Where's the home bailout for Main Street?

With all the unaccounted for bailout money seemingly disappearing into mid air,
and bank executives continuing to get bonuses regardless of their performances,
more and more Americans who are under water in the real estate market are asking...
Where is my bailout? How do you think the bailout money could be better spent?

Top 7 New Home Buying Mistakes

Top 7 New Home Buying Mistakes

What Is Your Home Worth?

When selling your home, its value is determined by one thing--what a qualified buyer is willing to pay for it. No more and no less. Your insurance replacement value, appraised value or tax assessed value is worthless. Your insurance agent, appraiser or tax assessor is typically not going to buy your home. It is what a reasonable buyer thinks your home is worth that will ultimately determine if your home will sell. Realtors and Appraisers all look at the same MLS sold listings (typically over the last 6 months) to determine how a property should be listed.
Now, some of you may say, "Not all homes are the same." And you are right! It is an apples and oranges debate. Not all 3bd 2bth homes are priced the same. Size of property, amenities, location and other issues are relevant. I advise my clients to look over MLS Listings for comparable properties, and suggest they take the time to visit properties similar to their own, before pricing their property competitively for the market. Well priced properties sell in any market!

A Little Maintenance Saves Thousands of Dollars

For many of us, our homes are our biggest investment. As a Realtor, I have seen many Sellers discover that their potential buyers inspections are uncovering serious deferred maintenance issues. Simple maintenance chores like caulking around bathtubs, sinks and toilets can save thousands in giveaways. A simple pest report before you list your home can save thousands, if addressed before a buyer discovers problems. Earth to wood contact on the exterior of your home is a pathway for termites to enter and cause serious damage. Simply keeping soil away from wood can save thousands of dollars you can keep in your pocket. In order to maximize profit on your sell, it is important to discuss these issues up front with your Realtor before listing your property.

The Truth About Home Prices

Median prices softened in Sonoma County in the last quarter as home sales fell 22 percent year over year, according to research done by Prudential based on MLS data. However, in Sebastopol, Healdsburg and Sonoma sales tended to hold better value respectively. High end homes are somewhat different than entry level loan laws and continue to see good activity. The County is now experiencing the strongest buyer's market in nearly a decade. Sellers are now having to adapt and becoming more accommodating to buyer's demands. If buyers see a home they like, they should begin negotiations as the market is presently in their favor.

Uncertain Loan Market

Lately, there are stories of lenders not funding, withdrawing loan commitments and some lenders failing. It is important that your Realtor does not remove your financing contingency until your loan is certain in this market. Otherwise, you may find yourself in breach of contract and suffer damages.

My New Blog!

Hi Friends, Clients & Neighbors!

I am excited about providing you with a place where you can share your thoughts with me about Sonoma County real-estate. Coming from being a homeowner of nearly 30 years in the County, and a real-estate agent, I believe that together, you and I can provide a fresh perspective on local issues, and your concerns about real estate in today's market. The More We Know, The Better Off we will be when making the biggest financial decisions in our lives that have long term consequences. Whether you are a Buyer or Seller, this is a great place to share important information to help others.