My thanks to all who have "followed me" over the last several years on this page. Your kindness, friendship and loyalty have been most appreciated. As my wife and I prepare to open another chapter in our lives in our new home I am winding down my real estate efforts. As such, I will be discontinuing activity on this site. The content from this page will be available at http://kissrealestate.blogspot.com/ for those who desire access for historical (or hysterical) purposes.
Thank you for all the support. /guy
Friday
Thursday
Probable Extension for Settlement of Qualifying Homebuyer Transactions - Tax Credit
From the Wall Street Journal . . . .
WASHINGTON (Dow Jones)--The Senate Wednesday approved more time for homebuyers seeking to claim a federal tax credit, but tabled a six-month extension of jobless benefits.
The homebuyer measure would help only those that entered into binding contracts before April 30. It would give such homebuyers until Sept. 30 to close the sale. Under current law, they would have had to close by today to be eligible for tax credits.
It passed the Senate by unanimous voice vote. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the homebuyer measure, which the House passed earlier this week.
WASHINGTON (Dow Jones)--The Senate Wednesday approved more time for homebuyers seeking to claim a federal tax credit, but tabled a six-month extension of jobless benefits.
The homebuyer measure would help only those that entered into binding contracts before April 30. It would give such homebuyers until Sept. 30 to close the sale. Under current law, they would have had to close by today to be eligible for tax credits.
It passed the Senate by unanimous voice vote. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the homebuyer measure, which the House passed earlier this week.
Pricing A Property for Sale
This is advice provided by a noted real estate consultant that I think is important for not only real estate agents, but also for their clients who are considering selling or in the process of pricing their house for sale. Please click on the link below to learn more about the "seven deadly sins of pricing a property". As always, if I can help you in your consideration of selling your property, please contact me at your convenience. Have a great day!
Seven ‘deadly sins’ of pricing property
Seven ‘deadly sins’ of pricing property
Saturday
Swimming Pools
There may be nothing more enticing in the heat of a sizzling summer than the crystal blue waters of a well-maintained swimming pool. When the temperature and the humidity both push the century mark, a quick dip can take all of that hot sticky feeling away like a flash. And at times like those, the idea of actually having your own backyard pool for unlimited summer fun can suddenly seem like a really good thought.
Depending on where you live, having your own pool at home can be a really great asset – or a real drain on both your wallet and the value of your home.
In some areas, such as California, Arizona and Florida, which enjoy warm climates year-round, owning a pool is almost a given. But even in those places, pools are really de rigueur only in higher-end neighborhoods, and even then, there are homebuyers who won’t even think of buying a home with a pool.
But who wouldn’t want a pool? Well, buyers with small children, for one. According to safekids.org, drowning is the leading cause of death among children under the age of 5. And that fact alone causes liability issues for pool owners. If you do own a pool, you need to take precautions to make sure outsiders can’t get in, and your home insurance bills may be higher no matter what you do.
Pools can also be an enormous expense to heat, to clean, and to maintain. If you don’t heat your water, it may limit the amount of time you can use the pool, and if you do heat your pool, it could raise your utility bills by hundreds of dollars a month. And then there are chemicals needed to clean the water, and repairs that must be made. There’s no getting around the fact that owning a pool can be an expensive proposition.
The most expensive type of in-ground pool is also the sturdiest and most versatile to layout. Those are pools made from a material called Gunite, a mixture of concrete and sand that is sprayed into a hole in the ground. Gunite pools can last for many years.
Pools with vinyl linings are less expensive, but they typically need to be replaced every 10 years or so, and they are generally rectangular in shape. These pools are more popular in areas where temperatures dip below freezing in the winter, and where pools are drained each season.
And then there are above-ground pools, which are the least expensive, but also often the least attractive option, aesthetically. In fact, THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® say above-ground pool typically do not add to a home’s value at all.
And that brings up the larger issue. How much does an in-ground pool add to a home’s re-sale value? Well, we wish we could give you a solid answer. The National Association of Realtors estimates a pool could increase values by nearly 8 percent, but again, that all depends on where the home is. A two million dollar home in Beverly Hills will likely lose value if it doesn’t have a pool, but a 200-thousand dollar rambler in Minnesota might be tough to sell if it does have one.
Now, don’t get us wrong. We are certainly not here to bury pools. They can provide therapeutic health benefits for many owners, and are a great exercise opportunity. They are magnets for teenagers, and have enormous entertainment value for families. In times like these, when many families have neither the time nor the money for long summer vacations, a backyard pool can be a daily getaway. And, of course, they can also provide instant relief from the summer sizzle.
The bottom line is this. If you’re thinking about buying a home with a pool, or installing one in your backyard, do your homework and find out exactly how much it will cost you to build and maintain. Be honest and ask yourself whether you’ll use the pool enough to justify the cost. Don’t install a pool as an investment to increase your home’s eventual resale value. Build it because you will enjoy it with your family for years to come. And feel free to invite us over any time!
Depending on where you live, having your own pool at home can be a really great asset – or a real drain on both your wallet and the value of your home.
In some areas, such as California, Arizona and Florida, which enjoy warm climates year-round, owning a pool is almost a given. But even in those places, pools are really de rigueur only in higher-end neighborhoods, and even then, there are homebuyers who won’t even think of buying a home with a pool.
But who wouldn’t want a pool? Well, buyers with small children, for one. According to safekids.org, drowning is the leading cause of death among children under the age of 5. And that fact alone causes liability issues for pool owners. If you do own a pool, you need to take precautions to make sure outsiders can’t get in, and your home insurance bills may be higher no matter what you do.
Pools can also be an enormous expense to heat, to clean, and to maintain. If you don’t heat your water, it may limit the amount of time you can use the pool, and if you do heat your pool, it could raise your utility bills by hundreds of dollars a month. And then there are chemicals needed to clean the water, and repairs that must be made. There’s no getting around the fact that owning a pool can be an expensive proposition.
The most expensive type of in-ground pool is also the sturdiest and most versatile to layout. Those are pools made from a material called Gunite, a mixture of concrete and sand that is sprayed into a hole in the ground. Gunite pools can last for many years.
Pools with vinyl linings are less expensive, but they typically need to be replaced every 10 years or so, and they are generally rectangular in shape. These pools are more popular in areas where temperatures dip below freezing in the winter, and where pools are drained each season.
And then there are above-ground pools, which are the least expensive, but also often the least attractive option, aesthetically. In fact, THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® say above-ground pool typically do not add to a home’s value at all.
And that brings up the larger issue. How much does an in-ground pool add to a home’s re-sale value? Well, we wish we could give you a solid answer. The National Association of Realtors estimates a pool could increase values by nearly 8 percent, but again, that all depends on where the home is. A two million dollar home in Beverly Hills will likely lose value if it doesn’t have a pool, but a 200-thousand dollar rambler in Minnesota might be tough to sell if it does have one.
Now, don’t get us wrong. We are certainly not here to bury pools. They can provide therapeutic health benefits for many owners, and are a great exercise opportunity. They are magnets for teenagers, and have enormous entertainment value for families. In times like these, when many families have neither the time nor the money for long summer vacations, a backyard pool can be a daily getaway. And, of course, they can also provide instant relief from the summer sizzle.
The bottom line is this. If you’re thinking about buying a home with a pool, or installing one in your backyard, do your homework and find out exactly how much it will cost you to build and maintain. Be honest and ask yourself whether you’ll use the pool enough to justify the cost. Don’t install a pool as an investment to increase your home’s eventual resale value. Build it because you will enjoy it with your family for years to come. And feel free to invite us over any time!
from REAL ESTATE TODAY - presented by the National Association of Realtors and Its Realtor Members in Your Neighborhood
Sunday
Smart Options: Decking
When choosing decking materials, factor in the savings gained by low maintenance and longevity, even if the initial cost is higher. Read
Deck Addition: Return on Investment
A high return on investment makes a deck addition a worthwhile home improvement project. Read
Care and Maintenance of Your Deck
Annual deck maintenance will forestall major repairs, protect your investment, and boost your enjoyment of your deck. Read-
Smart Upgrades for Decks
A few cost-effective add-ons can give a modest deck an edge and deliver a handsome payback should you sell your house. Read 
Evaluate Your House for a Deck
Here’s how to plan a new deck that suits your property, meets your budget, and offers the best return on your investment. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Friday
Tax Credit Settlement Deadline May Be Extended
For those "scrambling" to settle on their home purchase by June 30 (to qualify for the tax credit) there may be relief - “Lawmakers proposed today a measure to extend the closing deadline to receive the homebuyer tax credit. The bill would only apply to buyers who signed a contract by April 30, but it would extend the deadline for closing from June 30 until September 30.” NOTE - this is not a "done deal" but could pass and relieve some of the pressure on everyone to get things done in the next 19 days. Stay tuned.
Tuesday
What's Happenin' in the 'Burg? JAZZ!!!!!! June 10
Jazz Walk – June 10th
June 1, 2010
By PA Music Scene .com
This one night only will be the largest variety of live music of any night of the year, presented by the Central Pennsylvania Jazz Festival and 14 wonderful host venues. What better way to explore the wonders of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania USA.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
5:30pm – 11:30pm
14 events/14 venues/ 1 night only!
Here’s the rundown:
Appalachian Brewing Company
9pm-midnight
The Roamin’ Gabriels
http://www.abcbrew.com/
50 North Cameron Street
(717) 221-1080
Arepa City 7-9pm
Andy Mowatt-guitar
316 North 2nd Street
http://arepacity.com/
(717) 233-3332
Bricco
6-9pm
Katie Rudolph & Jim Miller – piano/bass duo
www.briccopa.com
31 South 3rd Street
(717) 724-0222
Carley’s Ristorante& Piano Bar
6:30 -9:30 pm
Giovanni Traino voc/piano
http://www.carleysristorante.com/
204 Locust Street
(717) 909-9191
Gallery Blu
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Central PA Youth Band members
Mitchell Stowman Group Shane Lukenbaugh
http://www.galleryblu.org/
1633 North 3rd Street (717) 234-3009
Harrisburg Maennerchor 8-11pm
der Maennerchor
7pm til late
Open to the public, food and drink available
Word. Improvisation with Iya Isoke, Jonathan Ragonese, Jake Sherman, Jeff Stabley and Tim Warfield.
http://www.tuesdaybluesday.com/
221 North Street
(717) 233-3011
Mercado’s Pizza
Erica Everest (voc)
225 North Second Street,
(717) 238-2280
The Midtown Tavern
8-11pm
Rose Hudson Band (voc)
http://www.themidtowntavern.com/
1101 N 2nd St (717) 236-5783
Midtown Scholar Bookstore
6:30-8:30pm
Cathy Chemi (voc) & Reuel Ryman (p)
http://www.midtownscholar.com/
1302 North 3rd Street
(717) 236-1680
Pride of the Susquehanna
5:30-9pm
Lynn Gruenewald (sax from DIVA)) & Jim Wood (p)
(717) 234-6500
Stocks On Second
8-11pm
Jay Umble Trio (guitar),Dave Lazorcik (dr)
& Tim Wolfe (b)
http://www.stocksonsecond.com/
211 North 2nd Street
(717) 233-6699
Suba Tapas Bar at Mangia Qui
7-9pm
Monica McIntyre Group (cello & voc)
http://www.mangiaqui.com/
272 North Street
(717) 233-7358
Mantis Collective Gallery
5:30 – 8pm
Ariel Wickham (voc) Matt Wolfe & Tom Cossentino (guitar)
1306 N 3rd St 717-232-1006.
Hilton Harrisburg Bar & Patio 6-10pm
Mary Ann McSweeney Trio (NYC bassist) featuring Marko Marcinko (dr) & Steve Rudolph (p)
1 N 2nd St 717-233-6000
DO THE JAZZWALK!!
Most sites are FREE ADMISSION • Please call ahead for dinner
reservations at Arepa City, Bricco, Carley’s, Stock’s & Suba.
The 30th annual Festival also features vocal legend PATTI AUSTIN and much more – For complete Central PA Jazz Festival information, please go to: http://www.pajazz.org/
June 1, 2010
By PA Music Scene .com
This one night only will be the largest variety of live music of any night of the year, presented by the Central Pennsylvania Jazz Festival and 14 wonderful host venues. What better way to explore the wonders of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania USA.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
5:30pm – 11:30pm
14 events/14 venues/ 1 night only!
Here’s the rundown:
Appalachian Brewing Company
9pm-midnight
The Roamin’ Gabriels
http://www.abcbrew.com/
50 North Cameron Street
(717) 221-1080
Arepa City 7-9pm
Andy Mowatt-guitar
316 North 2nd Street
http://arepacity.com/
(717) 233-3332
Bricco
6-9pm
Katie Rudolph & Jim Miller – piano/bass duo
www.briccopa.com
31 South 3rd Street
(717) 724-0222
Carley’s Ristorante& Piano Bar
6:30 -9:30 pm
Giovanni Traino voc/piano
http://www.carleysristorante.com/
204 Locust Street
(717) 909-9191
Gallery Blu
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Central PA Youth Band members
Mitchell Stowman Group Shane Lukenbaugh
http://www.galleryblu.org/
1633 North 3rd Street (717) 234-3009
Harrisburg Maennerchor 8-11pm
der Maennerchor
7pm til late
Open to the public, food and drink available
Word. Improvisation with Iya Isoke, Jonathan Ragonese, Jake Sherman, Jeff Stabley and Tim Warfield.
http://www.tuesdaybluesday.com/
221 North Street
(717) 233-3011
Mercado’s Pizza
Erica Everest (voc)
225 North Second Street,
(717) 238-2280
The Midtown Tavern
8-11pm
Rose Hudson Band (voc)
http://www.themidtowntavern.com/
1101 N 2nd St (717) 236-5783
Midtown Scholar Bookstore
6:30-8:30pm
Cathy Chemi (voc) & Reuel Ryman (p)
http://www.midtownscholar.com/
1302 North 3rd Street
(717) 236-1680
Pride of the Susquehanna
5:30-9pm
Lynn Gruenewald (sax from DIVA)) & Jim Wood (p)
(717) 234-6500
Stocks On Second
8-11pm
Jay Umble Trio (guitar),Dave Lazorcik (dr)
& Tim Wolfe (b)
http://www.stocksonsecond.com/
211 North 2nd Street
(717) 233-6699
Suba Tapas Bar at Mangia Qui
7-9pm
Monica McIntyre Group (cello & voc)
http://www.mangiaqui.com/
272 North Street
(717) 233-7358
Mantis Collective Gallery
5:30 – 8pm
Ariel Wickham (voc) Matt Wolfe & Tom Cossentino (guitar)
1306 N 3rd St 717-232-1006.
Hilton Harrisburg Bar & Patio 6-10pm
Mary Ann McSweeney Trio (NYC bassist) featuring Marko Marcinko (dr) & Steve Rudolph (p)
1 N 2nd St 717-233-6000
DO THE JAZZWALK!!
Most sites are FREE ADMISSION • Please call ahead for dinner
reservations at Arepa City, Bricco, Carley’s, Stock’s & Suba.
The 30th annual Festival also features vocal legend PATTI AUSTIN and much more – For complete Central PA Jazz Festival information, please go to: http://www.pajazz.org/
Monday
Friday
Stop, Pause and Look UP......
We often get "caught up" viewing things at street level. Stop, pause and look UP once in a while. You may discover a whole new world above eye level......
Tuesday
Did You Miss or Were You Ineligible for the Homebuyer's Tax Credit?
If so, now's your opportunity to possibly "cash in" and win that $8,000.
Century 21 is conducting a sweepstakes with 21 winners to be selected from entrants across the United States. All Century 21 clients listing a home for sale through June 30, 2010 will be automatically entered. But you don't need to list your home to qualify. Anyone can enter by simply completing the entry form.
Please follow the link below to access the official entry form along with the official rules for the sweepstakes. Complete the form and return it to the address noted in the upper left hand corner of the entry form.
Simple! Easy! And possibly worth $8,000 if you are one of the lucky winners. Nothing to lose (except a little time and a first class stamp). So why not give it a shot?
I'd love for one of my contacts to be a WINNER!
(just click on this link to access the entry form then click on "print" under the GoogleDocs logo)
Thursday
Spring Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers
Spring Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers
click on this link to learn more
Tuesday
Monday
Wednesday
Landscaping for Curb Appeal
(New!)Landscaping for Curb Appeal
A well-landscaped yard creates curb appeal and helps your property retain maximum value. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Tuesday
Dow Ready to Debut Solar Roofing
Click on the link below to learn more about efforts to simplify and reduce the cost of solar panels......
REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Dow Ready to Debut Solar Roofing
REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Dow Ready to Debut Solar Roofing
Monday
Home Buyer's Tax Credit Extension - Breaking News.......
According to sources - the tax credit has been extended for service men and woman serving outside of the United States for 90 consecutive days between 1/1/2009 and 4/30/2010 – the extension is for one year.
Wednesday
Check Your Deck
A well-planned maintenance program is the best insurance policy against deck repair and replacement costs. Sun and moisture can cause premature rotting and decks must be maintained to avoid unnecessary repairs and replacement costs.
Sweep the deck often, and when it gets very dirty, hose or scrub it down. Look for water stains where the deck ties to the house since leakage can lead to wood decay. If you have any doubt about the structural integrity of the deck, call a pro to investigate.
Get rid of moss and mold. Pressure washers are effective if used properly and carefully. Remember, if you see wood damage, like raised fibers, increase the distance between the spray nozzle and the decking. Normal wear and tear may also loosen joints and connections, so check and tighten them regularly. Apply a coat of wood stain or water repellent every 1 to 2 years.
Sweep the deck often, and when it gets very dirty, hose or scrub it down. Look for water stains where the deck ties to the house since leakage can lead to wood decay. If you have any doubt about the structural integrity of the deck, call a pro to investigate.
Get rid of moss and mold. Pressure washers are effective if used properly and carefully. Remember, if you see wood damage, like raised fibers, increase the distance between the spray nozzle and the decking. Normal wear and tear may also loosen joints and connections, so check and tighten them regularly. Apply a coat of wood stain or water repellent every 1 to 2 years.
Tuesday
Don't Leave the Barn Door Open....
Century 21 Piscioneri Realty, Inc.
..is pleased to announce it has been chosen to market this one-of-a-kind magnificent property on behalf of its owners.
This property is so unique I want to bring it to your attention. Ever consider living in a barn? No – not with the animals silly!
Perhaps it’s “not your thing”. It isn’t for everybody. But, perhaps you know someone who just might be in the market for the type of space and amenities this property offers. If so, please pass this information along to them.
Nestled in Hampden Township along Skyport Road, this historic barn has been impressively converted into an impeccable 6,000+ sq. ft. living space truly unique to the Greater Harrisburg Area.
Enjoy indoor & outdoor pools, tennis court, gardens galore, great rooms to entertain, have a business, grow a family or live with in-laws. Gourmet kitchen, great floor plan, and oversized garages.
Please understand – this is not my personal listing, but I would be very happy to provide additional information about this property or arrange a showing for those with interest.
Monday
7 Gardening Mistakes to Avoid
With Spring here, many of us turn our thoughts to gardening. Here's an article from houselogic.com that may help you prevent troublesome mistakes as you set out to "dig up the yard"........
7 Gardening Mistakes to Avoid
By: Oliver Marks
Published: March 15, 2010
Novice gardeners can get their landscapes off to a healthy start by heeding some tried-and-true tips from the pros.
Gardening is just about the simplest do-it-yourself home improvement work there is. If you can dig a hole, turn on a spigot, and snip a dead flower off a vine, you’ve got the basic skills down. Still, you do have to make some judgment calls, so it helps to know the ground rules, so to speak, that can help you avoid making some rookie mistakes.
Mistake #1: Making changes too soon
Take the excitement of buying a home, add a nice stretch of spring weather, and you get a lot of enthusiasm for doing yard work. That’s great; seize the day, but don’t jump into wholesale landscape changes, like pulling out plants or reorganizing the layout quite yet.
“That weed that you want to yank out in the spring might turn out to be a gorgeous fall-blooming vine,” says Gary Blondell, owner of Gary’s Gardens, a nursery in Severna Park, Md. Plus, it takes time to learn the landscape and figure out exactly what changes make sense.
Avoid this by: Living with the landscape for a full year, so you can observe it in all seasons.
Mistake #2: Planting too close together
You buy a wheelbarrow full of young shrubs and perennials and plant them in a pleasing arrangement. But if they look properly spaced now, they’re actually way too close together.
Unless you’re creating an evergreen hedge, when the idea is packing things tightly together, the immature plantings will grow into each other in a few years and struggle to compete for sun, water, and soil nutrients. You’ll either have to dig them up and transplant them—or possibly throw them away.
Avoid this by: Following the spacing requirements on the plant label—even though the results will look absurdly sparse at first.
Mistake #3: Planting without a plan
Putting in new garden beds without a long-term landscape plan is like tiling, painting, and wallpapering your house before you figure out your future remodeling plans: There’s a good chance you’ll have to undo your efforts in the near future.
Avoid this by: Drawing a simple, bird’s eye view sketch of your yard, and figuring out the rough location of any future construction—additions, patios, outbuildings, pools—so you can plant around them.
A good local nursery or home improvement store can help you with your design. Or you can hire a landscape designer to create a starter plan for as little as $250 to $500. Find a professional at the Association of Professional Landscape Designers or the American Society of Landscape Architects.
Mistake #4: Neglecting the root ball
Even the hardiest plants need a little help getting their roots established in their new locations. But just turning on the sprinkler every day to douse the foliage isn’t enough to ensure that they get the nutrients and hydration they need. You have to get the water to a plant’s nerve center—the root ball below ground—or it’s going to be stunted or short-lived.
Avoid this by: Placing the hose near the root ball and setting the water to a trickle for about 20 to 30 minutes. Do this twice a week—more during hot, dry spells—for the first four to 12 weeks. Choosing the right irrigation system can help with this task while saving water.
Mistake #5: Ignoring your yard’s sun conditions
Too many nursery shoppers pick plants based only on looks—not the growing conditions they need, which are almost always indicated on a label wrapped around the trunk or a marker pressed into the soil. “They put a sun-loving perennial under a dense tree or something that wants partial shade out in full-day sunshine,” says Blondell. “It looks great for about a week, and then it begins to die.”
Avoid this by: Watching the spot where you’re going to put the plant and estimating the amount of sun it gets over the course of the day during the growing season. To translate that to the language on plant labels, use this key:
Full Sun 6 hours a day or more
Part Sun/Part Shade 3 to 5 hours
Shade Less than 3 hours
Mistake #6: Misusing irrigation systems
An automatic irrigation system is a luxury that allows you to keep your landscape hydrated throughout the growing season with almost no effort. Unfortunately, with the wrong settings, it can also bring disease, root rot, and an untimely death to the plants in your landscape.
“People tend to set their systems to come on for 15 or 20 minutes each morning,” says Blondell. “That provides a nice saturation of the surface, but not a deep penetrating soak to reach the roots of large shrubs and trees.” And a deeper soak is better for the lawn, too, because it promotes deep root systems.
Avoid this by: Watering for longer intervals—say, 40 to 60 minutes—only two to three times a week. Check with the company that maintains your irrigation system for local recommendations.
Mistake #7: Not budgeting for landscaping during construction projects
Whether you’re building a house or an addition, the bulldozers that excavate the job and the pickups that park on the lawn will damage the grass, trees, and shrubs. And the new building configuration will call for new landscape plantings.
Unfortunately, homeowners don’t often include money in their budgets for this work. So you wind up with a beautiful new family room, screened porch, or solarium, with a few azaleas thrown in around the foundation as an afterthought.
Avoid this by: Allocating 10 to 20 percent of your construction budget to the landscape—both hardscaping and plants—or at least making plans to spend that money as soon as possible after the construction job is complete.
A former carpenter and newspaper reporter, Oliver Marks has been writing about home improvements for 16 years. He’s entering his second summer at his house and has big plans for upgrading its scraggly foundation plantings.
Friday
Most Common Mistakes Home Buyers Make
Most REALTORS® agree that a common mistake many first-time home buyers make is not having all the facts about a home they are considering.
Realtor Colleen Anderson blogs about the top things you should know before starting your home search.
“When it comes to real estate, there are a handful of mistakes that buyers make over and over again. If you can avoid them, you will be ahead of the game when you purchase a home.
Mistake #1: Looking on your own before finding a real estate agent.
Too often, buyers spend time and energy to find what they believe is their “perfect home”, then begin searching for an agent to help them write an offer. It’s then that they find out that the home is not all they hoped for. Maybe it’s overpriced or located in an undesirable area.
By working with an agent from the get-go, you will only see properties that are within your budget and located in the neighborhoods that best match your criteria. Express your “shopping list” to your agent – who will then pick and choose homes based on that list. Doing it on your own is hit and miss – and can be terribly disappointing.
Mistake #2: Not enough research ‘in-hand’ at buying time.
When it’s time to make that crucial offer, be sure you have all the information you need. You want facts, figures, and numbers at your fingertips. Everything valuable to know about the property in question needs to already have been discovered.
It is very important for you to ask your agent to run an appreciation analysis on the home. This will prove to be your best guide as to whether or not this purchase will be a good investment…”
Realtor Colleen Anderson blogs about the top things you should know before starting your home search.
“When it comes to real estate, there are a handful of mistakes that buyers make over and over again. If you can avoid them, you will be ahead of the game when you purchase a home.
Mistake #1: Looking on your own before finding a real estate agent.
Too often, buyers spend time and energy to find what they believe is their “perfect home”, then begin searching for an agent to help them write an offer. It’s then that they find out that the home is not all they hoped for. Maybe it’s overpriced or located in an undesirable area.
By working with an agent from the get-go, you will only see properties that are within your budget and located in the neighborhoods that best match your criteria. Express your “shopping list” to your agent – who will then pick and choose homes based on that list. Doing it on your own is hit and miss – and can be terribly disappointing.
Mistake #2: Not enough research ‘in-hand’ at buying time.
When it’s time to make that crucial offer, be sure you have all the information you need. You want facts, figures, and numbers at your fingertips. Everything valuable to know about the property in question needs to already have been discovered.
It is very important for you to ask your agent to run an appreciation analysis on the home. This will prove to be your best guide as to whether or not this purchase will be a good investment…”
Thursday
Century 21 Piscioneri Foundation Community Walk
Date: Saturday, May 8, 2010
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Location: City Island, Harrisburg, PA
I invite you to join and/or support the Century 21 Piscioneri Team in our 2nd Annual Community Walk. The monies raised benefit the charitable efforts of the Century 21 Piscioneri Foundation and our 2010 Walk Partners: the Allison Hill Fund, the United Methodist Home for Children, the New Hope Ministries and the Nativity School of Harrisburg.
Please contact me for Walk Registration or Contribution information. Thanks for your consideration.
Know Your Neighborhood
When you buy a home, you're investing in a community. You'll spend a significant amount of time and money supporting the schools, community organizations and commercial centers in the surrounding areas. Before you make the final decision, take a good look at the location and make sure it fits your needs.
• Evaluate the properties proximity to other important locations in your life. How long will your commute time be? Is there a hospital or doctor's office nearby? What about schools, childcare, shopping, family and friends?
• Consider all your transportations options. A new home could lend itself to public transportation options or car-pooling. Depending on the type of community, you may be able to find alternative methods of transportation. Take the time to drive from the new home to your commuting destinations to understand the impact it will have on your lifestyle.
• Visit and understand the school district you'll be moving in to. Even if you don't have children in the school system now, you may some day. The district reputation could positively or negatively impact the selling price of your future home as well.
• Make sure you feel comfortable in the area. Drive around the neighborhood at different times of the day and night on multiple days of the week to observe activity/noise levels. Discovering that barking dog next door or noisy road conditions will eliminate unneeded stress from a hasty decision.
• Evaluate the properties proximity to other important locations in your life. How long will your commute time be? Is there a hospital or doctor's office nearby? What about schools, childcare, shopping, family and friends?
• Consider all your transportations options. A new home could lend itself to public transportation options or car-pooling. Depending on the type of community, you may be able to find alternative methods of transportation. Take the time to drive from the new home to your commuting destinations to understand the impact it will have on your lifestyle.
• Visit and understand the school district you'll be moving in to. Even if you don't have children in the school system now, you may some day. The district reputation could positively or negatively impact the selling price of your future home as well.
• Make sure you feel comfortable in the area. Drive around the neighborhood at different times of the day and night on multiple days of the week to observe activity/noise levels. Discovering that barking dog next door or noisy road conditions will eliminate unneeded stress from a hasty decision.
Wednesday
Lessons from "Man's Best Friend"
We should all take a minute to ponder this message. I think you'll agree there is much we can learn from our four-legged friends.......
Tuesday
Thursday
Making a Smooth Move
The moving process can be stressful, especially when mixed with the emotions that come with moving to a new neighborhood. Below are a few tips that will help your children cope with a place to live:
• Be positive about the move. Your emotions can set the mood for the entire experience. Remain positive and upbeat about the changes that lie ahead.
• Answer questions openly and honestly. Make sure young members of the family know they can count on you for answers. Their questions will give you an idea of how they are feeling about the situation and can guide your efforts to help them relax.
• Assign young family members specific tasks. Help everyone get involved by creating a to-do check list, then assigning age-appropriate tasks to each member of the family. Creating a sense of ownership can give everyone a feeling of responsibility.
• Plan ahead. Before the move, start investigating programs and activities that your family could possibly participate in. Register your children for sports programs or other activities similar to the type of activities they now participate in. You want them to be introduced to other people of their age and start making friends immediately.
• Be positive about the move. Your emotions can set the mood for the entire experience. Remain positive and upbeat about the changes that lie ahead.
• Answer questions openly and honestly. Make sure young members of the family know they can count on you for answers. Their questions will give you an idea of how they are feeling about the situation and can guide your efforts to help them relax.
• Assign young family members specific tasks. Help everyone get involved by creating a to-do check list, then assigning age-appropriate tasks to each member of the family. Creating a sense of ownership can give everyone a feeling of responsibility.
• Plan ahead. Before the move, start investigating programs and activities that your family could possibly participate in. Register your children for sports programs or other activities similar to the type of activities they now participate in. You want them to be introduced to other people of their age and start making friends immediately.
Monday
Selling? Here are some ideas to make your home even more marketable.
Home Values Increase With Home Remodeling March 14th, 2010
A homeowner will often schedule home remodeling projects to improve the appearance of the home. If the home is going to be placed on the real estate market for sale, it would be in the homeowner’s best interest to make the home look luxurious and spacious and the homeowner should make sure it is equipped with the latest home appliances. People are willing to pay good money for quality built homes and little remodeling touches can persuade homebuyers to make an offer.
Many homebuyers search for homes with plenty of storage space. A homeowner could turn the unused space in the garage into a stylized storage facility for items that are used in yard and inside the home at Christmas time. A carpenter can create storage closets with odd sized space to accommodate large items such as vacuum, brooms and especially a weed eater. The woods used on this type of home remodeling project do not have to be solid woods and with some creative staining and hardware, the additional storage space could increase the value of the home tremendously.
The value of the home might go up some more if the homeowner is willing to invest in some new lighting fixtures that are more modern. With some recessed lighting fixtures in the den, the family can boast that the home is more energy efficient. With ceiling fans placed throughout the home, the homebuyers will see that the home is comfortable to live in without the air conditioner running and will remember these additions when it comes time to make an offer.
The appearance of the home can be changed significantly by the addition of sliding windows and a new entry door. Some homeowners will consider some home remodeling tasks such as pressure cleaning the bricks on the outside of the home at the urging of a qualified realtor who knows that a clean appearance can have a profound effect on the home’s curb appeal. The windows can be accented with shutters at a minimal cost, and the homeowner can install these and save a lot of money.
Some homeowners will consider landscaping the front and back of the house to add to the curb appeal of the home. A landscaper can plant a few shade trees that keep the house cool in the summer time. This type of remodeling project can enhance the value of the home by keeping cooling costs down and making the home beckon to buyers on the street who are mesmerized by the colorful scenery before them. Little additions like new mail boxes and a coat of fresh paint on a fence can make the value of a home soar with very little remodeling efforts involved.
A professional painting contractor can turn the interior of the home into a showcase in one or two days. With the right stains on columns and banisters, a home can seem like a palatial estate that would be priced much higher. With a fresh coat of paint on walls that is neutral yet pleasing to the eye, the prospective home buyers are likely to remember this home’s address above others on the list that are placed on the market with touch ups just good enough to get by.
A homeowner will often schedule home remodeling projects to improve the appearance of the home. If the home is going to be placed on the real estate market for sale, it would be in the homeowner’s best interest to make the home look luxurious and spacious and the homeowner should make sure it is equipped with the latest home appliances. People are willing to pay good money for quality built homes and little remodeling touches can persuade homebuyers to make an offer.
Many homebuyers search for homes with plenty of storage space. A homeowner could turn the unused space in the garage into a stylized storage facility for items that are used in yard and inside the home at Christmas time. A carpenter can create storage closets with odd sized space to accommodate large items such as vacuum, brooms and especially a weed eater. The woods used on this type of home remodeling project do not have to be solid woods and with some creative staining and hardware, the additional storage space could increase the value of the home tremendously.
The value of the home might go up some more if the homeowner is willing to invest in some new lighting fixtures that are more modern. With some recessed lighting fixtures in the den, the family can boast that the home is more energy efficient. With ceiling fans placed throughout the home, the homebuyers will see that the home is comfortable to live in without the air conditioner running and will remember these additions when it comes time to make an offer.
The appearance of the home can be changed significantly by the addition of sliding windows and a new entry door. Some homeowners will consider some home remodeling tasks such as pressure cleaning the bricks on the outside of the home at the urging of a qualified realtor who knows that a clean appearance can have a profound effect on the home’s curb appeal. The windows can be accented with shutters at a minimal cost, and the homeowner can install these and save a lot of money.
Some homeowners will consider landscaping the front and back of the house to add to the curb appeal of the home. A landscaper can plant a few shade trees that keep the house cool in the summer time. This type of remodeling project can enhance the value of the home by keeping cooling costs down and making the home beckon to buyers on the street who are mesmerized by the colorful scenery before them. Little additions like new mail boxes and a coat of fresh paint on a fence can make the value of a home soar with very little remodeling efforts involved.
A professional painting contractor can turn the interior of the home into a showcase in one or two days. With the right stains on columns and banisters, a home can seem like a palatial estate that would be priced much higher. With a fresh coat of paint on walls that is neutral yet pleasing to the eye, the prospective home buyers are likely to remember this home’s address above others on the list that are placed on the market with touch ups just good enough to get by.
Thursday
8 reasons why you REALLY should move in this market!
1. Prices to buy are incredible. Quite potentially there hasn’t ever been a better market to buy a home. It’s doubtful that if in my real estate career, we will see a better buyers market this good again. Of course every situation is different, but there are truly some great deals out there!
2. Prices may get worse. So what is your plan? Stay for a couple more years and sell when the market “turns around?” Not to be a “Downer”, but things are going to be this way if not worse for 3-5 years according to most predictions. As long as people are still out of work, and still getting laid off, we are going to see more foreclosures and more short sales. Buyers pay what the neighborhood homes are selling for. Meaning if that foreclosure down the street sold for much less than what they paid 2 years ago, that sale affects the value of your home as well.
3. Historically Low Rates! Rates are historically low floating around 5% for a 30 year FHA fixed rate loan, and they wont last forever. Many of the “old timers” in the real estate business will tell horror stories of the day that they started, rates were double digits – and that wasn’t that long ago! Can you imagine? Once the demand in the market begins to pick up, guess what will happen to the rates? Banks make money on interest rates. There is already much talk that rates are to low now, and should be raised.
4. Tax credit buyers are running low on time, so demand is rising for “GOOD” inventory. Many of the foreclosure homes are in need of repairs. It can be costly, time consuming, and stressful. Many buyers don’t want or can’t afford to get into these projects.
5. You may be eligible for $6500 federal government money. The government is throwing around money, you may as well get some of it. That money may be enough to make up for a year or so worth of depreciation or most of the costs to sell, but it is going away soon! By April 30, 2010 you must be locked into a purchase agreement for a new primary residence, closing by the end of June. Here is a link with more details.
6. More foreclosures and short sales are to come. There are many reports out that would suggest that we are going to see more foreclosures before its all said and done. Short sales and foreclosures are on the rise, and supposedly so are home modification loans. What we know about those loan modification programs is that generally they are not working. About 70% of people default anyways. When these foreclosures hit the market at rock bottom prices, this may affect your home’s value.
2. Prices may get worse. So what is your plan? Stay for a couple more years and sell when the market “turns around?” Not to be a “Downer”, but things are going to be this way if not worse for 3-5 years according to most predictions. As long as people are still out of work, and still getting laid off, we are going to see more foreclosures and more short sales. Buyers pay what the neighborhood homes are selling for. Meaning if that foreclosure down the street sold for much less than what they paid 2 years ago, that sale affects the value of your home as well.
3. Historically Low Rates! Rates are historically low floating around 5% for a 30 year FHA fixed rate loan, and they wont last forever. Many of the “old timers” in the real estate business will tell horror stories of the day that they started, rates were double digits – and that wasn’t that long ago! Can you imagine? Once the demand in the market begins to pick up, guess what will happen to the rates? Banks make money on interest rates. There is already much talk that rates are to low now, and should be raised.
4. Tax credit buyers are running low on time, so demand is rising for “GOOD” inventory. Many of the foreclosure homes are in need of repairs. It can be costly, time consuming, and stressful. Many buyers don’t want or can’t afford to get into these projects.
5. You may be eligible for $6500 federal government money. The government is throwing around money, you may as well get some of it. That money may be enough to make up for a year or so worth of depreciation or most of the costs to sell, but it is going away soon! By April 30, 2010 you must be locked into a purchase agreement for a new primary residence, closing by the end of June. Here is a link with more details.
6. More foreclosures and short sales are to come. There are many reports out that would suggest that we are going to see more foreclosures before its all said and done. Short sales and foreclosures are on the rise, and supposedly so are home modification loans. What we know about those loan modification programs is that generally they are not working. About 70% of people default anyways. When these foreclosures hit the market at rock bottom prices, this may affect your home’s value.
7. Fix up costs are lower than normal–contractors, appliances, mechanicals and labor is much cheaper than it has been over the years. Hard to put a hard number on the exact effect of the economy on prices of these goods or services, but seems like we all know a good contractor or laborer that is looking for work. Now is the time that they are fighting for your business to stay alive, and are much more willing to negotiate prices to earn your business!
8. Lastly, you can’t have it both ways– translation you cant sell at the very top of the market and expect to turn around and buy at the very bottom of the market. Your choices are that you can sell higher when the market shifts again, and pay more for the home that you buy, or you can sell now and buy at the very bottom of the market.
(this information has been excepted from another Realtor's Blog - the address of that blog is: http://hairlessrealtor.com/my-blog-.asp?p=8)
Make Your Home Stand Out
There are numerous ways to make your home more attractive to buyers:
• Stage your home for potential purchasers. In your eyes, your home may be decorated to the tee, but to a potential buyer with different taste, your choices may impact their decision.
• Remove personal items such as family photos from the line of site. Potential buyers are trying to imagine themselves in the space. Seeing reminders of your time spent there can make that difficult.
• Remove clutter – even if you don't think it is clutter. Empty spaces seem bigger, lighter and more appealing.
• Consider making quick, inexpensive cosmetic changes to attract a wider range of buyers. A fresh coat of neutral colored paint can greatly change the appearance of any room and increase your final selling prices.
• Don't forget curb appeal. A prospect's first impression comes from the outside of the property. Make sure it is maintained on a frequent basis.
• Stage your home for potential purchasers. In your eyes, your home may be decorated to the tee, but to a potential buyer with different taste, your choices may impact their decision.
• Remove personal items such as family photos from the line of site. Potential buyers are trying to imagine themselves in the space. Seeing reminders of your time spent there can make that difficult.
• Remove clutter – even if you don't think it is clutter. Empty spaces seem bigger, lighter and more appealing.
• Consider making quick, inexpensive cosmetic changes to attract a wider range of buyers. A fresh coat of neutral colored paint can greatly change the appearance of any room and increase your final selling prices.
• Don't forget curb appeal. A prospect's first impression comes from the outside of the property. Make sure it is maintained on a frequent basis.
Tuesday
Monday
Some Possible Relief for Short Sales
Click on the link below to access the New York Time article addressing this issue:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/08/business/08short.html?adxnnl=1&partner=rss&emc=rss&pagewanted=all&adxnnlx=1268060421-e3ZtoMRPqO/sr5zS/lPpvQ
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/08/business/08short.html?adxnnl=1&partner=rss&emc=rss&pagewanted=all&adxnnlx=1268060421-e3ZtoMRPqO/sr5zS/lPpvQ
Sunday
Thursday
Buying and Selling at the Same Time
Unless you are a first time buyer or seller, there are likely two sides to your real estate experience. If you're selling, you may be looking for something to buy and if you're buying you probably have something to sell. Timing is everything! The following tips will help you along your process:
• Are you in a financial position to purchase a house before selling your current property? If not, talk to your financial institution about a bridge loan. This temporary loan (no more than 6 months) usually provides for interest-only payments.
• Will you have temporary shelter if you sell the home before you finalize the purchase of another? Investigate options such as renting back from the new owners for a short period of time, renting an apartment, staying with friends or relatives or hotels. The best option will depend on the specifics of your transactions and your financial standings. Don't forget to think about storage and moving options for your belongings.
• How will the timing of the move or moves interrupt daily activities? Don't forget to provide your child's school, your employer or other important relationships with your contact information and your expected length of stay.
Ideally, you'd like both the sale and purchase closing dates to be as close as possible. I'll be glad to discuss the options with you to ensure you make the best choices throughout the process.
• Are you in a financial position to purchase a house before selling your current property? If not, talk to your financial institution about a bridge loan. This temporary loan (no more than 6 months) usually provides for interest-only payments.
• Will you have temporary shelter if you sell the home before you finalize the purchase of another? Investigate options such as renting back from the new owners for a short period of time, renting an apartment, staying with friends or relatives or hotels. The best option will depend on the specifics of your transactions and your financial standings. Don't forget to think about storage and moving options for your belongings.
• How will the timing of the move or moves interrupt daily activities? Don't forget to provide your child's school, your employer or other important relationships with your contact information and your expected length of stay.
Ideally, you'd like both the sale and purchase closing dates to be as close as possible. I'll be glad to discuss the options with you to ensure you make the best choices throughout the process.
Monday
Friday
Is the Time Right for You?
Reminder – to qualify for the federal homebuyer’s tax credit you must have your new home under contract by April 30th and take possession by June 30th.
Saturday
Wednesday
Lower Cost Renovations That Can Make A Difference
While housing values haven't rebounded to their pre-collapse peak, home remodeling has showed some modest gains according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodeling Market Index (RMI). While most of the increase in demand for remodeling is for major home additions and alterations (jobs worth $25,000 or more), there is still growing demand for minor changes............
Follow this link to some interesting information on "Lower Cost Renovations That Can Make A Difference".
Follow this link to some interesting information on "Lower Cost Renovations That Can Make A Difference".
Friday
Shopping For A New Home???
Today - I have 4,290 homes right here in south central PA from which you can choose. Overwhelming number isn't it? Well, I can help you focus your search and identify homes that meet your wants and needs.
(picture of homes sold - not of homes currently available for sale)
Interested? Contact me at your convenience. I'd be happy to discuss how I can help you simplify your search and purchase.
Wednesday
Monday
FHA Amends "Flipping" Law
Thanks to a fellow Realtor/FaceBook Friend for sharing this late breaking information:
FHA is waiving the 90 day flipping law for one year starting February 1st 2010. FHA understands that alot of these bank owned properties are being purchased, rehabbed and resold. The hope is with this waiver that homes will be purch...ased, rehabbed and sold for fair market value which in turn will increase home values.... As we all know FHA is the most commonly used financing in today's market. See the HUD guidelines (link below) for more information.
FHA Temporarily Amends "Flipping" Guidelines
Thanks to a fellow Realtor/FaceBook Friend for sharing this late breaking information:
FHA is waiving the 90 day flipping law for one year starting February 1st 2010. FHA understands that alot of these bank owned properties are being purchased, rehabbed and resold. The hope is with this waiver that homes will be purch...ased, rehabbed and sold for fair market value which in turn will increase home values.... As we all know FHA is the most commonly used financing in today's market. See the HUD guidelines (link below) for more information.
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/waivpropflip2010.pdf
FHA is waiving the 90 day flipping law for one year starting February 1st 2010. FHA understands that alot of these bank owned properties are being purchased, rehabbed and resold. The hope is with this waiver that homes will be purch...ased, rehabbed and sold for fair market value which in turn will increase home values.... As we all know FHA is the most commonly used financing in today's market. See the HUD guidelines (link below) for more information.
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/waivpropflip2010.pdf
Wednesday
Reverse mortgages offer seniors options
To learn more about this interesting option please click on the link below:
Reverse mortgages offer seniors options
Posted using ShareThis
Reverse mortgages offer seniors options
Posted using ShareThis
Friday
New Listing - 37 Highland Drive, Camp Hill
Brick Cape Cod in Highland Village
(across Carlisle Rd. from Highland Park)
Corner Lot
3 Bedroom – 1st Floor Master
2 Bath – one up – one down
1,700 + Sq Ft
Eat-in Kitchen
Large Family Room
Hardwood Floors Throughout
Gas Forced Hot Air Heat
Central Air
All Appliances Convey
$173,000
Check out the website (click on link below) at:
Wednesday
Four Months and Counting
If you weren't quite ready to take the plunge in 2009 you still have time to take advantage of the Federal Tax Credit for homebuyers ($8,000 for qualifying first-time buyers and $6,500 for qualifying repeat buyers).
Two conditions:
* you must be under contract by April 30, 2010, and
* you must settle on the property by June 30, 2010
The Tax Credit combined with favorable housing prices and mortgage interest rates make this an ideal time to "pull the trigger" if you are "ready, willing and able".
And for those considering selling their properties - what a great time to list your house for sale. Buyers are motivated and looking. Now may present a great opportunity to get that house sold - but again - only if you are "ready, willing and able".
Two conditions:
* you must be under contract by April 30, 2010, and
* you must settle on the property by June 30, 2010
The Tax Credit combined with favorable housing prices and mortgage interest rates make this an ideal time to "pull the trigger" if you are "ready, willing and able".
And for those considering selling their properties - what a great time to list your house for sale. Buyers are motivated and looking. Now may present a great opportunity to get that house sold - but again - only if you are "ready, willing and able".
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