Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Home Improvements to Consider


Home Improvements to Consider - REMAX REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

Making sound investments in your home can improve the "bottom line" when the time comes to sell your home. The trick is, knowing what to improve. Making home improvements prior to listing it is a common practice. However, improvements should be selected carefully if the primary goal is to increase the profitability of your property.

Return on Investment (ROI) is a phrase that quantifies how much an investment returns compared to what you spent on the investment. For example, if a homeowner remodels a kitchen, and the home sells for a higher price (after covering the remodel costs), then they achieved a positive return on investment. If the property sells quicker because the new kitchen makes the property more attractive, additional benefits may be realized with the elimination of additional mortgage/interest payments. One way to maximize returns on your home improvements, renovations or other projects is to accomplish them prior to the sale, with the added benefit of enjoying the fruits of your labor. It is important to remember, though, that not all improvements guarantee additional profits. 

General guidelines suggest that you should not spend more than 20% of your home's value on an upgrade of the kitchen. And beware of "trends" - these are the fashionable upgrades that are popular in the moment, but may not be practical in the long-term. Media rooms, spas, and wine-cellars all seem like great features, but they tend to cost more to put in than you may get back in return.

In fact, experts generally agree that you will often see the highest return on investment for projects that simply bring your home up to the standard of those around it. When you keep the budget for projects in line with the overall worth of the home, you are more likely to get the most money back for the amount you put in.

Finally, if you can keep exotic tastes in check and accomplish the work with durable, affordable and timeless materials, you will have the best chance of recouping that money you invest into the project.

Here are the 5 top projects that contractors and real estate professionals consider the best returns on investment:
  1. Kitchen
  2. Bathrooms
  3. Interior Painting
  4. Roof
  5. Heating/Cooling systems
Hiring contractors for a renovation, remodel, or improvement is the most common practice - you can chose whether to hire a professional for just part of the task or the whole endeavor.

However, homeowners who enjoy and are proficient at "do-it-yourself" projects can realize even greater returns on investments by undertaking home improvement projects themselves. There is not a single method to achieve a positive return on your investment, rather you should look at the big picture and plan from there. Some jobs, especially easier ones with excellent cosmetic results can make a home more attractive with little money out of pocket.

The trick is, finding the balance between skill and expertise, time spent and tasks that you actually enjoy accomplishing. In addition to enjoying the work, remember that poorly accomplished projects can become detractors to potential buyers or cause other issues, so ensure you have the skill before you begin a project.

What you select to refresh, renovate, remodel or upgrade will likely depend on budget constraints and overall needs. Property in need of repairs to systems that directly affect the well-being of the home and its inhabitants should be completed first. Roof, foundation, water, sewage, electrical, heating and cooling systems fall under this category. While not as "satisfying" to behold, these systems must be in good working order for the home to function well and not deteriorate or fall prey to rot, mold or fire.

The good news is that while you are upgrading or updating electrical, you might be able to add some additional well-placed sockets or lighting fixtures for minimal additional cost. When replacing water or sewage pipes, you might be bringing in someone who can aid you in updating toilets, sinks and/or faucets.

Once the basic needs of the home are met, consider areas that are persistent eye-sores or functionally important.

If you are living in the house and intend to live there for a longer than a year, look to your own lifestyle for the answers. If you are fixing up to sell, consider the most likely buyers of your home and pick your projects accordingly. In a home that is far from restaurants, with multiple bedrooms, the kitchen may become more of a priority. Bathrooms that are dated, with poor lighting or storage, or with other issues often come next in line.

Sometimes less is more: If the yard and landscaping are overgrown, consider simply "bringing it under control" rather than jumping right in to a major renovation of the yard, especially if you have interior work to do as well.

In fact, consider whether spreading the budget over several areas of your home makes sense rather than working each area top to bottom and rotating around. Sometimes small, cosmetic upgrades in multiple areas are enough to change a "sense of home" and are easier to tackle, providing energy for the larger, more daunting tasks. Play with the budget and the areas you wish to improve - how far can the budget go?

For example - rather than spending your entire budget in the kitchen on a complete overhaul, it might be possible to update countertops, flooring, sinks, faucets, and appliances with part of it and allocate some for improvements on the landscaping or exterior that will boost the curb appeal, as well. Don't become attached to ideas too quickly. Survey other homes in your area and consider options before committing to one project or another.

Understanding your budget, skills, and timeframe in which you hope to accomplish (and enjoy) the improvement, and knowing the value of your home is a key to successfully maximizing your return on investment when improving your home. If your home needs to be updated to bring it up to the values of those around it, you probably stand to get the most back for your investment, so don't put it off - accomplishing improvements while you are still in the home to enjoy them is the best reward of all. And, when you sell your home, your realtor will be able to highlight your improvements and how you cared for the home.

Pewaukee WI Real Estate Market Report from 7/29/12 to 8/29/12

Pewaukee WI Real Estate Market Report by Lisa Bear,Remax Realtor

What's Happening in Real Estate in Pewaukee, and PEWAUKEE LAKE Waukesha County? WI Realtor,Lisa Bear, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Pewaukee, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County

  Home Values Pewaukee WI, Home Listings Pewaukee WI, MLS Listings PEWAUKEE WI, Lake Homes Pewaukee WI 53072


 

My name is Lisa Bear of Remax. My market report gives you the real estate activity for Pewaukee for the last 30 days. 

Pewaukee,  just off I-94 and  HWY 16 west of Milwaukee is located in the heart of "lake country," Pewaukee is a picturesque village on beautiful Pewaukee Lake. This vital community has been successful in preserving the small-town feel and tranquility of the area, while encouraging growth and  thriving businesses, family-friendly neighborhoods, award-winning schools, and low crime.

 
PEWAUKEE LAKE, another incredibly beautiful WISCONSIN LAKE - You can’t help but have a good time on a WISCONSIN lake.

Please feel free to call me for any of your real estate needs, including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home in Waukesha County. Real Estate in WAUKESHA County is an excellent investment! The following MLS information is for the last 30 days from 7/29/12 to 8/29/12. Lisa Bear Gives You The Real Estate Activity For PEWAUKEE, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County, WI


 In the Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market 42 homes sold; 12 were list and sold by the same company, and 30 were sold by co-brokes.

In the Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate  market there were 46 new listings.
In the Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate there were 23 pending listings.
In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 withdrawn listings.

In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.
In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estatethere were 32 expired listings.
In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate there were 11 back on market listings.
In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate  market there were 23 extended listings.

In the  Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 295 currently active listings.

The average price for a home SOLD was $239,818
The average days on market 181

In the Pewaukee and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate it is a great time to call LISA BEAR to buy and sell!


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Welcome to Wisconsin Real Estate with Lisa Bear

Oconomowoc WISCONSIN Real Estate Market Report from 7/29/12 to 8/29/12


Oconomowoc WISCONSIN Real Estate Market Report by Lisa Bear,Remax Realtor
 

What's Happening in Real Estate in Oconomowoc, and Oconomowoc LAKE, Lac LaBelle and Okauchee Lake Waukesha County? WI Realtor,Lisa Bear, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Oconomowoc, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County

Home Values Oconomowoc WI, Home Listings Oconomowoc WI, MLS Listings PEWAUKEE WI, Lake Homes Oconomowoc WI 53066


 

My name is Lisa Bear of Remax. My market report gives you the real estate activity for Oconomowoc for the last 30 days. 

Oconomowocjust off I-94 and  HWY 16 west of Milwaukee is nestled in the heart of Wisconsin's Lake Country...Oconomowoc is a community that shines year round. Natural beauty and hard work have resulted in unique communities of safe streets, award-winning excellent schools, quality health care, progressive governments, a prosperous economy and an overall high quality of life.
 
Oconomowoc’s location is idyllic for both rural and metropolitan interests and further, offers the best amenities of both. Just 35 miles west of Milwaukee, 5 miles east of Madison, and 120 miles north of Chicago, Oconomowoc is located in close proximity to some of the Midwest’s most esteemed cultural epicenters, as well as maintains a strong culture, vibrant economy and unmistakable smaller city charm all its own. The area includes the City of Oconomowoc, Towns of Oconomowoc, Okauchee,and Summit, and Villages of Dousman, Lac LaBelle, and Oconomowoc Lake.  
 
 
Oconomowoc LAKE, Okauchee Lake, Fowler Lake, Lac LaBelle - incredibly beautiful WISCONSIN LAKES- You can’t help but have a good time on a WISCONSIN lake.

Please feel free to call me for any of your real estate needs, including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home in Waukesha County. Real Estate in WAUKESHA County is an excellent investment! The following MLS information is for the last 30 days from 7/29/12 to 8/29/12. Lisa Bear Gives You The Real Estate Activity ForOconomowoc, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Waukesha County, WI

In the Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market 42 homes sold; 13 were list and sold by the same company, and 29 were sold by co-brokes.

In the Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake , Wisconsin Real Estate  market there were 58 new listings.
In the Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate there were 26 pending listings.
In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 7 withdrawn listings.

In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.
In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estatethere were 62 expired listings.
In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate there were 14 back on market listings.
In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate  market there were 64 extended listings.

In the  Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc Lake, Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 585 currently active listings.

The average price for a home SOLD was $293,401
The average days on market was 408

In the Oconomowoc and Oconomowoc LakeWisconsin Real Estate it is a great time to call LISA BEAR to buy and sell!

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Welcome to Wisconsin Real Estate with Lisa Bear

Thank you for visiting.  Please feel free to contact me for any of your real estate needs including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home if you are a buyer. My real estate focus in the  Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, Lake Country, Jefferson County, Dodge County and Washington County areas.  I have my IRES designation (International Real Estate Specialist) so I can assist you with all your real estate needs in Wisconsin, the USA or anywhere in the WORLD!

When you are seriously looking or just browsing at real estate in Wisconsin, I am a great resource to help you with all your needs and questions, whether a first time home buyer, relocating to or from the beautiful LAKE COUNTRY area, looking to invest or explore foreclosure opportunities or just thinking ahead to the future.

Lisa Bear of RE/MAX (262-893-5555) is an experienced real estate agent in Waukesha County and the entire Milwaukee Metro area including:

The prospering communities of Waukesha County including Delafield, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Sussex, Wales, New Berlin, Dousman, North Prairie, Mukwonago, Chenequa, Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Elm Grove, Okauchee, Eagle, Muskego and Merton.

Great municipalities in Milwaukee County including Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Hales Corners, Greenfield, Glendale, Franklin, Bayside, Brown Deer, Cudahy, Fox Point, Greendale, Shorewood, Oak Creek, St. Francis, West Allis and Whitefish Bay.

The hometown favorites of Washington County, Jefferson County and Dodge County including Watertown, Hartford, West Bend, Germantown, Jackson, Richfield, Ashippun, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Johnson Creek, Slinger and Erin.

Real Estate in Wisconsin is an excellent investment!
  Lisa bear southeastern wisconsin waukesha county lake country lakes
 "HELPING YOU MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION"

What's Happening in Real Estate in the CITY of Milwaukee?


 

What's Happening in Real Estate in the CITY of Milwaukee? WI Realtor,Lisa Bear, Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Milwaukee, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Milwaukee County 


A cosmopolitan city that combines Midwest friendliness with sophisticated flair.  Just an hour north of Chicago, Milwaukee is located on the Lake Michigan shoreline.  Milwaukee, offers one of the best downtowns in the MIDWEST and the entire UNITED STATES. There is always something to do from world class museums, thriving performing arts, a variety professional sports action (The Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Wave, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Mustangs),art galleries or casinos to enjoying a wide selection of ethnic restaurants or world famous festivals


My name is Lisa Bear of Remax. My market report gives you the real estate activity for Milwaukee, WI  for the last 30 days.


The following MLS information is for the last 30 days from 7/29/12 to 8/29/12. Lisa Bear Gives You The Real Estate Activity For Milwaukee, WI For the Last 30 Days: Real Estate In Milwaukee County, WI



In the Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Real Estate market 406 homes sold; 120 were listed and sold by the same company, and 318 were sold by co-brokes.


In the Milwaukee, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 818 new listings.


In the Milwaukee,,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 390 pending listings.


In theMilwaukee, ,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 14 withdrawn listings.


In the  Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 0 canceled listings.


In the Milwaukee, ,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 495 expired listings.


In the Milwaukee,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 196 back on market listings.


In the Milwaukee, MilwaukeeCounty,Wisconsin Real Estate market there were 410 extended listings.


In the Milwaukee, Wisconsin Real Estate market there are 3664currently active listings.


 The average price for a home SOLD was $107,233


5 Ground Rules for Home Buying Success

There are five basic ground rules that you must know when it comes to buying a home and shopping smart, and they are ....

There are few purchases in life that carry the financial and psychological weight of buying a home.  Whether you are buying your first home, moving up to your dream home, or downsizing your home and your life after the kids have gone, it is important to understand the ground rules for success in the world of buying a home.

Making the wrong decision in buying a home can have devastating and long lasting effects, while making a wise decision in home buying can greatly enhance the overall value of the investment.  It is necessary to learn all you can about the world of home buying and mortgages before setting out to purchase the home of your dreams.

While there are plenty of web sites designed to help first time homeowners learn all they can, most financial experts say that there is no substitute for the good old one-on-one learning. Fortunately, most mortgage lenders, home inspectors and real estate agents will be able to provide this kind of one-on-one learning.

When buying a home it is often best to use a systematic approach as this is often the best way to be sure that all decisions are based on information and reason, not on impulse or emotion.  Buying a home can be an emotional process, nevertheless it is imperative to keep your emotions under control and not let them cloud your judgment.


There are 5 basic ground rules when it comes to buying a home and shopping smart, and they are:

#1 – Get your financing before you get your home

There are few things in life as disappointing as losing out on the home of your dreams due to not being able to secure funding.  While the desire to get out there are search for that great home is understandable, it is vital to line up the financing you will need before you start shopping for a home.



Getting the financing ahead of time has a number of important advantages, including knowing how much you can buy and gaining more respect from the listing agents.  By knowing how much home you can afford before you shop you will avoid wasting your time looking at unaffordable properties, and the listing agent will be more than willing to show you the homes in your price range.

It is also important to take a good look at the various types of mortgage on the market before getting started in the home buying process.  These days, mortgages come in far more choices than the typical 15 or 30 year. For that reason, potential home buyers need to understand how each type of mortgage works, and to gauge which mortgage is the best choice for their needs.

#2 – Look at the community, not just the home

It is a good idea to look at the entire community, instead of focusing on a single home. This can be a particularly important thing to consider for those moving to a new metropolitan area, as these buyers will be unfamiliar with the local climate and lifestyle.  It is crucial to determine the areas of town that are most desirable, and to consider things like distance from work and local shopping opportunities.

We have all heard that location is the key consideration when it comes to real estate, and that is certainly the case.  Buying a house in the wrong area can be a big mistake, and it is important to choose the location as well as the home.  Potential buyers can learn a great deal about the nature of the various neighborhoods simply by driving around town, as well as by talking to other residents.

#3 – Be fair with your first offer

Trying to lowball a seller on the first offer can backfire, as can paying too much. It is important to carefully evaluate the local market, and to compare the asking price of the home with what similar houses in the neighborhood have sold for.

Comparing the sales of comparable homes, what are known as "comps" in the industry, is one of the best ways to determine what is fair, and to make sure that you neither overpay or underbid on the property.

#4 – Always get a home inspection

Always investigate the home for any possible defects before making an offer.  Compared to the cost of the average home, the price of a quality home inspection is virtually negligible. Hence, get a good home inspection done before you buy.



To find the best home inspector, it is a good idea to seek out word of mouth referrals as many of the best home inspectors rely on word of mouth advertising.



 #5 – Do not alienate the sellers of the home

Many real estate deals have fallen apart due to the personal animosity of the buyer and the seller.  It is important to avoid alienating the seller of the home during the process, and to avoid nitpicking every little detail during the sale.



Keeping the good will of the seller will help the transaction go smoothly, and it will provide the best environment for seller and buyer alike.



Welcome to Wisconsin Real Estate with Lisa Bear

Thank you for visiting.  Please feel free to contact me for any of your real estate needs including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home if you are a buyer. My real estate focus in the  Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, Lake Country, Jefferson County, Dodge County and Washington County areas.  I have my IRES designation (International Real Estate Specialist) so I can assist you with all your real estate needs in Wisconsin, the USA or anywhere in the WORLD!

When you are seriously looking or just browsing at real estate in Wisconsin, I am a great resource to help you with all your needs and questions, whether a first time home buyer, relocating to or from the beautiful LAKE COUNTRY area, looking to invest or explore foreclosure opportunities or just thinking ahead to the future.

Lisa Bear of RE/MAX (262-893-5555) is an experienced real estate agent in Waukesha County and the entire Milwaukee Metro area including:

The prospering communities of Waukesha County including Delafield, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Sussex, Wales, New Berlin, Dousman, North Prairie, Mukwonago, Chenequa, Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Elm Grove, Okauchee, Eagle, Muskego and Merton.

Great municipalities in Milwaukee County including Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Hales Corners, Greenfield, Glendale, Franklin, Bayside, Brown Deer, Cudahy, Fox Point, Greendale, Shorewood, Oak Creek, St. Francis, West Allis and Whitefish Bay.

The hometown favorites of Washington County, Jefferson County and Dodge County including Watertown, Hartford, West Bend, Germantown, Jackson, Richfield, Ashippun, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Johnson Creek, Slinger and Erin.

Real Estate in Wisconsin is an excellent investment!
  Lisa bear southeastern wisconsin waukesha county lake country lakes
 "HELPING YOU MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION"

Discover REAL ESTATE in Wisconsin, Lisa Bear

REAL ESTATE in Wisconsin, 201 Jasper Ln Waukesha FOR SALE

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

A mover's guide to Wisconsin


Moving to Wisconsin?  Learn how to choose the right Wisconsin real estate agent and save time..

Wisconsin is a growing area, not just for TRAVEL WISCONSIN vacationers, but also for individuals and families that are moving there as well.  A common misconception is that Wisconsin features only cold weather, the GREEN BAY PACKERS  and the WISCONSIN DELLS resort areas for family travelers; however, many people move to WISCONSIN to enjoy other benefits. WISCONSIN offers educational opportunities that far exceed other areas of the United States, tax breaks, employment opportunities, over 15,000 beautiful Wisconsin lakes and much more.  So, WISCONSIN real estate is an excellent investment and getting easier as the state continues to thrive.

Moving to WISCONSIN from another state can seem overwhelming.  Not only do you need to find WISCONSIN real estate, but you also must become familiar with Wisconsin state regulations for moving to that area.  You can do all the research yourself or hire a dependable Wisconsin real estate agent to assist you in your search.  Whether searching for Wisconsin homes for sale or WISCONSIN LAKE homes for sale, choosing the right Wisconsin real estate agent will save you from many headaches.

How to Choose a Wisconsin Real Estate Agent

Be sure the agent you choose is willing to go the extra mile for you.  If you live far away from WISCONSIN, you'll want an agent who can do the legwork for you in finding a new home.  The last thing you need is to travel back and forth only to see new homes that do not match your criteria.  The real estate agent should be willing to help you find specific areas in regards to WISCONSIN SCHOOL needs too.

Choose a WISCONSIN real estate agent who will carefully research each new home to be sure it fits perfectly with what you want.  Be sure they offer online services as well so you can view the possible homes online before taking a trip. This will save you much time and money.

Building a New Home in WISCONSIN

Perhaps you'd rather build a new home in Wisconsin.  If so, choose a real estate agent who can help you find affordable WISCONSIN land in a good location.  The agent should  also be able to help you find a dependable builder in the area.

Other Helpful Services

Other services your agent might provide that can benefit you when buying WISCONSIN real estate include providing connections with an affordable mortgage lender, experience in foreclosures, repossessions and estate homes, and experience in corporate relocation.

Where to Look

To find a dependable Wisconsin real estate agent, start by searching online.  The Web is a great resource where you can learn all about an agent before you ever meet them!  This too will save time and money.

Whether you're planning on moving into a new Wisconsin home, a Wisconsin lake home, or building a Wisconsin home, you'll find that hiring a dependable WISCONSIN real estate agent to be a great time-saver!




Welcome to Wisconsin Real Estate with Lisa Bear

Thank you for visiting.  Please feel free to contact me for any of your real estate needs including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home if you are a buyer. My real estate focus in the  Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, Lake Country, Jefferson County, Dodge County and Washington County areas.  I have my IRES designation (International Real Estate Specialist) so I can assist you with all your real estate needs in Wisconsin, the USA or anywhere in the WORLD!

When you are seriously looking or just browsing at real estate in Wisconsin, I am a great resource to help you with all your needs and questions, whether a first time home buyer, relocating to or from the beautiful LAKE COUNTRY area, looking to invest or explore foreclosure opportunities or just thinking ahead to the future.

Lisa Bear of RE/MAX (262-893-5555) is an experienced real estate agent in Waukesha County and the entire Milwaukee Metro area including:

The prospering communities of Waukesha County including Delafield, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Sussex, Wales, New Berlin, Dousman, North Prairie, Mukwonago, Chenequa, Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Elm Grove, Okauchee, Eagle, Muskego and Merton.

Great municipalities in Milwaukee County including Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Hales Corners, Greenfield, Glendale, Franklin, Bayside, Brown Deer, Cudahy, Fox Point, Greendale, Shorewood, Oak Creek, St. Francis, West Allis and Whitefish Bay.

The hometown favorites of Washington County, Jefferson County and Dodge County including Watertown, Hartford, West Bend, Germantown, Jackson, Richfield, Ashippun, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Johnson Creek, Slinger and Erin.

Real Estate in Wisconsin is an excellent investment!
  Lisa bear southeastern wisconsin waukesha county lake country lakes
 "HELPING YOU MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION"

REAL ESTATE in Wisconsin, Home for sale 88th Street, Greenfield

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

The steps to buying a home



The 9 Steps to Home Ownership

 

Step - 1 Make the Decision to Buy

It seems obvious, but it's good to note that the first step to buying a house is making the decision to buy. Consider the reasons you want a new house and write them down. Determine how long you want to live in the new house - does buying still make good financial sense? Can you afford a house that will meet your list of requirements? A good rule of thumb is your mortgage payment should not exceed 1/3 of your net monthly income.
Step 2 - Seek Professional Guidance

I'd like to schedule a time to meet with you to hear the reasons you want to buy a house and your plans for the future. We'll talk about neighborhoods, schools, economic factors liable to affect the market today and tomorrow, as well as how you would like your house and neighborhood to grow with you.
At this time, I will also help you get pre-qualified for a mortgage loan. Pre-qualification is a written statement from a loan officer indicating his or her opinion that you will be approved for a mortgage loan up to a certain amount. The fact that you are pre-qualified will help us when we are negotiating the deal.
Step 3 - Begin the Hunt

After our initial meeting, we'll search all my resources for houses on the market that fit your criteria. We'll preview these houses to eliminate the duds. Then, we'll schedule appointments to tour the houses at times convenient to you.
As we tour houses, we'll point out positive features and negative features. We'll ask you to tell us what you like and what you don't like. You'll probably amend your "wish list" as we tour houses, some things will become more important and others less important. With this new information, we'll refine our search criteria to narrow in on the house of your dreams.
Step 4 - Know the Market

My knowledge of the local market is an essential factor in the house search. We'll let you know when the market in a particular neighborhood is "hot" and requires immediate action or when the market is "cool" and allows for thoughtful consideration.
As we tour houses, well let you know when the asking price has negotiating room and when the house is "priced to sell". Our unique market knowledge will keep you a step ahead of the "house hunting competition". In a "seller's market", it is not unusual to see multiple offers on a property, full-price offers, and even above-price offers. On the flip side, during a "buyer's market" there are more houses for sale than buyers. This gives us more negotiating room as houses are taking longer to sell.



Step 5 - Find Your Dream House

I'm confident we'll find your dream house. When we do, we'll put together the purchase offer tailored for your needs including appropriate contingencies (such as obtaining financing, favorable home inspection, clear title, etc.).
The offer is normally presented with "earnest money". This is a cash deposit made to a home seller to secure an offer to buy the property. The amount is applied to closing costs. If the seller accepts the offer, generally closing is held 30 to 60 days from the offer date (generally dependent on the turn around time of your mortgage financing).
Step 6 - Negotiate the Deal

It is not uncommon to receive a counter-offer when the initial purchase offer is submitted. Don't let this discourage you. We will discuss the counter offer and decide whether or not to accept the counter offer, submit our own counter offer, or reject the counter offer and move on.
Market conditions will play a role in how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We will also work within your limits. Emotions can lead to buyer's remorse. It is better to set limits prior to negotiating an offer and stick to these limits.
Step 7 - Get a Loan

During the closing period, you will be working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. Since you pre-qualified for the loan before starting your home search, you will be that much closer to the end. We'll gather the necessary property information your lender will need to close the loan.
Step 8 - Close the Deal

You will receive a "Good Faith Estimate" of closing costs at the time the loan application is submitted to the lender. The estimate is based on the loan officer's past experience and may not include all the closing costs. We will be glad to review the "Good Faith Estimate," answering questions and highlighting missing costs and estimates we believe to be low.
Step 9 - Move In

Congratulations! It's time to move into your new house and make it your home. Enjoy this exciting time. We'll give you a checklist to help you remember the numerous details that will make your moving day a pleasure. 



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Welcome to Wisconsin Real Estate with Lisa Bear

Thank you for visiting.  Please feel free to contact me for any of your real estate needs including an online market if you are a seller, or finding a home if you are a buyer. My real estate focus in the  Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, Lake Country, Jefferson County, Dodge County and Washington County areas.  I have my IRES designation (International Real Estate Specialist) so I can assist you with all your real estate needs in Wisconsin, the USA or anywhere in the WORLD!

When you are seriously looking or just browsing at real estate in Wisconsin, I am a great resource to help you with all your needs and questions, whether a first time home buyer, relocating to or from the beautiful LAKE COUNTRY area, looking to invest or explore foreclosure opportunities or just thinking ahead to the future.

Lisa Bear of RE/MAX (262-893-5555) is an experienced real estate agent in Waukesha County and the entire Milwaukee Metro area including:

The prospering communities of Waukesha County including Delafield, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Waukesha, Sussex, Wales, New Berlin, Dousman, North Prairie, Mukwonago, Chenequa, Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Elm Grove, Okauchee, Eagle, Muskego and Merton.

Great municipalities in Milwaukee County including Milwaukee, South Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Hales Corners, Greenfield, Glendale, Franklin, Bayside, Brown Deer, Cudahy, Fox Point, Greendale, Shorewood, Oak Creek, St. Francis, West Allis and Whitefish Bay.

The hometown favorites of Washington County, Jefferson County and Dodge County including Watertown, Hartford, West Bend, Germantown, Jackson, Richfield, Ashippun, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Johnson Creek, Slinger and Erin.

Real Estate in Wisconsin is an excellent investment!
  Lisa bear southeastern wisconsin waukesha county lake country lakes
 "HELPING YOU MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION"