Search Web & Scott's Blog

Thursday, March 31, 2011

When it comes to selling homes this spring, buyers are still around, but sellers need to be aware of the fact that home buyers are looking for more value for their money than they once were. The simple fact that there are some many homes on the market for buyers to choose from has resulted in many home buyers becoming extremely picky. As a result, if a home seller wants to move their home in this market, they must learn to be flexible when it comes to matters of money and time. Let me guide you through the process. Scott Larson Realtor Monroe, WI. 608-214-9844 greencountyhomeguide.com

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Don’t let the Realtor buy your listing

This is fairly common occurrence. Realtors are fighting to get listings and they could tell you an unrealistic price for your home just so they list with you. Realtors either know that they are doing this or they are just horrible at pricing property. Make any agent you interview substantiate their valuation with market facts, data and trends. Often times, the Realtor with the lowest valuation is your best choice because they are most honest or most in tune with the market. Call Scott to give you an honest evaluation of your home. 608-214-9844
Need a Realtor, hire the biggest producer?

Don’t assume that the highest producer is the best Realtor or gives the best service. Would you rather work with a good Realtor who has forty listings or a good Realtor that has ten? You probably will end up with better service with the Realtor that spread between only 10 listings. That is not always the case but this is what you can uncover when you interview them. A good Realtor works for you, not themselves. They make it their goal to find ways to make your plans a reality. Call Scott Larson today and give him an interview. 608-214-9844

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

What is an Earnest Money Deposit?

It's a good faith deposit but not to be confused with a down payment. When buyers execute a purchase contract, the contract specifies how much money the buyer is initially putting up to secure the contract, to show "good faith," and how much money all together will be deposited as a down payment. The balance is generally financed as a mortgage or a combination of mortgages. An earnest money deposit says to the seller: "Yes, I am serious enough about buying your house that I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is."

Friday, March 4, 2011

Something I saw from a fellow blogger that I thought would be interesting
Times have changed drastically over the last several years. Many people have been forced to move back home with their parents after college due to a lack of job prospects or too much debt. Other people have made the choice to have their parents or other older relatives move in due to health problems. But these issues usually require extra space that may not be readily available. Thanks to the FHA 203K loan, people can now finance the home addition that they need.

Basics of FHA 203k Loans

Up until recently, people that wished to add on to their home or make extensive remodeling repairs either paid cash for the project or borrowed money from the equity in their home. The problem arose when people did not have sufficient equity to cover the excess cost. But the FHA 203k will allow people to refinance their existing loan and get an extra $35,000 to use for home repair or remodeling ($35,000 max for the streamline FHA 203k program. If you need more, ask about the full 203k).

FHA 203k Loan Requirements

The FHA 203k loan is set up in such a way that the borrower, as well as the lender is protected throughout the whole process. In order to get approved for the loan a licensed contractor will need to submit an estimate of the anticipated renovations. An appraiser will need to review the proposal and make an estimate as to the new value of the property after the remodel is complete. As an extra precaution the money used for the rehab work will be held in escrow until the contractor is finished.

For those individuals that have simply outgrown their existing space, this is a very affordable way to stay in their current home and make necessary additions. People that are now caring for elderly relatives in their own home will also appreciate the ability to use some funds to increase accessibility to the home for handicapped persons.

Please visit our FHA 203k loan page for additonal program details or contact me below.

Your local Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Florida mortgage banker

Dennis Hardy
NMLS ID 229455
Phone: 877-240-5810
dennis.hardy@madisonmortgageguys.com
www.madisonmortgageguys.com
As we approach the edge of winter, and arrive upon the edge of spring, thoughts of selling your home tends to become stronger. March is here already, and if you are considering selling your home, you might want to do now

In my area, we are still experiencing a buyers market. Inventory is still up with more homes being added to the mix daily.

Be the tiger, attack your home selling plan with a purpose. Get the house ready and on the market before you have more competition to contend with. Get it ready to sell. Here are some tips that will get it ready to sell:

* Paint will go a long way to improving your homes appeal. Lighter more neutral colors are a safer choice, the brighter, bolder colors do not appeal to the masses.
* Don't forget to look up and paint the ceilings if needed.
* Clean your carpets, or replace them if they are in bad condition.
* Clean everything, and de-clutter as much as possible.
* Make space in your closets by removing any clothing that will not be needed until you move.
* Pack anything you do not need and label the boxes. When It comes time to move, you will be one step ahead of the packing process. Rent a storage unit to hold these items and extra furniture
* General repairs like dripping faucets, cracked molding, squeaky doors, anything that is broken or loose should be fixed.