By Christopher W Smith
Basement waterproofing is one of the things that you can do yourself. Not only is DIY basement waterproofing something that you can do to a new home, this is something that should be done to an older home as needed. There are several different systems available that you can use to waterproof your basement. These include installing a system of plastic chambers to channel the water to the drainage system, or installing a self priming pump to remove any detected water. One of the easiest ways of do it yourself basement waterproofing includes sealing the concrete with a painted on water-proofer.
When sealing concrete the first thing you need to do is make sure that you have a clean smooth surface. Any rough areas and any cracks in the concrete need to be taken care of. You can do this by simply knocking off any of the larger globs of concrete that are sticking out from the wall with a hammer, and then smoothing the rest of it off with some heavy duty sandpaper. You don't need a perfectly smooth wall; you just want to have a fairly smooth surface to work with. If you're going to use the concrete surface as your wall and are not covering it with any other substance besides paint you want it to be fairly smooth.
Any cracks that you have in your concrete you will need to repair. Do this by knocking off any loose concrete and getting down to the good concrete. Anything that's loose within the crack needs to be removed. Once the crack is clear of any debris flush it out with water and allow it to dry. Once all the cracks have dried they can be filled. There are a couple of different substances you can use to fill the crack. Injecting it with a fast setting hydraulic cement compound is the best solution.
Once you have your surface as smooth as you want and the cracks repaired, you can simply paint concrete water proofer onto the surface and allow it to dry. This is the easiest form of basement waterproofing and the least reliable. If you are going to use drywall or any other substance that covers the basement wall completely, you're likely not going to want to use this method of waterproofing. This is only for a quick fix or a method that you plan on being able to monitor continuously.
If you want to put walls over top of the concrete then you need to put a waterproofing system in place that can go along the floor and allow water to travel in its own chamber to the drainage system. This will keep the water that will inevitably push towards your basement in an area that is controlled so that water damage can be prevented. There are many different brands of systems that you can use, and all come with directions specific to that brand.
If basement waterproofing is not done, you will most likely have water damage within the first 6 to 8 months of building the basement. Finding the right solution for your specific needs is as easy as deciding how much work you want to put into waterproofing and how frequently you want to update your basement waterproofing system.
Visit us for more information on waterproofing basement tips and waterproofing basement materials.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_W_Smith
Seeking Out Mortgage Advice
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Michael Sterios
Whether you are a first-time-buyer purchasing your first home or an existing home owner looking for a remortgage product, it is important to seek out expert mortgage advice to ensure you secure the right home loan for your personal circumstances.
Evolution of the UK Mortgage Market
The UK is often referred to as having the most sophisticated mortgage market in the world. A wide variety of products are now available from dozens of lenders where only a few lenders existed before.
Mortgages are now available to people with all kinds of credit histories and employment situations and are also available to purchase property for investment purposes. This situation is vastly different to several years ago when only a few lenders offered prime mortgage products to people with stable employment.
The UK home loan market has therefore evolved considerably in only a few short years and the need for expert advice has never been greater. Such advice on is no longer the sole domain of overbearing bank managers and because of this the financial intermediary industry has flourished.
Advice Providers
Because of the increased sophistication of the market it is wise to seek advice from either an independent broker or financial adviser when searching for your next home loan.
Independent brokers have specialist software that can scan the entire market in minutes, helping them to provide quality mortgage advice that will help you choose the right product for your individual circumstances. The right advice can help you save money over the term of the loan, whether it is for a buy-to-let property or your own home.
Likewise, independent financial advisers (IFAs) can sometimes provide advice on mortgages as well as ancillary finance products such as insurance and pensions. Often these products go hand in hand with home loans so it can be a good idea to receive advice from an IFA if you have one already.
If, for example, you are looking to purchase or remortgage a buy-to-let property your IFA may be able to provide you with advice on which products to apply for in addition to any investment advice they may provide to you.
If you are seeking a mortgage for your own home your IFA may be suitable for providing you advice on both your home loan and your home and contents insurance. You may also use the opportunity to receive advice on life assurance product or mortgage and income protection insurance.
Where to Seek Mortgage Advice
Finding a broker or IFA who can offer you mortgage advice has never been easier. There are thousands of registered brokers and IFAs in the UK, many of whom advertise on the internet and in the local press. There is also a wide range of online and offline directories which contain listings of mortgage brokers in most local areas. However, with the ease of communicating over long distances these days, it is not always necessary to receive advice from a local mortgage broker.
You may also seek out referrals from friends of relatives. Mortgage advisers and IFAs sometimes specialise in different fields of financial advice which means that not all advisers will be suited to providing you with information on the specific issues you are seeking advice on. A positive referral from a friend or relative may therefore save you the time and hassle of finding an adviser yourself and reduce the risk of inappropriate advice.
To get expert Mortgage Advice on UK mortgages visit UK Mortgage Source today
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Sterios
Whether you are a first-time-buyer purchasing your first home or an existing home owner looking for a remortgage product, it is important to seek out expert mortgage advice to ensure you secure the right home loan for your personal circumstances.
Evolution of the UK Mortgage Market
The UK is often referred to as having the most sophisticated mortgage market in the world. A wide variety of products are now available from dozens of lenders where only a few lenders existed before.
Mortgages are now available to people with all kinds of credit histories and employment situations and are also available to purchase property for investment purposes. This situation is vastly different to several years ago when only a few lenders offered prime mortgage products to people with stable employment.
The UK home loan market has therefore evolved considerably in only a few short years and the need for expert advice has never been greater. Such advice on is no longer the sole domain of overbearing bank managers and because of this the financial intermediary industry has flourished.
Advice Providers
Because of the increased sophistication of the market it is wise to seek advice from either an independent broker or financial adviser when searching for your next home loan.
Independent brokers have specialist software that can scan the entire market in minutes, helping them to provide quality mortgage advice that will help you choose the right product for your individual circumstances. The right advice can help you save money over the term of the loan, whether it is for a buy-to-let property or your own home.
Likewise, independent financial advisers (IFAs) can sometimes provide advice on mortgages as well as ancillary finance products such as insurance and pensions. Often these products go hand in hand with home loans so it can be a good idea to receive advice from an IFA if you have one already.
If, for example, you are looking to purchase or remortgage a buy-to-let property your IFA may be able to provide you with advice on which products to apply for in addition to any investment advice they may provide to you.
If you are seeking a mortgage for your own home your IFA may be suitable for providing you advice on both your home loan and your home and contents insurance. You may also use the opportunity to receive advice on life assurance product or mortgage and income protection insurance.
Where to Seek Mortgage Advice
Finding a broker or IFA who can offer you mortgage advice has never been easier. There are thousands of registered brokers and IFAs in the UK, many of whom advertise on the internet and in the local press. There is also a wide range of online and offline directories which contain listings of mortgage brokers in most local areas. However, with the ease of communicating over long distances these days, it is not always necessary to receive advice from a local mortgage broker.
You may also seek out referrals from friends of relatives. Mortgage advisers and IFAs sometimes specialise in different fields of financial advice which means that not all advisers will be suited to providing you with information on the specific issues you are seeking advice on. A positive referral from a friend or relative may therefore save you the time and hassle of finding an adviser yourself and reduce the risk of inappropriate advice.
To get expert Mortgage Advice on UK mortgages visit UK Mortgage Source today
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Sterios
The Basics Of Home Mortgage Refinance
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Terry Edwards
If you're looking to find out the basics of home mortgage refinance, you'll want to know some of the tricks to make the process easier. Chances are, you're looking into it because you're unhappy with your current interest rates, or you'd like to think about changing your thirty year mortgage into a fifteen year mortgage, putting more money back into your pocket in the process. Here are some helpful suggestions to make your upcoming decision a little easier on both your time and your wallet.
The world of home mortgage refinance can be a tricky one if you don't have a lot of experience in the area. For this reason, you may want to enlist the services of a mortgage agent or broker. Though it will cost you some money in commission, the agent will be able to show you the differences between a good refinancing plan and a bad one.
Today's refinancing industry is much more competitive than ever before, meaning the choices are nearly endless. However, for the newcomer (and even for some who are experienced) it is hard to tell where the hype ends and the substance begins. An agent can help you separate the wheat from the chaff and save you some valuable money in the meantime.
Though it may be tempting to go for a home mortgages refinance through your current bank, don't jump in without considering your options. Websites such as Lending Tree can put you in the hands of many different lenders bidding to give you a new loan. This way, everyone wins and you can get the cheapest possible interest rates. Of course, you needn't go through Lending Tree. There are competitors with equal services and you can shop around on your own if you have the time and inclination.
Finally, know your market. This may not be the best time to acquire a home mortgage refinance program. The market goes through its ups and downs and it takes some timing to procure the best interest rates. If you go in while the market is hot, you may not get as good a deal as when it's a seller's market. Take all of this into consideration when searching for a loan and you'll be better off and get a much better refinancing deal.
You can find out more about Home Mortgage Refinance as well as much more information on everything to do with home mortgage refinancing at http://www.HomeMortgageRefinanceTips.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards
If you're looking to find out the basics of home mortgage refinance, you'll want to know some of the tricks to make the process easier. Chances are, you're looking into it because you're unhappy with your current interest rates, or you'd like to think about changing your thirty year mortgage into a fifteen year mortgage, putting more money back into your pocket in the process. Here are some helpful suggestions to make your upcoming decision a little easier on both your time and your wallet.
The world of home mortgage refinance can be a tricky one if you don't have a lot of experience in the area. For this reason, you may want to enlist the services of a mortgage agent or broker. Though it will cost you some money in commission, the agent will be able to show you the differences between a good refinancing plan and a bad one.
Today's refinancing industry is much more competitive than ever before, meaning the choices are nearly endless. However, for the newcomer (and even for some who are experienced) it is hard to tell where the hype ends and the substance begins. An agent can help you separate the wheat from the chaff and save you some valuable money in the meantime.
Though it may be tempting to go for a home mortgages refinance through your current bank, don't jump in without considering your options. Websites such as Lending Tree can put you in the hands of many different lenders bidding to give you a new loan. This way, everyone wins and you can get the cheapest possible interest rates. Of course, you needn't go through Lending Tree. There are competitors with equal services and you can shop around on your own if you have the time and inclination.
Finally, know your market. This may not be the best time to acquire a home mortgage refinance program. The market goes through its ups and downs and it takes some timing to procure the best interest rates. If you go in while the market is hot, you may not get as good a deal as when it's a seller's market. Take all of this into consideration when searching for a loan and you'll be better off and get a much better refinancing deal.
You can find out more about Home Mortgage Refinance as well as much more information on everything to do with home mortgage refinancing at http://www.HomeMortgageRefinanceTips.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards
How To Prepare One's Home For Sale
ป้ายกำกับ: Selling
By Rob P Williams
It seems that the hot topic at the moment is how to prepare one's home for sale.
We were a little unsure about doing an email on this because it's pretty repetitive and we were sure that you have heard it all before, a number of times! But... we're going to put a bit of a twist on this...keep reading......
Your properties presentation is indeed very important and if ignored can greatly hamper the successful sale of what is probably your biggest asset.
It is also important to remember that you don't have to spend a fortune to present your home in its best light.
Most home buyers are attracted firstly by the appearance of your home, so it is important to remember the old adage "you never get a second chance to make a first impression".
This, we guess, is what you could call a guideline or checklist to help ensure that your home is ready to be presented to buyers, with confidence.
External appearance or "street appeal" is the first thing to consider.
Stand in front of your home and imagine for a moment that you are a potential buyer turning up for an inspection of the property.
Make sure lawns and gardens are neat and tidy, neatly trimmed edges are a big plus and you can always add a splash of colour with some inexpensive flowers.
If you have fences or gates that need repair it is best to tend to them now.
Clear your mailbox daily and remove any flyers that are sometimes left half in or perhaps fall out and look very unsightly.
Clean the gutters of any leaves or debris.
Make sure you give your windows the once over.
Clean driveways and footpaths and try if possible to keep garbage bins out of sight.
Lubricate any squeaky hinges and fix any loose door handles or knobs on your doors.
Remove any spider webs from your eaves or under verandas.
Make sure there is a door mat in place as this also indicates that you are conscious of keeping your home clean inside.
These items kept in check will greatly help in setting the mood when buyers first arrive, and will have them looking forward to seeing inside your home.
These may seem like simple things but if overlooked or treated as unimportant, they can greatly influence the decision of the buyer to inspect or not inspect.
Ok so that's outside taken care of lets look at the inside.
Inside the home is all about creating a feeling. Many buyers will have only taken a few steps inside a home when they 'feel' that it's right. It feels welcoming and homely.
Some areas you should look at are:-
Remove clutter as this makes your home seem smaller than it actually is.
Allow as much natural light in as possible by opening blinds.
If the weather permits it's always preferable to have a couple of windows partly open to allow fresh air through. If in winter or summer provide heating or cooling as necessary as the home should feel comfortable at all times.
Make sure bathrooms and kitchens are dazzling; these are the two main areas that the major decision maker rates. (whether we like to admit it or not, we all know who that is!)
Make sure that the home is clean and tidy, beds are made etc. "don't confuse tidiness with obsessive behaviour", it is quiet acceptable to have a newspaper on your coffee table or a magazine on your bedside table so focus on clean.
Smell is particularly important, and even more so if you have pets. Some odours that are familiar to you may be offensive to others. Clean bird cages regularly, place dog/cat bowls outside. If it is a concern you can purchase several types of odour neutralising aerosols or plug in types which remove any odour.
Rather than the fresh brewed coffee or the bread in the oven trick, which most buyers are aware of and indeed may be concerned that you are trying to mask a bad odour, why not try some fresh flowers in a nice vase or some pot puree in a decretive bowl.
Try to remove dogs during inspections as some people are afraid "yes even of tiny friendly ones".
It is best that you are not in the home during the inspection as it can create a feeling of over-crowdedness, and can also make the buyer feel as they are imposing and as a result not relax and get a good feel for your home.
Attend to any general maintenance such as door knobs, light fixtures touch ups and anything that is generally speaking obvious to the buyer. Take care not to get into a major renovating job just make sure it is clean and looks well maintained.
So what's the twist?
The thing we have found is that you can look at your home and think that all these things need doing and it's going to cost a fortune and take forever to do. Remember the day you were rearranging the furniture, clipped the wall and put a little mark in the gyprock....for the last couple of years every time you walk past that spot you look at the mark. The first thing you want to tend too before any buyers come through is "that" mark. The problem here is that you see too much!
So, how do you stop seeing too much? Do the walk around as we have suggested, compile a list, then get someone else who is not that familiar with your home and who is not afraid to speak their mind to do the same. Compare lists then only do what you have both noticed. See a potential buyer who has never been in your home before is not going to notice the things that you do simply because they are trying to absorb the entire home. Whatever is not noticed is not important to fix! Remember your home is not a new show home it has been lived in and that is the appeal!
Rob Williams is the founder of Independent Real Estate Consulting(IREC), an independent body established to help consumers in Australia in their real estate dealings. IREC also provides an opportunity for sellers to avoid paying excessive real estate commissions through a unique referral system. Rob Williams has over 20 years of real estate experience and developed the business after witnessing increasing consumer demand for independent, impartial real estate advice and guidance.
Visit http://www.irec.com.au
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rob_P_Williams
It seems that the hot topic at the moment is how to prepare one's home for sale.
We were a little unsure about doing an email on this because it's pretty repetitive and we were sure that you have heard it all before, a number of times! But... we're going to put a bit of a twist on this...keep reading......
Your properties presentation is indeed very important and if ignored can greatly hamper the successful sale of what is probably your biggest asset.
It is also important to remember that you don't have to spend a fortune to present your home in its best light.
Most home buyers are attracted firstly by the appearance of your home, so it is important to remember the old adage "you never get a second chance to make a first impression".
This, we guess, is what you could call a guideline or checklist to help ensure that your home is ready to be presented to buyers, with confidence.
External appearance or "street appeal" is the first thing to consider.
Stand in front of your home and imagine for a moment that you are a potential buyer turning up for an inspection of the property.
Make sure lawns and gardens are neat and tidy, neatly trimmed edges are a big plus and you can always add a splash of colour with some inexpensive flowers.
If you have fences or gates that need repair it is best to tend to them now.
Clear your mailbox daily and remove any flyers that are sometimes left half in or perhaps fall out and look very unsightly.
Clean the gutters of any leaves or debris.
Make sure you give your windows the once over.
Clean driveways and footpaths and try if possible to keep garbage bins out of sight.
Lubricate any squeaky hinges and fix any loose door handles or knobs on your doors.
Remove any spider webs from your eaves or under verandas.
Make sure there is a door mat in place as this also indicates that you are conscious of keeping your home clean inside.
These items kept in check will greatly help in setting the mood when buyers first arrive, and will have them looking forward to seeing inside your home.
These may seem like simple things but if overlooked or treated as unimportant, they can greatly influence the decision of the buyer to inspect or not inspect.
Ok so that's outside taken care of lets look at the inside.
Inside the home is all about creating a feeling. Many buyers will have only taken a few steps inside a home when they 'feel' that it's right. It feels welcoming and homely.
Some areas you should look at are:-
Remove clutter as this makes your home seem smaller than it actually is.
Allow as much natural light in as possible by opening blinds.
If the weather permits it's always preferable to have a couple of windows partly open to allow fresh air through. If in winter or summer provide heating or cooling as necessary as the home should feel comfortable at all times.
Make sure bathrooms and kitchens are dazzling; these are the two main areas that the major decision maker rates. (whether we like to admit it or not, we all know who that is!)
Make sure that the home is clean and tidy, beds are made etc. "don't confuse tidiness with obsessive behaviour", it is quiet acceptable to have a newspaper on your coffee table or a magazine on your bedside table so focus on clean.
Smell is particularly important, and even more so if you have pets. Some odours that are familiar to you may be offensive to others. Clean bird cages regularly, place dog/cat bowls outside. If it is a concern you can purchase several types of odour neutralising aerosols or plug in types which remove any odour.
Rather than the fresh brewed coffee or the bread in the oven trick, which most buyers are aware of and indeed may be concerned that you are trying to mask a bad odour, why not try some fresh flowers in a nice vase or some pot puree in a decretive bowl.
Try to remove dogs during inspections as some people are afraid "yes even of tiny friendly ones".
It is best that you are not in the home during the inspection as it can create a feeling of over-crowdedness, and can also make the buyer feel as they are imposing and as a result not relax and get a good feel for your home.
Attend to any general maintenance such as door knobs, light fixtures touch ups and anything that is generally speaking obvious to the buyer. Take care not to get into a major renovating job just make sure it is clean and looks well maintained.
So what's the twist?
The thing we have found is that you can look at your home and think that all these things need doing and it's going to cost a fortune and take forever to do. Remember the day you were rearranging the furniture, clipped the wall and put a little mark in the gyprock....for the last couple of years every time you walk past that spot you look at the mark. The first thing you want to tend too before any buyers come through is "that" mark. The problem here is that you see too much!
So, how do you stop seeing too much? Do the walk around as we have suggested, compile a list, then get someone else who is not that familiar with your home and who is not afraid to speak their mind to do the same. Compare lists then only do what you have both noticed. See a potential buyer who has never been in your home before is not going to notice the things that you do simply because they are trying to absorb the entire home. Whatever is not noticed is not important to fix! Remember your home is not a new show home it has been lived in and that is the appeal!
Rob Williams is the founder of Independent Real Estate Consulting(IREC), an independent body established to help consumers in Australia in their real estate dealings. IREC also provides an opportunity for sellers to avoid paying excessive real estate commissions through a unique referral system. Rob Williams has over 20 years of real estate experience and developed the business after witnessing increasing consumer demand for independent, impartial real estate advice and guidance.
Visit http://www.irec.com.au
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rob_P_Williams
Wallpapering The Right Way - Part 1
ป้ายกำกับ: DIY
By Johan Nickson
Everyone knows how to wallpaper, so it would seem. It is easy to do a bad job, but there's more to getting the perfect finish than most people think.
The first, and often the most difficult, wallpapering problem are choosing the paper. Nevertheless, before you do anything else, estimate the number of rolls you will need. If anything it is better to over estimate - retailers will usually accept back an unused roll providing it is in good condition. However, cost in relation to quantity is often the overriding factor when it comes to making a choice.
Apart from cost, colour, texture and pattern are the main considerations. The wrong wallpaper can ruin a room; the right one can produce dramatic improvements in its appearance.
Colour:
Very bright, cheerful colours are best for kitchens and workrooms where you are unlikely to spend time sitting back and relaxing, but where it is nice to have a lively atmosphere. Warm and soft tones are good in living rooms where they act more as a backdrop to furnishings. Similarly, bedroom décor should be conducive to sleep. If you have a small or dark room, try a light colour to make the room feel more spacious. The same principle applies for a large room - dark colours will make it look smaller.
Texture:
Textured wallpapers have again become very popular. Some are plain and designed to be painted with emulsion, others are already tinted. They are useful for hanging on walls in poor condition as their texture often covers up imperfections. Naturally textured wall hangings like Hessian and cork tend to be expensive buy are anyway best used in moderation - such as on a feature wall. They make a particularly effective background for houseplants.
Pattern:
Patterned papers usually have a dominant colour with one or perhaps two sympathetic colours or tones included to make up the pattern. Pick out one colour that is already in the room - the carpet for instance - and match it to the colour in the wallpaper. To give an illusion of height is a low room, use vertical stripes. To give the illusion of length, use horizontal stripes. However, if the doors or walls are at all out of true, use a small dense pattern to disguise this.
Types of paper:
Not all papers are suitable for all rooms or surfaces. Consider the following points before making your decision.
Uneven surfaces:
Hang a lining paper first in horizontal strips (at right angles to the wallpaper). Lining paper comes in various weights but you may as well get the thicker 600 and 800 grades, which are easier to hang.
Condensation:
Where there is likely to be condensation, such as in a bathroom or kitchen, use vinyl or washable paper. Vinyl's are made from PVC with a paper backing and can be wiped with a damp sponge. Washables are resin coated and can be scrubbed.
Heat-reflective papers:
These are designed to cut down heat loss through the walls - and hence save energy. They may also reduce condensation. Hang as conventional papers.
Painting:
Hang a lining paper vertically before painting a wall. For a textured surface, there are any amount of woodchip or embossed papers which are designed to be painted.
Johan Nickson is a DIY expert, who has been in the trade for 25 years. Johan uses a Panasonic Cordless Drill and Makita Power Tools
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johan_Nickson
Everyone knows how to wallpaper, so it would seem. It is easy to do a bad job, but there's more to getting the perfect finish than most people think.
The first, and often the most difficult, wallpapering problem are choosing the paper. Nevertheless, before you do anything else, estimate the number of rolls you will need. If anything it is better to over estimate - retailers will usually accept back an unused roll providing it is in good condition. However, cost in relation to quantity is often the overriding factor when it comes to making a choice.
Apart from cost, colour, texture and pattern are the main considerations. The wrong wallpaper can ruin a room; the right one can produce dramatic improvements in its appearance.
Colour:
Very bright, cheerful colours are best for kitchens and workrooms where you are unlikely to spend time sitting back and relaxing, but where it is nice to have a lively atmosphere. Warm and soft tones are good in living rooms where they act more as a backdrop to furnishings. Similarly, bedroom décor should be conducive to sleep. If you have a small or dark room, try a light colour to make the room feel more spacious. The same principle applies for a large room - dark colours will make it look smaller.
Texture:
Textured wallpapers have again become very popular. Some are plain and designed to be painted with emulsion, others are already tinted. They are useful for hanging on walls in poor condition as their texture often covers up imperfections. Naturally textured wall hangings like Hessian and cork tend to be expensive buy are anyway best used in moderation - such as on a feature wall. They make a particularly effective background for houseplants.
Pattern:
Patterned papers usually have a dominant colour with one or perhaps two sympathetic colours or tones included to make up the pattern. Pick out one colour that is already in the room - the carpet for instance - and match it to the colour in the wallpaper. To give an illusion of height is a low room, use vertical stripes. To give the illusion of length, use horizontal stripes. However, if the doors or walls are at all out of true, use a small dense pattern to disguise this.
Types of paper:
Not all papers are suitable for all rooms or surfaces. Consider the following points before making your decision.
Uneven surfaces:
Hang a lining paper first in horizontal strips (at right angles to the wallpaper). Lining paper comes in various weights but you may as well get the thicker 600 and 800 grades, which are easier to hang.
Condensation:
Where there is likely to be condensation, such as in a bathroom or kitchen, use vinyl or washable paper. Vinyl's are made from PVC with a paper backing and can be wiped with a damp sponge. Washables are resin coated and can be scrubbed.
Heat-reflective papers:
These are designed to cut down heat loss through the walls - and hence save energy. They may also reduce condensation. Hang as conventional papers.
Painting:
Hang a lining paper vertically before painting a wall. For a textured surface, there are any amount of woodchip or embossed papers which are designed to be painted.
Johan Nickson is a DIY expert, who has been in the trade for 25 years. Johan uses a Panasonic Cordless Drill and Makita Power Tools
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johan_Nickson
2008 Real Estate Market Predictions
ป้ายกำกับ: Homes
By M Siddique
With the market slump heard round the world, 2007 is quickly winding to a close. Many are wondering where 2008 will take us. Based on real estate facts and trends from 2007, here are some real estate buying and selling predictions for next year.
Home Prices Will Decline and Stabilize - Home prices will continue to decrease in cooling markets. They won't freefall, though they will teeter back in forth looking for some solid ground.
Increases in Short Sales & Foreclosures - As interest rates on 3-year and 5-year Adjustable Rate Mortgages begin adjusting and those who used 100% financing in 2005, will start losing their homes. Many banks will probably refuse to negotiate short sales, eventually leading to a flood of bank-owned properties to hit the market.
Interest Rates Will Stabilize - Rates will move forward and backward within one-quarter point, and buyers will want fixed-rate mortgages. Buyers who cannot qualify for conventional loans will lean toward seller-financed instruments such as land contracts or lease option purchases.
A Buyers Market Will Entice Investors to Enter the Market - Investor's different criteria than traditional home buyers will encourage their return to the market as they recognize that a buyer's market is an excellent time to purchase real estate. First-time home buyers will find themselves competing with all-cash investors, and the investors will win.
Industry Related Businesses Will Not Survive - Everyone from mortgage companies, appraisers, real estate agents to builders, construction companies, and title companies will have to compensate somehow for the sluggish real estate markets of 2006 and 2007. Some won't survive.
Lowball Offers Will be Everywhere - Newbie buyers will figure out it is a buyer's market and start to write lowball offers like their going out of style. Many buyers will be writing insultingly low offers. Sellers should expect to receive lowball offers initially from many more buyers.
Inventory Will Increase Then Drop Significantly - As 2008 rolls around, sellers whose listings expired in 2007 will put their homes back on the market as a new listing. However, nobody will be fooled. Inventory will continue to increase until summer, when sellers will begin to realize they must either remove their home from the market or be reasonable. Most will choose to remove their homes from active status and inventory will finally begin to fall.
Banks Will Refuse to Pay Closing Costs - Banks are sick of taking it in the shorts. With agents trying to cram short sales down their throats and no one bidding at the trustee's sales, it will leave them stuck with unwanted inventory. Banks will probably start demanding bulk discount rates from title and escrow companies. They will also stop paying some regular closing costs like city taxes and state documentary transfer tax.
Flood Insurance Rates Will Rise - New assessments of flood risk will probably lead the federal government to redraw flood maps, requiring more home owners to carry flood insurance. Home owners with flood insurance policies could see rates double, while those who have no flood insurance could face paying rates that are 10 times higher than they would have paid under the old risk maps.
Siddique is real estate investor for over 22 years and President of http://www.butterflylister.com
Download Free How to sell your Home for Full Price in any market
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Siddique
With the market slump heard round the world, 2007 is quickly winding to a close. Many are wondering where 2008 will take us. Based on real estate facts and trends from 2007, here are some real estate buying and selling predictions for next year.
Home Prices Will Decline and Stabilize - Home prices will continue to decrease in cooling markets. They won't freefall, though they will teeter back in forth looking for some solid ground.
Increases in Short Sales & Foreclosures - As interest rates on 3-year and 5-year Adjustable Rate Mortgages begin adjusting and those who used 100% financing in 2005, will start losing their homes. Many banks will probably refuse to negotiate short sales, eventually leading to a flood of bank-owned properties to hit the market.
Interest Rates Will Stabilize - Rates will move forward and backward within one-quarter point, and buyers will want fixed-rate mortgages. Buyers who cannot qualify for conventional loans will lean toward seller-financed instruments such as land contracts or lease option purchases.
A Buyers Market Will Entice Investors to Enter the Market - Investor's different criteria than traditional home buyers will encourage their return to the market as they recognize that a buyer's market is an excellent time to purchase real estate. First-time home buyers will find themselves competing with all-cash investors, and the investors will win.
Industry Related Businesses Will Not Survive - Everyone from mortgage companies, appraisers, real estate agents to builders, construction companies, and title companies will have to compensate somehow for the sluggish real estate markets of 2006 and 2007. Some won't survive.
Lowball Offers Will be Everywhere - Newbie buyers will figure out it is a buyer's market and start to write lowball offers like their going out of style. Many buyers will be writing insultingly low offers. Sellers should expect to receive lowball offers initially from many more buyers.
Inventory Will Increase Then Drop Significantly - As 2008 rolls around, sellers whose listings expired in 2007 will put their homes back on the market as a new listing. However, nobody will be fooled. Inventory will continue to increase until summer, when sellers will begin to realize they must either remove their home from the market or be reasonable. Most will choose to remove their homes from active status and inventory will finally begin to fall.
Banks Will Refuse to Pay Closing Costs - Banks are sick of taking it in the shorts. With agents trying to cram short sales down their throats and no one bidding at the trustee's sales, it will leave them stuck with unwanted inventory. Banks will probably start demanding bulk discount rates from title and escrow companies. They will also stop paying some regular closing costs like city taxes and state documentary transfer tax.
Flood Insurance Rates Will Rise - New assessments of flood risk will probably lead the federal government to redraw flood maps, requiring more home owners to carry flood insurance. Home owners with flood insurance policies could see rates double, while those who have no flood insurance could face paying rates that are 10 times higher than they would have paid under the old risk maps.
Siddique is real estate investor for over 22 years and President of http://www.butterflylister.com
Download Free How to sell your Home for Full Price in any market
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Siddique
Fantastic DIY Home Renovation Ideas
ป้ายกำกับ: DIY
By Guy J Morris
Everyone gets bored of their house if it never changes. I'm sure at one time or another you have been considering renovating your home or even upgrading all of the appliances in your home. However a complete home renovation is extremely costly, you would be lucky to have any savings left at the end of it! There are secret ways to improve the look of your home while also saving money.
There are some really good ways that you can improve the look of your home yourself without having to splash out lots of money. You can even do all of the tasks yourself without having to hire a professional. In order to get started you need to find some ideas and advice, we're going to take a look at some of the most popular websites that offer many different forms of DIY advice. Using these tips you can keep your house up to date.
Finding help online
Many people get a little lost when they are planning to start their own DIY projects. However there are some secret tips that can help you find your way. If you have no idea where you should start then you should start by planning.
Just make a simple list of all of the things in your house that you would like to upgrade. Now you can use the internet, or magazine to get ideas what to do. You can even visit the better homes and gardens website at www.betterhomeandgardens.com there are some very easy to follow tutorials which are surprisingly affordable!
As well as using the internet you should also take advantage of the home improvement stores in your local area. Many cities have Home Depot, or Lowes, these not only sell items that you can use to renovate your home but they can also offer great advice.
The staff in these DIY centers should be very friendly and also know a lot about the projects that you will be attempting. When you visit the store you will be amazed exactly what it's possible to buy, it may well inspire you to do many more home renovation projects by yourself in the future! such as granite counter top installation
If you don't have enough time to visit the shops, and let's face it nobody does then you can check out their websites. These can be found at www.lowes.com and www.homedepot.com
Guy Morris's web pages can be found on different web sites related to home decor and home repair. You can find his writings on granite counter tops at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com and various other sources for granite counter tops knowledge.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Guy_J_Morris
Everyone gets bored of their house if it never changes. I'm sure at one time or another you have been considering renovating your home or even upgrading all of the appliances in your home. However a complete home renovation is extremely costly, you would be lucky to have any savings left at the end of it! There are secret ways to improve the look of your home while also saving money.
There are some really good ways that you can improve the look of your home yourself without having to splash out lots of money. You can even do all of the tasks yourself without having to hire a professional. In order to get started you need to find some ideas and advice, we're going to take a look at some of the most popular websites that offer many different forms of DIY advice. Using these tips you can keep your house up to date.
Finding help online
Many people get a little lost when they are planning to start their own DIY projects. However there are some secret tips that can help you find your way. If you have no idea where you should start then you should start by planning.
Just make a simple list of all of the things in your house that you would like to upgrade. Now you can use the internet, or magazine to get ideas what to do. You can even visit the better homes and gardens website at www.betterhomeandgardens.com there are some very easy to follow tutorials which are surprisingly affordable!
As well as using the internet you should also take advantage of the home improvement stores in your local area. Many cities have Home Depot, or Lowes, these not only sell items that you can use to renovate your home but they can also offer great advice.
The staff in these DIY centers should be very friendly and also know a lot about the projects that you will be attempting. When you visit the store you will be amazed exactly what it's possible to buy, it may well inspire you to do many more home renovation projects by yourself in the future! such as granite counter top installation
If you don't have enough time to visit the shops, and let's face it nobody does then you can check out their websites. These can be found at www.lowes.com and www.homedepot.com
Guy Morris's web pages can be found on different web sites related to home decor and home repair. You can find his writings on granite counter tops at http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com and various other sources for granite counter tops knowledge.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Guy_J_Morris
Using Decorative Paint for Living Room
ป้ายกำกับ: DIY
By Bill Brennan
You may have tried everything you can think of in order to make changes in your home. Sometimes changing a color on the wall can make a big difference. If you don't want to leave the rooms in the last century it is time for a change. Sometimes making the simple changes can increase the feel of the room. Guests will love the room and wonder what you have changed. Paint can be the best way to make an affordable change.
Painting your living room with more artistic ways can change the look and feel of your home completely. Newer techniques can make your rooms more stylish and modern with the correct use of colors. The best way of giving your rooms a dramatic effect is by using decorative paint styles. Decorative painting can simply refer to creating a wallpaper look by painting designs through a stencil. Stenciling the wall with your chosen designs can give the impression of a fake wallpaper effect. Wall stencils can also be used to design other rooms such as creating cartoons for your kids' bedrooms. Other effects can also be produced on the walls by simply using a sponge instead of a normal painting brush. A sponge or even a rag can be used to dab the paint to give it a more different and textured look.
Another kind of effect which is very popular with interior decoration ideas, especially for the living room is the 'light' effect. Playing with the colors so that it gives the wall the impression of a shadow, or a shimmery effect can be done at ease by using two different shades for the coats. For a shadowy look, start painting one side of the wall with a dark shade then continue painting the rest of the wall with a shade lighter and so on. The shimmery effect can be achieved by painting the wall with a dark or bright color of your choice, preferably 3-4 coats and then giving a last coat with a golden shimmer or bronze shimmer paint. This lends luster to the wall. The latest popular trend in decorative painting for the living rooms is creating a fake effect of popularly known as faux effect. You can achieve a brick like appearance to your walls or even a marble look. More creatively, the paint can be used to produce an artificial, yet real looking leathery or suede textures that give a very sophisticated look to living rooms. Now-a-days there are kinds of paints that do not require any extra effort, but produce the effects of the textured look. These paints, although cost a bit on the higher side than the normal paints, create the basic texture look on which you can create more elaborate effects.
The only thing that one must keep in mind before going for decorative paints is the color scheme. Only painting the rooms cannot produce the desired effect, proper co-ordination and accessorizing, the right furniture, lampshades and other such things are necessary.
For more home decorating tips look at Budget Furnishing and Making A Wheel Chair Friendly Home
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Brennan
You may have tried everything you can think of in order to make changes in your home. Sometimes changing a color on the wall can make a big difference. If you don't want to leave the rooms in the last century it is time for a change. Sometimes making the simple changes can increase the feel of the room. Guests will love the room and wonder what you have changed. Paint can be the best way to make an affordable change.
Painting your living room with more artistic ways can change the look and feel of your home completely. Newer techniques can make your rooms more stylish and modern with the correct use of colors. The best way of giving your rooms a dramatic effect is by using decorative paint styles. Decorative painting can simply refer to creating a wallpaper look by painting designs through a stencil. Stenciling the wall with your chosen designs can give the impression of a fake wallpaper effect. Wall stencils can also be used to design other rooms such as creating cartoons for your kids' bedrooms. Other effects can also be produced on the walls by simply using a sponge instead of a normal painting brush. A sponge or even a rag can be used to dab the paint to give it a more different and textured look.
Another kind of effect which is very popular with interior decoration ideas, especially for the living room is the 'light' effect. Playing with the colors so that it gives the wall the impression of a shadow, or a shimmery effect can be done at ease by using two different shades for the coats. For a shadowy look, start painting one side of the wall with a dark shade then continue painting the rest of the wall with a shade lighter and so on. The shimmery effect can be achieved by painting the wall with a dark or bright color of your choice, preferably 3-4 coats and then giving a last coat with a golden shimmer or bronze shimmer paint. This lends luster to the wall. The latest popular trend in decorative painting for the living rooms is creating a fake effect of popularly known as faux effect. You can achieve a brick like appearance to your walls or even a marble look. More creatively, the paint can be used to produce an artificial, yet real looking leathery or suede textures that give a very sophisticated look to living rooms. Now-a-days there are kinds of paints that do not require any extra effort, but produce the effects of the textured look. These paints, although cost a bit on the higher side than the normal paints, create the basic texture look on which you can create more elaborate effects.
The only thing that one must keep in mind before going for decorative paints is the color scheme. Only painting the rooms cannot produce the desired effect, proper co-ordination and accessorizing, the right furniture, lampshades and other such things are necessary.
For more home decorating tips look at Budget Furnishing and Making A Wheel Chair Friendly Home
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Brennan
Condo And Apartment Vocabulary - Learn To Speak In Real Estate Terms
ป้ายกำกับ: Condo
By Jay Banks
Sometimes, all the terms and definitions related to lofts, apartments, or condominiums can make you confused. In this short guide, we'll go through a list of the most common words used in real estate to describe different aspects related to condos in Vancouver.
Alcove studio: This refers to a studio apartment that has an alcove. In most cases, it's used for a dining or extra place for sleeping. Alcoves with windows that are large enough to make up for an extra bedroom can be referred as "junior bedrooms".
Alcove: An adjoining area to the living room that can be modified to create a bedroom or a dining space.
Annual Budget: This is a budget for general maintenance fees, repairs and administrative costs and is prepared by the condominium board every year.
Annual Meeting (AGM): By law, it's required to hold an annual meeting to discuss things related to the condominium and to present financial statements.
Common Elements: Refers to various parts of the condo that the homeowners own together as joing owners. Good examples for common elements are the roof, hallways, recreational parts of the building and the garages.
Common Property: These are parts of land or buildings which are not owned individually. The Strata Act specifies the related responsibilities and details of how these are handled.
Disclosure: In every case, the developer has to provide all the necessary documents to the buyer. This includes a purchase agreement, bylaws (can be proposed bylaws as well), a management and recreational agreement, parcel lease (where applicable), mortgages that might affect the title and a plan of the condominiu.
Final Closing: This is the date when the condo is registered officially and when you obtain the title to the property.
Furnished Units: These are apartments, which are already equipped with furniture and amenities for everyday living. It is not uncommon to find these in downtown luxurious condos where the developer is trying to add something extra to attract buyers.
Loft area: Most of the times found in older repurposed industrial buildings with high ceilings. It's typically an additional area accessible by a smaller staircase to provide an extra sleping or living area.
Occupancy Date: The date when you must take occupany of your propety, as specified in the contract.
Registration: Refers to the process process by which the condo's declaration and description are officially approved by the requisite governmental organs.
Studio: Describes a two-room apartment where the kitchen is considered one of them.
Unit: The space contained within the set of specified boundaries in your home.
Zoning Regulations: Guidelines set by municipal governments that regulate the ways how property can or can not be used. They can be strict and should not be overlooked.
Jay Banks has been an accomplished realtor in Richmond BC since 1991. For more information and other great articles, visit his website http://www.jaybanks.ca
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Banks
Sometimes, all the terms and definitions related to lofts, apartments, or condominiums can make you confused. In this short guide, we'll go through a list of the most common words used in real estate to describe different aspects related to condos in Vancouver.
Alcove studio: This refers to a studio apartment that has an alcove. In most cases, it's used for a dining or extra place for sleeping. Alcoves with windows that are large enough to make up for an extra bedroom can be referred as "junior bedrooms".
Alcove: An adjoining area to the living room that can be modified to create a bedroom or a dining space.
Annual Budget: This is a budget for general maintenance fees, repairs and administrative costs and is prepared by the condominium board every year.
Annual Meeting (AGM): By law, it's required to hold an annual meeting to discuss things related to the condominium and to present financial statements.
Common Elements: Refers to various parts of the condo that the homeowners own together as joing owners. Good examples for common elements are the roof, hallways, recreational parts of the building and the garages.
Common Property: These are parts of land or buildings which are not owned individually. The Strata Act specifies the related responsibilities and details of how these are handled.
Disclosure: In every case, the developer has to provide all the necessary documents to the buyer. This includes a purchase agreement, bylaws (can be proposed bylaws as well), a management and recreational agreement, parcel lease (where applicable), mortgages that might affect the title and a plan of the condominiu.
Final Closing: This is the date when the condo is registered officially and when you obtain the title to the property.
Furnished Units: These are apartments, which are already equipped with furniture and amenities for everyday living. It is not uncommon to find these in downtown luxurious condos where the developer is trying to add something extra to attract buyers.
Loft area: Most of the times found in older repurposed industrial buildings with high ceilings. It's typically an additional area accessible by a smaller staircase to provide an extra sleping or living area.
Occupancy Date: The date when you must take occupany of your propety, as specified in the contract.
Registration: Refers to the process process by which the condo's declaration and description are officially approved by the requisite governmental organs.
Studio: Describes a two-room apartment where the kitchen is considered one of them.
Unit: The space contained within the set of specified boundaries in your home.
Zoning Regulations: Guidelines set by municipal governments that regulate the ways how property can or can not be used. They can be strict and should not be overlooked.
Jay Banks has been an accomplished realtor in Richmond BC since 1991. For more information and other great articles, visit his website http://www.jaybanks.ca
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Banks
How To Sew Curtains - Instructions For Making A Curtain And Valance
ป้ายกำกับ: DIY
By Robert Schielmann
You don't have to be an ace at sewing to sew curtains. Sewing curtains can be a very rewarding project. You will need a sewing machine, a calculator, pencil and paper, yard stick, tape measure, iron, fabric, pins, thread and scissors.
Instruction for making a simple curtain and valance:
1) Decide the color and pattern of fabric you want in your room. You can do this by going to the fabric store, or checking out internet stores. Before you order or buy your fabric, you need to measure your windows.
2) To measure you will first need to decide how long you want the valance to be, and where you want the curtains to be placed on the window. Do you want a shorter valance, or one that will hang down about halfway? Now is the time to use your creativity, and maybe draw a sketch of the way you want your curtains to look for reference.
3) Now that you know what you want, measure from the top of where you want the curtain to begin, down to where you want the valance to end. Add 7 inches to this measurement for the top and bottom hems (3 inches for the top hem, and 4 inches for the bottom).
4) To measure for the bottom curtain, you measure from the top of where the curtain will be placed on the window to just below or above the window sill (whatever your preference, this is your show), add the 7 inches for the hems. Make sure to write all this down as you will need to remember it. For width, you will need to measure from outside to outside molding. You will purchase material by how full you want the curtain to be. If you want a normal fullness, you will need to remember to double the window measurement. Curtain fabric comes in different widths, and figuring you will need to use two fabric panels, you need to come as close as possible to the measurement for each panel, you may need to cut the panels down if they prove to be too wide.
5) Now is the time to purchase or order your material. You will want a fabric that is easy to work with, cotton works best.
6) You can pre-wash the material, to be sure of how much it will shrink. Cotton does have a tendency to shrink, so you most probably should pre-wash before you make the curtains.
7) Now it is time to cut your material. Using the yardstick, make a straight line with a pencil or chalk along the top. The store may not have cut it even so try to get the line as straight as possible. Measure from the line down for the valance and after that, the lower curtain. You should have four separate pieces.
8) Place fabric right side up on a flat surface. Use the yardstick to measure and mark 3 inches from the top line. Mark this line so you will know where the top hem is, do the same with the bottom hem except the line is made 4 inches from the bottom. Using the same technique, mark 1 inch on each side of the material for the side hem. When all of the pieces are marked, placing the right sides together, sew the two valance pieces together on the sides, this makes the valance one piece. Press the seam flat with the iron. Now fold the two side seams over twice, 1/2 inch at a time. Sew seam holding the material firmly on both sides of the machine needle to prevent puckering. The top and bottom hems are done in the same way. The top will be a seam of 1 1/2 inches, and the bottom will be 2 inches. The bottom curtain is sewed in the same manner as the valance except that you will have two pieces for the bottom curtain and will need to sew two seams on each side of the two panels.
You have just succeeded in sewing curtains for your home. I know by following this pattern you will be able to sew curtains for your home any time you wish.
Find the best cheap mini blinds that don't look cheap by visiting http://www.shoppingforwindowtreatments.com, a popular website that specializes in window treatments, curtains and mini blinds to include information on creating an inviting room with bamboo window shades for your décor pleasure.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Schielmann
You don't have to be an ace at sewing to sew curtains. Sewing curtains can be a very rewarding project. You will need a sewing machine, a calculator, pencil and paper, yard stick, tape measure, iron, fabric, pins, thread and scissors.
Instruction for making a simple curtain and valance:
1) Decide the color and pattern of fabric you want in your room. You can do this by going to the fabric store, or checking out internet stores. Before you order or buy your fabric, you need to measure your windows.
2) To measure you will first need to decide how long you want the valance to be, and where you want the curtains to be placed on the window. Do you want a shorter valance, or one that will hang down about halfway? Now is the time to use your creativity, and maybe draw a sketch of the way you want your curtains to look for reference.
3) Now that you know what you want, measure from the top of where you want the curtain to begin, down to where you want the valance to end. Add 7 inches to this measurement for the top and bottom hems (3 inches for the top hem, and 4 inches for the bottom).
4) To measure for the bottom curtain, you measure from the top of where the curtain will be placed on the window to just below or above the window sill (whatever your preference, this is your show), add the 7 inches for the hems. Make sure to write all this down as you will need to remember it. For width, you will need to measure from outside to outside molding. You will purchase material by how full you want the curtain to be. If you want a normal fullness, you will need to remember to double the window measurement. Curtain fabric comes in different widths, and figuring you will need to use two fabric panels, you need to come as close as possible to the measurement for each panel, you may need to cut the panels down if they prove to be too wide.
5) Now is the time to purchase or order your material. You will want a fabric that is easy to work with, cotton works best.
6) You can pre-wash the material, to be sure of how much it will shrink. Cotton does have a tendency to shrink, so you most probably should pre-wash before you make the curtains.
7) Now it is time to cut your material. Using the yardstick, make a straight line with a pencil or chalk along the top. The store may not have cut it even so try to get the line as straight as possible. Measure from the line down for the valance and after that, the lower curtain. You should have four separate pieces.
8) Place fabric right side up on a flat surface. Use the yardstick to measure and mark 3 inches from the top line. Mark this line so you will know where the top hem is, do the same with the bottom hem except the line is made 4 inches from the bottom. Using the same technique, mark 1 inch on each side of the material for the side hem. When all of the pieces are marked, placing the right sides together, sew the two valance pieces together on the sides, this makes the valance one piece. Press the seam flat with the iron. Now fold the two side seams over twice, 1/2 inch at a time. Sew seam holding the material firmly on both sides of the machine needle to prevent puckering. The top and bottom hems are done in the same way. The top will be a seam of 1 1/2 inches, and the bottom will be 2 inches. The bottom curtain is sewed in the same manner as the valance except that you will have two pieces for the bottom curtain and will need to sew two seams on each side of the two panels.
You have just succeeded in sewing curtains for your home. I know by following this pattern you will be able to sew curtains for your home any time you wish.
Find the best cheap mini blinds that don't look cheap by visiting http://www.shoppingforwindowtreatments.com, a popular website that specializes in window treatments, curtains and mini blinds to include information on creating an inviting room with bamboo window shades for your décor pleasure.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Schielmann
Moving House
ป้ายกำกับ: DIY
By Colm Brady
Moving house is never an easy task to undertake and it is often the case that the magnitude of the task will only become apparent once the process has started. The process is always going to be difficult and stressful, and for many people even one of the most stressful things they will do during their lifetime. The task can be made easier by good planning and forward thinking, but the fact remains, moving house is stressful work.
For many people, the task will be outsourced to a moving company who will move your valuable possessions from A to B. There are several obvious benefits to going down this route, but disadvantages include losing control of your most valued possessions during the move and the possibility of simply ending up with a stack of unorganized boxes in your new home.
The growing trend at the moment is to either move house yourself, or combine some of the advantages of a removal company for moving larger items, and move the remaining items yourself. If you are going to undertake this task yourself, preparation is the key word. There is always going to be a certain expectation of disorder on the far side, but this disorganization can be minimized by following some simple steps including planning for the move four weeks in advance.
No matter what way you look at it, you are going to need lots of boxes, and the earlier you get these into your house the better. Boxes should be clearly numbered with these numbers being recorded on a clip board. Using this clip board you can assign a room destination in your new location for each box, so every box moved gets moved to the correct room in your new house.
As part of this organization, it is important that you pick a date in the future for the move, and everything works up to that point. Book a van rental in advance to avoid disappointment's and having to plan without a van. When loading a van it is best to load heavier items against the font wall of the van and pack items around this. Using this method the heavier items will be placed over the vans center of gravity and the risk of movement during transit will be greatly reduced.
Colm Brady is Director of Business Development for Thrifty Car Rental Ireland and has worked with Thrifty since 2000. Colm is continually developing the companies business through both the traditional and online channels. Among the websites that are currently under the Thrifty Umbrella are: Van Rental Ireland, and Van Rental Ireland.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colm_Brady
Moving house is never an easy task to undertake and it is often the case that the magnitude of the task will only become apparent once the process has started. The process is always going to be difficult and stressful, and for many people even one of the most stressful things they will do during their lifetime. The task can be made easier by good planning and forward thinking, but the fact remains, moving house is stressful work.
For many people, the task will be outsourced to a moving company who will move your valuable possessions from A to B. There are several obvious benefits to going down this route, but disadvantages include losing control of your most valued possessions during the move and the possibility of simply ending up with a stack of unorganized boxes in your new home.
The growing trend at the moment is to either move house yourself, or combine some of the advantages of a removal company for moving larger items, and move the remaining items yourself. If you are going to undertake this task yourself, preparation is the key word. There is always going to be a certain expectation of disorder on the far side, but this disorganization can be minimized by following some simple steps including planning for the move four weeks in advance.
No matter what way you look at it, you are going to need lots of boxes, and the earlier you get these into your house the better. Boxes should be clearly numbered with these numbers being recorded on a clip board. Using this clip board you can assign a room destination in your new location for each box, so every box moved gets moved to the correct room in your new house.
As part of this organization, it is important that you pick a date in the future for the move, and everything works up to that point. Book a van rental in advance to avoid disappointment's and having to plan without a van. When loading a van it is best to load heavier items against the font wall of the van and pack items around this. Using this method the heavier items will be placed over the vans center of gravity and the risk of movement during transit will be greatly reduced.
Colm Brady is Director of Business Development for Thrifty Car Rental Ireland and has worked with Thrifty since 2000. Colm is continually developing the companies business through both the traditional and online channels. Among the websites that are currently under the Thrifty Umbrella are: Van Rental Ireland, and Van Rental Ireland.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colm_Brady
Tips from a Professional Home Inspector - The "Finishing Steps"
ป้ายกำกับ: Building-a-Home
By Morgan Benson
The Homeowner's Challenging Journey
The new construction homeowner begins the journey excited about the thought of the family moving into a fresh and brand new home. The homeowner dreams about the great meals that will be cooked in the new spacious kitchen; about all the newly acquired space in the big garage; about the sunlight streaming in through that skylight in the laundry room. This new home is going to be the family dream house come true. Then the construction begins and so does the does the decline of the dream. The water meter housing ends up buried in the middle of the driveway; the wrong front door gets installed; the garage becomes a foot and half less in width because the foundation was laid out wrong. After the new homeowner battles a few of the issues it becomes apparent that this is going to be norm throughout the building process. Soon the new construction homeowner realizes that the small issues will have to give way to standing firm on the big issues. So the journey continues until near the end the new homeowner is exhausted with the whole thing and can hardly remember those fantasies of the family dream house.
The Homebuilder's Profit Bottom Line
The new construction homebuilder doesn't intentionally create issues, they happen because of various reasons intrinsic to the new home construction business. It is tough for a homebuilder to survive and make a profit. The cost of subcontractors, the cost of their own workers and the cost of materials are a continuously occurring expenses they try to minimize. Often this struggle can result in poor quality workmanship and materials and the results are often discovered when it is too late. Now add to the mix unpredictable weather and the customer's wants and needs and you have the makings of a journey that will have challenges. Some new construction homebuilders manage and mitigate these challenges better than others and usually know it and charge accordingly. But no matter if it is the well-managed new construction homebuilder or the worst managed, they must balance the customer's satisfaction with their own profit bottom line. At the end of the new home construction building process, the homebuilder is nearly as weary as the homeowner.
The "Finishing Steps"Most often the new construction homeowner nears the end of the home construction building process tired, weary and anxious to move in. Likewise, the new construction homebuilder reaches the end anxious to be done, to finalize the expenses and realize a profit. So you would think that the "Finishing Steps" would be executed with driven intent to be completed correctly. Think again, often this not the case experienced by this inspector (Professional Home Inspector Texas License # 8796). Usually the new homeowner has never been through the new construction building process before and the homebuilder frequently neglects these steps in hot pursuit to get the house completed. So here are the "Finishing Steps" in simple terms.
- Get the kitchen appliances installed (dishwasher, cooking range and range hood) and turned on - Get the natural gas meter installed and turned on (electricity and water are installed earlier and used throughout the building process)
- Get the water heater and furnace turned on (they are usually installed earlier in the building process by the plumber subcontractor)
- Execute the "Walk Through Inspection" with the homebuilder (the above mentioned must be done first so that the homeowner knows if these systems pass the "Walk Though Inspection") - DO NOT allowed the above mentioned to happen after the "Walk Through Inspection"
- Execute an independent thorough "Licensed Home Inspection" (the above mentioned must be done first so that the Licensed Home Inspector can execute a complete inspection of all of the house systems) - DO NOT allowed the above mentioned to happen after the "Licensed Home Inspection"
- Make the homebuilder fix all that is found in need of repair from the "Walk Through Inspection" and the "Licensed Home Inspection"
- Once the new construction homeowner is satisfied with the repairs and fixes made by the homebuilder, the homeowner signs the final closing documents and takes possession of the house (the dream house as it were).
The Best Licensed Home Inspectors
The "Finishing Steps" as described above rarely occurs in the proper order and Licensed Home Inspectors often arrive at incomplete houses not ready to be inspected. However, some Licensed Home Inspectors will go ahead with the inspection and turn an easy inspection (quick bucks). The best Home Inspectors will always advise the new construction homeowner of the above mentioned "Finishing Steps" and offer to return when the appliance are installed and the gas is turned on. It is one of these Licensed Home Inspectors that you want hire.
The Professional Home Inspector's Tips
- New Construction Homeowners, know that the new construction homebuilding process is going to be a Challenging Journey. But battle fearlessly.
- New Construction Homeowners, know that new construction homebuilders must balance the customer's satisfaction with their own profit bottom line. But battle fearlessly.
- New Construction Homeowners, learn the "Finishing Steps" to the new construction homebuilding process so that your Licensed Home Inspector can do you the best job possible. Battle to make this happen.
- New Construction Homeowners, hire the best Licensed Home Inspector available so that that you get the best Home Inspection and know what the homebuilder needs to fix prior to your house closing. Battle to make them fix them all."
- Good Luck and stayed tuned for more "Tips from a Professional Home Inspector"
Written by Morgan Benson Licensed Professional Home InspectorACE INSPECTORSEl Paso, Texas - TREC License # 8796
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Benson
The Homeowner's Challenging Journey
The new construction homeowner begins the journey excited about the thought of the family moving into a fresh and brand new home. The homeowner dreams about the great meals that will be cooked in the new spacious kitchen; about all the newly acquired space in the big garage; about the sunlight streaming in through that skylight in the laundry room. This new home is going to be the family dream house come true. Then the construction begins and so does the does the decline of the dream. The water meter housing ends up buried in the middle of the driveway; the wrong front door gets installed; the garage becomes a foot and half less in width because the foundation was laid out wrong. After the new homeowner battles a few of the issues it becomes apparent that this is going to be norm throughout the building process. Soon the new construction homeowner realizes that the small issues will have to give way to standing firm on the big issues. So the journey continues until near the end the new homeowner is exhausted with the whole thing and can hardly remember those fantasies of the family dream house.
The Homebuilder's Profit Bottom Line
The new construction homebuilder doesn't intentionally create issues, they happen because of various reasons intrinsic to the new home construction business. It is tough for a homebuilder to survive and make a profit. The cost of subcontractors, the cost of their own workers and the cost of materials are a continuously occurring expenses they try to minimize. Often this struggle can result in poor quality workmanship and materials and the results are often discovered when it is too late. Now add to the mix unpredictable weather and the customer's wants and needs and you have the makings of a journey that will have challenges. Some new construction homebuilders manage and mitigate these challenges better than others and usually know it and charge accordingly. But no matter if it is the well-managed new construction homebuilder or the worst managed, they must balance the customer's satisfaction with their own profit bottom line. At the end of the new home construction building process, the homebuilder is nearly as weary as the homeowner.
The "Finishing Steps"Most often the new construction homeowner nears the end of the home construction building process tired, weary and anxious to move in. Likewise, the new construction homebuilder reaches the end anxious to be done, to finalize the expenses and realize a profit. So you would think that the "Finishing Steps" would be executed with driven intent to be completed correctly. Think again, often this not the case experienced by this inspector (Professional Home Inspector Texas License # 8796). Usually the new homeowner has never been through the new construction building process before and the homebuilder frequently neglects these steps in hot pursuit to get the house completed. So here are the "Finishing Steps" in simple terms.
- Get the kitchen appliances installed (dishwasher, cooking range and range hood) and turned on - Get the natural gas meter installed and turned on (electricity and water are installed earlier and used throughout the building process)
- Get the water heater and furnace turned on (they are usually installed earlier in the building process by the plumber subcontractor)
- Execute the "Walk Through Inspection" with the homebuilder (the above mentioned must be done first so that the homeowner knows if these systems pass the "Walk Though Inspection") - DO NOT allowed the above mentioned to happen after the "Walk Through Inspection"
- Execute an independent thorough "Licensed Home Inspection" (the above mentioned must be done first so that the Licensed Home Inspector can execute a complete inspection of all of the house systems) - DO NOT allowed the above mentioned to happen after the "Licensed Home Inspection"
- Make the homebuilder fix all that is found in need of repair from the "Walk Through Inspection" and the "Licensed Home Inspection"
- Once the new construction homeowner is satisfied with the repairs and fixes made by the homebuilder, the homeowner signs the final closing documents and takes possession of the house (the dream house as it were).
The Best Licensed Home Inspectors
The "Finishing Steps" as described above rarely occurs in the proper order and Licensed Home Inspectors often arrive at incomplete houses not ready to be inspected. However, some Licensed Home Inspectors will go ahead with the inspection and turn an easy inspection (quick bucks). The best Home Inspectors will always advise the new construction homeowner of the above mentioned "Finishing Steps" and offer to return when the appliance are installed and the gas is turned on. It is one of these Licensed Home Inspectors that you want hire.
The Professional Home Inspector's Tips
- New Construction Homeowners, know that the new construction homebuilding process is going to be a Challenging Journey. But battle fearlessly.
- New Construction Homeowners, know that new construction homebuilders must balance the customer's satisfaction with their own profit bottom line. But battle fearlessly.
- New Construction Homeowners, learn the "Finishing Steps" to the new construction homebuilding process so that your Licensed Home Inspector can do you the best job possible. Battle to make this happen.
- New Construction Homeowners, hire the best Licensed Home Inspector available so that that you get the best Home Inspection and know what the homebuilder needs to fix prior to your house closing. Battle to make them fix them all."
- Good Luck and stayed tuned for more "Tips from a Professional Home Inspector"
Written by Morgan Benson Licensed Professional Home InspectorACE INSPECTORSEl Paso, Texas - TREC License # 8796
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Benson
Villas in Cyprus - Always Ready To Enthrall You All The Way
ป้ายกำกับ: Leasing-Renting
By David Peters
Tired of your hectic work schedules? Bored of your everyday routine? Wish to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul? Well, if your answer is "yes" to any of them, vacationing is the need of hour for you then. Needless to say, Cyprus would be an ideal option to choose from. To stay there just like your home, you can find many Villas in Cyprus, which are always ready to enthrall you all the way.
Cyprus is a beautiful country where you are greeted by contrasting landscapes and cultures at each move that you make. Ancient customs and modern ideas exist hand in hand with each other. You can never get enough of the aromatic mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees, citrus groves and rocky old stone villages.
You can spend your vacation enjoying a wide range of experiences and places such as the enthralling beaches, scenic landscapes, water sports, skiing and many more. On top of the visual treat, Villas in Cyprus make the experience of living in Cyprus even more action-packed and fun-filled.
Villas in Cyprus can be found just about everywhere, ranging from the beach area in the Polis Chrysochous area in Argaka village (which is believed to be one of the most attractive regions in the entire Cyprus island) to the scenic landscapes of northern Cyprus, from the luxury villas found in the rural location of the Coral Bay / Sea Caves area of Peyia ( Pegeia ) Village to the sea view villas of Paphos which is a quaint harbor surrounded by an array of fish restaurants, taverns and the Archaeological Park with some of the world's most famous mosaics.
Unquestionably, various groups according to their location and services offered usually categorize Villas in Cyprus. They generally have 2-10 bedrooms, properly furnished lounges having armchairs and couches, kitchen with all the required facilities for those interested in cooking for themselves. Ironing services and washing machine may also be provided, as and when required. The people living around the villas are also generally found to be helpful and friendly. English is almost familiar to almost everyone, so language is not a big issue.
Let's see some most popular villas in Cyprus:
Wedding Villas: They are basically holiday villas primarily constructed keeping the newly wedded couples in mind. You can also arrange for a spectacular wedding in these villas, if that's what you desire. These villas are properly laid out, airy and built to a very high standard. A typical configuration of a wedding villa would be:
· Upper floor consisting of a master double bedroom en suite bathroom, separate double room or twin room and a balcony overlooking the pool.
· Lower floor that consists of attractive furniture, a kitchen, a dining and barbecue area, built in bar, sauna room and doors to a large pool terrace.
Sea View Villas: They give a panoramic view of the bay with its turquoise clear waters and breathtaking sunsets. Some of the most spectacular sea view Villas in Cyprus are found near the Akamas peninsula, which is an area of outstanding beauty. These villas offer spectacular pool facilities. On a hot day after visiting some of the local attractions nearby, such as the local wineries, sites, beaches etc., there is nothing better than to lounge by the pool, sipping your favorite drink, while listening to some music and relaxing.
Secluded Villas: For those who have come to Cyprus to find peace, Secluded Villas can be their ultimate choice. Polis offers some really good secluded villas. Though the place is secluded from the hustle of the cities, important facilities like few coffee shops and taxi services are easily available. All in all, this place is mostly favored by couples seeking privacy.
Self-Catering Villas: Are built for those who believe in self-cooking. A kitchen with all the facilities that includes oven, refrigerator, utensils, microwave, tea and coffee maker and toaster, is provided with these villas. These villas are rated by 3 categories: A, B and C, unlike hotels, which are rated by Stars. The maximum period of renting these villas is 70 days or a maximum of 14 weeks. Some good self-catering villas are found in Pissouri, Larnaca, Polis, Latchi, Ayia Napa, Limassol, Paphos and Protaras areas of Cyprus.
As you move around this wonderful country, even better sights are always waiting to embrace you. You just cannot get enough of this magical country. So, what are you waiting for? Go packing for your holiday today.
Villas in Cyprus - Grab All The Latest News And Updates For Anyone Who Is Looking For A Holiday, Rent A Villa Or Live In Cyprus.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Peters
Tired of your hectic work schedules? Bored of your everyday routine? Wish to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul? Well, if your answer is "yes" to any of them, vacationing is the need of hour for you then. Needless to say, Cyprus would be an ideal option to choose from. To stay there just like your home, you can find many Villas in Cyprus, which are always ready to enthrall you all the way.
Cyprus is a beautiful country where you are greeted by contrasting landscapes and cultures at each move that you make. Ancient customs and modern ideas exist hand in hand with each other. You can never get enough of the aromatic mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees, citrus groves and rocky old stone villages.
You can spend your vacation enjoying a wide range of experiences and places such as the enthralling beaches, scenic landscapes, water sports, skiing and many more. On top of the visual treat, Villas in Cyprus make the experience of living in Cyprus even more action-packed and fun-filled.
Villas in Cyprus can be found just about everywhere, ranging from the beach area in the Polis Chrysochous area in Argaka village (which is believed to be one of the most attractive regions in the entire Cyprus island) to the scenic landscapes of northern Cyprus, from the luxury villas found in the rural location of the Coral Bay / Sea Caves area of Peyia ( Pegeia ) Village to the sea view villas of Paphos which is a quaint harbor surrounded by an array of fish restaurants, taverns and the Archaeological Park with some of the world's most famous mosaics.
Unquestionably, various groups according to their location and services offered usually categorize Villas in Cyprus. They generally have 2-10 bedrooms, properly furnished lounges having armchairs and couches, kitchen with all the required facilities for those interested in cooking for themselves. Ironing services and washing machine may also be provided, as and when required. The people living around the villas are also generally found to be helpful and friendly. English is almost familiar to almost everyone, so language is not a big issue.
Let's see some most popular villas in Cyprus:
Wedding Villas: They are basically holiday villas primarily constructed keeping the newly wedded couples in mind. You can also arrange for a spectacular wedding in these villas, if that's what you desire. These villas are properly laid out, airy and built to a very high standard. A typical configuration of a wedding villa would be:
· Upper floor consisting of a master double bedroom en suite bathroom, separate double room or twin room and a balcony overlooking the pool.
· Lower floor that consists of attractive furniture, a kitchen, a dining and barbecue area, built in bar, sauna room and doors to a large pool terrace.
Sea View Villas: They give a panoramic view of the bay with its turquoise clear waters and breathtaking sunsets. Some of the most spectacular sea view Villas in Cyprus are found near the Akamas peninsula, which is an area of outstanding beauty. These villas offer spectacular pool facilities. On a hot day after visiting some of the local attractions nearby, such as the local wineries, sites, beaches etc., there is nothing better than to lounge by the pool, sipping your favorite drink, while listening to some music and relaxing.
Secluded Villas: For those who have come to Cyprus to find peace, Secluded Villas can be their ultimate choice. Polis offers some really good secluded villas. Though the place is secluded from the hustle of the cities, important facilities like few coffee shops and taxi services are easily available. All in all, this place is mostly favored by couples seeking privacy.
Self-Catering Villas: Are built for those who believe in self-cooking. A kitchen with all the facilities that includes oven, refrigerator, utensils, microwave, tea and coffee maker and toaster, is provided with these villas. These villas are rated by 3 categories: A, B and C, unlike hotels, which are rated by Stars. The maximum period of renting these villas is 70 days or a maximum of 14 weeks. Some good self-catering villas are found in Pissouri, Larnaca, Polis, Latchi, Ayia Napa, Limassol, Paphos and Protaras areas of Cyprus.
As you move around this wonderful country, even better sights are always waiting to embrace you. You just cannot get enough of this magical country. So, what are you waiting for? Go packing for your holiday today.
Villas in Cyprus - Grab All The Latest News And Updates For Anyone Who Is Looking For A Holiday, Rent A Villa Or Live In Cyprus.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Peters
5 Tips for Buyers to Determine the Quality of a Condo
ป้ายกำกับ: Condo
By Jeff Hammerberg
Even if you aren't technically trained, there are easy ways to judge the quality of condo construction. Book an appointment to view the property and bring along a flashlight, a "night light", and a golf ball. Then follow these five simple tips:
#1 Test the Major Appliances and Heating/AC Units
When you arrive at the condo, begin by testing the heating and air conditioning systems. Turn on the oven and the heat. If you're viewing the property in winter, you may prefer to turn off the heat and crank up the air conditioning. As you tour the condo, these systems will have time to boot-up and prove their worth, and if they aren't functioning properly you'll be able to detect it within 10 or 15 minutes. Make sure that heat or air conditioning is delivered to every part of the condo, and that the oven heats up in a timely manner. Just be sure to turn everything off or back to the original settings before you leave.
#2 Check the Plumbing and Electrical Systems
As you walk from room to room, check the plumbing by briefly turning on the various taps and watching to see if the water pressure is sufficient and if drainage is fast. Slow drains may just need cleaning to remove clogs, but lack of pressure in any building - or sluggishness in a brand new condo - may mean that the plumbing system is inadequate.
Turn on lights in every room, and use the "night light" you brought to test the wall outlets. If you plug it in and it doesn't light up, the outlet is probably dead. Any outlet near water - such as in the kitchen and bathrooms - should be the special kind that interrupts the flow of electricity in the event of a power surge. If the condo does not have them it needs upgrading. Three-prong outlets are important for rooms where you will operate computers and small appliances, so survey the condo to determine if those are present in sufficient numbers.
#3 Check the Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
Examine the ceilings and walls, using your flashlight, and look for spots where there may have been leaks or patch repairs. Study the areas around door and window frames and in the corners of the room for splits, cracks, or gaps. If the walls appear bowed or the lines where the walls and floor or walls and ceiling meet seem off-kilter, that may be a sign of warping or sloppy framing. Put the golf ball you brought in the middle of a bare floor. If it rolls to the other side of the room, the floor is tilted. Test the doors to see if they automatically open or close all by themselves, which is another confirmation that the construction is askew. If, on the other hand, your golf ball or door stays where you left it, the room is probably level and balanced.
#4 Read the Property Offering, Disclosures, or Minutes of the Condo Association Meetings
Read the descriptions in the property offering for new condos, or the minutes of association meetings for existing properties. The amenities itemized in the offering should match what you see in the condo, and this includes the brands of appliances as well as the quality of any features such as flooring or counter tops.
If the condo is an older one, then study the minutes of the condo association meetings and look for mentions of repairs or service calls to the property. Repeated repairs may be a red flag, or it could simply indicate a responsive and responsible association, but you will need to investigate further to find out for yourself.
Study any official disclosures, and beware of buying a condo that has had previous problems with flooding, fire, environmental hazards, or other catastrophic scenarios.
#5 Do Some Fact Checking of Your Own
To find out what kind of quality you are getting for your money, make a few phone calls. If the builder touts a particular brand of insulated windows or hardwood flooring planks, for example, call the local distributors and find out how much they sell those particular items for, and then tally up how much you're paying versus how much the builder is delivering. You might discover that so-called top-of-the-line products used in the construction of the condo are actually cheap and inferior. Or you could be pleasantly surprised to learn that you are getting excellent materials for a discounted price because your builder has more buying power than you do and negotiated a good deal for your benefit.
Before buying any home, you should always hire a licensed and qualified inspector to provide you with a full professional report on the condition of the property. But the above tips will save you time while you do your preliminary shopping to narrow down your condo selection.
During the 1990s, Jeff Hammerberg worked in residential real estate, and observed first hand the "quiet homophobia" that pervaded the industry and silently but effectively hampered the lives of LGBT consumers nationwide by placing barriers between them and home ownership. By 1997, with little more than foresight, a strategy, and zealous fortitude, Hammerberg broke away from the traditional real estate community to create the first virtual real estate marketplace for LGBT clients.
Beginning with homelounge.com, an Internet company dedicated to assisting home buyers and sellers in the USA, Hammerberg gradually added services and sites, while adhering to a strict personal commitment to donate proceeds from his businesses directly into the LGBT community.
Whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing, contact the professionals at http://www.GayMortgageLoans.com and http://www.GayRealEstate.com. Or call toll-free at 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). The entire network is comprised of experts dedicated to the GLBT community.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Hammerberg
Even if you aren't technically trained, there are easy ways to judge the quality of condo construction. Book an appointment to view the property and bring along a flashlight, a "night light", and a golf ball. Then follow these five simple tips:
#1 Test the Major Appliances and Heating/AC Units
When you arrive at the condo, begin by testing the heating and air conditioning systems. Turn on the oven and the heat. If you're viewing the property in winter, you may prefer to turn off the heat and crank up the air conditioning. As you tour the condo, these systems will have time to boot-up and prove their worth, and if they aren't functioning properly you'll be able to detect it within 10 or 15 minutes. Make sure that heat or air conditioning is delivered to every part of the condo, and that the oven heats up in a timely manner. Just be sure to turn everything off or back to the original settings before you leave.
#2 Check the Plumbing and Electrical Systems
As you walk from room to room, check the plumbing by briefly turning on the various taps and watching to see if the water pressure is sufficient and if drainage is fast. Slow drains may just need cleaning to remove clogs, but lack of pressure in any building - or sluggishness in a brand new condo - may mean that the plumbing system is inadequate.
Turn on lights in every room, and use the "night light" you brought to test the wall outlets. If you plug it in and it doesn't light up, the outlet is probably dead. Any outlet near water - such as in the kitchen and bathrooms - should be the special kind that interrupts the flow of electricity in the event of a power surge. If the condo does not have them it needs upgrading. Three-prong outlets are important for rooms where you will operate computers and small appliances, so survey the condo to determine if those are present in sufficient numbers.
#3 Check the Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
Examine the ceilings and walls, using your flashlight, and look for spots where there may have been leaks or patch repairs. Study the areas around door and window frames and in the corners of the room for splits, cracks, or gaps. If the walls appear bowed or the lines where the walls and floor or walls and ceiling meet seem off-kilter, that may be a sign of warping or sloppy framing. Put the golf ball you brought in the middle of a bare floor. If it rolls to the other side of the room, the floor is tilted. Test the doors to see if they automatically open or close all by themselves, which is another confirmation that the construction is askew. If, on the other hand, your golf ball or door stays where you left it, the room is probably level and balanced.
#4 Read the Property Offering, Disclosures, or Minutes of the Condo Association Meetings
Read the descriptions in the property offering for new condos, or the minutes of association meetings for existing properties. The amenities itemized in the offering should match what you see in the condo, and this includes the brands of appliances as well as the quality of any features such as flooring or counter tops.
If the condo is an older one, then study the minutes of the condo association meetings and look for mentions of repairs or service calls to the property. Repeated repairs may be a red flag, or it could simply indicate a responsive and responsible association, but you will need to investigate further to find out for yourself.
Study any official disclosures, and beware of buying a condo that has had previous problems with flooding, fire, environmental hazards, or other catastrophic scenarios.
#5 Do Some Fact Checking of Your Own
To find out what kind of quality you are getting for your money, make a few phone calls. If the builder touts a particular brand of insulated windows or hardwood flooring planks, for example, call the local distributors and find out how much they sell those particular items for, and then tally up how much you're paying versus how much the builder is delivering. You might discover that so-called top-of-the-line products used in the construction of the condo are actually cheap and inferior. Or you could be pleasantly surprised to learn that you are getting excellent materials for a discounted price because your builder has more buying power than you do and negotiated a good deal for your benefit.
Before buying any home, you should always hire a licensed and qualified inspector to provide you with a full professional report on the condition of the property. But the above tips will save you time while you do your preliminary shopping to narrow down your condo selection.
During the 1990s, Jeff Hammerberg worked in residential real estate, and observed first hand the "quiet homophobia" that pervaded the industry and silently but effectively hampered the lives of LGBT consumers nationwide by placing barriers between them and home ownership. By 1997, with little more than foresight, a strategy, and zealous fortitude, Hammerberg broke away from the traditional real estate community to create the first virtual real estate marketplace for LGBT clients.
Beginning with homelounge.com, an Internet company dedicated to assisting home buyers and sellers in the USA, Hammerberg gradually added services and sites, while adhering to a strict personal commitment to donate proceeds from his businesses directly into the LGBT community.
Whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing, contact the professionals at http://www.GayMortgageLoans.com and http://www.GayRealEstate.com. Or call toll-free at 1-888-420-MOVE (6683). The entire network is comprised of experts dedicated to the GLBT community.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Hammerberg
Vancouver Lofts And Condos - Buying Guide
ป้ายกำกับ: Condo
By Jay Banks
Condominiums are the most sought after properties in downtown areas of any city. Vancouver is no exception - the region is enclosed by water, mountains and it is close to the United States border. These factors have driven the land prices high enough to put the ownership of other types of living properties out of question for most people. Moreover, living downtown is very attractive due to easy transportation, the atmosphere of this city and the proximity of all the amenities.
Living in a condominium is good for those who want to focus on other things and don't want to worry about exterior repairs. It can also offer other significant advantages such as a fitness center, swimming pools and stores located inside the same building. On the other hand, you will be giving off some privacy as you only own the property inside and you will need to share the common areas, along with the respective maintenance fees.
There are two main types of condominiums in Vancouver: lofts and apartments.
Loft style apartments in Vancouver are not amongst the easiest to find. With the exception of Gastown and Yaletown there are not many warehouses and historical buildings that could be turned to lofts, although there is an emerging trend of new buildings being developed that feature high ceilings and floor plans that resemble these.
As far as apartments go, concrete condos are amongst the most popular ones in Vancouver. If we could generalise, highrise condominiums are built from this material in the downtown area. Frame construction is common in the residential areas where you can find a mix between traditional condos and single family housing. In most cases, there is a plenty of parking space underground as well.
It's very common that there's a monthly maintenance fee to cover the costs of keeping the common areas clean. The good news is that due to little snow or salt damage these charges are significantly lower than they would be in Toronto for the same type of accomodation, in comparison.
There is a specific law which applies for condominiums in British Columbia. The Strata Property Act came in effect more than 7 years ago and specifies the responsibilities of developers, unit owners, elected property managers or a management company.
The Strata Property Act addresses issues that developed from building inappropriately for the wet West Coast Marine climate in the last decade of the past century. The government offered financial programs for rehabilitation and almost every building in Vancouver and Richmond has benefited from it, making everything even better than new!
Jay Banks has been an accomplished realtor in Vancouver BC since 1991. For more information and other great articles, visit his website http://www.jaybanks.ca
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Banks
Condominiums are the most sought after properties in downtown areas of any city. Vancouver is no exception - the region is enclosed by water, mountains and it is close to the United States border. These factors have driven the land prices high enough to put the ownership of other types of living properties out of question for most people. Moreover, living downtown is very attractive due to easy transportation, the atmosphere of this city and the proximity of all the amenities.
Living in a condominium is good for those who want to focus on other things and don't want to worry about exterior repairs. It can also offer other significant advantages such as a fitness center, swimming pools and stores located inside the same building. On the other hand, you will be giving off some privacy as you only own the property inside and you will need to share the common areas, along with the respective maintenance fees.
There are two main types of condominiums in Vancouver: lofts and apartments.
Loft style apartments in Vancouver are not amongst the easiest to find. With the exception of Gastown and Yaletown there are not many warehouses and historical buildings that could be turned to lofts, although there is an emerging trend of new buildings being developed that feature high ceilings and floor plans that resemble these.
As far as apartments go, concrete condos are amongst the most popular ones in Vancouver. If we could generalise, highrise condominiums are built from this material in the downtown area. Frame construction is common in the residential areas where you can find a mix between traditional condos and single family housing. In most cases, there is a plenty of parking space underground as well.
It's very common that there's a monthly maintenance fee to cover the costs of keeping the common areas clean. The good news is that due to little snow or salt damage these charges are significantly lower than they would be in Toronto for the same type of accomodation, in comparison.
There is a specific law which applies for condominiums in British Columbia. The Strata Property Act came in effect more than 7 years ago and specifies the responsibilities of developers, unit owners, elected property managers or a management company.
The Strata Property Act addresses issues that developed from building inappropriately for the wet West Coast Marine climate in the last decade of the past century. The government offered financial programs for rehabilitation and almost every building in Vancouver and Richmond has benefited from it, making everything even better than new!
Jay Banks has been an accomplished realtor in Vancouver BC since 1991. For more information and other great articles, visit his website http://www.jaybanks.ca
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Banks
Refinance Mortgage Rates Are Not Just Determined By Credit Score Alone
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Darin Sewell
Using a home mortgage refinance is a excellent way to get money to fund a home improvement project, send your kids to college or just get a lower monthly payment. When refinancing many homeowners often wonder if they will qualify for the low refinance mortgage rates they hear advertised and see in the local newspaper.
When you apply for a home mortgage the lender will collect your financial information and pull your credit. Your credit score will be a major determining factor in what refinance mortgage rates are offered to you as a borrower, but it they are not the only factor. Your lender will be looking at numerous things to determine your eligibility for a loan. These will mainly include Debt To Income Ratios, type of loan documentation, Loan to value of the property, mortgage payment history and your assets.
Today almost all conforming loan decisions are made through computerized automated systems so having a mortgage lender that knows these systems well will help you qualify for your home loan, even with a lower credit score. The computer underwriting systems will look at the overall borrower and loan profile, so having a lower credit score but a low loan to value and debt ratios will more then likely allow your to qualify for low refinance mortgage rates while in comparison someone with a 720 credit score but a high debt ratio and looking for 95% of their properties value may get declined for a low rate mortgage because of a perceived high risk factor.
Although credit scores are a large factor in determining refinance mortgage rates they are not the only piece of the puzzle. So when it comes time to refinance make sure to you have a good mortgage lender to assist you in the process.
Gain valuable knowledge on How To Refinance a Mortgage for the lowest Mortgage Refinance Rates
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darin_Sewell
Using a home mortgage refinance is a excellent way to get money to fund a home improvement project, send your kids to college or just get a lower monthly payment. When refinancing many homeowners often wonder if they will qualify for the low refinance mortgage rates they hear advertised and see in the local newspaper.
When you apply for a home mortgage the lender will collect your financial information and pull your credit. Your credit score will be a major determining factor in what refinance mortgage rates are offered to you as a borrower, but it they are not the only factor. Your lender will be looking at numerous things to determine your eligibility for a loan. These will mainly include Debt To Income Ratios, type of loan documentation, Loan to value of the property, mortgage payment history and your assets.
Today almost all conforming loan decisions are made through computerized automated systems so having a mortgage lender that knows these systems well will help you qualify for your home loan, even with a lower credit score. The computer underwriting systems will look at the overall borrower and loan profile, so having a lower credit score but a low loan to value and debt ratios will more then likely allow your to qualify for low refinance mortgage rates while in comparison someone with a 720 credit score but a high debt ratio and looking for 95% of their properties value may get declined for a low rate mortgage because of a perceived high risk factor.
Although credit scores are a large factor in determining refinance mortgage rates they are not the only piece of the puzzle. So when it comes time to refinance make sure to you have a good mortgage lender to assist you in the process.
Gain valuable knowledge on How To Refinance a Mortgage for the lowest Mortgage Refinance Rates
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darin_Sewell
Getting a Good Bad Credit Mortgage Rate
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Darin Sewell
When you have bad credit and attempt to refinance all conforming lenders will decline you almost immediately. Since the conforming lenders have the good low interest rates but will not approve you you have to explore other sources for a good bad credit mortgage rate. If you are a home owner that has damaged Credit and are looking to refinance your home you may be wondering what your options are you should be aware that there are loan programs available for borrowers with low credit scores, late mortgage payments and other situations that cause bad credit so getting a loan should not be the challenge. The challenge however is using the right programs to get a a good bad credit mortgage rate.
Any good mortgage broker will tell you that FHA is your best shot for a good interest rate, however not everyone will qualify. The main consideration for FHA is the last 12 months of mortgage payments had to have been paid on time with o 30 day lates. Debt to income ratios are also required to be under 40% in most cases.
If for some reason you cannot qualify for an FHA loan you can still get a good bad credit mortgage rate from a sub prime mortgage lender. Sub prime loans will be above market rate and a good mortgage broker who specializes in bad credit borrowers should be able to explain to you the many different sub prime programs that you may qualify for and help you make the best choice. If you go the sub prime route be prepared for higher closing costs and lender fees.
Having bad credit does not have to mean settling for a loan at 14%. You can still get a good bad credit mortgage rate by talking to a good qualified Mortgage broker who offers both FHA and Sub Prime you will come out on top!
To learn How to Refinance a Mortgage for the best interest rates take a look at my Refinance Guide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darin_Sewell
When you have bad credit and attempt to refinance all conforming lenders will decline you almost immediately. Since the conforming lenders have the good low interest rates but will not approve you you have to explore other sources for a good bad credit mortgage rate. If you are a home owner that has damaged Credit and are looking to refinance your home you may be wondering what your options are you should be aware that there are loan programs available for borrowers with low credit scores, late mortgage payments and other situations that cause bad credit so getting a loan should not be the challenge. The challenge however is using the right programs to get a a good bad credit mortgage rate.
Any good mortgage broker will tell you that FHA is your best shot for a good interest rate, however not everyone will qualify. The main consideration for FHA is the last 12 months of mortgage payments had to have been paid on time with o 30 day lates. Debt to income ratios are also required to be under 40% in most cases.
If for some reason you cannot qualify for an FHA loan you can still get a good bad credit mortgage rate from a sub prime mortgage lender. Sub prime loans will be above market rate and a good mortgage broker who specializes in bad credit borrowers should be able to explain to you the many different sub prime programs that you may qualify for and help you make the best choice. If you go the sub prime route be prepared for higher closing costs and lender fees.
Having bad credit does not have to mean settling for a loan at 14%. You can still get a good bad credit mortgage rate by talking to a good qualified Mortgage broker who offers both FHA and Sub Prime you will come out on top!
To learn How to Refinance a Mortgage for the best interest rates take a look at my Refinance Guide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darin_Sewell
The Dangers Of Flipping Real Estate
ป้ายกำกับ: Investing
By Gloria Smith
It's true that flipping real estate properties is one sure way of earning big bucks in a short span of time. When done properly and with careful planning and budgeting, investors have a good chance of attaining success. However, flipping homes is not as easy as some people might think because there are risks and downsides to this endeavor the reason why it's always best to be well informed before taking the plunge.
Flipping real estate is not just limited to buying a home, renovating it a bit and reselling it for a profit. Several vital factors are still involved which investors have to be aware of such as renovation expenses, property taxes, insurance and mortgage costs as well as rental pressures.
If you're buying a distressed property, you will need to spend some money renovating it before reselling the home.
In this case, you will have to estimate your renovation costs including materials and labor to avoid going overbudget. If you spend so much on the upgrades, you might not be able to recover your expenses and get a good profit by the time you sell the property especially in an unfavorable market condition. So the best thing to do is save money on building materials, paint and appliances if possible. If you can do the repair works yourself, well and good.
There is also the danger of increasing your property taxes if you fail to resell your flipped home right away and hold it for a few more years. Investors should be aware that taxes have nearly doubled in a period of five or six years in some hot real estate markets.
Failure to sell the home quickly is another risk flipping investors have to face. Real estate investors suggest that flippers look for buyers who are eager to live in a home and give them a lot of motivation to purchase your home. One way of drawing buyers is to stage the property meaning, make it attractive and clean inside and out as possible. It's a good idea too if you pre-qualify potential buyers who call to inquire about your property. Don't waste your time entertaining buyers or investors who are not serious enough in getting your home.
If your property stays long on the market, you might be forced to just have it rented. Also, there's a chance that the rental fee you charge may be less than who want especially when the market is saturated with rentals. With this situation, it will take long for you to recover your expenses and earn your profit thus, leaving you with a bad investment.
If worse comes to worst, you can opt to just sell your home at a very low price or keep the property and accept your loss then continue with whatever plans you have. Holding on to the property for long will only discourage you all the more. If you failed to study your plans before, then it's high time that you learn about the basics of buying and selling real estate so you can avoid the common mistakes. You can use various resources from books to the internet and you can even attend real estate seminars in your locality if they're available.
This article is brought to you by PropertyFlippingInfo.com. Read articles on house flipping, hard money lenders, and real estate short sales.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gloria_Smith
It's true that flipping real estate properties is one sure way of earning big bucks in a short span of time. When done properly and with careful planning and budgeting, investors have a good chance of attaining success. However, flipping homes is not as easy as some people might think because there are risks and downsides to this endeavor the reason why it's always best to be well informed before taking the plunge.
Flipping real estate is not just limited to buying a home, renovating it a bit and reselling it for a profit. Several vital factors are still involved which investors have to be aware of such as renovation expenses, property taxes, insurance and mortgage costs as well as rental pressures.
If you're buying a distressed property, you will need to spend some money renovating it before reselling the home.
In this case, you will have to estimate your renovation costs including materials and labor to avoid going overbudget. If you spend so much on the upgrades, you might not be able to recover your expenses and get a good profit by the time you sell the property especially in an unfavorable market condition. So the best thing to do is save money on building materials, paint and appliances if possible. If you can do the repair works yourself, well and good.
There is also the danger of increasing your property taxes if you fail to resell your flipped home right away and hold it for a few more years. Investors should be aware that taxes have nearly doubled in a period of five or six years in some hot real estate markets.
Failure to sell the home quickly is another risk flipping investors have to face. Real estate investors suggest that flippers look for buyers who are eager to live in a home and give them a lot of motivation to purchase your home. One way of drawing buyers is to stage the property meaning, make it attractive and clean inside and out as possible. It's a good idea too if you pre-qualify potential buyers who call to inquire about your property. Don't waste your time entertaining buyers or investors who are not serious enough in getting your home.
If your property stays long on the market, you might be forced to just have it rented. Also, there's a chance that the rental fee you charge may be less than who want especially when the market is saturated with rentals. With this situation, it will take long for you to recover your expenses and earn your profit thus, leaving you with a bad investment.
If worse comes to worst, you can opt to just sell your home at a very low price or keep the property and accept your loss then continue with whatever plans you have. Holding on to the property for long will only discourage you all the more. If you failed to study your plans before, then it's high time that you learn about the basics of buying and selling real estate so you can avoid the common mistakes. You can use various resources from books to the internet and you can even attend real estate seminars in your locality if they're available.
This article is brought to you by PropertyFlippingInfo.com. Read articles on house flipping, hard money lenders, and real estate short sales.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gloria_Smith
Correction Phase
ป้ายกำกับ: Commercial-Property
By George Gonigal
Demand goes down, developers cut prices…
Hard-pressed by the falling demand, the higher-end segment of residential real estate in Gurgaon has been undergoing the phase of correction. As per the reports of global consultancy firm DTZ, the prices have already gone down by an average of 10 per cent in the past two quarters, and it is mostly the projects that have kept the prices for their apartments above Rs 1-crore.
Besides, the property markets of Gurgaon are also suffering from the oversupply. The DTZ report confirms that the supply side has far exceeded the demand side and the margins over the sale of property are under pressure. As per industry reports, Gurgaon will add at least 10,000 residential units in the luxury housing segment by 2010, however the demand may continue to remain below expectations.
Meanwhile, the absorption rates for projects with an apartment size between 2,000 and 6,000 sq. ft have slipped down significantly and the developers are reportedly slashing prices in order to create demand.
Fall in investor interest
Besides the end-users, it is mostly the investors who drive the Gurgaon Real Estate markets, and most other parts of the country. On this, the findings of Cushman & Wakefield, a consultancy firm, bring things into perspective. Its reports say that housing properties in Gurgaon have overheated and prices have been touching the roof.
With this, the investors are not seeing the kind of returns that they had secured earlier from the deals, and that's why their interest in buying residential property in Gurgaon is comparatively lower than it was a couple of years ago.
Ultimately, the markets now are primarily driven by the end-user, who is not willing to buy luxury houses. After all the rate of interest on home loans has shot up from 6-7 per cent to 11-12 per cent in the past 3-years, and a buyer thinks twice before borrowing at such rates.
Future Outlook
As for the coming months, the industry experts "feel good". At first, they say that the demand for residential properties in Gurgaon would gradually pick up with festive season in the offing.
Secondly, almost all the major banks like SBI, ICICI, BoB have announced for a cut in interest rates anywhere from 50 to 75 basis points, and they are coming up with quite a variety of lucrative offers as well. Over that the developers are also open on cutting prices of their units for the sake of making a deal and it is turning into a buyer's market, says a group of brokers from Gurgaon.
Perhaps, the combination will drive at least the end users to spur demand and the markets may take spark with positive trends coming back in place, they feel.
George Gonigal is a property dealer, providing here the best and latest info on Bangalore Properties
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Gonigal
Demand goes down, developers cut prices…
Hard-pressed by the falling demand, the higher-end segment of residential real estate in Gurgaon has been undergoing the phase of correction. As per the reports of global consultancy firm DTZ, the prices have already gone down by an average of 10 per cent in the past two quarters, and it is mostly the projects that have kept the prices for their apartments above Rs 1-crore.
Besides, the property markets of Gurgaon are also suffering from the oversupply. The DTZ report confirms that the supply side has far exceeded the demand side and the margins over the sale of property are under pressure. As per industry reports, Gurgaon will add at least 10,000 residential units in the luxury housing segment by 2010, however the demand may continue to remain below expectations.
Meanwhile, the absorption rates for projects with an apartment size between 2,000 and 6,000 sq. ft have slipped down significantly and the developers are reportedly slashing prices in order to create demand.
Fall in investor interest
Besides the end-users, it is mostly the investors who drive the Gurgaon Real Estate markets, and most other parts of the country. On this, the findings of Cushman & Wakefield, a consultancy firm, bring things into perspective. Its reports say that housing properties in Gurgaon have overheated and prices have been touching the roof.
With this, the investors are not seeing the kind of returns that they had secured earlier from the deals, and that's why their interest in buying residential property in Gurgaon is comparatively lower than it was a couple of years ago.
Ultimately, the markets now are primarily driven by the end-user, who is not willing to buy luxury houses. After all the rate of interest on home loans has shot up from 6-7 per cent to 11-12 per cent in the past 3-years, and a buyer thinks twice before borrowing at such rates.
Future Outlook
As for the coming months, the industry experts "feel good". At first, they say that the demand for residential properties in Gurgaon would gradually pick up with festive season in the offing.
Secondly, almost all the major banks like SBI, ICICI, BoB have announced for a cut in interest rates anywhere from 50 to 75 basis points, and they are coming up with quite a variety of lucrative offers as well. Over that the developers are also open on cutting prices of their units for the sake of making a deal and it is turning into a buyer's market, says a group of brokers from Gurgaon.
Perhaps, the combination will drive at least the end users to spur demand and the markets may take spark with positive trends coming back in place, they feel.
George Gonigal is a property dealer, providing here the best and latest info on Bangalore Properties
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Gonigal
How To Sell Your Home In Today's Failing Housing Market
ป้ายกำกับ: Selling
By Allison Roberts
More American homeowners than ever are filing for bankruptcy or seeking help with their debts. A large percentage of these people struggling with their finances attempt to sell their homes and to escape a mortgage they cannot afford.
The mortgage industry is in a terrible financial state. News stories of subprime lending disasters plaster the evening news and many web sites. Smaller subprime lending companies have filed for bankruptcy, and even some of the most respected mortgage lenders are on the verge of insolvency as well. The government has even stepped in to keep the industry above water.
Many homeowners caught up in the housing debacle are desperate to sell their homes. Thousands of homes across the nation are for sale due to foreclosures, which makes it a buyer’s market. Buyers now have the luxury to be choosy due to the vast number of houses on the market.
You must offer the buyer the best product, which means home renovations are critical. If you invest time and money into renovating your home, then the payoff can be huge. You can sell your home and take advantage of the buyer’s market.
Real estate experts, and many home improvement shows, advise sellers about areas of their homes most important to the buyer. Kelly Todd, a real estate expert, suggests these four areas of your home to renovate if you’re hoping to sell quickly and for a profit:
Kitchen The kitchen is traditionally a gathering place for families. It serves as a meeting area, even if you’re not eating. A sleek, clean and organized kitchen adds value to your home.
Key elements:
Floors – If your floors are outdated, replace them with tile, wood, or a laminate alternative.
Cabinets and countertops – Get a price quote from a remodeling company for replacing both of these. Pick out new hardware for the cabinets and a sleek sink to match.
Appliances - Only replace your appliances if they are out of date, look shabby or do not work.
Paint – Paint your walls a neutral color to complement the new floor, countertops and cabinets.
Likely added value to the home: Up to $40,000 increase in sale price.
Bathrooms Remodeling your bathrooms is a good alternative if you cannot afford to redo the kitchen.
Key elements:
Floor and Walls – These set the atmosphere for the space. Ceramic floor tile is your best bet in the bathroom.
Shower and Tub – Bleach the tub until it shines. Replace the tile surrounding it and consider installing glass door fixtures to replace a plastic or cloth shower curtain.
Lighting and counters – Replace old light and sink fixtures, and install granite countertops. All elements make for a very stylish room.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $10,000 per bathroom increased sale price.
Landscape Your front yard is the first impression potential buyers will have of your home. Having a good curb appeal sets the tone for the rest of the house.
Key elements:
Yard – Lay new sod to make sure the grass is full.
Walkways – Stone or tile walkways with lighting add a stylish effect.
Plants – Replace all dead/dying plants with new healthy ones and get rid of any weeds in the flower bed. Mix shrubs with flowers.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $15,000 increased sale price.
Walls Clean and well-kept walls give your home an organized cozy feel.
Key elements:
Wallpaper – take it down. Do not paint over it. Sand walls after removing wallpaper to prepare them for fresh paint.
Paint – Choose rich colors that appeal to many people. Stay away from boring white. Freshly painted walls give the impression that your home is well cared for and clean.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $5,000 increased sale price.
Realtors, interior designers and home renovators laud these time-tested techniques for improving the value of your home. However, if you are suffering from extreme debt, it is unlikely that you will be able to attain a loan to make these home improvements.
Here are a few tips that won’t cost much for “staging” your home for a walk-through:
Clean out the clutter. Put all clutter into organized bins and store them in your garage or basement. Leave mainly furniture, appliances and accent items.
Paint. - A fresh coat of paint doesn’t cost much, and it will give your home a much newer, cozier and cleaner feel to a potential buyer.
New linens. - New linens on your beds improves the eye appeal of a bedroom. Also, consider rearranging the furniture. Potential buyers need to see the usability of the space.
Candles and lighting. - Set the mood. A few candles and off-set lighting can give your home a pleasant feel that will enable potential buyers to see themselves enjoying the space.
Mow the lawn. - This one is simple. Clean up the outside of your home. A mowed lawn and weeded flower bed increases your home’s curb appeal.
Regardless of why you are selling your home, following these suggestions will help you sell faster and survive the crumbling housing market. If you are in debt, it may seem scary to spend money on making improvements to a home you are selling. However, small improvements dramatically increase the value of your home and your potential profit.
Author Bio: Allison Roberts is a graduate of the University of North Texas Department of Journalism. She has experience in agency and in freelance public relations. Allison currently writes for Credit Solutions and she is completing an unfinished work of her late grandfather. For more articles by Allison on bankruptcy and bad credit visit Credit Solutions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Roberts
More American homeowners than ever are filing for bankruptcy or seeking help with their debts. A large percentage of these people struggling with their finances attempt to sell their homes and to escape a mortgage they cannot afford.
The mortgage industry is in a terrible financial state. News stories of subprime lending disasters plaster the evening news and many web sites. Smaller subprime lending companies have filed for bankruptcy, and even some of the most respected mortgage lenders are on the verge of insolvency as well. The government has even stepped in to keep the industry above water.
Many homeowners caught up in the housing debacle are desperate to sell their homes. Thousands of homes across the nation are for sale due to foreclosures, which makes it a buyer’s market. Buyers now have the luxury to be choosy due to the vast number of houses on the market.
You must offer the buyer the best product, which means home renovations are critical. If you invest time and money into renovating your home, then the payoff can be huge. You can sell your home and take advantage of the buyer’s market.
Real estate experts, and many home improvement shows, advise sellers about areas of their homes most important to the buyer. Kelly Todd, a real estate expert, suggests these four areas of your home to renovate if you’re hoping to sell quickly and for a profit:
Kitchen The kitchen is traditionally a gathering place for families. It serves as a meeting area, even if you’re not eating. A sleek, clean and organized kitchen adds value to your home.
Key elements:
Floors – If your floors are outdated, replace them with tile, wood, or a laminate alternative.
Cabinets and countertops – Get a price quote from a remodeling company for replacing both of these. Pick out new hardware for the cabinets and a sleek sink to match.
Appliances - Only replace your appliances if they are out of date, look shabby or do not work.
Paint – Paint your walls a neutral color to complement the new floor, countertops and cabinets.
Likely added value to the home: Up to $40,000 increase in sale price.
Bathrooms Remodeling your bathrooms is a good alternative if you cannot afford to redo the kitchen.
Key elements:
Floor and Walls – These set the atmosphere for the space. Ceramic floor tile is your best bet in the bathroom.
Shower and Tub – Bleach the tub until it shines. Replace the tile surrounding it and consider installing glass door fixtures to replace a plastic or cloth shower curtain.
Lighting and counters – Replace old light and sink fixtures, and install granite countertops. All elements make for a very stylish room.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $10,000 per bathroom increased sale price.
Landscape Your front yard is the first impression potential buyers will have of your home. Having a good curb appeal sets the tone for the rest of the house.
Key elements:
Yard – Lay new sod to make sure the grass is full.
Walkways – Stone or tile walkways with lighting add a stylish effect.
Plants – Replace all dead/dying plants with new healthy ones and get rid of any weeds in the flower bed. Mix shrubs with flowers.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $15,000 increased sale price.
Walls Clean and well-kept walls give your home an organized cozy feel.
Key elements:
Wallpaper – take it down. Do not paint over it. Sand walls after removing wallpaper to prepare them for fresh paint.
Paint – Choose rich colors that appeal to many people. Stay away from boring white. Freshly painted walls give the impression that your home is well cared for and clean.
Likely added value to your home: Up to $5,000 increased sale price.
Realtors, interior designers and home renovators laud these time-tested techniques for improving the value of your home. However, if you are suffering from extreme debt, it is unlikely that you will be able to attain a loan to make these home improvements.
Here are a few tips that won’t cost much for “staging” your home for a walk-through:
Clean out the clutter. Put all clutter into organized bins and store them in your garage or basement. Leave mainly furniture, appliances and accent items.
Paint. - A fresh coat of paint doesn’t cost much, and it will give your home a much newer, cozier and cleaner feel to a potential buyer.
New linens. - New linens on your beds improves the eye appeal of a bedroom. Also, consider rearranging the furniture. Potential buyers need to see the usability of the space.
Candles and lighting. - Set the mood. A few candles and off-set lighting can give your home a pleasant feel that will enable potential buyers to see themselves enjoying the space.
Mow the lawn. - This one is simple. Clean up the outside of your home. A mowed lawn and weeded flower bed increases your home’s curb appeal.
Regardless of why you are selling your home, following these suggestions will help you sell faster and survive the crumbling housing market. If you are in debt, it may seem scary to spend money on making improvements to a home you are selling. However, small improvements dramatically increase the value of your home and your potential profit.
Author Bio: Allison Roberts is a graduate of the University of North Texas Department of Journalism. She has experience in agency and in freelance public relations. Allison currently writes for Credit Solutions and she is completing an unfinished work of her late grandfather. For more articles by Allison on bankruptcy and bad credit visit Credit Solutions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Roberts
Earn More With Annuity Reverse Mortgage
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Antonio Redford
An annuity reverse mortgage is quite different from other regular and not so traditional mortgages. However, it is more beneficial for the policy holder. Well, annuity reverse mortgage is where a senior citizen can borrow against the equity in their home to receive payment in a form of monthly payment or lump sum. Hence, it is advisable to opt for this kind of reverse mortgage because it offers great benefits.
With the time, the loan balance decreases, as the insured is able to pay the amount of equity in allocated tenure. In this kind of loan, the borrowers receive money for the equity in their homes. As they receive money, the equity in their home declines and their loan balance increases.
However, an annuity reverse mortgage should not be confused with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit, as both of these are ways of obtaining money for the equity in a home. With either of these, the borrower must pay at least the monthly interest that is levied on the loan amount received, or the amount that they have drawn from their equity line. However, a reverse mortgage client does not have to pay anything until the loan is paid off. However, it is quite different for annuity reverse mortgage. However, there are various types of annuity reverse mortgages available and can be quite expensive in comparison to regular mortgages. The annuity mortgages are more beneficial in terms of money to the insured person.
Well, the kinds of annuity reverse mortgages currently available today include reverse mortgages offered by state or local governments often referred single purpose reverse mortgages. These annuity reverse mortgages are the least expensive. Moreover, they can be restrictive also, on how the money is distributed and can be used. The other one is federally insured home equity conversion mortgage.
These annuity mortgages are less expensive than other private sector reverse mortgages, but more expensive than the mortgages bought from the authorities. The third kind will be private sector or proprietary reverse annuity mortgages.
However, all these annuity reverse mortgages feature charge origination fees and closing costs. Therefore, if the person who is seeking this loan is still unsure, then it is advisable to hire an agent or a broker from a reverse mortgage firm to avoid any hassles in future. In fact, it will benefit them more, if the borrowers' acquire knowledge on such reverse mortgages, so that the company or the broker cannot misguide him or her.
Likewise conventional reverse mortgages, the annuity mortgage has to be paid when the last owner of the property named on the loan dies, the homeowner sells the home r has permanently move out of the home. However, prior to any of these conditions, nothing needs to be paid on the loan. There are also default conditions that can cause repayment of the loan which are similar to default conditions for other mortgages e.g., declaration of bankruptcy, donation of the home, abandonment of the home, fraud or misrepresentation, and more.
Antonio Redford is a legal expert. He gives advice to clients who are looking for expert counsel on reverse mortgage. For more queries about Reverse mortgages,annuity reverse mortgage,American reverse mortgage, annuity reverse mortgage visit on http://www.reverse-mortgage-seniors.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antonio_Redford
An annuity reverse mortgage is quite different from other regular and not so traditional mortgages. However, it is more beneficial for the policy holder. Well, annuity reverse mortgage is where a senior citizen can borrow against the equity in their home to receive payment in a form of monthly payment or lump sum. Hence, it is advisable to opt for this kind of reverse mortgage because it offers great benefits.
With the time, the loan balance decreases, as the insured is able to pay the amount of equity in allocated tenure. In this kind of loan, the borrowers receive money for the equity in their homes. As they receive money, the equity in their home declines and their loan balance increases.
However, an annuity reverse mortgage should not be confused with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit, as both of these are ways of obtaining money for the equity in a home. With either of these, the borrower must pay at least the monthly interest that is levied on the loan amount received, or the amount that they have drawn from their equity line. However, a reverse mortgage client does not have to pay anything until the loan is paid off. However, it is quite different for annuity reverse mortgage. However, there are various types of annuity reverse mortgages available and can be quite expensive in comparison to regular mortgages. The annuity mortgages are more beneficial in terms of money to the insured person.
Well, the kinds of annuity reverse mortgages currently available today include reverse mortgages offered by state or local governments often referred single purpose reverse mortgages. These annuity reverse mortgages are the least expensive. Moreover, they can be restrictive also, on how the money is distributed and can be used. The other one is federally insured home equity conversion mortgage.
These annuity mortgages are less expensive than other private sector reverse mortgages, but more expensive than the mortgages bought from the authorities. The third kind will be private sector or proprietary reverse annuity mortgages.
However, all these annuity reverse mortgages feature charge origination fees and closing costs. Therefore, if the person who is seeking this loan is still unsure, then it is advisable to hire an agent or a broker from a reverse mortgage firm to avoid any hassles in future. In fact, it will benefit them more, if the borrowers' acquire knowledge on such reverse mortgages, so that the company or the broker cannot misguide him or her.
Likewise conventional reverse mortgages, the annuity mortgage has to be paid when the last owner of the property named on the loan dies, the homeowner sells the home r has permanently move out of the home. However, prior to any of these conditions, nothing needs to be paid on the loan. There are also default conditions that can cause repayment of the loan which are similar to default conditions for other mortgages e.g., declaration of bankruptcy, donation of the home, abandonment of the home, fraud or misrepresentation, and more.
Antonio Redford is a legal expert. He gives advice to clients who are looking for expert counsel on reverse mortgage. For more queries about Reverse mortgages,annuity reverse mortgage,American reverse mortgage, annuity reverse mortgage visit on http://www.reverse-mortgage-seniors.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antonio_Redford
Texas Mortgage Shopping For Hispanics
ป้ายกำกับ: Mortgage Refinace
By Glenn Lamb
In Houston Texas, Hispanics are a large part of the population. Many of these residents get a mortgage and have a loan officer that only speaks English. This can result in a customer getting a mortgage without a complete understanding of the process or terms. Even when a Hispanic buyer speaks English as a second language there can be misunderstandings because of unfamiliar words that are used in the mortgage process.
As a Houston mortgage broker I have seen examples of this when customers tell me that they didn't know that their previous mortgage was an adjustable rate loan. Or that they had an "option payment" loan and the size of the mortgage can get larger instead of reducing. In other cases a customer didn't know that escrow was not included in their payments and they were surprised to get a large tax bill at the end of the year.
A home will often be the largest purchase you make in your lifetime. In my opinion it is important for Spanish speaking customers to completely understand the mortgage process. When you shop for a home loan I suggest using a translator if necessary. or asking for a loan officer that is bi-lingual if your first language is Spanish.
When you are shopping for a home mortgage ask for a good faith estimate for terms. Don't let the loan officer hand you the form and say "here are the terms". All costs should be explained to you. In some cases certain costs may be negotiable. You can ask if any costs can be reduced or shop another lender to see which offers a better deal. Get a good understanding of all the mortgage costs and terms before your closing date.
Texas Capital Mortgage - Located in Houston - Lowest Rates for Good and Bad Credit Mortgages anywhere in Texas! - Houston Mortgage
- Also visit our Houston Hispanic Mortgage site at Houston Mortgage Espanol
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Lamb
In Houston Texas, Hispanics are a large part of the population. Many of these residents get a mortgage and have a loan officer that only speaks English. This can result in a customer getting a mortgage without a complete understanding of the process or terms. Even when a Hispanic buyer speaks English as a second language there can be misunderstandings because of unfamiliar words that are used in the mortgage process.
As a Houston mortgage broker I have seen examples of this when customers tell me that they didn't know that their previous mortgage was an adjustable rate loan. Or that they had an "option payment" loan and the size of the mortgage can get larger instead of reducing. In other cases a customer didn't know that escrow was not included in their payments and they were surprised to get a large tax bill at the end of the year.
A home will often be the largest purchase you make in your lifetime. In my opinion it is important for Spanish speaking customers to completely understand the mortgage process. When you shop for a home loan I suggest using a translator if necessary. or asking for a loan officer that is bi-lingual if your first language is Spanish.
When you are shopping for a home mortgage ask for a good faith estimate for terms. Don't let the loan officer hand you the form and say "here are the terms". All costs should be explained to you. In some cases certain costs may be negotiable. You can ask if any costs can be reduced or shop another lender to see which offers a better deal. Get a good understanding of all the mortgage costs and terms before your closing date.
Texas Capital Mortgage - Located in Houston - Lowest Rates for Good and Bad Credit Mortgages anywhere in Texas! - Houston Mortgage
- Also visit our Houston Hispanic Mortgage site at Houston Mortgage Espanol
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Lamb
Sell Your Home Tips for Creating a Warm Cozy Room
ป้ายกำกับ: Selling Home
By David W Miller
Selling your home is difficult in today's buyers market. No matter what style your home is the buyers want to feel cozy. Spruce up your fireplace. Clean out the ashes from your last fire, if your have glass doors clean the glass. Remove clutter from the mantle and the hearth. If you have a log basket fill it with clean firewood. White birch logs if available create a dramatic clean look.
The most dramatic spruce up you can do to your fireplace is to paint the firebox. After burning wood fires for years the inside walls of the firebox are stained from the smoke. Use a stiff brush and clean off the loose soot from the walls and floor of the firebox. Use high temperature black paint it can be the same as grill paint found at any home improvement store. The high temperature paint is available in spray or brush on. Paint the inside walls of the firebox this will create a dramatic background when a fire is burning.
When having your open house we do not suggest burning a wood fire. Instead I suggest using a fireplace candelabrum. Fireplace candelabras are designed to fit inside the firebox, they are low and wide. Fireplace candelabras can hold anywhere from 5 to 9 candles on average and most fit the wide candles. Select a color that compliments the room's décor. It is OK to burn a scented candle but no more than one of the candles should be scented. Burning more than one of the scented candles could be overpowering in the room. Light all the candles during your open house.
The warm glow of the burning candles is enhanced against the clean freshly painted black background. Create a cozy relaxing atmosphere around your fireplace and in your buyers heart. Sell your home.
Selling Tips
Fireplace Candelabras
Las Vegas Real Estate
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_W_Miller
Selling your home is difficult in today's buyers market. No matter what style your home is the buyers want to feel cozy. Spruce up your fireplace. Clean out the ashes from your last fire, if your have glass doors clean the glass. Remove clutter from the mantle and the hearth. If you have a log basket fill it with clean firewood. White birch logs if available create a dramatic clean look.
The most dramatic spruce up you can do to your fireplace is to paint the firebox. After burning wood fires for years the inside walls of the firebox are stained from the smoke. Use a stiff brush and clean off the loose soot from the walls and floor of the firebox. Use high temperature black paint it can be the same as grill paint found at any home improvement store. The high temperature paint is available in spray or brush on. Paint the inside walls of the firebox this will create a dramatic background when a fire is burning.
When having your open house we do not suggest burning a wood fire. Instead I suggest using a fireplace candelabrum. Fireplace candelabras are designed to fit inside the firebox, they are low and wide. Fireplace candelabras can hold anywhere from 5 to 9 candles on average and most fit the wide candles. Select a color that compliments the room's décor. It is OK to burn a scented candle but no more than one of the candles should be scented. Burning more than one of the scented candles could be overpowering in the room. Light all the candles during your open house.
The warm glow of the burning candles is enhanced against the clean freshly painted black background. Create a cozy relaxing atmosphere around your fireplace and in your buyers heart. Sell your home.
Selling Tips
Fireplace Candelabras
Las Vegas Real Estate
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_W_Miller
Real Estate Leads Need to Be Worked On
ป้ายกำกับ: Real-Estate
By Shareen Aguilar
Generating leads for real estate is one of the many stages needed before a real estate agent gets a sale; a successful client. But even for the moment of having all the leads in your hands, regardless if there are thousands of them; when reality starts to kick in that there could be a lot of rejected leads, those that are not just interested to get any service from any real estate agent just yet or it could simply become a lead that doesn't respond back to any of the contacts that you have made.
Setting your focus on what could happen in the real world is going to make the load lighter. Most real estate agents are already pleased by the number of leads that they get but the fact that these people have to be convinced and needs persuasion isn't an easy job at all. There could be instances when there are leads that will correspond with your inquiry but there is still a possibility for them not to contact you back in anyway or anymore. These instances do happen and after a while, you'll simply realize that out of the thousands of leads you have received, you can only count clients with your own fingers.
This is where filtering comes in. If you want to save on the money that you have paid lead generating companies, make sure that you do spend and check the leads you get. Chances are, these leads could be generated from other companies giving you duplicate leads which is not necessarily at all. This makes the lead generating companies that you trust a bad choice. But, of course, you have to assert and pro actively seek out the leads you get. If you are determined enough to reach these leads during their most comfortable time of the day, you will definitely get a good head start on lead marketing.
Shareen Aguilar is a writer for Real Estate Leads Generation which has information on generating Real Estate Leads.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shareen_Aguilar
Generating leads for real estate is one of the many stages needed before a real estate agent gets a sale; a successful client. But even for the moment of having all the leads in your hands, regardless if there are thousands of them; when reality starts to kick in that there could be a lot of rejected leads, those that are not just interested to get any service from any real estate agent just yet or it could simply become a lead that doesn't respond back to any of the contacts that you have made.
Setting your focus on what could happen in the real world is going to make the load lighter. Most real estate agents are already pleased by the number of leads that they get but the fact that these people have to be convinced and needs persuasion isn't an easy job at all. There could be instances when there are leads that will correspond with your inquiry but there is still a possibility for them not to contact you back in anyway or anymore. These instances do happen and after a while, you'll simply realize that out of the thousands of leads you have received, you can only count clients with your own fingers.
This is where filtering comes in. If you want to save on the money that you have paid lead generating companies, make sure that you do spend and check the leads you get. Chances are, these leads could be generated from other companies giving you duplicate leads which is not necessarily at all. This makes the lead generating companies that you trust a bad choice. But, of course, you have to assert and pro actively seek out the leads you get. If you are determined enough to reach these leads during their most comfortable time of the day, you will definitely get a good head start on lead marketing.
Shareen Aguilar is a writer for Real Estate Leads Generation which has information on generating Real Estate Leads.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shareen_Aguilar
Home Buyers Cash In on Market Slump
ป้ายกำกับ: Buying
By Richard Soto
It's no secret that real estate is experiencing a market slump; in fact sales are lower than they've been in 16 years. Wall Street economists compile a seasonal market forecast; a rating higher than 50 indicate a positive market. The current forecast was only 30 and has remained below 50 since may of 2006. Gone are the golden years of bidding wars or listings at unrealistically high prices. For the seller, it's time to come back to reality and do whatever it takes to sell your home. For the buyer, your time has arrived!
What has caused this slump? It's actually a combination of factors including high mortgage rates; 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages average over 6 percent, the highest in over a year. Also, tighter standards have been imposed for obtaining a mortgage, thus decreasing the amount of qualified buyers. The overall market uncertainty has created some wary buyers who are content to stand by and watch the housing trends.
With new homes creating about 15 percent of all home sales, there is a glut of inventory in the homebuilder industry. What do stores do when they have extra stock; they have a clearance sale! As a result the market is saturated with buyer incentives offered by over 70 percent of U.S. builders trying to unload their homes. Some of the rather lucrative deals we're seeing are:
Centex Homes is giving away outdoor living packages worth up to $33,000 to speed sales. Giveaways include decorative concrete patios, wooden arbors, outdoor fireplaces and grills.
Ryland Homes has been advertising "free fantasy vacations" to catch the eye of potential buyers. Purchasers in its subdivisions can choose from trips to the Caribbean, Mexico or Las Vegas.
Ashton Woods is holding the grand opening of its new townhome community of Rockbrook in Lewisville. The first 10 buyers will enjoy $15,000 in options – up from the standard $10,000 incentive.
Grand Homes is offering a free swimming pool or $12,500 in upgrades. For their golf course community of Lantana, they are offering a free golf membership.
American Legend Homes is appealing to football fans by offering a 42-inch high definition plasma screen television.
Other builders are simply chopping prices.
Both Coleman Homes and Grand Homes have recently advertised price cuts of $40,000 to $50,000 on some of their finished houses.
Another major builder, K. Hovnanian Homes, held a nationwide "three-day sale" this month to trim its inventory. They forecasted a sale of 1000 homes and actually sold 2100. They lowered their price to do this, but made up the difference in the volume of sales.
City Homes in Addison is offering $30,000 off the purchase price.
Realtors are trying to compete with the new home sales by offering their own incentives. VIP Realty is offering a rebate of up to 1.5 percent of the sales price if you use them as your exclusive agent.
There is, inevitably a downside to all of these promotions. One of the problems is keeping up with the incentives. One realtor cautions his customers that there could be a better deal next week. They also seriously cut into the profit margin, as these giveaways are expensive and many companies are losing money because of it. It also creates an impression of 'buy now or miss out'. Prospective customers may purchase before they are ready or on the flip side, hold back because they feel overwhelmed. Currently the federal government has been investigating the legalities of all of these incentives. Although no final reports are available, there are some basic considerations to keep in mind.
Make certain the cost of the incentive is not built into the price of the home, as it must be a legitimate perk.
If the promotion involves financing, the buyer cannot be coerced into dealing with the builder's financial associate.
If the incentives exceed 6% of the purchase price, be cautious; generally even high risk customers are required to put at least 10% down.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Either way the lower prices and free giveaways are definitely great for the buyer; go ahead and enjoy them while they are here. Make certain you find a real estate agent you feel comfortable working with, as nothing replaces the sound advice you can receive from a trusted agent.
Contact VIP Realty regarding the Dallas real estate market. Any one of our experienced Dallas realtors will be happy to assist you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Soto
It's no secret that real estate is experiencing a market slump; in fact sales are lower than they've been in 16 years. Wall Street economists compile a seasonal market forecast; a rating higher than 50 indicate a positive market. The current forecast was only 30 and has remained below 50 since may of 2006. Gone are the golden years of bidding wars or listings at unrealistically high prices. For the seller, it's time to come back to reality and do whatever it takes to sell your home. For the buyer, your time has arrived!
What has caused this slump? It's actually a combination of factors including high mortgage rates; 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages average over 6 percent, the highest in over a year. Also, tighter standards have been imposed for obtaining a mortgage, thus decreasing the amount of qualified buyers. The overall market uncertainty has created some wary buyers who are content to stand by and watch the housing trends.
With new homes creating about 15 percent of all home sales, there is a glut of inventory in the homebuilder industry. What do stores do when they have extra stock; they have a clearance sale! As a result the market is saturated with buyer incentives offered by over 70 percent of U.S. builders trying to unload their homes. Some of the rather lucrative deals we're seeing are:
Centex Homes is giving away outdoor living packages worth up to $33,000 to speed sales. Giveaways include decorative concrete patios, wooden arbors, outdoor fireplaces and grills.
Ryland Homes has been advertising "free fantasy vacations" to catch the eye of potential buyers. Purchasers in its subdivisions can choose from trips to the Caribbean, Mexico or Las Vegas.
Ashton Woods is holding the grand opening of its new townhome community of Rockbrook in Lewisville. The first 10 buyers will enjoy $15,000 in options – up from the standard $10,000 incentive.
Grand Homes is offering a free swimming pool or $12,500 in upgrades. For their golf course community of Lantana, they are offering a free golf membership.
American Legend Homes is appealing to football fans by offering a 42-inch high definition plasma screen television.
Other builders are simply chopping prices.
Both Coleman Homes and Grand Homes have recently advertised price cuts of $40,000 to $50,000 on some of their finished houses.
Another major builder, K. Hovnanian Homes, held a nationwide "three-day sale" this month to trim its inventory. They forecasted a sale of 1000 homes and actually sold 2100. They lowered their price to do this, but made up the difference in the volume of sales.
City Homes in Addison is offering $30,000 off the purchase price.
Realtors are trying to compete with the new home sales by offering their own incentives. VIP Realty is offering a rebate of up to 1.5 percent of the sales price if you use them as your exclusive agent.
There is, inevitably a downside to all of these promotions. One of the problems is keeping up with the incentives. One realtor cautions his customers that there could be a better deal next week. They also seriously cut into the profit margin, as these giveaways are expensive and many companies are losing money because of it. It also creates an impression of 'buy now or miss out'. Prospective customers may purchase before they are ready or on the flip side, hold back because they feel overwhelmed. Currently the federal government has been investigating the legalities of all of these incentives. Although no final reports are available, there are some basic considerations to keep in mind.
Make certain the cost of the incentive is not built into the price of the home, as it must be a legitimate perk.
If the promotion involves financing, the buyer cannot be coerced into dealing with the builder's financial associate.
If the incentives exceed 6% of the purchase price, be cautious; generally even high risk customers are required to put at least 10% down.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Either way the lower prices and free giveaways are definitely great for the buyer; go ahead and enjoy them while they are here. Make certain you find a real estate agent you feel comfortable working with, as nothing replaces the sound advice you can receive from a trusted agent.
Contact VIP Realty regarding the Dallas real estate market. Any one of our experienced Dallas realtors will be happy to assist you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Soto
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