Thoughts By Rhonda

2012-02-24T11:52:00.005-06:00

How to Use Comparable Sales to Price Your HomeBefore you put your home up for sale, use the right comparable sales to find the perfect price. Read Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Real Estate Corner…

2012-02-22T10:22:00.002-06:00

Q. How Much Can I Afford To Pay For A New Home? A. When you’re interested in purchasing a home, the mortgage company or your REALTOR® will usually determine the amount you can afford by using one of two formulas. The Payment to Income Ratio is a fairly simple formula. It adds your future mortgage payment, property taxes and insurance together to get what is

Clutter

2012-02-18T10:39:00.003-06:00

Once your home is on the market, it is, for all practical purposes, no longer your own. It’s important to de-personalize your space so prospective buyers can picture themselves in the home and not be distracted by your belongings. Pack up personal photo frames, trophies, knick-knacks, books and your personal decorations like children’s artwork and team posters. The goal is to strike a

Real Estate Corner…

2012-02-16T09:54:00.001-06:00

Q. We Are Considering Purchasing A Home And Are Uneasy About The Negotiation Process. Can You Help? A. The goal of a positive real estate negotiation is to result in a win-win agreement. This is an agreement where both the seller and buyer feel they have received an equitable deal. Here are a few simple tips to help ensure that you negotiate fairly. First, make

Important Tips For Buying Disability Insurance

2012-02-13T03:53:00.001-06:00

Are you insured in the event you become disabled? Many Americans don’t have disability coverage because they don’t feel that they need the insurance. Ask yourself if you could afford to support yourself and loved ones if you were out of work for a long period due to illness or injury. Strangely enough, many of us carry life insurance policies to protect our families in case of death, but

Real Estate Corner…

2012-02-11T08:47:00.007-06:00

Q. We want to purchase a home but fear that our poor credit will prevent us from getting financing. How can we repair our credit? A. Initially, you need to obtain a copy of your credit report and contact your creditors. You will need to explain your current situation and offer to pay a percentage of your outstanding bill. Often creditors will settle for 30-40 percent of the

Today...

2012-01-22T06:06:00.000-06:00

Today...before you say an unkind word... Think of someone who can't speak. Today...before you complain about the taste of your food... Think of someone who has nothing to eat. Today...before you complain about your husband or wife... Think of someone who’s crying out to GOD for a companion. Today...before you complain about life... Think of someone who went too early to heaven. Today...before

Don't Sell Me...

2012-01-11T10:37:00.000-06:00

I get calls...and emails all the time from someone trying to sell me on some new marketing, whether online or paper material. Those on the hard sell that don't listen to me...I've been known to hang up on when they talk over me. So...knowing I don't want to be sold...and a line I've used many times...I want to share how I believe people want to be approached: 1. Don't sell me...Help Me! If

Rhonda's 2012 Blessings...

2012-01-04T16:28:00.006-06:00

....no, make that 11! · Blessed are the confident for they shall have an unshakable belief in themselves based on a realistic understanding of their circumstances; a trait that most people admire in others and strive to acquire themselves. · Blessed are the curious for they shall be eager to know, learn, and grow; always showing interest and giving special attention

5 tips to stay on top of home maintenance

2012-01-02T17:48:00.000-06:00

Where to find reliable contractors By Dian Hymer Inman News® Share This You're not alone if your roof is leaking and you're kicking yourself for not having called a roofer during the summer months. Most people have a limited concept of preventative maintenance. This can lead to big problems that end up being more expensive than if you

On Time or Early...or Always Late

2012-01-01T13:44:00.001-06:00

Do you know the one reason people arrive late? They leave late. What I mean is; it is not the traffic, it is not the directions, it is not the last minute phone call, it is simply that they left late. In my experience most people arrive for business appointments late. Being late tells me a few things about people: They don't respect my time; They are disorganized; They are not someone I

Color is a Powerful Thing - Set the Right Tone

2011-12-31T07:51:00.000-06:00

Like death and taxes, there is no escaping color. It is ubiquitous. Yet what does it all mean? Why are people more relaxed in green rooms? Why do weightlifters do their best in blue gyms? BlueThe color of the sky and the ocean, blue is one of the most popular colors. It causes the opposite reaction as red. Peaceful, tranquil blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, so it is

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-26T10:44:00.000-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 7 – Closing The Deal Drawing up contracts, having the final walkthrough, and going to the closing are the last steps you will have to take when buying your first home. This is the time when having a real estate agent you can trust, and a little knowledge of home buying comes in handy. But what about

A Mad Russian's Christmas - Trans-Siberian Orchestra

2011-12-25T08:57:00.000-06:00

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - O Come All Ye Faithful / O Holy Night [HD] LIVE

2011-12-25T08:37:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!!!

23 and 1/2 hours: What is the single best thing we can do for our health?

2011-12-23T07:16:00.000-06:00

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-21T15:08:00.012-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 6: Making An Offer By this point, you have found a real estate agent you trust, contacted a few lenders, and seen a few homes. If you haven't made up your mind on a home yet, you should take your time and keep looking. But keep in mind that if you wait too long, you may end up in a bidding war with

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-18T19:20:00.001-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 5 - Financing Options Financing your first home can be the most frustrating part of the home buying process. This is the time when you figure out how to pay for the home. Most people have to take out a mortgage loan in order to afford the price. Which mortgage loans are right for you? How much of a

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-15T19:08:00.012-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 4: Home Inspections 101 A home inspection will give you a chance to discover more about the home before you purchase it. In case there are serious problems with the foundation, mold issues, or underground leaks, you will be prepared to ask for repairs, a reduced price, or walk away from the property.

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-12T15:23:00.018-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 3 – Watching The Market Now that you know more about finding a real estate agent, you should begin watching the housing market carefully in the weeks or months before buying your first home in order to get a feel for whether it is in your favor. Watching The Housing Market For the past year, the

Make DIY Holiday Wreaths

2011-12-10T08:13:00.000-06:00

Compliments of Lowes Creative Ideas! Create holiday wreaths you’ll be proud to display as part of your holiday decor or give as holiday gifts. Add sparkle to a door with unexpected materials, such as wood dowels, seat belts, vinyl flashing, and coffee filters. Make DIY Holiday Wreaths I love this idea...and the many more they have...hope you enjoy!

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-09T17:10:00.051-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 2 – Finding A Realtor If you are like many people, chances are that you’ve looked around different neighborhoods, saw a few homes that were for sale, maybe visited an open house or two, and then felt stuck. What is the next step? Approach the homeowner with a potential offer? Visit a realtor for more

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-04T09:08:00.043-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Chapter 1 – Location Is Everything One of the greatest factors in regards to overall costs of property is in the neighborhood or area itself. In real estate, location is everything and depending on what your personal preferences are, you should expect the costs of properties to change based on location, even

Green Eggs & Facebook: 15 Social Media Tips from Dr. Seuss

2011-12-02T17:23:00.000-06:00

Green Eggs & Facebook: 15 Social Media Tips from Dr. Seuss

The Complete Home Buyers Handbook

2011-12-01T08:39:00.013-06:00

Insider's Guide to Saving Money & Eliminating Risks When Buying Your First Home! Introduction: You’re at the point in your life where you’re seriously considering purchasing your first home. You’re sick of paying high rental costs when you know that you’ll never own that property and it simply makes sense to start investing in your own future. Buying a home is an exciting adventure, and

Why Rent to Own?

2011-11-27T12:42:00.003-06:00

Although owning a house is one of the most powerful ways to increasing your wealth and stability, many people are unable to obtain the necessary financing or make the full commitment based on varying circumstances. This is why considering a rent-to-own program may be right for you. These programs will typically offer a lower initial down payment and monthly rent credits which will be applied

5 Steps to Increasing Income At Your Current Job.

2011-11-20T14:32:00.002-06:00

Show Up Early - This step alone will make you stand above the crowd. Most people are not willing to get to work early. By taking the initiative, you will show your boss that you are a serious and valuable employee that is worth their trust and consideration for promotion. Work Later – Do this without complaining. Especially when there is a big project due or they are

Decrease Debt - Improve Income

2011-11-15T14:13:00.002-06:00

In order to start saving more and increasing your wealth, you must first begin to pay off the debts you have incurred that are inhibiting your advancement. Many people have made the mistake of trying to tackle all their debt at once, which quickly leads to discouragement. And here’s why. There is nothing motivating about taking huge strides to pay off debt, but never fully realize the impact

3 Steps to Remove Negative Remarks.

2011-11-10T13:54:00.002-06:00

1. Whenever a collection account is added to your report, this history can remain on your report for up to 7 years even after you pay off the debt! Therefore, try to negotiate with the lender before making your payments in order to have these removed. 2. It is almost inevitable that your report will contain inaccurate or outdated information at some point. This can occur for

5 Steps to Using Your Credit Card Wisely

2011-11-06T13:44:00.005-06:00

1. Do not max out your credit cards every month. This is a red flag for lenders. In fact, it is good practice to use no more than 30% of your allotted credit limit. 2. Since 15% of your score is based on the age of your credit history, it is important to not close out your most seasoned accounts. In fact, it is better to leave an account open and not use it then to cancel it. 3.

Fuzzy Credit Scores - Do you know your numbers?

2011-11-03T10:12:00.001-05:00

In order to build and maintain a healthy credit score, it pays to know exactly what it is. Scores can range anywhere from 300-850. The higher the score the better, and each bureau will fluctuate somewhat based on their own unique formulas. Contrary to what you may hear, you do NOT have to pay for these reports. If you have not taken the time to review your credit report lately, you can run a

Is Your Real Estate Agent Getting You Maximum Exposure?

2011-10-29T10:35:00.000-05:00

What can your real estate agent offer you? That's the question you ought to be asking yourself these days. With the huge shift in traditional marketing methods to the internet, and now social media/networking platforms online, it pays to do your homework before signing any contracts. Although nearly 90% of buyers and sellers are turning to the internet for their real estate related needs, a

How To Sell Your Home Fast!

2011-10-12T11:40:00.005-05:00

Selling your home fast doesn’t have to be an impossible endeavor. In fact, even in today’s market you can still command a very reasonable price on your home within 90 days or less. And if you follow some proven steps outlined below, your turn around time could be much faster than expected. There may be various reasons that you want to get your home off the market as quickly as possible, so the

6 Ways to Improve Your Home's Value

2011-10-09T12:24:00.044-05:00

When you’re getting ready to sell your property, you want to be able to get the best price possible for your home. However, depending on how long you've lived at your current residence, it may require you to invest some time and money into improvements. Many sellers may become wary of taking the necessary time to help spruce up their home’s appearance due to the cost associated with upgrades.

6 Easy Tips to Cut Back on Utility Costs

2011-10-06T14:00:00.000-05:00

With rising utility costs and overall living expenses, people are looking for creative ideas on how to reduce spending. One of the major areas that can have a significant impact on your bottom line, long-term, is with heating, cooling and electric bills. It's important to take strides whenever possible to help alleviate this financial burden. I've devised a checklist of 6 items for you to

How To Prepare Your Home For The Fall Season

2011-10-04T10:05:00.000-05:00

It’s that time again! The crisp cool air, countless beautiful shades of colors, and plenty of enjoyable evenings around the bonfire await us. Yet, amidst all these great things, there are certain preparations that you need to be aware of when getting ready for the fall season as well. As a homeowner, it’s important that you take certain steps in order to protect your home’s condition and also

Foreclosure Property Purchasing Pitfalls

2011-10-02T10:59:00.000-05:00

Due to the mortgage crisis our country has faced over the last several years, there are continually more and more foreclosure properties that are being put up for sale everywhere you turn. Of course, this can be very tempting for homebuyers as people can sometimes get properties for 30% or even less on the dollar. However, if you are considering a foreclosure property for your next purchase,

2011-10-01T12:12:00.001-05:00

You've heard the saying "You never get a second chance to make a great first impression"? If you are selling your home, or will be shortly, you need to take that little saying to heart. Let me share with you my top staging mistakes to avoid in hopes that you'll apply what you've read today and be on your way to a successful sale! Staging Mistake #1: BAD MLS Photos Did you know that over 85%

3 Sources of Financing for Real Estate Investors

2011-09-28T08:41:00.000-05:00

One of the most important aspects to investing in real estate is how to finance your property. Although all other factors may look favorable, having little to no access to good terms could be a deal breaker. So before doing anything else, it is important that you begin to line up some potential sources and explore what options are available to you. There are various ways to start investing in

7 Tax Benefits Of Owning Real Estate

2011-09-24T14:02:00.000-05:00

There are so many advantages to purchasing your own home. For instance, it offers the pride of ownership, provides an overall sense of accomplishment, and is a place where you and your family will build many lasting memories. Among others, real estate opens the door to many tax benefits as well. Here are some of the ways that owning a home can help to create a tax shelter. 1. Mortgage

How to Better Manage Your Credit Score & Maintain Peace of Mind

2011-09-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

Credit Crusher: Let’s face it. We live in a credit crazed society. The times have certainly changed, and more and more business is now being conducted with the simple swipe of a card. In fact, a high percentage of the purchases we make on a daily basis are completed by using either credit or debit. These cards are very convenient, easy to carry and are usually safer than

Be Aware When Shopping For A Mortgage

2011-09-16T12:16:00.000-05:00

Shopping for a mortgage is one of the most important steps involved in purchasing your next home. Since the terms and conditions that you agree to will impact your financial future for years to come, it is vital that you take the necessary time to research and compare the best packages available to you. Many buyers tend to primarily focus on obtaining the best interest rates; and though this is

Before You Buy Homeowner's Insurance

2011-09-13T10:05:00.012-05:00

In order to guard yourself from risk and liability, it is essential to invest in a homeowner’s insurance policy that will give you the protection you need. Although such policies are not a requirement by law, any mortgage company will require this as a stipulation to receiving your next home loan. Types of PoliciesSeveral types of plans are available that include various optional riders

Real estate agents: Get over your smartphone hang-ups

2011-09-10T07:20:00.000-05:00

A life lesson in being unavailable! By Alisha Alway Braatz Inman News™ var switchTo5x=true; stLight.options({ publisher:'e0a0cbd0-a0a7-45c8-979c-61918712327d' }); Last week my husband and I took our very first family vacation with our new little one, and on the second day away from home my cell phone suddenly stopped

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY SEPT 11 ~ 2-4PM

2011-09-09T14:06:00.000-05:00

640 SW 161st StreetOklahoma City, OK 73170 This beautiful home in Stone Meadows South has a very pretty open MIL floor plan. The large living features a wonderful corner tiled fireplace; ceiling fan; & neutral carpet. The kitchen features a breakfast bar; recessed lighting; Oak cabinetry; & black/stainless steel appliances. The laundry has a pocket door, pantry, & great storage! The master bed &

Investing in Real Estate vs. Stocks

2011-09-08T06:31:00.000-05:00

When it comes to investing in land/real estate or stocks, there is no one size fits all. Although both vehicles have proven over the long run to provide excellent returns when handled properly, each person will have their own unique goals, risk tolerance, and capital that they are willing to spend. Additionally, this is where a financial planning specialist may offer useful insights as well.

3 Things To Consider Before Listing As FSBO

2011-09-01T07:59:00.000-05:00

If you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, you may feel inclined to list it as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) before working with a Realtor. For many, this is considered one good way to cut back on costs and possibly earn a little more profit on the sale. However, there are certain aspects you may want to consider before going down this path. Statistically, over 80% of FSBO’s end up

Why Do I Need Title Insurance?

2011-08-30T18:05:00.000-05:00

Before purchasing a home, it is vital that you have a better understanding of title insurance policies that are available for both lender and homeowner protection. If obtaining a mortgage, title insurance will be a requirement to shelter the lender for the full amount of the loan until it is completely paid off. However, owner title insurance will be something you need to consider if you

Get The Best Price On Your Next Home Purchase!

2011-08-27T19:56:00.001-05:00

One of the most important aspects to buying a home is to ensure that you purchase for a fair price. Since there are certain key steps that you must follow in order to make a sound decision, it pays to have a knowledgeable Realtor on your side who will be able to help obtain the best and most realistic asking price for a property. Determining Market ComparablesFor example, one of the first ways

Stopping Latest Fraud Wave Comes Down to Lenders

2011-08-20T08:44:00.000-05:00

The ways in which the industry can prevent fraud are evolving along with the nature of fraud itself, and the answer to preventing one of the latest waves of fraud appears to lie in finding new and better ways to track participants and their information in distressed home sales as well as in mortgage transactions. Addressing the types of deceptions seen today is a very different matter than

Seller Showing Tips

2011-07-31T18:48:00.000-05:00

You just listed your home for sale...now what? You've sold a home before...you should know how to do this, right? I never want to assume my seller knows what to do to get a home ready for showings because clearly they are attached to the home and its furnishings in some way so I don't want to insult them. Here are just a few ideas: 1. Lighten up! Some people live in their home where the shades

Just a Thought....

2011-06-30T06:47:00.000-05:00

The Void: It's that place in our lives where what we've been hanging onto . . . clinging to for dear life . . . is stripped away. It's that place in us where we let go of what we know, what we think we know, and what we want and surrender to the unknown. It is the place of saying and meaning, 'I don't know.' It means standing there with our hands empty for a while, sometimes watching

The Power of Belief, Expectation, and Positive Thinking

2011-05-30T07:15:00.000-05:00

While you may not always get what you want, you will always get what you expect! Surprisingly, the power of belief and expectation work just as effectively on your feelings of self-doubt and limitation as they do on your thoughts of success and achievement. Think thoughts of defeat or failure and you are bound to be discouraged. Belief is an incredibly powerful state of mind. Your belief system

How To Do a Short Sale

2011-05-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

h1 = document.getElementById("title").getElementsByTagName("h1")[0];h1.innerHTML = widont(h1.innerHTML); Why Would a Lender Accept a Short Sale?A short sale in real estate is not always a pleasant transaction. There are many ways to lose a home but signing away ownership in a manner that destroys credit, embarrasses the family and strips an owner of dignity is one of the hardest. For owners who

The Short Sale Process

2011-05-21T05:58:00.000-05:00

The short sale process can vary, but it will generally work as follows: 1) The lender is contacted to discuss the possibility of a short sale and to determine the lender’s process for completing the sale. 2) The seller issues a letter authorizing the release of personal information about the loan and the property to the buyer or escrow agency. 3) The lender will review a settlement statement,

Landscaping Your Home

2011-05-17T07:08:00.000-05:00

I love trees, shrubs, flowers, color, nature, rocks, benches, bird baths...yes, and even grass! I've always loved color but I don't know when the gardening thing hit me. The homes I've owned have all had a blank canvas for me to design. They have been sold with a much improved landscape, but the home I'm in now is probably the one I'm most proud of. I say that now because I am still hard at work

Real Estate and Divorce

2011-05-15T15:29:00.000-05:00

While it isn't a fun topic, it does come up, it does happen, there are questions, and no one seems to want to ask. Unless you've been through it, most people don't understand it and it does or can be complicated. Real estate a couple owns can be a real stumbling block to divorce. Property problems won't keep people together, and they might even drive people apart who have incompatible

Adult Truths: Something to make you go...hmmmm.

2011-05-12T06:24:00.000-05:00

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die. 2. Nothing is more awful than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong. 3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger. 4. There is great need for a sarcasm font. 5. Seriously, how in the world are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet? 6.

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2011-04-23T09:41:00.000-05:00

Tip 10: Buyer's Remorse After the Purchase. Buying a home is a big financial commitment, but many first-time home buyers suffer from buyer's remorse after they complete the closing on their brand new home. This is common not only because it represents a significant change in the life of one's family, but also because it is an enormous financial decision that often creates waves in the family

12304 Swanhaven Dr - Rivendell on the Lake

2011-04-14T09:09:00.001-05:00

You will fall in LOVE with this incredible 2 story home in prestigious Rivendell on the Lake. The features are endless: hand scraped wood floor, marble & ceramic tile, designer fixtures, Pickled Oak cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, Sub Zero fridge, huge pantry, granite breakfast bar, beautiful open staircase w/ wrought iron railing, wired for surround sound, wonderful whirlpool tub in

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2011-04-13T07:48:00.000-05:00

Tip 9: Negotiation in Real Estate. Whether you're a buyer or a seller you want to succeed in the real estate market. That's natural and reasonable, but what are the steps you need to triumph? Negotiation is an important part of the real estate buying process. It's a complex matter and all transactions are unique. Negotiating too much...trying to get an extra low price, or even refusing to budge

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2011-02-06T14:16:00.000-06:00

Tip 8: Buy it because you Love it! A home's most important role is to serve as a comfortable, safe place to live, so don't get bogged down with thinking about your home's appreciation. It's easy to love the home when it has great curb appeal...is perfectly staged with gorgeous furnishings and smells good. Those are the obvious things. But...before we can fall in love... Remember our first steps

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2011-01-16T13:18:00.000-06:00

Tip 7: Family & Friends Opinions It's natural to want to get opinions from those you trust before you make your final choice, but too much input will ultimately make the decision process much harder. You may be getting down payment assistance from family. For that reason, it's good for them to know why you are choosing a particular home. It's an investment on their part as well, but remember

Real Estate, Mortgages, and Finances - A Decade in Review

2010-12-31T11:43:00.000-06:00

10 years that shook America's finances 2001: Economy endures 9/11 attacks· A mild, eight-month recession begins. In March, a recession emerges that the National Bureau of Economic Research later declares lasted eight months. The start of the recession follows a decade of expansion. The unemployment rate, considered a lagging indicator of the overall economy, reaches a four-year high of

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-26T15:58:00.000-06:00

Tip 6: When is the Right Time to Buy...When is the Right Time to Sell? Every home buyer and seller is in a different situation, so it is important you don't compare your timeline and decisions to anyone else's. Time to Buy? Given all of the drops in the housing market in the last few years, many people are wondering whether now is the right time to buy a new house. Should you snatch up the good

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-23T07:53:00.000-06:00

Tip 5: Physical Aspects of Your Home Now that we've figured out what type of home fits your lifestyle, we need to think about some important issues and not get caught up in the physical aspects of the home. It's easy to walk into a home, fall in love, and completely forget that this was not an area you wanted to live in. Keeping an open mind and not being rigid is a welcome thing, but here are

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-18T07:21:00.000-06:00

Tip 4: Find the Home that Fits Your Lifestyle You’d think the easiest thing in the world would be deciding what house to buy. After all, who knows you better than you? You know exactly what you want, right? Well...sometimes. The truth is most people only have an idea of what they want – the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, size of the kitchen and garage, and maybe the yard. Things tend to get a

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-14T06:35:00.000-06:00

Tip 3: Keeping Emotions in Check Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime, and along with the finances come emotions. It is important to keep your emotions in check during the process. Being organized and in control will contribute significantly to getting the best home deal possible with the least amount of stress. Once you find a home you like,

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-11T11:40:00.000-06:00

Tip 2: Create a Budget before you Move into Your Home There are a number of other costs you need to consider before you buy a home. It never fails...we think we have thought of everything, and lo and behold, we didn't. Hopefully you find some helpful ideas that you can use to create a budget of expenses beyond the down payment and closing costs. Storage You may not be a pack-rat, but every time

10 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Home Buying Process - Focus on the Positives!

2010-12-05T08:11:00.000-06:00

Tip 1: 5 Steps to Mortgage Loan Approval There will always be first time homebuyers, and while the process stays somewhat the same, so I thought I'd break it down to assist those that need the knowledge, and those that need to be refreshed in how this works. The 5 steps to mortgage loan approval aren't complicated, but you really have to think ahead to make sure you have everything in order so

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T08:47:00.000-06:00

Today is a day to be thankful...positive...motivational...and encouraging. Though, I believe everyday should start with something to be thankful for, I wanted to share some short thoughts you could remember especially today. The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention. (Oscar Wilde) No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks. Every time we remember to say “

2010-11-20T18:15:00.000-06:00

How to Assess the Real Cost of a Fixer-Upper HouseWhen you buy a fixer-upper house, you can save a ton of money, or get yourself in a financial fix. Read Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Get sick ~ What's your attitude?

2010-11-14T06:30:00.000-06:00

In real estate, get sick, take a vacation, or have something personal happen in your life...and you can just bet your business will get a jump start. Last weekend I woke up with a terrible sore throat & throbbing headache. I haven't been sick in a long time & I knew what this meant...my phone was going to start ringing. Sure enough. While I'm now at the tail end of a cold, I have still been

Is the market really that bad?

2010-11-04T12:48:00.000-05:00

My daughter asked me the other day how business was. She works as a hairstylist and another stylist next to her was cutting a lady's hair. All the lady did was complain about how bad the market is. Then she found out the lady was a local Realtor! It made me think about how many people I hear are constantly complaining. While the market may not be what it has been in the past, it is surely not

Color Coded

2010-10-21T18:40:00.000-05:00

I have what some people might call perfectionist tendencies. I like order, structure, and balance. If it can't be done right, why bother...but once you get in the habit, it becomes so much easier and you don't even think twice about always doing it. If you don't know already by reading my posts, I am a Realtor...and I absolutely LOVE it! I can't think of anything else I'd rather be doing than

Moving...again...

2010-10-18T07:32:00.000-05:00

My parents are moving again which reminded me of when they moved 5 years ago after being in my childhood home for more than 30 years. Thus, the question: How do you go thru all the stuff you have accumulated for 20-30 years and not get overwhelmed? At that time, they lived in a ranch style home with a basement. We knew it would take time to go thru everything, so since they thought it would be

A Realtor's Home

2010-10-16T08:13:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what a Realtor's home would look like? Inside or outside? Do they keep it in "show" condition? Does the outside demonstrate the curb appeal that attracts buyers? While recently watering my flowers, I turned to look at my home...garage door open, and I just smiled. As a Realtor, I believe our homes, whether seen by our clients or not, are a reflection of ourselves. If your