/"><strong><span class="yshortcuts">What's your specialty?</span></strong></a> If you're selling a starter home in a community full of young families, hiring an agent who specializes in seniors is probably a bad idea. It doesn't mean that if he only sells condos that he can't sell a house, but he may not be geared up to do the best job.<br> <br><strong>How many people are you selling homes for right now and what are you doing for them?</strong> It may not be a bad thing that a high-powered agent is juggling 15 homes, but don't expert her to give you personal service, although her assistant should be attentive. On the other hand, be wary of an agent with no other customers because she may lack experience and contacts.<br> <br><strong>What do you expect of me?</strong> A good salesperson will have expectations. He may want you to leave and take the dog when the house is shown, paint the garage, <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/real-estate/top-10-rules-of-staging-from-the-stagers/index.html"><span class="yshortcuts">move some furniture</span></a> around and scrub the tile in the bathroom. It shows that he can think like a buyer and that's a good thing.<br> <br><strong>What advice would you have for me if I get an offer from a buyer who wants to use an FHA loan?</strong> It wasn't very long ago when the right answer might be run the other way, but these days<a href="http://www.frontdoor.com/home-finance/get-the-lowdown-on-uncle-sams-programs/571"> <span class="yshortcuts">government-guaranteed financing</span></a> from the Federal Housing Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs and state and locally managed loan assistance programs can be key to selling a property. Real estate agents shouldn't be pushing buyers toward their favorite lenders, but they should be able to help them and you wade through complex financing issues.<br> <strong></strong><br><strong>Can I talk to one of your previous clients?</strong> You never know.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Adapted from Jennie Phipps, <a href="http://frontdoor.com/"><span class="yshortcuts">FrontDoor.com</span></a> | Published: <span class="yshortcuts">11/10/2008</span> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Sat, 26 Nov 2011 21:42:19 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2620257/how-to-choose-a-great-listing-agent http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/1621956/hafa-training-and-certification-for-agents-is-this-a-scam- <p>Okay- so now we Realtors have SFR Certification (Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource), massive amounts of "Gurus" toting their specialty programs to be 'certified' in distress property sales, and now CAR is promoting a HAFA training and Certification from some company called "Asset Plan USA" for $299 !!! What the heck?</p> <p>So I decided to do some research to see just how difficult this HAFA program could be to learn and implement. The HOPE for homeowners web site had this information:</p> <p><strong>Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program (HAFA)</strong><br> <strong><a name="57"></a>57. What other alternatives to foreclosure exist within the Making Home Affordable Program?</strong><br> The Making Home Affordable Program will include additional foreclosure avoidance options through the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) Program. While the HAFA Program becomes effective April 2010, servicers may participate immediately, or as soon as is practical. The primary options available through HAFA include Short Sale and Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure.</p> <p><a name="58"></a><strong>58. How does the HAFA Short Sale work?</strong><br> In a Short Sale, the homeowner sells the property for less than the full amount due on the mortgage. When a homeowner qualifies for the HAFA Short Sale, the servicer approves the Short Sale terms prior to listing the home and then accepts the payoff in full satisfaction of the mortgage.</p> <p><a name="59"></a><strong>59. How does the HAFA Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure work?</strong><br> With the Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure, the homeowner voluntarily transfers ownership of the property to the servicer in full satisfaction of the total amount due. The servicer may require that the homeowner list and market the property before they agree to a deed-in-lieu arrangement. In order for the Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure to work, the homeowner must provide a marketable title, free and clear of other mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances.</p> <p><a name="60"></a><strong>60. How can I be considered for HAFA?</strong><br> A participating servicer must consider a homeowner for HAFA if the borrower requests a short sale or deed-in-lieu under HAFA, and a servicer will also consider a homeowner for HAFA within 30 days of the date the homeowner:</p> <ul> <li>does not qualify for HAMP; or<br> </li> <li>does not successfully complete a HAMP trial period; or</li> <li> misses at least two consecutive payments on a HAMP modification.</li> </ul> <p>However, before evaluating a homeowner for HAFA, a participating servicer must first consider that homeowner for other loan modification or retention programs that they offer. In addition, pursuant to the servicer's policies, every eligible homeowner must be considered for HAFA by a participating servicer before the homeowner&rsquo;s loan is referred to foreclosure and before the servicer may allow a pending foreclosure sale to continue.</p> <p><strong>Beware of Foreclosure Rescue Scams - Help Is Free!</strong></p> <p><a name="61"></a><strong>61. What are some of the warning signs of scams or fraud? </strong></p> <ul> <li>There should never be a fee for assistance with or information about the Making Home Affordable Program. <br> </li> <li>Beware of any person or organization that asks you to pay an upfront fee in exchange for a counseling service or modification of a delinquent loan. Do not pay &ndash; walk away! <br> </li> <li>Beware of anyone who says they can "save" your home if you sign or transfer over the deed to your house. Do not sign over the deed to your property to any organization or individual unless you are working directly with your mortgage company to forgive your debt. <br> </li> <li>Never make your mortgage payments to anyone other than your mortgage company without their approval. <br> </li> <li>The Obama Administration has launched a coordinated effort across federal and state government and the private sector to target mortgage loan modification fraud and foreclosure rescue scams that threaten to hurt American homeowners and prevent them from getting the help they need during these challenging times.</li> </ul> <p><a name="62"></a><strong>62. What should I do if I&rsquo;ve been scammed?</strong></p> <ul> <li> First, get the help you need to avoid foreclosure. Contact your servicer immediately.<br> </li> <li> Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor through the Homeowner&rsquo;s HOPE^TM Hotline at 888-995-HOPE (4673).<br> </li> <li> To learn about foreclosure rescue scams, go to <a href="http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/beware" title="Money Matters"><span title="http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/">www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov</span>/beware</a>. To file a complaint or to get free information on fraud and other consumer issues, contact the Federal Trade Commission at <a href="http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/borrower-faqs.html#TB_inline?height=200&amp;width=300&amp;inlineId=leaveSite" title="Federal Trade Commission" class="thickbox">www.ftc.gov/consumerprotection</a> or 877-FTC-HELP (4357).</li> </ul> <p>So, there's no fee for the homeowner to get HAFA info, but the agent should pay for it?? I don't understand. Who is controlling the situation in these HAFA short sales? Govt. employees on a hot line or experienced, knowledgable Realtors??</p> <p>In deciphering this information above I have come to the conclusion that in most cases this HAFA short sale program won't be used on most SoCal homes. Most properties here have 2nd mortgages and most seconds either want more than the $3K token payoff; and plan to go after deficiency when the unsuspecting borrower gets back on their feet, or they will sell to a bull dog collection agency for a few dollars more so they can go after the borrower at a later date. So I am thinking in 3-5 years we have a pretty good amount of poor unsuspecting families getting their wages garnished to pay for houses long gone and overpaid for.. As well as the fact that you cannot do a deed-in-lieu if you have 2nd or more lien holders and most home buyers have those 2nd mortgages.</p> <p>I am thinking we have just another inadequate government program that the lenders will never quite figure out how to implement, and will further mess up the progress we've been making with getting some systems in place for some lenders; in a effort to make the public think that the government is actively working to find solutions for the homeowner's best interests. (NOT) AND to top it off some company I've never heard of (probably owned by an ex- Goldman Sachs exec. haha, no really, I would not in the least be surprised :-) gets $299 for each unsuspecting real estate agent that signs up for their program to become HAFA certified.. are we SUCKERS!??? I even went on the site and listened to the video by Ray something or another to describe the program... are you kidding me??? HOPE, HAMP, HAFA.. maybe we need a program called HEMP because I think someone's smoking it..</p> <p>Enough about my thougts, what do you think? Have you heard about our Realtor "need" to be certified for this?? I'd love your input!</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00:15 -0700 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/1621956/hafa-training-and-certification-for-agents-is-this-a-scam- http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2607848/california-housing-affordability-improves-in-3rd-quarter <p><strong>California housing affordability improves in Q3<br></strong>The percentage of home buyers who could afford to purchase a median-priced, existing single-family home in California rose to 52 percent in the third quarter of 2011, up from 51 percent in second-quarter 2011 and was up from 46 percent in the third quarter of 2010, according to C.A.R.&rsquo;s Traditional Housing Affordability Index (HAI).&nbsp;</p> <p>Home buyers needed to earn a minimum annual income of $61,530 to qualify for the purchase of a $292,120 statewide median-priced, existing single-family home in the third quarter of 2011.&nbsp; The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance, would be $1,540, assuming a 20 percent down payment and an effective composite interest rate of 4.63 percent.&nbsp; The effective composite interest rate in second-quarter 2011 was 4.85 percent and 4.78 percent in the third quarter of 2010.</p> <p>From California Association of Realtors Newsline</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:47:04 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2607848/california-housing-affordability-improves-in-3rd-quarter http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2601065/kitchen-remodeling-on-a-budget-tips-ideas <p><span><strong>Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget: Tips &amp; Ideas</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span>Invest in the most popular room of your home - the kitchen. Whether you&rsquo;re selling or simply want to upgrade, here are some simple tips and ideas to get you started without breaking the bank:</span></p> <ol> <li><span>Set a budget! Know what upgrades will give you the most value for your money and do your best to stick with your budget.</span></li> <li><span>Plan ahead. Find patterns, colors and textures that you like from magazines, home improvement stores and the Internet. Put them in a folder for quick reference.</span></li> <li><span>Tackle one project at a time to insure you don&rsquo;t get overwhelmed or over-your-head.</span></li> </ol> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/8/1/3/ar132114701131854.jpg" height="258" alt="kitchen remodel" width="300">Step-by-Step Guide on Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget:</p> <p><span><strong>Cabinets</strong><br> One of the easiest on most cost effective ways to upgrade is to paint or stain your cabinet doors and add new hardware. This will make one of the biggest impacts since cabinets usually compose the greatest surface area of a kitchen.&nbsp; Take a door into your local home improvement store and ask for professional advice if you aren&rsquo;t comfortable making the choice on your own.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Kitchen Counter Tops</strong><br> Granite isn&rsquo;t always the best investment for every home, not to mention it can be expensive. You can opt for concrete or granite overlay. Do your research to find what suits your budget, best style, and greatest return on investment.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Kitchen Floor</strong><br> Bring home samples of flooring based on your style and budget before making a final decision. Keep in mind that many real estate professionals agree that a kitchen remodel splurge should be saved for the countertops and not the floors. You want to make sure you get great value from any upgrades you do.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Saving Money on Kitchen Appliances</strong><br> Big box stores have great deals on appliances that are gently scratched or dented. Only buy if the appliances aren&rsquo;t working correctly or completely throw off the other upgrades. If your appliances are in good working order and match in color and style, save your budget for more beneficial upgrades. You can also give your appliances a new, fresh look with paint. Look into having it done professionally or purchase appliance paint at your local home improvement store.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Kitchen Lighting</strong><br> Lighting can be a simple and cost effective way to completely upgrade the kitchen. With most kitchens wired for overhead lighting, a new chandelier can make a big difference. There are options for less than $150! To make an even bigger impact, be sure to install a dimmer switch. You&rsquo;ll be surprised what a difference a little &ldquo;mood lighting&rdquo; can make.</span></p> <p><span>The options are endless for remodeling your kitchen on a budget. The hardest part is deciding which upgrades will make the biggest difference on the smallest budget. Just be sure to do your research and to set realistic goals. When its all done, step back, and enjoy your style and budget savvy results!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Sat, 12 Nov 2011 20:20:35 -0800 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2601065/kitchen-remodeling-on-a-budget-tips-ideas http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2586682/san-diego-and-ramona-ca-statistics-for-september-2011 <p>San Diego experienced a year to date decline in price per square foot compared to last year; average price per square foot was at $253. The median home price was also down to $310,000, a decline of 3.7%. This was based on 4,279 home sales from July 2011 through September 2011.</p> <p>For our local market of Ramona, CA zip code 92065 the median sales price was $287,000. This was based on 158 sales from July 2100 to Spetember 2011. This is a decrease of 3.8% over last years prices. Average price per square foot was $150 which is an 11.2% decline year over year. Currently there are 349 resale and new homes listed in Ramona,CA 92065; of which 222 homes are either in pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank owned status. Today's real estate market and economy makes it all the more important to have your home in tip-top condition and priced correctly in order to compete with distress sale properties if you plan to put your home on the market and want it to have any chance of selling for a good price. For a free consultation to prepare your home for sale and professional insider information on your local market in Ramona or San Diego County, contact Deb Espinoza at Stage Presence Homes. 619-913-7783 or DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com. We also have available FREE Reports on getting your home ready for sale.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/8/4/3/ar131981256634877.jpg" height="27" alt="e pro" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/5/5/1/ar131981263015588.jpg" height="28" alt="GRI" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/6/1/6/4/ar131981266946165.gif" height="22" alt="mls" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/4/8/5/ar131981269458474.png" height="50" alt="psc" width="50">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/1/7/6/ar13198127267169.jpg" height="50" alt="sfr" width="59">&nbsp;<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/5/1/5/1/ar131981274815157.jpg" height="50" alt="asp" width="50">&nbsp;</p> <p><span><strong>Deb Espinoza&nbsp; GRI, ABR, ePro, SFR, CNE</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong>Stage Presence Homes</strong></span></p> <p><span><strong><a href="http://www.stagepresencehomes.com/">StagePresenceHomes.com</a></strong></span></p> <p><span>DebSDRealEstatePro@gmail.com</span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> <p><span><br></span></p> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div> Debbie Espinoza GRI, Broker, ABR ePro, SFR, CNE (Stage Presence Homes, San Diego Real Estate) Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:14:28 -0700 http://yoursandiegorealestatepro.com/post/2586682/san-diego-and-ramona-ca-statistics-for-september-2011