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
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
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.
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.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
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."
___________________________________________
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."
Monday, January 2, 2012
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
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
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
