The Advantages Of Pre-Approval

The decision to purchase a home can be an exciting but sometimes confusing undertaking.  When beginning your search for the perfect home, there are a number of factors that you will want to consider.  Whether you are a first time buyer or already own a home and want to move up, getting pre-approval for your mortgage is a necessary and time saving step.  Here are some of the benefits of getting pre-approved!

Know Your Budget!

Getting pre-approved means that you will have a clear picture of the credit you have available to you to purchase your new home, as well as your price range.  This will prevent you from spending time looking at homes that may be out of your budget and perhaps getting attached to a home that you cannot afford.  It means that if you find the home that is right for you, it can more easily become yours!

Close Quickly

Getting pre-approved for your mortgage means that you can act more quickly once you find the home that is right for you.  The process of getting the mortgage approved is generally the longest and most complicated process in any home purchase.  It requires verification of your income and employment, an evaluation of your credit reports, and the completion of a loan application. Having this step completed can save weeks of time in the closing process.  Pre-approval also means that you have an advantage should a bidding war begin.  The seller can be confident that you can afford the bid you are making and that you can move quickly to finalize the sale.

Overall, there are a number of benefits to getting pre-approval for your mortgage before beginning the search for your new home. Most importantly, it can give you peace of mind in knowing that you are ready and able to make the commitment to homeownership, and that you are not wasting your time in looking at properties that you may not be able to afford.

What Is A Home Warranty Plan?

What Is A Home Warranty Plan?

A home warranty plan, also known as a home protection plan, is a service contract that offers homeowners a way to safeguard themselves against possible breakage or a malfunction within the home.  It's impossible to predict the future, which is why so many buyers look for that little extra peace of mind to comfort them when life unexpectedly throws them an unforeseen problem.

Who Needs A Home Warranty Plan

Basically, anyone who purchases a home and is concerned with the cost of repairs should consider a home warranty plan.  This is especially true of first-time home buyers who may not be familiar with home maintenance.

Factoring In The Cost

When factoring in the potential cost of repairing a major appliance or other home component, a home warranty plan may not be a bad investment.  The actual cost of warranty coverage will depend on the plan chosen and the items protected.  As is the case with everything in life, it's best to shop around and compare prices.

Who Pays For A Home Warranty Plan

As a buyer, you can order a home warranty plan in conjunction with the purchase of your home.  However, some sellers or builders may include this type of offering as an incentive to attract potential buyers.  In this case, the plan is yours at no additional cost.  Some REALTORS® may also offer a home warranty plan as a gift to customers who buy a home through their agency.

What's Covered & What's Not

Just like a car warranty, no two policies are the same.  Coverage varies by location and issuer, and your REALTOR® can help you to choose a warranty plan that best suits your needs.  Most basic plans cover a home's heating and cooling system, electrical system, plumbing, water heater and major appliances, including a dishwasher, range/oven/cooktop, garbage disposal, etc.  Coverage does not apply to items that are misused or damaged, either intentionally or through negligence.  Instead, most home warranty plans are designed to protect the homeowner from defects that result during the course of normal wear and tear.

When considering the purchase of a home warranty plan, review the complete contract and familiarize yourself with exactly what's covered under your policy.  If you want an upgraded policy, don't hesitate to ask your REALTOR® if one is available.  Most companies do not require a home inspection and will notify homeowners when their coverage is about to expire.  The good news is that most policies are renewable.

What To Do If A Problem Arises

If you are unable to satisfactorily resolve an issue with your home warranty plan, either due to denial of a claim or undesirable service, talk to the REALTOR® who sold you the home.  If he/she refers a lot of business to this particular company, it may be possible for him/her to speak with them about reaching an amicable resolution.

The purchase of a home is a big step and it's likely to be the largest purchase you will ever make, so be sure to consider all of the options available to help protect yourself from costly repairs.  Ask your REALTOR® for more information relating to available home warranty plans. 

Seven Tips for First Time Home Buyers

Seven Tips For First-Time Home Buyers

Now that you've made the decision to purchase your first home, a hearty congratulations is in order!  Becoming a homeowner, especially for the first time, can stir up some feelings of anxiety and excitement.  With the knowledge that you gain through individual research and the help of your REALTOR®, you will soon begin to feel like a seasoned house hunter.

Tip # 1: Do Your Homework

Did you know that there are a number of incentives available to first-time home buyers?  Everything from a 5-10 percent down payment and interest rates as low as 3.00 percent are just a few of the ways that lenders help to make the dream of home ownership into a reality for many.  An FHA loan, for instance, is especially appealing to first-time home buyers.  The best way to find out what's available, in terms of down payment requirements and interest rates, is to do your homework by comparing offerings from various lenders.

Tip # 2: Save Money

Although many loans are geared toward offering lower down payments to first-time home buyers, it's important to save as much money as possible so that you will have enough to provide an earnest money deposit (if applicable), pay for closing costs and still have the funds to furnish and decorate your new home.

Tip # 3: Get Your Credit Profile In Order

When you apply for a loan, the lender will access a copy of your credit report and will use the information to determine your creditworthiness and/or interest rate.  This means that you will want to make sure that the information contained in your credit report is accurate and up-to-date.  You can do this by requesting a copy of your file from each of the three major credit reporting agencies - Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.

In addition to past credit history, lenders will also look at your current debt ratio in order to determine whether or not you can afford the home.  This means that you may want to consider paying down some of your existing credit card debt and avoid taking on any new debt before applying for a mortgage.

Tip # 4: Start Your Search

With the World Wide Web being what it is today, it's no surprise that many potential home buyers start their search online.  A Realtor's Web site is designed to not only list real estate, but also to educate a buyer as they move through the process of searching for a new home.  In addition, the internet offers a way for consumers to browse through color photos and virtual tours, both interior and exterior, along with information pertaining to the homes themselves.  The convenience of being able to find a home that you like without having to wait is just one of the many benefits to shopping for a house online.  When you are finally ready to meet with a REALTOR®, you will already have one or more prospects in mind.

Tip # 5: Have Patience

Perhaps you will find the perfect house this week, or maybe it will take a little longer.  Some buyers find exactly what they are looking for right away, while others have to do a little more searching to find their dream home.  As a first-time home buyer, it's a good idea to begin the process with an understanding that good things really do come to those who wait.  You may see a number of homes, take numerous photos and may even make an offer or two, but patience may very well be the key to finding your new home.

Tip # 6: Take Notes

If you see a lot of homes, it will be impossible to remember the features of each.  For this reason, you should consider taking a notebook and writing down each unique or defining aspect that you like or dislike about a particular house.  This information, along with any photos that you take, will help you greatly when it's time to make a choice.

Tip # 7: Don't Settle

A home is a big investment and it could, quite possibly, be the largest you will ever make.  For this reason, along with the fact that you will be living in the home every day, make sure that you get what you want.  There could be an instance where you need to make some type of compromise, but you may want to avoid choosing something just because it's within your price range or you feel as though it's your only option.  New houses are placed on the market every day and, as a buyer, the next one listed may just be your dream home.

Need a Few Ideas to Help Organize your Garage?

Ideas For Organizing Your Garage

Believe it or not, your garage is not only made to house your automobiles.  In fact, you can use it for storage or even a work area for small household projects.  Whether you decide to keep tools, lawn care equipment or other accessories in the garage, organization is a must.

Maximize Your Workspace

If you use the garage for small woodworking projects or other chores that require a sturdy surface, consider installing a fold-down table on the interior wall.  When not in use, you can simply lift the table back up and into place.  This is a terrific idea for those who have a small garage or simply enjoy making the most out of their workspace.

Unclutter Your Clutter

If you have any items that are broken, outdated or simply unusable for any reason, toss them out.  One of the first steps to organizing your garage is to get rid of the things that you no longer need or can use.

If you have tools that are rarely used, put them away so that you can place the most commonly used tools in the forefront.  As a general rule, your garage will be more efficient if the things that you need on a regular basis are easily accessible.

Categorize & Sort

When it comes to organizing any part of your home, including the garage, properly categorizing your items is essential.  This will help you to locate everything quickly and efficiently.  You can use storage bins, shelves and even clear drawers for sorting your items.

Storage Solutions For Your Small Items

If you typically use your garage to store hardware, such as nails, bolts and other small items, try organizing them in a clear glass jar instead of leaving them lying loosely in a toolbox.  Not only is the proper storage safer, but it also allows you to easily view and retrieve the items as needed.  Used baby food jars are ideal for this purpose. 

Wall Mounting Is A Must

If you or your children own a bicycle or you need to find the perfect spot for your ladder or large tools, consider mounting them on the wall using the proper hook or other support.  It's important to note that larger items should be within reach to avoid injury while trying to retrieve them.  Mounting your large items on the garage walls will save on both yard and garage clutter and it's also a wise way to protect your items from being stolen.

Weekly Home Tip - Is Your Fireplace Safe?

Using Your Fireplace Safely

A fireplace is a great feature in any home, and can create that warm, homey feeling on a cold winter evening that every homeowner dreams of.  Whether you have a gas fireplace or a wood-burning fireplace, there are a few important precautions you should take and safety measures to follow every time you use your fireplace.

Keep The Fire Contained

Especially if you have an older home, you should verify that the fireplace and hearth are up to code.  The hearth is required to be a certain size to prevent sparks or embers from the fire hitting the carpet or wood floors and starting a fire.  You should also ensure that you have appropriate metal doors or a mesh curtain that will keep the fire and any sparks inside the fireplace itself.

Keep anything flammable away from the fireplace, including paper, blankets, furniture, or anything else that could easily catch fire.  If you have a wood-burning fireplace, keep the wood in a spot where a stray spark or ember won't reach it.  The same goes for kindling or anything you use to start the fire.

Maintaining The Fireplace And Chimney

In a wood-burning fireplace, a substance known as creosote can build up on the inside of the chimney, putting you at risk for a dangerous chimney fire.  Every year before the winter season begins, you should have a professional chimney sweep clean out your chimney.  They should also inspect everything to ensure your fireplace is functioning properly.  Be sure to clean out ashes and soot from the fireplace regularly; this is recommended every time you use it.

Even with a gas fireplace there is some maintenance to consider.  You should have a chimney sweep perform a yearly inspection and cleaning of the inside of your fireplace, especially in hard to reach places like the fan.  They should also make certain that the gas lines and ignition switch are working properly.

Fireplaces And Children

If you have children, use caution with your fireplace.  Never leave a child unattended in a room with a lit fireplace.  Be certain that lighters and matches are always kept well out of reach.  Before you start the fire burning season, sit down with your children and discuss the safety rules for the fireplace, making sure they understand the dangers.

Your fireplace can provide warmth and ambience, and will serve you well for a long time as long as you take care of it.  Keep up on maintenance and ensure that everything is safe and up to code before you use your fireplace.

Weekly Home Tip 2

Tips On Saving Energy & Money At Home

When you save on energy, you also save money.  As a homeowner, there are a number of ways that you can do both and still have the energy to enjoy your everyday life.

The Buzz On Bulbs

One of the most obvious ways to save energy in your home is to turn off the television when nobody is watching or when the room is empty.  Additionally, avoid leaving lights on that aren't necessary.  Speaking of lights, your choice of light bulbs may also have an impact on your energy bill as certain types require more electricity than others resulting in higher energy costs.

Keep It Cool

During the warm spring and summer months, it's best to keep all appliances that give off a lot of heat away from the thermostat.  Otherwise, your home may appear hotter than it actually is and the air conditioner will then be made to work harder.  This, in turn, equals more energy being used and more money being spent on energy costs.

Speaking of heat, it's a good idea to avoid excessive use of the oven when it's hot outside.  During the warm weather months, the oven can quickly cause your home's interior to heat up.  This means the air conditioner will once again be working harder to cool your home's interior, which increases your energy consumption.  One popular alternative is to use the microwave.

Shop Smart

Whether you have outdated appliances or are simply looking to furnish a new home, it's a good idea to keep energy efficiency in mind while shopping for new models.  Although energy-efficient appliances may be more expensive, they can save you money in the long run by cutting your energy costs every month.

Heating & Cooling

If you want to save a substantial amount of money, take a close look at your heating and cooling costs, which often make up over 50 percent of a family's energy bill.  When it comes to heating or cooling, make sure that the thermostat is adjusted at night and when the home is empty.  Otherwise, you are simply wasting energy.  Make sure that filters for both heating and cooling units are replaced regularly.

Sun Sense

In the summer, leave your curtains and/or blinds closed in order to minimize the sun's heat from entering your home as this could cause your air conditioner to work harder.  After all, your air conditioner is designed to cool your home and the sun's heat only makes the temperature rise.  In the winter, however, open your curtains in order to get the most out of the sun's warm rays. 

Weekly Home Tip!!!!

Home Safety Tips

Your home is your haven and, as such, it should be a place where you feel safe.  If you want to protect yourself and your family, home safety should be a priority in your life.  Here are some ideas on how to deal with some of the most common concerns facing homeowners today.

Do Some Detective Work On Your Detectors

Make sure that your smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries.  It's important to clean them regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and dirt, which may cause them to malfunction or stop working altogether. 

Make Sure That Your Security System Is Secure

If your home has a security system, make sure that nobody else has the code.  If you purchased your home with the security system in place, have the code changed as a precaution.  Just as you would change the locks to prevent friends, acquaintances or family members of the previous owner from entering the house without your permission or knowledge, it's equally important to change the code on your security system. 

Obstacles & Falls

Many people die or get injured each year as a result of a fall in their home.  Make sure that the way you arrange your furniture and possessions makes it easy for you to move around your home.  Be especially careful about where you put low items that you may trip over.

Trailing electric and phone wires can also be hazardous-try to connect appliances to a socket nearby.  If trailing wires are unavoidable, arrange them as far out of the way as possible and tape them down with strong electrical tape or something similar.

Keep staircases and passageways clear, and never place a loose rug at the top of the stairs.

Try to organize your storage so that you can reach items you use regularly without having to climb.  Don't be tempted to balance on chairs or boxes if you do need to reach something high-use a proper step ladder with non-slip steps, or wait until someone else can help.

Weekly Home Tip!!

Ways To Make Your House Smell Good

If you want a house to smell clean, you clean it.  But what can you do to add a special touch that makes your house smell one step beyond clean?  Use some common “scents,” a little knowhow and a lot of creativity to make your house smell fantastic.

Use Your Good Scents

Many homeowners choose to use scented candles in their home.  As the candle burns, the oils melt and create a wonderful smell throughout the entire room.  Not only do these smell great, but certain scents can also be relaxing.  Lavender, for instance, is commonly used in aromatherapy and is believed to be a calming scent.  Vanilla, strawberry, cinnamon and even chocolate are also popular among homeowners who want to add a special touch to their home.

Good Enough To Eat

If you really want to make your home smell terrific, add a bowl of fresh fruit to the dining room table.  Oranges, tangerines and apples will provide a colorful centerpiece and a scent that's simply yummy.

If you like to bake, there's nothing better than the smell of freshly baked cookies fresh out of the oven.  Of course, if you don't feel up to baking every day, you can always use a chocolate scented candle instead.

Make Your Home Blossom

If you really want to add a terrific aroma to your home, place a vase of fresh cut flowers in your living/family room.  A perfectly designed arrangement will act as a wonderful centerpiece, but will also fill the room with a wonderful smell.  Roses are terrific for adding an unmistakable scent to any room, but many other flowers will prove to be just as nice.

Everyone “Nose” Potpourri

A potpourri mixture, which contains dried petals and spices, is typically placed in a bowl and used to add a wonderful scent to any room.  A variety of mixtures are commonly found in any retailer's craft section or anywhere that scented candles are sold.  Potpourri is low maintenance in that it requires nothing more than being placed in a bowl and situated in the room of your choice.

Freshening Up The Air

These days, air fresheners are everywhere.  Why?  Quite simply, because they work.  Individuals who suffer from allergies may have a difficult time with some scents and/or brands of air fresheners, so be sure to keep this in mind when shopping.  Air fresheners are available in a wide variety of scents and are generally inexpensive, which makes them a nice choice for many homeowners.

Housing Market Statistics

The market has been heating up even more than in early spring.  Check out this article from Realtor.com for more statistics on the market.

http://www.realtor.com/news/pending-home-sales-hit-highest-point-since-2006/

Call me if you would like a no strings attached evaluation of what your home is worth today!!!