Inspiration

I lost my friend and mentor in the real estate business last week, my step father, Chuck Boyer.  He taught me (almost) everything I know.  :)   I remember when I decided to get my license over 18 years ago;  he cautioned me about the ups and downs of being self employed.  He taught me to tell the truth, no matter what.  And to communicate with those you work with.  If you tell someone you're going to call them back, then do it.  Follow through.  His knowledge of the industry was unparalled; at one time, he was the education chair for the franchise he was licensed with (which was the top franchise in Texas at the time).  He taught me to never be satisfied with what you know.  Keep learning, and by teaching others, it helps you indirectly too.  He will be missed by many.  I have big shoes to fill.  One day at a time...

Buy first, or Sell First: What to do?

   I have a number of clients facing a peculiar, but increasingly common dilemma, whether to sell or buy first. If you sell your house first you run the risk of selling it before you locate a new house to move into. If you buy first, you have to come up financing while you wait nervously for your house to sell.

   Selling first has its advantages. When you sell your home first, you'll know exactly how much you can afford to pay for your new home. You’ll have the cash available, and “cash is king” in this market. It’s important to get pre-approved for the financing so you’ll know exactly what price range to shop within. During negotiations, you'll be in much stronger position to make a non-contingent offer, which is much more likely to be accepted by the seller than an offer that has a contingency attached to it.

   If you sell your house first, try to negotiate a longer escrow so you have time to shop for your next home.  You'll want to negotiate a few days to a week possession after closing perhaps so you can sell your home and move right on in to your next home.  You can alwasy explore the possibility of short term rentals, and know that you might have to put your furniture in storage.

   When buying first, it might be necessary to place a contingency clause in the offer.  This clause states that the purchase is conditional upon the sale of your current property, usually within a specified time. A contingent offer has some disadvantages. You run the risk of being rejected by the seller for a more favorable offer without a contingency. Sellers are less likely to accept a contingent offer when they have other offers that don’t carry this contingency clause.

   Whether you decide to sell first or buy first seek the advice of a professional real estate agent who can guide you through this tricky process.   http://www.askadvantage.com/

Spring has sprung

Seeing lots of optimism out there in the real estate market lately.  Banks have money to lend to buyers...with good credit :)  Lots of motivated sellers, so perhaps it's time to get your "buy" on.  I've heard it said that you don't want the future to be said of today..."I wish I had bought then."

So glad to be sitting here waiting for the 60 degree plus temps expected tomorrow!  Yes, even the weather plays an important role in people buying houses... bring on the sunshine!  It's been a long winter in central Missouri, and I'm enjoying watching my tulips sprout up.

Always looking for a major project to accomplish at my own home each year.  This winter we replaced all of our ceiling fans with new new ones...oil rubbed bronze finish.  I love it!  My husband thinks I dream up jobs for him to do:)  Sound familiar?

Painting a room is an affordable way to give a room a facelift, economically.  I can hardly wait till the weekend...I have several projects to work on.  Love to stay busy!