February 8, 2014

2014 Suggestions for improved living/selling:

2013 was good year for Parkfairfax’s residential real estate market by nearly every account. Now one month into 2014, The johnANDjohn TEAM will share 4 key trends that are driving the market:

1.Inventory. As if today’s date, there are only 14 properties available for sale in Parkfairfax. Most listings continue to be lower than their 2007 peak; however, they’re moving up due to lower interest rates. Purchasers will soon learn they may need to be prepared to move quickly.

2. Move-in ready makes a difference. People who buy in the Shirlington area tend to have very busy schedules, and as such, gravitate towards properties that have no deferred maintenance and include recent upgrades, especially new kitchens and bathrooms. If you have a 2 bedroom home, add a bathroom. Making these investments before listing WILL increase your sale price. And you’ll enjoy them!

3. Technology has changed everything. Today's market moves very quickly. If you are selling your home, make sure to hire a broker who is using innovative technologies to expose your home locally, nationally and internationally in real-time. No one gets more viewings of their listings in Parkfairfax than The johnANDjohn TEAM. Every listing we get goes immediately into www.Parkfairfax.com which continues to generate approximately 6000 hits per month.

4. Closets are the New Kitchens/Baths. Everyone knows their kitchen/bath needs renovation in order to compete. Now, it’s closets. Call on any of the businesses that recreate closets, If you’re adding the much needed bath, have the closets renovated simultaneously.

So many of you have asked, "when will my home be worth what I paid". Here's some thoughts:

Why The Shortage Of Available Homes?

Some homeowners are hoping to recoup losses on their homes before listing them for sale. This could be a risky decision, as many economists have previously characterized the last peak of the housing market to be a “bubble,” or an abnormal spike in home values.    In some markets cash buyers are snapping up homes and making it difficult for mortgage-dependent homebuyers to compete.

Another common scenario that presents challenges to home buyers in areas where homes are in high demand occurs when there are multiple purchase offers for one home.    Buyers who rely on mortgage loans for financing their home purchase can improve their chances by being pre-approved for a mortgage before shopping for a home.

Rising Home Prices And Mortgage Rates, Short Supply Of Homes

According to Mark Fleming, chief economist for CoreLogic, home price trends are rising at their fastest pace since 1977. While good news for sellers, homebuyers may find fewer affordable options over time while also contending with rising mortgage rates.   In spite of rapidly rising home prices, national home prices remain about 19 percent below their peak in April 2006.

 

If you're ready to sell or buy, please call The johnANDjohn TEAM. We live in Parkfairfax, own property here, and cheer increased home values. We want (and get) top dollar for Parkfairfax homes. Check out www.Parkfairfax.com along with the 6000 hits we get monthly. We give your listing the maximum exposure to the marketplace.

 

John Welch

Associate Broker

The johnANDjohn TEAM

703-820-9723

RE/MAX Allegiance

www.Parkfairfax.com

www.johnANDjohn.net

 

Happy New Year, 2013!!

More Alexandria homes sold in 2012 than in 2011; and let's make that possible for many of you who want to move in 2013. Prices have escalated in the detached/townhome home market during 2012 and condos WILL follow. For those of you who want to sell your Parkfairfax home this year, there is a pent-up demand for homes. For those homes not renovated, there are investors who are buying.. Most people who want to live in thier Parkfairfax home, want it ready-to-move-in. And since most of our new buyers live here because of our excellent location and near Shirlington; their tastes are upscale and they want thier homes to reflect this. Those homes that have added 1/2 bath have become much more valuable. Consider adding one! It should add more value than the cost. Give us a call if you need a reference.

The johnANDjohn TEAM thanks you for your business. You've made us #1 in Parkfairfax for the past 13 years! 

Thanksgiving 2012

Best wishes to you and yours this Thanksgiving Season. We've so much for which to be thankful; the most important is you. You live (or want to) in one of the most wonderful spots in The United States, Parkfairfax. Our park is clean, our climate is moderate, we have beautiful greenery everywhere and we're near all the activities important to the world.And we can stroll to public transportation, entertainment, and necessities. So many of you conduct important functions that make our world a better place everyday; we are thankful. Many of you teach, are front line defenders, work in our nation's defense or take care of others. We are thankful. This Thanksgiving, give pause, be thankful and help someone.

Multiple Offers:
A VERY CLEAN Adams 1 bedroom model in Parkfairfax attracted 4 offers at the end of last week. It wasn't overly renovated; but it was VERY clean!! And 2 of the offers were above list price. We have clients looking for 1 bedroom models. Call The johnANDjohn TEAM at 703-820-9723. Check out what we currently have "for sale" at www.Parkfairfax.com

Happy Last Day of Summer 2012.....finds Parkfairfax's inventory continuing to be low. The most renovated homes continue to generate the quickest sales, which means the most money!  Some of you have told me you think quick sales are "for the Realtor". Really? Proof is in the statistics. The longer a home is "for sale" the lower the price a buyer is willing to pay.

Get you home ready to sell. In today's market, you need to thoroughly wash the windows. Buyers perceive the house to be well-maintained if the windows are clean. Please remember the areas between the screen and the window. Wax and buff to a new shine those gorgeous hardwood floors.

Display new towels in the bath(s) and the kitchen, change out the commode seat. Remove trash cans from view. Remember, we're creating an illusion. People want to see how they want to live; not reality. Look at homes for sale on HGTV! You'll quickly learn what to do.

Remember location when you're buying. The position of the home WILL NOT CHANGE. Everything inside CAN change. Renovations are not as important as location.

Come visit The johnANDjohn TEAM in Parkfairfax on any given Sunday. Allow us to introduce ourselves. And to those of whom we know; thanks for dropping in to visit and check out other homes.  Check out our clients' homes for sale on www.Parkfairfax.com and www.johnANDjohn.net . Now let's get ready for some changing leaf color and some cool days! 

Parkfairfax Owners: The New York Times has compiled a great article about Real Estate and how "walk-to-restaurants and entertainment" is the HOT TICKET!!



http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/27/opinion/sunday/now-coveted-a-walkable-convenient-place.html?_r=1

Simmering Spring Market RESULTS

This Spring is 2 times as good as last spring. We appreciate your business. One of the reasons The johnANDjohn TEAM is hired is www.Parkfairfax.com This last month, 36% of the visitors were BRAND NEW visitors. So more and more people are wanting to live in our little Paradise.
Our sellers have been very fortunate to have the 64% of those who looked at www.Parkfairfax.com last month bought their homes.

Many sellers tell us that open houses are just for Realtors. Show me a Realtor who wants to work on Sunday!! We've got 4!! We like to get VERY positive results for our sellers. All Parkfairfax homes we've sold this year found their buyers via open houses! ALL!! We know how to sell your home. Call The johnANDjohn TEAM. Oh, 2 of our Parkfairfax units this spring have received multiple offers!!

BUYERS, without you none of this is possible. We want you in Parkfairfax. Come to where community is very important. Come be a part of the magic that makes Parkfairfax a wonderful place to live.

SELLERS, PLEASE READ! Buyers WILL read!
___________________________________________
Home seller pitfalls to avoidDo your home's features justify your asking price?
By Dian HymerInman News®

Six years after the market peaked in 2006 and prices started to decline, many sellers are still in denial about the current market value of their homes. It's difficult for most sellers to accept the reality of today's home-sale market, whether they bought at or near the peak and will lose money selling today, or bought decades ago but are still stuck at 2006 prices.
An Oakland, Calif., homeowner recently remarked that she was aware that home prices had dropped quite a bit over the last five years. But she felt that her home hadn't lost any value.
It's hard for homeowners to divorce themselves emotionally from a home they've enjoyed. But this is what sellers need to do so that they can make rational decisions about a list price that will actually result in a sale.
This decision should be based on listings that have sold in your area that could be considered somewhat comparable to your home. Some sellers go to open houses to evaluate the competition. If you're still emotionally wrapped up in your home, the exercise can be futile. You return home feeling that the other homes aren't as good as yours.
Put yourself in the buyers' shoes. This is easier for sellers who are also buying in this market. They know what it's like to want to make sure they're getting a good deal. Your house needs to be listed at a price that is enticing to buyers because it represents a good value. In most areas, buyers are buying in a market knowing that prices may continue to decline before the market fully recovers.
HOUSE HUNTING TIP: Be wary of real estate agents who tell you that your home will sell for a higher-than-supportable price just to get the listing. Then they work on you over time until you reduce the price to market value. REALTORS® refer to this as buying a listing.
It's hard to resist the temptation of trying for a higher price than the comparable sales indicate. However, you won't be happy if your home is on the market for months with no activity, and each time you drop the price it feels like too little too late. You can end up selling for less later if home prices in your area are still declining.
Refinance appraisals are notoriously inaccurate in terms of market value -- either too high or too low. An appraiser is attempting to gauge what price a buyer would pay when there isn't a ratified contract that states what a buyer will pay. A high refinance appraisal can leave the seller with a false expectation.
Listing your home based on what you want or need to net from the sale won't motivate buyers to pay more. Buyers pay market value. They're won't overpay in today's market.
Find out what buyers are looking for in your area and see how your home matches up to their expectations. Generally, today's buyers are looking for a home that is well-located, in good condition and is priced right for the market.
If your home needs a lot of work compared to the competition, you'll either need to have work done before selling, or discount your price accordingly.
Walk-to locations are highly desirable in some areas. If your home doesn't offer this amenity, you may have to make a price accommodation.
Homes with level-in access from the street are usually at a premium. If they're difficult to find in your area, you may be able to adjust your price upwards in comparison to similar homes that sold recently but had lots of steps.
THE CLOSING: For best results, be realistic about the current market value of your home and what preparation it needs in order to sell successfully in today's market.

Dian Hymer, a real estate broker with more than 30 years' experience, is a nationally syndicated real estate columnist and author of "House Hunting: The Take-Along Workbook for Home Buyers" and "Starting Out, The Complete Home Buyer's Guide."

Yes, there's evidence 2012 is going to be a healthy Real Estate Year for Parkfairfax. The Washington Post, on Sat., Dec 31, 2011 printed that detached houses in our general area, have increased! That's an evidence of improvement in our area. When you read negatively about Real Estate, it's probably NOT in our area. Employment is good, when compared with the remainder of the country.

When detached houses increase in value, condos in the same area, will NOT be far behind. Big bank lenders continue to be too conservative! We've seen large banks mix appraisals to the point of absurdity. Smaller mortgage institutions have helped the majority of Parkfairfax home owners to buy and re-finance in 2011. Please call The johnANDjohn TEAM for those lenders who know Parkfairfax and our models differences. They think Parkfairfax's location & condition merit loans.

Renovated models (of any dead president) were in highest demand in 2011. Washington Models (2 levels with patio) continued to be buyers' favorite; while 1 bedroom homes on the patio level came in 2nd place. They cost more in today's market; and they sell for more.

Many of you want to move to detached houses; but you owe more than the current value of your Parkfairfax home. A detached house will cost considerably less in early 2012. If you have or can get the cash to make your move now; this should be what you do. If not, we can find a qualified tenant (quickly) that will help pay your mortgage. You can now, move on!

Your condo fee on your Parkairfax property, your taxes, & mortgage are tax deductible (contact a tax professional). Take advantage of these tax savings while you can. There are political types that want to "do away" with this privilege.
Happy New Year. As Realtors with experience, knowledge and great RESULTS in DC and Northern Virginia, please continue to refer The johnANDjohn TEAM to your friends, relatives and co-workers who want to buy or sell. We want health, happiness and prosperity for you in 2012 and beyond.

Happy New (and improved) Year 2012

Yes, there's plenty of evidence 2012 is going to be a healthy Real Estate Year. The Washington Post, on Sat., Dec 31, 2011 showed where detached houses in our general area, has increased! That's the 1st evidence of improvement. When detached houses increase in value, condos will NOT be far behind. Big bank lenders continue to be too conservative! Smaller mortgage institutions have helped the majority of Parkfairfax home owners to buy and re-finance in 2011. Please call The johnANDjohn TEAM for those progressive lenders that think Parkfairfax's location & condition merit loans.

Renovated models (of any dead president) were in highest demand in 2011. Washington Models (2 levels with patio) continued to be buyers' favorite; while 1 bedroom homes on the patio level came in 2nd place. They cost more in today's market; and they sell for more.

Your want to be/continue to be a renter? Read this.

Renters Spending 5% More Than Home Owners

Daily Real Estate News | Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Rising rents are forcing renters to outspend home owners on housing costs, according to a new study.

Since 2005, home owners’ housing expenses have climbed from 31.9 percent of their household budget to 33.2 percent. On the other hand, in that same time period, renters’ expenses have jumped from 35.6 percent to 38.4 percent, according to the October CoreLogic U.S. Housing and Mortgage Trends.

In the last 26 years, home owners have increased the amount they spend on household expenses by 12 percent while renters have increased it by 22 percent, according to the study.

Earlier this month, Capital Economics economists noted that for the first time in 30 years the median monthly mortgage payment is about the same -- or less -- than the median rental payment.

Yet, with the bleak job market, home ownership rates continue to fall in many parts of the country, particularly among younger generations. CoreLogic found in its report that the home ownership rate for the 25-to-34 age group dropped from 51.6 percent in 1980 to 42 percent in 2010. For the 35-to-44 age group, home ownership rates fell from 71.2 percent to 62.3 percent over that period.

Source: “Renters Outspend Owners on Housing,” RISMedia (Oct. 25, 2011) and Capital Economics

Summer is over, this weekend!

Wow, summer went quickly. The pools are closed, but the fall colors are coming and so is the apple cider, pumpkins (PIE!), fall vegetables, and the LOWEST INTEREST RATES ever! And the tennis courts can now be enjoyed in this cooler weather.

Prices on Parkfairfax real estate are so buyer friendly; yet we're seeing tenants pay more and more for rentals. It's cheaper to buy and than rent. Check out http://www.parkfairfax.com/ for prices of "for sale" and "for rent" homes. After taxes on the buyers are the winners. However, there will always be tenants who want to pay for our mortgages. We try to help tenants become owners AND some of you are enjoying those benefits. No longer can your landlord move back and push you out; no longer do you have to restrict the colors of your living room AND you can now have the pet you've always wanted.





A stroll over to Shirlington's Signature Theatre or the movie theatre, is a nice hop from anywhere in Parkfairfax, and you never have to cross a busy street.





Renovations are now expected by people moving into Parkfairfax. The qualified buyers today would prefer to live in central air conditioning; have bath(s) from this decade and of course, a renovated kitchen. Occasionally we see buyers who wants to buy to renovate (best way to build equity) while living in the house.





For those of you with the older electric boxes; they're not getting past home inspectors in today's environment. Have them changed out and moved to your living room wall. Find a painting or print to hang over them, if you want!





We live in Parkfairfax by choice and choose to work here because we believe we can help bring the best in Real Estate to you. And we've proved that! This is our 12th year of being The #1 Realtors in Parkfairfax. Thank you!!! Please refer us to your friends, relatives and co-workers who want to buy or sell real estate. We enjoy working in DC and all over N. Virginia. If you're moving to another area, we refer only the BEST Realtors all over the world.

August 20th-Bluegrass on Coryell at Parkfairfax, Sat. Aug 20th 7-9pm. Just one of the wonderful community aspects of living in Parkfairfax in the summer. Come on! Join us! Those of us who love the trees, the forested areas (and our pets), are really enjoying The Park. We're so close to the hustle, bustle of the city; yet we have our on little sanctuary here in Parkfairfax.

I highly encourage any of you who are renters to consider buying NOW in Parkfairfax.......or just call us if you have interest outside The Park. With interest rates at Historic lows; why are you waiting? You'll wonder why you didn't buy during this time and there are some VERY nie properties "on the market" for sale.

We enjoy working in DC all the way out to Reston. Please feel free to ask you neighbors about The johnANDjohn TEAM. We have an excellent reputation here and throughout the Realtor Community. Other Realtors WANT to work with us. We have qualified buyers and sellers who want to sell!

Summer's here and it's hot as a Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Weather here is much like Rome, Italy. Just returned from a cruise from Barcelona, to Tunisia, ports near Rome and Florence, then to En Province in France. It's nice to be back in Parkfairfax. It's green, breezy, not too close to the monuments AND the employment is higher in the DC metro area. The johnANDjohn TEAM is aware there are many that are economically challenger, including people very close to us. I'm sure you're aware of those miliary families & support staff who have loved-ones living in danger. We're going to have an entire generation of people who were involved with war AND we need to be ready, financially and mentally to help.

This is one reason why home ownership is so important. Why pay someone's mortgage other than your own. Sure, some of us own properties that are worth less than we paid. This is normal in every generation of home ownership. Guess what, like the weather in Washington, this will change. Hold on to your properties, if possible. You'll be happy you did. How much longer until properties are worth more than they were? 2 more years, 3? What do you think?

For you tenants in Parkfairfax, please call The johnANDjohn TEAM where you're ready to buy; in Parkfairfax or outside. Experience is key in this market. Not that I'm not proud to have tenants in my clients' rental properties; but BUY while the interest rates are so low.

Even with 20+ properties for sale at this time; there are few compared to the 1600+ units in Parkairfax. You have a choice! Take advantage!!!

Springs Eternal

Yes, loans are being processed for Parkfairfax homes for sale/or refinance. Call us 703-820-9723 before you have a problem. We've been able to SETTLE every home that we've sold in Parkfairfax this year. Buyers are choosing those homes that have been renovated most highly. For example , we closed on a Madison in the $360K's! The more renovated your home is, the more quickly and for higher $$$ will it sell in today's marketplace. If the home needs remodeling, do it and enjoy it if you can. We want you to get top dollar for your home and will do what has to be done to get it sold for you. And for those of you who want to buy. We know Parkfairfax, no one knows it better.

The green of Parkfairfax is overwhelming this year. And the blooming trees and shrubs have been at their peak for weeks. The beauty of our home just gets prettier, more convenient, more pedestrian and pet friendly day by day.

Thank each of you for your patronage. We appreciate your loyalty. Call us anytime. We're available 7 days per week!

10 Cities Where Home Prices Will Rise in 2011 -
While home prices are expected to continue to fall in most metro areas, Clear Capital’s Home Data Index report says a few cities are already on the rebound and showing some gains in home values. “There really is this segmentation of these markets occurring where the one-size-fits-all national level numbers to represent all numbers really isn’t valid anymore,” Alex Villacorta, senior statistician at Clear Capital, told MSNBC. “Overall we’re seeing prices start to stabilize going into 2011, but unfortunately some of those markets will stabilize in the downward direction where others will see a sustained recovery.”Clear Capital takes into account unemployment rates, foreclosure rates, and real estate inventory in its index.The following is a list of 10 cities that Clear Capital expects will rise in property value in 2011:
1. Washington, D.C.: 6.5 percent price increase
2. Houston: 3.6 percent price increase3. Honolulu: 3.4 percent price increase4. Memphis, Tenn.: 3.2 percent price increase5. Columbus, Ohio: 2.1 percent price increase6. Dallas: 1.4 percent price increase7. New York: 1.3 percent price increase8. Birmingham, Ala.: 0.9 percent price increase9. Pittsburgh: 0.8 percent price increase
10. New Orleans: 0.5 percent price increaseMeanwhile, Clear Capital reports that real estate markets in Florida and the Western parts of the U.S.—such as cities in Arizona and “Breadbasket metros” likeOklahoma City, Okla., and Dayton, Ohio—likely will see the largest price drops in home values over the year. Virginia Beach, Va., is expected to have the highest drop in 2011, with a 12.8 percent price decrease, according to Clear Capital report. Source: “Where Home Prices Will Rise, Fall the Most in 2011,” MSNBC (Jan. 26, 2011)


It's exciting news that the DC area is projected to have the largest HOME price increase in 2011. Is everyone ready? I see this as bargain time. I've been searching for the best bargains outside of Parkfairfax. Call The johnANDjohn TEAM at 703-820-9723 or email us at johnANDjohnTEAM@johnANDjohn.net or johnANDjohnTEAM@Parkfairfax.com There are some bargains IN Parkfairfax; but the majority of you reading this want to move on; so I've done the work.

Want your home sold more quickly?

10 Staging Tips To Get Your Home Sold Faster

1. Depersonalize the home by removing family photographs, memorabilia, children’s art projects, sports gear and collectables; anything that would distract a buyer. The purpose of the buyer’s visit is to engage with the home, to “try it on”. It is difficult for buyers to visualize their belongings in a home that is filled with personal items. Less is best.

2. Remove large pieces of furniture that make a room feel crowded. Rent a storage unit or POD if necessary so that you can make the rooms feel spacious. Arrange furniture so that rooms feel open and bright and walk ways are generous. Imagine what the room will look like when photographed. Will it look like a magazine photo? If not, remove more items. The buyer will most likely see the photographs first, so this is an important task.

3. Stage each room so that the buyer knows its purpose. For example, if you are currently using your formal dining room as an office, remove the desk and replace it with a dining table and chairs so that the buyer isn’t questioning the floor plan. Add a few decorative items that add a pop of color and pizzazz.

4. De-clutter countertops, closets and cabinetry. Clean countertops and closets so that they have the bare minimum. Arrange items in the cabinets so that they are well organized. Buyers will open closets and cabinets and make a judgment about the maintenance of the home accordingly. If items are neatly arranged and orderly, they will infer that the home has been well maintained.

5. Go room by room and check paint on walls and baseboards. Make any necessary repairs to sheetrock. A thorough cleaning and a fresh coat of a neutral paint will make the room feel and smell fresh. Clean carpets and flooring so that they sparkle. Replace worn carpet if necessary.

6. Lighten and brighten rooms so that they look large and happy. Replace light bulbs with new ones, avoiding the low wattage energy efficient ones. Remove heavy window coverings. Clean blinds and shutters. Clean windows inside and out so that nothing obstructs the light and views from the windows. Trim trees or shrubberies that interfere with the light.

7. Make minor repairs like re-caulking tub and shower, fixing dripping faucets, changing AC filters, balancing a ceiling fan, or any other repair that indicates that the property is well-maintained.

8. Remove any evidence of pets or animals, especially litter boxes and bedding. Pay close attention to and eliminate pet odors. Bad odors are always deal breakers.

9. Check the drive up curb appeal of the home. Mow the grass; weed, edge and mulch flower beds. Add some colorful perennials around the front of the home. Cut back or remove overgrown shrubbery. Trim trees. Place colorful pots of flowers by the front door. Check the exterior paint. Repaint the front door and replace old hardware. Remove toys and sports equipment. In winter months, consider sowing winter rye grass so that the yard pops with color when all the others are brown. If a home does not have curb appeal, the buyer may never come inside.

10. Give the home warmth and a touch of pizzazz. Spruce up the bedrooms with new bedspreads and some new pillows. Hang fresh towels in the bathrooms tied with ribbon or bows and remove toiletries. Replace worn mats and rugs. Add a large mirror over a dresser or low piece of furniture to add depth to a small room. Set the dining table with china. Check with a design professional for decorative touches that can add charm and highlight the special features of your home.

"What if I can't do these things, you might ask?" Expect a longer time on-the-market AND a lower price. This is today's marketplace! We'll help you!!

Happy Holidays 2010

With snow on the ground, we feel like it's REALLY the Holiday Season. We hope you do too! Several of you have found incredible bargains during this period between Thanksgiving and Christmas; both in AND out of Parkfairfax. One of our long-term Parkfairfax neighbors hired The johnANDjohn TEAM and has moved to one of the largest blocks of land in Beverly Hills, the detached home section of Alexandria that touches Parkfairfax in the Gunston Road area. Another long-term resident who hired us has moved to Springfield this month. Her detached house is so large and beautiful. And the townhome we found for a Parkfairfax tenant in Lorton was JUST what they wanted....and a great price. For those of you who've just moved to Parkfairfax with us (you got bargains, too) we look forward to seeing you in The Park. Please take advantage of the many opportunities to volunteer your services. Call Parkfairfax 703-820-9723 and ask or call The johnANDjohn TEAM 703-820-9723. We've love to tell you about the opporunities to serve your community. For those of you who have loved ones serving in the US Armed Forces, our thoughts and prayers are with you. So many of you have told us of your loved ones; and we hope to hear from more of you. Please continue to visit The johnANDjohn TEAM on any given Sunday at our open houses in Parkfairfax and outside. We'll keep you posted on www.johnANDjohn.net and www.Parkfairfax.com. Allow us to introduce ourselves. We continue to be blessed with referrals from our clients. THANK YOU! We'll do our best to serve YOU and your friends, family, and co-workers who want to buy or sell in DC or Northern Virginia personally. We can locate the best Realtor for you anywhere in the world.

Carter, David, John & John

Happy Thanksgiving, 2010

What a year! Interest rates at historic lows; Money magazine says there will be no better time to buy a home in decades, than today. Of course, we see on TV, read on blogs and some print media that we should be afraid. Banks are being VERY relaxed in allowing money to be borrowed....I know, you've read otherwise....just not true for our clients!!!! Call The johnANDjohn TEAM, we'll refer you to (local) Mortgage Lenders who want to loan money to our clients at LOW rates while giving great customer service (even on the weekends). Come on out of the "buyers'" closet and let us find you a home for $10,000's of $$$$ less than just a few years ago AND at mortgage rates that will astound you. Your parents have never seen rates this low, which equates to low payments. We see renters leasing for more money than for the payments for a home-tax benefits.

A wise person once told me, "When you are at parties and people are bragging about the HOT investment of the day; then is when you know NOT to buy that product, it's already been done". I was at a Parkfairfax function the other night; people asked me, "Is this a good time to buy real estate, I'm buying bank stock and getting a good dividend?" You betcha, on top of getting an investment when you buy a home, you're getting a place to LIVE, and tax breaks!

Thank you for your referrals of friends, relatives and co-workers; we appreciate you and will take great care of these people when they sell OR buy real estate. For those of you who have bought homes this year; the economy thanks you. For our sellers, congratulations on your bargains! I recently read that for every home purchased, approximately $25,000 goes into the economy, with all the additional purchases like furniture, insurance, etc.

Happy Happy Happy Day to be Thankful to you all. Take great care.

The johnANDjohn Team