Cleveland Real Estate with Christina

ROCKY RIVER BANK OWNED BARGAIN!

2011-07-22T11:02:00.006-05:00

LET ME SELL YOU THIS HOUSE!

I marvel at the fact that this house is still available.

I have shown it to a number of buyers. Can I show it to you (the already financially qualified buyer that is ready to pull the trigger and isn't afraid to roll up his or her sleeves?).

Here are the NEGATIVES, from a layperson's observation

(Remember, I am NOT an inspector!):

Mold in the basement
Leaky skylight(s)
Dirty
Poorly renovated master bath
Overall cleaning and standard maintenance required

Here are the POSITIVES!

Phenomenal cul de sac street and desirable neighborhood bordering Westlake
Hardwood Floors Throughout
Expansive Kitchen
Vaulted Family Room Addition with fireplace and adjacent half bath
Size!! Square footage is recorded as 2699!
Flow and floor plan: FABULOUS for entertaining
1st Floor Master with skylights, private full bath and walk in closet
Additional first floor bedroom with immediate access to full bath
Spacious finished basement with an additional full bath
Two spacious bedrooms up with full updated bath
Great backyard with mammoth deck (which, yes, needs some attention).
Attached two car garage
UNHEARD OF PRICE FOR THE SIZE AND LOCATION: 60.95/sq foot...164,500!

This property borders Westlake, is MOMENTS away from I-90 as well as Clague Road (which is a five minute drive to I480/I-71. I also live moments away, so give me a ring and let's see if it's the place for you: Christina, Realty Professionals, 216-215-4232.

Yikes! What Ever Happened to Christina???

2011-07-22T02:26:00.005-05:00

Real Estate has happened to me! And for a sluggish market, it sure has been busy!

Please know that I am engaged as ever in this crazy profession, most recently (for the past two years) with the fortuitous partnership with John Becker, a senior member of our Realty Professionals Team with thirty years of experience who also occupies a prominent place as an arbitrator on ethical issues within the revered Professional Standards Committee of CABOR (the Cleveland Area Board of Realtors). His professional life prior to real estate – stemming from his ivy league education and ranging from academia to corporate accounting – enhances his credibility with clients and his affinity for understanding market trends and the financial layers to each transaction.

Another intriguing trademark of John is his intimate, hands on knowledge of the inventory that stems from his robust participation in the Tuesday Broker's Tour. The Tuesday Broker's Open, typically from 11-2 each week, is intended to acquaint the realtor community - who is our greatest customer in the sales of your home - with your home as a new piece of inventory in the marketplace. While some broker's laugh it off as a time for realtors to get together to chit chat and overeat (yes, we have to rouse the crowd with food), John probably hits 40+ homes in our area on that day, and has the brain power to keep the intricacies of all these properties straight, which makes him a great resource for knowing the market, competition, pricing and all the nuances of those layers that enhance his knowledge and credibility as a real estate professional.

So we are both at your service, and you reap the benefit of two professional realtors – who equally blend the insights of two generations, two genders, and two contrasting but complimentary approaches to marketing – for one competitive commission fee.

2365 Clague: Appraised in mid-300K's; New Short Sale 7 BR Westlake Bungalow NOW UNBELIEVABLY PRICED AT 200K!!!

2010-06-03T09:31:00.006-05:00

Welcome to 2365 Clague within Westlake, in a beautiful 1-owner home custom built by the original owner for his large family of 10. This delightful brick home has 2 first floor bedrooms, 5 second level bedrooms, a mammoth kitchen with access to the house-length lounging deck, formal dining room, and spacious family rooms both on level one AND level two.

The walk out finished basement descends to a gently sloping open lot that leads to a babbling brook that borders a premium Westlake neighborhood.

The well cared for home has many newer mechnical features, from windows to bedrooms to refinished flooring and much more.

This is a deceiving home from the exterior...you must tour it within to appreciate its size, quality and features.

We will be OPEN THIS SUNDAY 3-5PM.

NEW PRICE AND OPEN SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 1-4: COME HOME TO 32632 Fieldcrest Circle in Avon

2009-12-09T05:53:00.014-05:00

W O W !

This is truly a home like no other.

SAVOR THE PREMIUM, EXCLUSIVE LOCATION
within "The Woodbridge Subdivision" off Schwartz Road,
just moments from the Westlake / Cuyahoga border and is
desirable, high dollar communities and the inviting and ever-
dynamic Crocker Park! There are ONLY fifteen (15!) lots
in this exlusive community, which features wooded and water views!

DISCOVER A REFRESHING FLOOR PLAN
that defies the typical new construction home

3 bedrooms down, 2 bedrooms up
Indulgent First Floor Master Suite with Addictive In Suite Bath and Private Access to Outdoor Spa
Potential for 2 ADDITIONAL MASTERS, one up, one down
1st Floor Laundry Room privately situated to service BEDROOMS (versus off the kitchen)
Seamless Flow of Living, Dining and Family Rooms Clustered Around an Absolute "Cook's Delight Kitchen"

A HOME BUILT TO LAST A LIFETIME, with CHOICE CONSTRUCTION & AESTHETIC SELECTIONS that reflect the Sellers' diligence and long term vision (too many to list!)

SOME NUMBERS & FACTS:

Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4 (3 Full, 1 half)
Basement: Massive, Full, Roller Rink Quality
Fireplace: Unique "Center Stage" Location, both gas and woodburning
Lighting: upscale and including premium Schonbek pieces
Flooring: includes ceramic tile and lustrous hardwood
Foyer: Stunning 2 story with Juliet Balcony
Living, Dining and Family Rooms
Cavernous Storage and Walk In Closets Throughout!
Patios: 2 (cooking and 3-tier, 2-tone Stamped Concrete with Outdoor Spa); Direct Views of Stocked Pond, Springs, Woodlands
Exterior: Stone, Vinyl, Composite
Garage: 3 car, oversized in width and height
Location: corner, with view of bus stops from virtually every front window
Affordable Taxes: 7452.38
Lot Size: .6 acre, 195' x 200'
Year Built: 2006
Square Footage: 3480 (excludes basement)
Homeowners Association Fee: 375./annually
Builder: Schafer
Price: 519,300 (priced below construction/reproduction cost)

Qualified Buyers Welcome Sunday, June 20,
1-4PM or Call Christina for a Private Showing at 216.215.4232 or John at 216.389.2121

INVESTING IN YOUR HOME: COST/GAIN ANALYSIS

2009-11-10T05:26:00.002-05:00

RISMEDIA has captured realtor-driven suggestions for what sells homes, and where to invest when improving. Here is the article:

According to the HomeGain survey, the top five home improvements that Realtors recommend to home sellers based on cost and return on investment (from highest to lowest ROI) are:

1. Cleaning and de-cluttering ($200 cost / $1,700 price increase / 872% ROI)

2. Home staging ($300 cost / $1,780 price increase / 586% ROI)

3. Lightening and brightening ($230 cost / $1,300 price increase / 572% ROI)

4. Landscaping ($320 cost / $1,500 price increase / 473% ROI)

5. Repairing plumbing ($385 cost / $1,250 price increase / 327% ROI)

Cleaning and de-cluttering continues to rank as the top suggested home improvement (since the survey was originally conducted in 2000), recommended by 98% of Realtors, costing less than $200 and returning a value of nearly $1,700 to the home’s sale price, or an 872% return on investment.
“Many Realtors agree, especially in a buyer’s market, that sellers who make these recommended home improvements often get their homes sold faster and at higher prices,” stated Louis Cammarosano, General Manager at HomeGain. “We have customized our Home Sale Maximizer online home improvement tool to help identify and prioritize the projects that can increase the salability and selling price of a home.”

Rounding out the top 12, the list of low cost, do-it-yourself home improvements includes: updating electrical, replacing or shampooing carpets, painting interior walls, repairing damaged floors, updating kitchen, painting outside of home, and updating bathroom/s.

The home improvement projects with the highest price increases to a home’s resale value are updating the kitchen ($1,200 cost / $2,850 price increase), followed by painting the outside of the home ($900 cost / $1,815 price increase) and home staging ($300 cost / $1,780 price increase).

“Inexpensive cosmetic home improvements and basic improvements greatly enhance the value of the home,” stated Carol Wilson of Carpenter Real Estate in Indianapolis, IN, HomeGain AgentEvaluator member since 1999. Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-11-09/home-sellers-top-5-home-improvement-projects-based-on-cost-and-return-on-investment/#ixzz0WS1c58Ut

EXPANDED TAX CREDIT...LET'S KEEP MOVING FORWARD!

2009-11-10T03:14:00.003-05:00

Thank you, President Obama!

The President recently signed an expanded version of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit that was set to expire on November 30 and it now includes a $6,500 tax credit for homebuyers that have lived in their current primary residence for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years. Under the old rules, move-up homebuyers did not qualify.

Some examples per RISMEDIA, November 9, 2009:

Example 1:Jane purchased a home in 2002, lived there for 5 years as her primary home, moved out in 2007, and turned that home into a rental property. If Jane decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she lived in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.

Example 2:Harry purchased a home in 2004, and lived there for the past 5 years as his primary home. If Harry decides to buy a new primary residence today, he would qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that he lived in the same residence as his primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.

Example 3:Nicole purchased a home in 2006, and lived there for the past 3 years as her primary home. If Nicole decides to buy a new primary residence today, she would not qualify for the $6,500 tax credit based on the fact that she did not live in the same residence as her primary home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight.

Some additional restrictions/guidelines:

The tax credit only applies to homes less than $800,000
Purchase deadline is May 1, 2010
Transaction must close BEFORE July 1, 2010
Income limitation is now 125K (was 75K)
Married income limitation is 225K (was 150K)
Credit will be issued as a check once a specific form is submitted to the IRS after the purchase is complete

RISMEDIA further cites "many creative ways of structuring your home purchase transaction in ways that maximize the benefits of the credit."

Examples:

-The credit applies to 1-4 unit homes as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence – you could live in one unit and rent out the others

-If two unmarried individuals buy a home, and only one of the individuals qualifies for the credit based on their income or past home ownership status, the individual who qualifies for the credit can claim the full credit. (Note: In the case of married couples, both spouses must qualify for the credit).

-The credit applies even if you have co-signers on your mortgage loan

Read more: http://rismedia.com/2009-11-08/expanded-version-of-tax-credit-will-allow-more-homebuyers-to-qualify/#ixzz0WRTpqOOt

HOME ACT OF 2009. . . Keep your eyes open !

2009-08-27T08:16:00.002-05:00

"HOME OWNERSHIP MOVES THE ECONOMY" - - - The Home Act of 2009 would extended the current tax credit for first time homebuyers, and enhance he program to include ALL BUYERS, as well as eliminating the income restrictions. It doesn't surprise me that it was authored by a Republican (Howard Coble, NC), but that's just my bias. Let's hope partisan politics doesn't get in the way of what could be a more stable recovery...

Low Rates Undermined by Stricter Eligibility Standards

2009-03-19T06:51:00.003-05:00

Visit www.bloomberg.com for James Sterngold's article on this phenomena; lower sales prices challenge appraisers' requirement to find comparable sales to process loans within the typical 6 month, 1 mile radius rule. Lenders complain that while rates are down, fees are up. Lawrence Yun, chief economist with NAR (the National Assoc of Realtors) comments that loan approval stanards have shifted from "lax to too tight," and the article continues with more revealing insights on topics ranging from Pres. Obama's housing plan to FICO scores to Freddie and Fannie. A good read!

TOUR VARIOUS KING JAMES this SUNDAY, MARCH 15 STARTING AT 12 NOON

2009-03-14T00:37:00.008-05:00

Located along King James Parkway in the heart of Westlake (north off Center Ridge, south off Hilliard, west of Clague and east of Columbia), various condos in various buildings of the stately King James Development will be available for touring. Coupled with "plush" Regency Club health and fitness amenities, these suites are well priced and offer a phenomenal value at a time when it was never more LUCRATIVE for first time home buyers to act (and if it has been 3 years since you've owned a home, you are a "first time" home buyer!) . . .

Come visit us and receive a warm welcome from the hardworking REALTORS in your area . . .

1851 King James Parkway - COMPTON COURT
1-3PM, Suite 313, John Moody, ERA Rath Realtors
MOTIVATED SELLER. Completely Updated. Three bedroom Westlake Condo in King James. Right off elevator. All new flooring and paint. Large master with two closets and full bath. In-suite laundry. Indoor garage with assigned parking spot. Plenty of additional parking. Regency Club (includes: indoor pool, tennis, exercise, multipurpose rooms, billiards). Warranty included. All Appliances stay Move right in! 109,900

1-3PM, Suite 326, Ann Swider, Re/Max
Extremely Well Appointed End Unit! Over $20K in Improvements Including Gas Furnace, Vinyl Windows, W/W Carpeting, Remodeled Kitchen & Bath*Laminate flooring in the master*Space Savers In the Walk-in closet & Gourmet Kitchen W/Breakfast Bar and Track Lighting*Heat & Water storage* Regency Health Club with Indoor pool & on-site maintenance man included in maintenance fee with other items* (see Maint Incl above) Visit to appreciate this value! 119,900.

1-3PM, Suite 224, Christina Carpadis, Realty Professionals, Inc.
Mrs. Clean Departs! Beautifully Appointed! Expansive, Neutral & Tasteful. Upscale Decor. Eat In Kitchen AND Formal Dining Room. Seamless Floor Plan. Abundant Natural Light (Newer Grid Windows)+ Balcony Overlooks Blossoming Trees. Ample Storage. In-Suite Laundry. Sumptuous Regency Country Club Amenities. Fee Includes Heat/Water. All Appliances Remain. Well Maintained Mechanicals. Reserved, Secure Indoor Parking 120,000

2021 King James Parkway - BRAEMAR COURT
12-2PM, Suite 209, Todd Reinhart, Howard Hanna
Nicely Re-done Unit* Todays Paint Colors* Crown Molding In Most Rooms* New Organizers In All Closets* Newer Kitchen, Floors, Counter Tops & Sink* Great Views From Balcony Of Quad* Access To Regency Club, Use Of Pool, Jacuzzi,Tennis, Sauna & Fitness. 75,900.

2-4PM, Suite 217, John Martin, Howard Hanna
Spacious & Open W/Over 1000 Sq Ft Of Living Space. Appliances Stay, In-suite Laundry, Furnace & A/C '03. Regency Health Club Included In Maintenance Fee Which Also Includes Water & Heat. 84,900.

2.30-4.30PM, Suite 323, Elaine Aerni, Howard Hanna
A Convenient & Well Kept Area. Corner Unit. Spacious With A Large Balcony Looking Over A Common Court Yard. The Regency Club Has An Inside Pool, Tennis Court, Exercise Room W/Resistance Equipment, Sauna, Spa, Game Rm & Party Rm All For Your Use Included In The Maintenance Fee Along W/Heat. 82,000

Please Don't Kill the Realtor

2009-03-12T13:01:00.002-05:00

I am almost affronted by how insulted some buyers or visitors to open houses appear when we kindly request, on the behalf of our seller clients, for them to sign in. Is the release of a name, address and or phone number such a violation of privacy? Surely, Ann B. Norman, a 71 year old realtor just outside the Madison, Wisconsin area, ALREADY had this information but was nonetheless ruthlessly murdered in cold blood by a 34 year old sex offender while showing him a home. If we ask for some identification information, it is not so we can be bothersome or meddling into private areas of your life. At times, it simply so we can endeavor to secure the safety of our own life.

Can't believe this is true, especially in small town America? Catch the story at http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/21/america/Realtor-Death.php.

8K Tax Credit Reflective of (Obama) Bias?

2009-03-09T02:44:00.006-05:00

Realtors and non-realtors alike, we've all celebrated the 2009 "America Recovery and Reinvestment Act's" 8,000 Non Refundable Tax Credit, though I am personally disappointed that it is null if you earn 75K or more.

I realize it’s OLD news that there is this wonderful tax credit for first time home buyers, and I am in fact surprised of the loose definition of “first time home buyer” : one who hasn’t owned a home in three years. However, again I feel let down that Obama (and perhaps it wasn’t President Obama’s pen stroke that initialed this) shows some bias against responsible wage earners who have, typically, worked their tail off to make some decent money (over 75K isn’t THAT much these days) and they are disqualified from the program. Am I the only one who sees this group of wager earners as economy stimulators that are to be prompted, not punished?

Well, perhaps if you make 100K, but your wife or husband has the “fun job” and makes less than 50K, you will be spared this bias. Check with your tax advisor, of course . . .

TIMELESS, VALUABLE WI$DOM: Richard Czeh's 69 Ways . . .

2009-01-15T09:37:00.003-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me how a few common sense items that are either FREE or cost pocket change to address will taint a buyer's impression of an otherwise wonderful home. In the craze of preparing for market and leading busy lives, sellers may overlook some very practical, BASIC considerations that will make or break your chance with a good buyer, so READ AND HEED!

Why does one house sell within days and another linger for months on the market? Here are some mostly common sense considerations that will heighten the appeal of your home, especially as it is typically compared to dozens of others in about the same price range. The one who stands out as either an incredible "bargain" or has the feel of a "Better Homes and Gardens" feature still emerges as a quicker sell than most, so please take these suggestions seriously.The longer a house is on the market, the less likely the seller is to receive a high offer. It's human nature to suspect the quality of merchandise that has been "on the shelf" for a long time. A slow-selling house makes prospective buyers nervous.Selling your home can be a painless and profitable experience - if you follow the guidelines offered on the following pages. And don't neglect to involve your family in this project. It is a cooperative venture with one shared goal: the timely sale of your home.

THE GROUNDWORK

Put yourself in the buyer's shoes! Remember, they arrive at your front door waiting to fall in love with your home. If you've done your “homework” and staged your home effectively, every room in your home will greet the customer with a pleasant surprise.What makes your home special?First, settle down in your favorite easy chair, close your eyes, and try to remember your feeling the very first time YOU walked into your home. Now, start listing your home's most positive features. Remember, the more personal, the better. Ask your spouse and your children to add their own special positive reactions. Your teenage daughter may remember how she fell in love with your home years ago because of a swing that hung from the old oak tree in the backyard. Don't make the mistake of ignoring children's special impressions. Tour every room, the attic, basement, the garage, and yard. Note at least one positive feature in each. Include the items that attracted you and those desirable features you have added.

Accentuate the Positive

A real estate agent will bring prospective buyers to your door, but don't rely on him or her to do the WHOLE job of selling your home. A saleable home has each room sending out a unique message to the customer. It is more effective to have the buyer's "discover" your home's special features themselves (than to have the owner or agent point them out like a tour guide.) Draw attention to your home's best asset by a LITTLE CREATIVITY : a cheerful glow of logs in the fireplace; a spotlight beaming down; a pot of red geraniums...stimulates the buyer's imagination by setting the scene!Eliminate the NegativeYou can eliminate many of your home's negative features by transforming them into something visually pleasant. Inexpensive and creative disguises will minimize those drawbacks. Be realistic that no home is perfect. List the negative features or potential drawbacks you can find. Be "HONEST"!

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

1. MAKE THOSE MINOR REPAIRS.

All those tiny flaws in your otherwise beautifully maintained home will add up to one thing to the observant buyer: OWNER NEGLECT. All signs of OWNER NEGLECT must be eliminated.

2. REGARDLESS OF SEASON, TACKLE SPRING CLEANING.Those hours spent thoroughly cleaning your home will be hours well spent when the results pay off in an early and profitable sale. Clean windows are important and can substantially improve the appearance of your home! Pay particular attention to your kitchen and bathrooms - they involve personal health and hygiene, and are areas buyers scrutinize closely. All sinks and commode must SHINE!

3. CREATE THE ILLUSION OF SPACIOUSNESS.Make your living space APPEAR larger by eliminating bulky, unnecessary furniture. Rearrange and, if necessary, temporarily eliminate or store excess pieces to give the illusion of spaciousness.

4. GIVE YOUR ROOMS A LIGHT, BRIGHT LOOK.Most buyers want large, bright, cheerful rooms.

5. USE COLOR AND LIGHTING TO DRAW ATTENTION TO YOUR HOME'S BEST SELLING FEATURES.Highlight the graceful bay window with a colorful arrangement of flowers. Color has the power to attract. Lighting should be used for emphasis.

6. DISGUISE UNSIGHTLY VIEWS.Disguise that potentially offending view, but always let light into your rooms. Replace heavy curtains with sheer white panels. Above all, don't apologize for a poor view.

7. ELIMINATE UNPLEASANT ODORS.Remember that some people are more sensitive to odors than others. Smokers rarely notice the odor of tobacco that fills their homes, and pet owners may be oblivious to objectionable dog odor. Use powered products like "Love My Carpet" regularly. Mildew odors are another no-no. Don’t allow wet towels to accumulate in hampers, or old laundry to pile up in closets.

8. AVOID ECCENTRICITIESSmart sellers play down individualistic touches that may express perfectly their taste and personality, but, at the same time, appeal to a minority of home buyers. In selling, play the odds. If your rooms are painted purple and beaded curtains hang in every doorway, don't rely on your real estate agent to find the perfect buyer whose taste match yours. The average buyer will have a hard time looking beyond purple walls and eccentric decor. Two coats of white paint may be the best investment you ever made.

9. RECOGNIZE THE FINE LINE BETWEEN CLUTTER AND STERILITYNotice the small details that make the rooms particularly attractive and appealing - a vase of flowers, a basket of knitting yarns. Accessories can make or break a room. But be on the lookout for distractive clutter.

10. DISPLAY PHOTOGRAPHS THAT SHOW YOUR HOME DURING OTHER SEASONS.Go through your photo albums and select pictures of your house and yard during all four seasons. If hung at eye level in a well lighted area, the pictures will speak for themselves and give you yet another selling edge.Front Door and PorchNo matter how lovely your home may be behind that front door, a buyer will be turned off by crumbling front steps, a doorbell that doesn't work, creaky hinges, or chipping paint on porch columns. Give special attention to your home's front entry. Remember, first impressions are likely to color the remainder of the house tour.

11. CREATE A WELCOME SPOT OF COLOR.There should be something special that beckons the buyer to your front door, something that sets your home off from the other houses on the block. A bright red milk can, a tub of geraniums, a pot of floppy petunias, or a basket of nasturtiums. Invest in a new doormat that says "welcome."

12. OPEN YOUR HOME TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD.A buyer approaches a home with curiosity aroused; he wants to have positive feelings. If all the curtains are drawn and the front door is locked and bolted, your home will seem like a forbidden fortress. If the curtains are open, the windows sparkling clean, and the front door open (in warm weather), your home will radiate a welcome spirit and invite the buyer to enter.

13. CAPITALIZE ON A SPACIOUS FRONT PORCH/DECK.Take advantage of the nostalgia it evokes. Set the stage and stimulate imaginations.Your Home's Entry Hall

14. CREATE A DRAMATIC FOCAL POINTStudy your entry hall and ask "what kind of statement" it makes about your home. This area should "greet" and say "Welcome, your house hunting days are over." Dried flowers can make a striking focal point on a hall table any time of the year. Imagine cattails, a bunch of orange Chinese lanterns, an arching spray of bittersweet, or wheat stalks in a glowing copper planter.

15. ADD SPACIOUSNESS WITH A MIRROR.Virtually any entry hall will benefit from a well placed mirror (enlarges the area). Be sure to clean regularly!

16. IMPROVE THE FLOOR'S APPEARANCE HERE, IF NOWHERE ELSE.Your entry hall flooring is observed carefully buy the prospective buyer - give them a positive attitude.

17. CLEAN OUT YOUR COAT CLOSET.The entry hall closet is the first one inspected - make it appear roomy. Add a few extra hangers. Hang a bag of cedar chips or a potpourri ball to give a pleasant, fresh scent.

Your Home's Living Room And Family Room

18. TREAT THESE ROOMS AS IF THEY WERE STAGED SETTINGS.Buyers ask themselves, "Can I imagine myself LIVING in this room?" Your job is to make each room project a positive response. What touches make a room look truly inviting? Music is one element. Consider leaning a guitar in the corner of your living room, or opening some sheet music on the piano with a light shinning on it.

19. HIGHLIGHT YOUR FIREPLACE.Don't take for granted and expect the buyer to imagine the glow of a roaring fire; light one. Place something colorful on the mantel, but don't overdo!

20. IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THESE ROOMS.Make rooms visually larger by removing excess furniture. Have easy traffic flow patterns. Be sure that all doors open fully.

21. DRAW ATTENTION TO EXPOSED BEAMS OR A CATHEDRAL CEILING.

22. DON'T LET A TELEVISION SET DOMINATE THE ROOM.Your Home's Dining Room or Dining Area

23. SET THE SCENE BY SETTING THE TABLEYou can stimulate a buyer's imagination by setting your dining table with pretty china and silver - a warm or welcome site. (Notice the photographs of dining rooms in any home decorating magazine.) Avoid going overboard - any stage setting that you create should reflect the character of your entire home to be effective.

24. VISUALLY ENLARGE A SMALL DINING AREA.If your dining table has one or two leaves take one or two out. Consider placing your dining table against a wall. Remove any extra "company" chairs. Consider putting that looming China cabinet in storage until your house is sold. Aim for a clean and tidy look.

Your Home's Kitchen

A "Breath of Fresh Air" for the New Year

2008-12-31T08:24:00.006-05:00

Every so often (and more often with the increase of vacant, foreclosure homes from which Molly Maid has taken a permanent vacation!), I stumble into homes that are simply "stinky" - tainted by a distinct malodorous "scent" which seems to permeate the air regardless of leaving windows and doors open. I just received an email from a lender colleague of mine who has no financial interest in this service, but recommended it nonetheless.

Therefore, give it a whirl. Here's the info in case you or someone you care about is in need of some"fresh air" and best wishes and eased breathing to you in '09!

"Ozone Home Treatment will eliminate smells by destroying the odor-causing compounds in the air through oxidation while other “air-cleaners” only filter air. This is the process that insurance companies use to kill smells in homes that have suffered through a fire and for a fraction of the cost.

So if you have a home suffering from one or more of these noxious odors:
· Fire odor
· Pet odor
· Tobacco odor
· Odor from Bacteria
· Odor from Mold

To learn more or to schedule a 24-Hour Treatment,
Please call: Jo(anne) Watson @ 216-965-7640

Typical cost: $200 – 24 hour treatment"
_____________________________________________

BUYERS: An "Extra" Item for which to Give Thanks

2008-11-26T06:59:00.002-05:00

The morning of Tuesday, November 25 proved positive for our industry, in that a committment was made from the Fed to buy $600 BILLION in mortgages from the challenged Fannie, Freddie and FHLB. Consequently, a significant rate drop is in store for buyers that ACT NOW for fixed rate long term mortgages.

Buyers - take advantage of this SOONER RATHER THAN LATER, for we all know how quickly and unpredictably the market shifts!

Happy House Hunting - Happy Thanksgiving!

Per Timothy Atkinson, First Place Bank Lender : Some GOOD NEWS!

2008-10-30T13:05:00.004-05:00

While the headlines were focused on the poor performance of the stock market, mortgage rates improved moderately during a volatile week. Mortgage rates were helped by a couple of factors. Seeking to reduce risk, investors sold stocks and moved the funds into relatively safer Treasury bonds and government guaranteed mortgage backed securities. In addition, slower economic growth and lower energy prices reduced expectations for future inflation. More good news for the housing market came from the September Existing Home Sales report, which rose 5.5% from August to the highest annual rate since August 2007.

Another important development was a decline in Libor rates during the week. Libor rates are viewed as a primary indicator of credit market conditions. They are also an important benchmark for setting the rates on many consumer loans, including adjustable-rate mortgages. Libor rates shot higher during the credit crisis when financial institutions became reluctant to lend money to each other. The broad series of recent government actions brought Libor rates down closer to more normal levels.

A series of government officials made statements during the week, including Fed Chief Bernanke, former Fed Chief Greenspan, Treasury Secretary Paulson, and FDIC Chairman Bair. The common theme is that the government is ready to take further actions as needed to support the economy and financial markets. Broad support was seen for a second fiscal stimulus package. The decline in the housing market was a key factor in causing the credit crisis, and many proposals are under consideration to help stabilize the housing market and prevent foreclosures. The bottom line, though, is that it will take some time for economic conditions to improve.

"Even in This Market?"

2008-10-08T22:11:00.005-05:00

Perhaps I run my mouth about real estate to defray the pain of kickboxing. After all these months, I still find this workout a challenge. But still, when the nicely cut up 'workout guy' John who attends my kickboxing class each week asked if one could still sell their home in this market, I assured him that YES, even in this sluggish market, I have found myself time and again with buyers fighting over a house in multiples. The bottom line is, when you've got the location, the right price, and the right property (at least two of these to a degree, ideally all), houses still sell.

To exemplify, I heard myself telling him about the last two transactions where this was pulled off beautifully and, to my credit, I will have to say it was in the sale of my last two homes. Of course, the market was different 5 and even 2 years ago, but the fact was and remains still today that there was CONSIDERABLE competition. Luckily, my husband client was willing to listen and the first sale, which was actually in a more "rough" Lakewood neighborhood, enticed an offer within days of listing the property, and the second, our adorable Avon Lake ranch, took just over a month.

How? First and foremost, THE RIGHT PRICE. I toured the homes that were my competition: homes in my immediate neighborhood, comparable ranches within a few blocks and all priced within what I estimated our list price would be. I witnessed the competition first hand, and ensured that our staging was competitive if not superior, that the painstaking process of decluttering was complete, that the home was as clean as I could get it (being a working mom with three under three) and that our price was not equally, but just under the tag of our stiffest competitor. Long gone are the days of the emotional buyer walking into the first home and falling in love; I've lived through the buyers who tour for months and sometimes then return to that first home, 50 homes later, to write an even lower offer since the house has being sitting for months and they regard it as flawed inventory, like day old bread thrown on the clearance shelf.

So, the RIGHT PRICE. Obviously, there's little I can do about a location, and that's why I always warn my buyers to choose wisely and to revere this criterion as perhaps the sole most important consideration, as we are all bored by the "LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION" mantra and the fact that you can always improve a property but it is less realistic to improve a neighborhood or location.

As for the "right" property, what makes a property right? White paint? Not anymore. Warmth, humanity, simplicty, or perhaps some drama and tasteful decor. If you're not an interior designer, chances are you know someone and can surely exchange some of your talents for some staging advice. So, I guess perhaps in a not so forthright way, your property actually doesn't have to be entirely "RIGHT", but work with what you have and showcase the virtues of your home. It's like those fashion gurus who tell the chunky gal to wear a certain style of swimsuit in order to put her best curve forward... Your home may not be entirely perfect, but play up the good parts with staging and home decor and buyers, although not as naive and emotion as years past, will fall in love with an inviting home priced right.

So YES, you can still win in this market. It just takes some thought and effort, as do all good things...

A Closer Look at A Favorite Suburb: Rocky River

2008-07-17T00:56:00.004-05:00

As I draw near to some potential listings in this favorite suburb of mine (so esteemed that, despite growing up in rival Bay Village, when my hubby and I decided to boomerang back to Cuyahoga County I really was shooting for this locale vs Bay, as I was so drawn to the older housing stock, its even closer proximity to DT and my husband's university circle commute, and of course the great shopping and lakeview access [the list goes on and on])...

So, let's take another look at what River is doing now (I'm excluding condos and clusters for the sake of my market analysis):

ACTIVES: 113 properties
CONTINGENTS (remember, under contract, but contingent on financing or inspection): 6
PENDING (past the financing/contingent stage, ready to close): 20

HIGHEST LIST PRICE: 2,800,000.
LONGEST MARKET TIME (my...could this be the same property?): 838 days (so if you're grumbling that your home hasn't sold yet...try to swallow that pill)
LOWEST PRICE: 104,900.
AVERAGE PRICE: 395,103.
MEDIAN PRICE (it's always a relief to toss out those extremes): 264,900.

More to come...

Attention Investors : Want Tenants to "Eat Out of Your Hand"? Consider the Small Stuff for Large Impact.

2008-06-02T01:44:00.007-05:00

I watched my seasoned colleague keenly as he described, to the two novice investors across the table, how he has his tenants "eating out of his hand" because of the great care, time, effort and amenities with which he adorns his own rental properties. From Granite Counters to Custom Cabinetry, he painted a picture of his rental properties, and what these guys could make of the more cosmetically modest ones we have listed, which cast a sober cloud over my own home, which lacks both granite AND custom cabinetry. Well, I thought, would he still be talking expensive stone and custom carpentry if he was encircled by three under five who have that wonderful way of bleeding the time, energy and extra cash (that would otherwise primp and pamper tired real estate investments), as seems the innate calling of all offspring (though I would have it no other way)?

Still, here's an idea worth consideration: you've got some great properties on the market. Prices have never been better, and rates are still competitive and historically LOW. Properties in A+ locations where residents can enjoy cool neighborhood attractions, a convenient bus line, or 45 second commute to the freeway. Handsome, low maintenance brick buildings. Considerable green space just screaming for some inspiring landscaping or, to add to some personality to the place, a name for some identity (and of course, the handsome sign to broadcast that name). Properties (and these are my listings) that feature well constructed, sound interiors that are nonetheless overdue for some cosmetic TLC...anything (though it doesn't have to be granite and custom cabs), the very mundane makes a dramatic mark on the spirit, presentation, and appeal of a place: alluring colors, mood-inspiring lighting, carpeting, common areas that are welcoming, laundry rooms (and these have the space) that would even gain in their appeal if they doubled as a gameroom, or had snack vending machines or cubbies to create more of a community space. Assume that mechanicals are sound, it is these "easy" items - - - not necessarily granite and custom cabinetry - - - that create a sense of comfort,a sense of maintenance, and overall appeal.

We are looking for those investors capable of using some broad strokes to make something beautiful out of a blank canvas. Did we mention possible owner financing, plus the fact that thecurrent owners are awaiting the much anticipated announcement of a tax adjustment?All great for profitability of these places. And, make some changes, and you too may enjoy the "eating out my hand" phenomena, as it seems that, once put, many apartment dwellers are committed to that way of life and residency. More to come on these great listings. Note Cranford, featured beside this entry.

A Pit in My Stomach: Foreclosures in All the Unexpected Places

2008-05-27T23:46:00.005-05:00

It was a home that always stood out to me because of its unusual "80's" architecture. There were only a handful of them in Bay Village, where I grew up, and because of its prominence on the well-traversed Lake Road, it always stood out to me as a "landmark" of sorts: the house with the bubble window, with the severe pitched roof, with the strong, sharp angles. Of course, having had a listing on Lakeview and tasted the quaint, lakeside feel of Bay's unpresumptuous lakefront community - that humble neighborhood spanning from Lake to the south, Lakeview to the north, Rockledge to the east (where our subject property lies) and Kenmore to the west, I had a special appreciation for this home, situated in this "special" neighborhood where all the neighbors have a coveted key that unlocks the gate to descend to the beach and lake below. It was special to have a home here.

Bank owned homes are often no fun to tour. It is not uncommon that the house symbolically, yet quite literally, suffers some physical "abuse" at the hands of its distraught owners, many of whom have invested entire lifetime incomes and energies into a property that the bank now has seized for whatever financial hardship or negligence traceable to its forlorn or perhaps callously indifferent owners.

This house, not to my surprise, was different. It was very custom inside. Clean. No trash lying around, no walls or doors battered, no ostensible damage to the untrained eye. I imagined the owner leaving for the last time, carefully closing the door behind him or her, perhaps visiting the kitchen sink for a last look at the lake.

I toured the home as I have a few buyers looking in Bay, but the realtor, oddly enough one that whose name/business scarcely seems to scratch the surface of our neighborhood, was still waiting on the bank for a price. I'll keep you posted as updates surface, and look forward to seeing it once again hum with life and love, as all good homes should.

for all you "LOOKERS" . . . the Ohio City Home Tour is TODAY!

2008-05-18T02:56:00.002-05:00

I know who you are because I, too, was "one of you" and, perhaps UNLIKE you, my condition worsened until I became "one of them": A REALTOR.

Yes, I too, was one of those casual "lookers" who, whether I was in the market for a home or not, I just was drawn into homes as if by a magical elixir.

I loved to see different floor plans, different decorating ideas, different modes of organization which, to this day, inspire me to lofty dreams of getting my own home in order, were I not so busy with my real estate work and my personal obligations!

But now, you can do so without the guilt, because the Ohio City Home Tour - as affordable as ever - is today! Bring your umbrella and whet your appetite for some GORGEOUS, one of a kind residences in one of Cleveland's most understated, ever-evolving urban legends: Ohio City. Visit the Ohio City website, also on my blog, for more details.

While you're there, won't you visit me at one of my Stonebridge listings right down the road from St. Malachi's on the viaduct?

Here's the schedule:

From 12 – 2
Suite 1014 (1BR, 1BA)
Suite 912 (2BR, 2BA)
Suite 709 (2BR, 2BA)

From 1-3
Suite 903 (2BR, 2BA) - - -you can tour 903/907 on my blog as well!
Suite 907 (2BR, 2BA)

Call me if you have questions (216-215-4232)... Hope to see you later!

Are You a "Yea-But" Buyer? Found that "Perfect House", BUT....

2008-02-28T10:03:00.005-05:00

Having passed through the esteemed Bay Village school system myself, I have fond memories of Mr. Sauer, a wonderful middle school instructor who, on the first day of class, informed us as 7th graders that we were strictly prohibited from muttering the infamous phrase - "Yea-But"!

I wouldn't dare impose that restriction on my wonderful buyers, but it is common to tour a home, loiter around a bit, and come up with all the wonderful qualities only to follow with the "Yea-But" list of why they can't write an offer because, in essence, the house doesn't fully meet their criteria.

This product may change all that.

A New Loan Product is Now Available: The FHA 203(K) Renovation Loan – one loan, one mortgage that incorporates home improvement dollars into your regular loan payment!

For Owner Occupied properties only, this loan makes the funds available to:

Add new free-standing appliances
Replace floors or carpet
Have the interior or exterior freshly painted
Perform upgrades to the electrical or heating systems or make improvements for energy efficiency
Kitchen or bathroom remodeling
Roof or siding replacement
Additions to the home.

Of course, we always need to make our financing choices wisely, as we ask ourselves, do I really want to spend 30 years paying off my paint job, with interest? Of course, rolling the renovation dollars into a tax-deductible scenario (versus installment loans, etc.) has its advantages. The 203(k) Loan can be used for owner occupied 1-4 family dwellings with only a 3% required investment from the borrower. Fully disbursed at closing, the repair funds are placed in an interest bearing escrow account and paid out after work completed. Call or email me if you need a lender to discuss this with further.

You can also visit Steve Fishman, of the GS Group Mortgage Services, webpage for a more detailed explanation. http://www.gsgroupinc.com/fha203k.shtml.

As always, happy house hunting!!

SAVING (and MAINTAINING) YOUR CREDIT . . . Little Things That Impact Big with Your Credit Score and Ability to Buy

2008-02-13T05:35:00.001-05:00

Last week some colleagues and I had the privilege of meeting with a respected local lender and “certified mortgage planning specialist” Jim Priebe of First Ohio Banc. As we discussed qualifying credentials for first time (and “anytime”, for that matter), homebuyers, among many things, we were reminded of the items that affect credit. Because some of these slipped my mind, I thought it helpful to post them here:

FIRST: Your Payment History, which impacts 35% of your total score (no Greek time allowed, here, my friends!)

SECOND: Outstanding Credit Balances vs Available Credit, which impacts 30% of the score. A 25-30% utilization ratio is ideal; don’t become “maxed out” on a card, and maintain at least 6 month seasoning for new installment loans/purchases.

THIRD: Credit History, defined as “the length of time an account has been both open AND active”, which impacts 20% of your credit score. Be wary of the danger of “0%” or other low interest rates, and the temptation to jump from one to another.

FOUTH: Mix of Credit Types impacts 10% of your score. Like a good stew, it should ideally have a little bit of everything: mortgages, installment payments (ie auto or education), revolving lines (credit cards)...

FIFTH: Impacting only 5% is the infamous credit inquiries, both how many and what kind. Remember, any inquiry into your credit counts as one inquiry so long as it is made within a fourteen day period. You could have 100 inquiries in 14 days that count as one, and, on day 15, count as 100!

We also discussed the impact of flawed credit, and, as they say in the “old west” (where’s that???) – “it ain’t pretty”:

30 year fixed rate with a principal loan amount of 250K:

If your score exceeds 720, your total interest is 272,928;

If your score ranges from 620-719, your total interest ranges from 277,845-400,381;

If your score is under 620, your total interest ranges from 438,957-489,365 . . .

Market Update is Coming...

2008-01-22T09:43:00.001-05:00

...this week, I promise! One distinctive element to homes at this time of year is that they are loaded with bacteria that cause the common cold, and we seem to have our share here, no matter how thoroughly I've "bleached" this place! (and you can nose that clinical fragrance the moment you cross the sterilized threshold!). Still, amidst the runny noses and the coughing and the sneezing it will come SOON...PROMISE!

House Hunting with Your Cell Phone? Consider Slowing Down to Save Your Sanity and Perhaps Your Brain Cells

2007-12-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, I realize I sound like an alarmist, but slow down for a minute, review the next few sentences and, when you're at your leisure (what's that?), go to the link that follows. And remember: not to oversimplify, but there was a day and time when we ALL (even the president and the CEO's and everyone else) made America great without a cell phone or earpiece harnessed to our heads! I write this only because I have genuine concerns for everyone, I observe and empathize with how crazy house hunting and holiday prepping times can be, and extend genuine wishes for the health and well-being of all!

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays, and, for those of you happy buyers or sellers that are multi-tasking to expedite a purchase and using your cell phone to "make it happen" faster, please slow down and take note: long term cell phone damage is still in question, as all the current findings involve 10 year or less cell phone users. A 2006 Swedish study demonstrated the risk of developing a malignant tumor on the side of the head where the phone is used was 240% GREATER than normal, and more recent studies indicate that use of a cell phone over 10 years can double brain tumor use. Remember that brain tumors may take 30-40 years to develop, so the evidence isn’t conclusive at this time. But if you can wait until you’re at a land line, or can mount an antennae OUTSIDE your car, you may be better off in the long run.

Visit http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400310/how-safe-are-cell-phones for more information - and make that home purchase happy and HEALTHY!!

Legislation Needed to Secure Real Estate Recovery

2007-12-04T16:12:00.003-05:00

FHA Reform S. 2338
Ask your Senator to support FHA reform legislation this year. FHA reform will provide existing homeowners with secure and affordable refinancing alternatives and more mortgage options for first-time homebuyers. Increasing the supply of affordable mortgage money is a critical component for bringing stability to the nation’s turbulent housing markets.

Freddie Mac/Fannie Mae (GSE) Loan Limits
Ask your Senator to support legislation that allows regional increases to the Freddie Mac/Fannie Mae loan limits and stress the need for quick Senate action on this vital reform. This change will make lower-cost GSE mortgage financing available to more families trying to buy homes in high cost areas and increase the supply of mortgage money.

Sound like a good idea? Let your senators know!

Cost Vs. Value Report

2007-12-04T00:27:00.001-05:00

It is quite often that our clients look to us realtors as fortune tellers who can project a specific monetary return on a home improvement project. Time and again I have heard one of the partners at our company state "Did you ENJOY the improvement to your bathroom? GOOD!" While we always have a mind for resale when we are undertaking improvements to our homes, and, historically, kitchen and baths get the most 'bang for the buck' as far as return, we always must remind our clients that we are NEVER to expect a dollar for dollar return on an investment. So yes, we do hope you enjoyed the deck you installed on the back of your home, because you won't necessarily get that back when you sell it nor is logically to run a tally of all your improvements and then say, "so, since I bought the home from A, and incurred the expense of improvements B, C and D, and I can expect to receive E for the house." Not to say that improvements won't make your house more marketable, of course.

A recent collaborator in my newsletter, Kris Tabor, from National City Mortgage, cited some improvements that "MAY" add value. They are bulleted below.

And, of course, I would be remiss in my commentary if I didn't cite the WONDERFUL 2006 Remodeling Cost Vs. Value report, an annual joint venture between Realtor Magazine and Remodeling Magazine, which is detailed, insightful and city-specific: a wonderful resource before you undertake the improvement and when you've got your home on the market. You can find that report, which links to a printable Adobe version, at http://www.realtor.org/rmomag.NSF/pages/2006CostvsValue.

Check it out!

But back to Kris' list and interesting stats:

houses with stucco and wood exteriors sell for about 9% more than other medias
internal features that add the most value are a family room, dining room, a whirlpool and security systems
fireplaces influence the selling price greatly, with each fireplace adding about 12% to the overall price
each additional 1,000 sq ft of living space increases the selling price by approximately 3.3%
each additional bedroom increases about 4% to the price
bathrooms increase the selling price substantially, with each full bath adding about 24%
central air adds about 12% to the price
high ceilings 9' and higher add about 6%
a sitting area in the master bedroom increases the price by 8%

Enjoy your improvements!

Brrr...It's Cold Outside, so Keep it Warm Inside!

2007-12-03T23:37:00.000-05:00

With 25-50% of your home's total energy costs attributed to heating, here are a few commonsense tips to keep efficiency at its best:

Pay an expert to inspect/service your heating system.
Replace or clean the filters monthly for forced air systems.
Eliminate leaky ductwork, using duct sealer or silicone caulk at joints and intersections.
Evaluate your hot water tank, which is a major consumer of energy, and many are inefficient. A tank-style hot water heater should be wrapped if it is an unheated area of the house. Tankless, on-demand hot water heaters may improve heating efficiency, since they do not have to constantly heat a large tank of water.

To prevent air leakage, you can't caulk or seal enough:

Use caulk or expanding spray foam to seal around pipes and wires that lead from the attic or crawl space into the home. Install gaskets in outlets and switches on outside walls to prevent air leakage.

Caulk cracks around window and door moldings, and weather strip around doorframes and at the top and bottom of window sashes.

Caulk cracks around masonry fireplaces and keep the damper closed when not in use.

Weather strip and insulate attic doors and pull downs. Check the attic insulation. If it is sparse or badly settled, consider blowing in more t bring it up to a minimum of R-30.

If you have a crawl space, make sure the vents are closed and you have a good vapor barrier (6 mil polyethylene) on the ground. If you don't have insulation in the floor, consider adding R 19 insulation batts.

Creating a Sanctuary in Your Home - Courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil

2007-11-29T09:31:00.000-05:00

Almost everyone I know holds deep admiration and respect for Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D., who has devoted the past thirty years to developing, practicing, and teaching others about the principles of integrative medicine. Here is a great article from http://www.drweil.com/ that addresses your overall well being and how it can be enhanced by the environment you create in your home. More on Dr. Weil (from his website) at the close of this article.

"Your home - whether big, small, or somewhere in between - should be your sanctuary, a place where stress is left at the door and your soul is nurtured. For a more comforting environment, gradually implement the following changes into your home:

Bring the outdoors in. Cut flowers and blooming bulbs, or pieces of wood, rocks and other natural elements can create a feeling of nature indoors.
Bring green plants into your home, especially varieties that filter indoor pollutants. According to the Foliage for Clean Air Council, these include Gerbera daisies, Boston ferns, English ivy, chrysanthemums, Areca palms, spider plants and golden pothos. The Council recommends having two plants for every 100 square feet.

Paint a room to correlate with how you want to feel while in that room. For instance, blue and green promote a relaxed feeling and may be good for the bedroom.

Surround your senses with beauty. Artwork, fragrance, smooth textures and calming sounds all provide a pleasant environment in which to relax.

Set aside a room or area for peace and calm. A place for spiritual reflection and meditation can provide shelter from noise and distraction.

Clean out the clutter. A low-maintenance home is refreshing after a day of hectic meetings, errands and chores. Fewer items can mean less frustration.

Create an atmosphere of love. Display handmade or meaningful gifts from loved ones and photos of family and friends.

Allow natural light to flow into your home. To take advantage of the sun's cycle without heating up your home, hang linen curtains (organic cotton, if possible) on windows that face north or south. If you have a nice garden or view from a window or two, keep those windows uncovered as much as possible when you are home. Read a book instead of watching television, or listen to music. If you desire or enjoy background noise, consider installing a small fountain to provide a soothing hum."

About Dr. Weil: Dr. Weil combines a Harvard education and a lifetime of practicing natural and preventive medicine to provide a unique approach to health care which encompasses body, mind, and spirit. He is the Founder and Director of the Program in Integrative Medicine (PIM) at the College of Medicine, University of Arizona, where he is also a Clinical Professor of Medicine and Professor of Public Health and the Lovell-Jones Professor of Integrative Rheumatology. Dr. Weil received both his medical degree and his undergraduate AB degree in biology (botany) from Harvard University.

TIMELESS WI$DOM FOR SELLING SEAMLESSLY: RICHARD CZEH'S 69 EASY WAYS

2007-11-29T04:27:00.001-05:00

I published this back in 2007 and can't emphasize enough how critical a "perfect" first impression is. In the craze of preparing our homes for sale and leading our busy lives, we often overlook COMMON SENSE items which, when weaved together in the presentation of your home to the buyer, may make ALL the difference. I will never cease to be amazed how a minor item, which may costs pocket change to address, will deter or taint a buyer's vision and impression of a home whose value far outweighs these common sense oversights. READ AND HEED from Columbus' Real Estate Guru, Richard Czeh:

Why does one house sell within days and another linger for months on the market? Here are some mostly common sense considerations that will heighten the appeal of your home, especially as it is typically compared to dozens of others in about the same price range. The one who stands out as either an incredible "bargain" or has the feel of a "Better Homes and Gardens" feature still emerges as a quicker sell than most, so please take these suggestions seriously.

The longer a house is on the market, the less likely the seller is to receive a high offer. It's human nature to suspect the quality of merchandise that has been "on the shelf" for a long time. A slow-selling house makes prospective buyers nervous.

Selling your home can be a painless and profitable experience - if you follow the guidelines offered on the following pages. And don't neglect to involve your family in this project. It is a cooperative venture with one shared goal: the timely sale of your home.

THE GROUNDWORK

Put yourself in the buyer's shoes! Remember, they arrive at your front door waiting to fall in love with your home. If you've done your “homework” and staged your home effectively, every room in your home will greet the customer with a pleasant surprise.

What makes your home special?

First, settle down in your favorite easy chair, close your eyes, and try to remember your feeling the very first time YOU walked into your home. Now, start listing your home's most positive features. Remember, the more personal, the better. Ask your spouse and your children to add their own special positive reactions. Your teenage daughter may remember how she fell in love with your home years ago because of a swing that hung from the old oak tree in the backyard. Don't make the mistake of ignoring children's special impressions. Tour every room, the attic, basement, the garage, and yard. Note at least one positive feature in each. Include the items that attracted you and those desirable features you have added.

Accentuate the Positive

A real estate agent will bring prospective buyers to your door, but don't rely on him or her to do the WHOLE job of selling your home. A saleable home has each room sending out a unique message to the customer. It is more effective to have the buyer's "discover" your home's special features themselves (than to have the owner or agent point them out like a tour guide.) Draw attention to your home's best asset by a LITTLE CREATIVITY : a cheerful glow of logs in the fireplace; a spotlight beaming down; a pot of red geraniums...stimulates the buyer's imagination by setting the scene!

Eliminate the Negative

You can eliminate many of your home's negative features by transforming them into something visually pleasant. Inexpensive and creative disguises will minimize those drawbacks. Be realistic that no home is perfect. List the negative features or potential drawbacks you can find. Be "HONEST"!

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

1. MAKE THOSE MINOR REPAIRS.
All those tiny flaws in your otherwise beautifully maintained home will add up to one thing to the observant buyer: OWNER NEGLECT. All signs of OWNER NEGLECT must be eliminated.

2. REGARDLESS OF SEASON, TACKLE SPRING CLEANING.
Those hours spent thoroughly cleaning your home will be hours well spent when the results pay off in an early and profitable sale. Clean windows are important and can substantially improve the appearance of your home! Pay particular attention to your kitchen and bathrooms - they involve personal health and hygiene, and are areas buyers scrutinize closely. All sinks and commode must SHINE!

3. CREATE THE ILLUSION OF SPACIOUSNESS.
Make your living space APPEAR larger by eliminating bulky, unnecessary furniture. Rearrange and, if necessary, temporarily eliminate or store excess pieces to give the illusion of spaciousness.

4. GIVE YOUR ROOMS A LIGHT, BRIGHT LOOK.
Most buyers want large, bright, cheerful rooms.

5. USE COLOR AND LIGHTING TO DRAW ATTENTION TO YOUR HOME'S BEST SELLING FEATURES.
Highlight the graceful bay window with a colorful arrangement of flowers. Color has the power to attract. Lighting should be used for emphasis.

6. DISGUISE UNSIGHTLY VIEWS.
Disguise that potentially offending view, but always let light into your rooms. Replace heavy curtains with sheer white panels. Above all, don't apologize for a poor view.

7. ELIMINATE UNPLEASANT ODORS.
Remember that some people are more sensitive to odors than others. Smokers rarely notice the odor of tobacco that fills their homes, and pet owners may be oblivious to objectionable dog odor. Use powered products like "Love My Carpet" regularly. Mildew odors are another no-no. Don’t allow wet towels to accumulate in hampers, or old laundry to pile up in closets.

8. AVOID ECCENTRICITIES
Smart sellers play down individualistic touches that may express perfectly their taste and personality, but, at the same time, appeal to a minority of home buyers. In selling, play the odds. If your rooms are painted purple and beaded curtains hang in every doorway, don't rely on your real estate agent to find the perfect buyer whose taste match yours. The average buyer will have a hard time looking beyond purple walls and eccentric decor. Two coats of white paint may be the best investment you ever made.

9. RECOGNIZE THE FINE LINE BETWEEN CLUTTER AND STERILITY
Notice the small details that make the rooms particularly attractive and appealing - a vase of flowers, a basket of knitting yarns. Accessories can make or break a room. But be on the lookout for distractive clutter.

10. DISPLAY PHOTOGRAPHS THAT SHOW YOUR HOME DURING OTHER SEASONS.
Go through your photo albums and select pictures of your house and yard during all four seasons. If hung at eye level in a well lighted area, the pictures will speak for themselves and give you yet another selling edge.

Front Door and Porch
No matter how lovely your home may be behind that front door, a buyer will be turned off by crumbling front steps, a doorbell that doesn't work, creaky hinges, or chipping paint on porch columns. Give special attention to your home's front entry. Remember, first impressions are likely to color the remainder of the house tour.

11. CREATE A WELCOME SPOT OF COLOR.
There should be something special that beckons the buyer to your front door, something that sets your home off from the other houses on the block. A bright red milk can, a tub of geraniums, a pot of floppy petunias, or a basket of nasturtiums. Invest in a new doormat that says "welcome."

12. OPEN YOUR HOME TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD.
A buyer approaches a home with curiosity aroused; he wants to have positive feelings. If all the curtains are drawn and the front door is locked and bolted, your home will seem like a forbidden fortress. If the curtains are open, the windows sparkling clean, and the front door open (in warm weather), your home will radiate a welcome spirit and invite the buyer to enter.

13. CAPITALIZE ON A SPACIOUS FRONT PORCH/DECK.
Take advantage of the nostalgia it evokes. Set the stage and stimulate imaginations.

Your Home's Entry Hall
14. CREATE A DRAMATIC FOCAL POINT
Study your entry hall and ask "what kind of statement" it makes about your home. This area should "greet" and say "Welcome, your house hunting days are over." Dried flowers can make a striking focal point on a hall table any time of the year. Imagine cattails, a bunch of orange Chinese lanterns, an arching spray of bittersweet, or wheat stalks in a glowing copper planter.

15. ADD SPACIOUSNESS WITH A MIRROR.
Virtually any entry hall will benefit from a well placed mirror (enlarges the area). Be sure to clean regularly!

16. IMPROVE THE FLOOR'S APPEARANCE HERE, IF NOWHERE ELSE.
Your entry hall flooring is observed carefully buy the prospective buyer - give them a positive attitude.

17. CLEAN OUT YOUR COAT CLOSET.
The entry hall closet is the first one inspected - make it appear roomy. Add a few extra hangers. Hang a bag of cedar chips or a potpourri ball to give a pleasant, fresh scent.

Your Home's Living Room And Family Room
18. TREAT THESE ROOMS AS IF THEY WERE STAGED SETTINGS.
Buyers ask themselves, "Can I imagine myself LIVING in this room?" Your job is to make each room project a positive response. What touches make a room look truly inviting? Music is one element. Consider leaning a guitar in the corner of your living room, or opening some sheet music on the piano with a light shinning on it.

19. HIGHLIGHT YOUR FIREPLACE.
Don't take for granted and expect the buyer to imagine the glow of a roaring fire; light one. Place something colorful on the mantel, but don't overdo!

20. IMPROVE TRAFFIC FLOW IN THESE ROOMS.
Make rooms visually larger by removing excess furniture. Have easy traffic flow patterns. Be sure that all doors open fully.

21. DRAW ATTENTION TO EXPOSED BEAMS OR A CATHEDRAL CEILING.

22. DON'T LET A TELEVISION SET DOMINATE THE ROOM.

Your Home's Dining Room or Dining Area
23. SET THE SCENE BY SETTING THE TABLE
You can stimulate a buyer's imagination by setting your dining table with pretty china and silver - a warm or welcome site. (Notice the photographs of dining rooms in any home decorating magazine.) Avoid going overboard - any stage setting that you create should reflect the character of your entire home to be effective.

24. VISUALLY ENLARGE A SMALL DINING AREA.
If your dining table has one or two leaves take one or two out. Consider placing your dining table against a wall. Remove any extra "company" chairs. Consider putting that looming China cabinet in storage until your house is sold. Aim for a clean and tidy look.

Your Home's Kitchen
The kitchen continues to be the "heart of the home." A pleasant, functional kitchen is near the top of most buyers' list of priorities.

25. USE PROPS TO SET A CHEERFUL SCENE.
Set the scene with any of the following: An open cookbook; A copper colander filled with blueberries; A basket of eggs; A bunch of carrots on a wooden cutting board; A ceramic mixing bowl and wire whisk.

26. MAKE IT SMELL LIKE GRANDMA'S KITCHEN.
"Nothing' says lovin' like something from the oven." These aromas are associated with happiness and a sense of well-being. An original kitchen aroma can be created on top of your stove, or here's a mix guaranteed to have buyers longing to whip up a batch of cookies in your kitchen:

GRANNY'S AROMATIC SECRET
1 whole nutmeg
5 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon whole allspice
1 tablespoon whole cloves

Halve the nutmeg and add all ingredients to 3 cups water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and then lower to simmer. In the heat of summer, a bowl of lemons on the counter will provide a fresh and pleasant aroma.

27. EXPAND YOUR SMALL COUNTER SPACE.
Clean counters of small appliances. Check the counter top around your sink, and remove any detergent or cleanser, etc., that may be cluttering the area.

28. CREATE MORE STORAGE SPACE.
If your cabinets, drawers, and closets are jammed full, buyers assume that your storage space is inadequate. Weed out all these areas, removing what you don't use, storing seldom-used items elsewhere, and reorganizing shelves. Neat, organized shelves and drawers fool the eye by looking larger.

29. ACCENT KITCHEN WINDOWS.
Large, cheerful kitchen windows are a real plus and should be highlighted as a special feature of your home. Hang a stained glass mobile or some wind chimes in front of your sunny kitchen window. If you hang a bird feeder outside your window, nature will seem to become part of the room.

30. HIGHLIGHT AN EAT-IN AREA OF YOUR KITCHEN.
Accentuate by setting the table for an informal meal with bright placemats and a generous bowl of fruit as a centerpiece.

Laundry Room
A separate laundry room is a true asset and is appreciated by all buyers. Don't hide this treasure behind closed doors. Spruce up the room and leave the door proudly open for inspection.

31. MAKE IT CHEERFUL AND APPEALING.
Add a fresh coat of paint! Is it well organized? Piles of dirty laundry can be a real turn-off to the buyer's eye - and his nose!

32. SET IT UP TO DO DOUBLE DUTY.
If there's room for a table and chair, could it be a pleasant sewing area? Set up that old Singer and place a bright colored piece of fabric under the presser foot.
Stairways
Stairways should provide an attractive transition from one level of your home to another.

33. MAKE THEM SAFE.
Stair lighting should be more than adequate, stairs must be clutter free, stair railings tight and secure, and runners or carpeting tacked securely. Cheerfully decorated stairs are positive!

34. ADD VISUAL INTEREST TO THE STAIRWELL.
A carefully chosen accent might improve the area's visual appeal. If you have a wide, gracious staircase, emphasize this feature by hanging a few pictures along the wall. Draw attention to a handsome lighting fixture by polishing the brass and dusting each small light bulb or crystal prism. Any stair landing should also have an attractive focal point, be it a fern on a plant stand, a dramatic poster, a chiming clock, or a special chair on a large stair landing. If the staircase is narrow, fool the eye by minimizing clutter.

Bedrooms
Imagine for a moment that you're in the “bed & breakfast" business. How would you change your home's bedrooms to appeal to a paying lodger? Naturally you'd make up the beds with your prettiest sheets and comforters. Maybe you'd add a vase of flowers on the dressing table or a cozy armchair in the corner. Every bedroom in your home should invite prospective buyers to settle right in.

35. CREATE A MASTER BEDROOM "SUITE" EFFECT.
Large master bedrooms are particularly popular among today's homebuyers. Make your bedroom larger. Paint the room a light color, remove one of the bureaus if the room is crowded, and minimize clutter to maximize spaciousness. Aim for a restful, subdued look and feel.
A private bathroom off the master bedroom is a real sales plus. Be sure to decorate and accessorize this to coordinate with the color scheme/theme of your bedroom, creating the "suite" effect.

36. TACKLE YOUR CLOSETS.
Virtually all buyers are looking for a house with plenty of closet space. Try to make what you have appear generous and well planned...
clear out all but your current seasonal wardrobe.
a clear floor will make a closet seem more spacious.
closet shelves should look well organized.
when prospective buyers open your closet door, they should be greeted with a whiff of fresh-smelling air.
be sure that every closet in your home has a light so that buyers can easily inspect the interiors.

37. DEPERSONALIZE TEENAGER'S ROOMS
Take the time to explain your house-selling goals to your children. Encourage them to participate in preparing your home for showing; particularly the principle of appealing to the widest possible market. Consider storing those personal (and possibly offensive) posters until your home is sold.

Bathrooms
Wise sellers take special pains with preparing their bathroom(s) for scrutiny by strangers. The bathroom is a room, after all, and a very personal one. Potential buyers will inspect yours with eagle eyes, so be sure it is immaculate. Don't forget the medicine cabinet: dispose of those three-year-old prescriptions, and polish the shelves. The same goes for the storage cabinet under the sink. Replace that old caulking around the bathtub.

38. CREATE A LOOK.
Decorate and tastefully, moderately personalize - create a pleasing, individual look. Add plants, shells you collected at the beach last summer in an attractive glass bowl or jar, pictures, magazine rack, display fresh towels that coordinate with paint colors, etc.

39. CONSIDER COLOR.
Remember, appeal to a wide range of buyers. Play down that all-pink look with contrasting dove-gray towels and matching bathroom rug. If your bathroom is mostly white or neutral, add a few cheerful accents of color; use towels in the popular shades. Don't hesitate to buy a few new towels and a rug; you'll be taking them with you to your new home.

40. INVEST IN A NEW SHOWER CURTAIN.

41. IMPROVE YOUR FLOOR COVERING.
Notice the word "improve" not "replace." Scrub and wax the older floor. Cover the largest area you can with a large scatter rug.

42. PUT OUT FRESH TOWELS AND SOAP.
Prospective buyers are very special guests in your home. Give the VIP treatment with fresh smelling towels and new soap in an attractive dish. Splurge on a box of fancy sculptures and perfumed guest soaps.

43. GO EASY ON AIR SPRAYS AND ROOM DEODORIZES.
A gentle hint of fragrance in the air is fine, but keep it subtle.

Attic
Whether a high-ceiling room of a crawl space under the eaves for storage, your attic area will be examined and should not detract from the well-kept appearance of your home. If your attic is reached by a steep flight of stairs, be sure they're clutter free and well lit; if your attic space is reached by a folding set of stairs that you pull from the ceiling, be sure the mechanism is well oiled and there is adequate lighting.

44. EASE THAT CREEPY, HAUNTED FEELING.
Spruce up your attic space, hide the mousetraps, and install bright lights. If your attic does have windows, be sure to clean off the grime and let in as much light as possible. Clean as needed.

45. REARRANGE YOUR STORAGE.
Get rid of anything that you don't plan to move to your new home. Remaining stored materials should be neatly contained in boxes and trunks, and position against walls.

46. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ATTIC'S EXPANSION POTENTIAL.
If you have a large, cheerful, windowed attic, you're sitting on a potential gold mine. Don't renovate your attic; just stage to suggest your attic space has potential.

Basement
If your home has a full basement, chances are that the "machinery" of your home furnace, water heater, electric circuit breakers, etc. is located there. Since educated buyers will inspect this area, do necessary clean up and repairs. Spend a Saturday morning cleaning out your basement. Get rid of broken tools, rusted lawn furniture, and other assorted debris that has accumulated over the years. Give your basement a thorough sweeping and take a damp cloth and wipe off any dust and grime from the surface of your water heater and furnace, they'll look newer.

47. MAKE IT AS PLEASANT AS POSSIBLE.
A dark damp-smelling basement will have trouble selling. One whiff of mildew and a prospective buyer may begin conjuring up scenes of wading through your flooded basement in rubber hip boots. Clean up mildew stains, throw out any upholstered basement furniture that retains that musty smell, and check the basement walls for high water marks. Many basements are creepy simply because they are too dark. Increase the wattage of your existing light bulbs, and if necessary, install a few more lights.

48. SET IT UP AS A GAME ROOM OR TEEN ROOM.
Set your ping pong table (with balls and paddles as props), hang some bright posters, dust off the old upright, and you've instantly transformed the place into a teen hangout. Your "stage setting" needn't be complete and shouldn't cost a cent - it’s only meant to be an imagination jogger that suggests further possibilities to buyers.

49. HIGHLIGHT A WORKBENCH AREA.
Many buyers dream of having a home workshop for woodworking projects. Clear off that dusty workbench in your basement and draw some attention to it as a sales feature. Clean the surface, set out a few scraps of wood, a box of nails, and a couple of tools, hang a light over the bench, and you've set a scene for an amateur carpenter. Naturally, if someone in your family is REALLY into woodwork, an honest-to-gosh project in progress will stimulate buyers to imagine themselves working in your pleasant basement.

Driveways & Garage
Rutted driveways and junk filled garages spell OWNER NEGLECT, and can easily sour a buyer's otherwise positive impression of your home. Give these areas an honest appraisal and see whether a few small improvements might make a difference. Remember that buyers are scouting for flaws, which they can use to justify a low offer. If you hope to get top dollar for your home, don't give potential buyers any extra ammunition in a poorly maintained driveway or garage.

50. FIX UP DRIVEWAYS FOR FIRST-IMPRESSION IMPACT.
The driveway is no place for children's toys. Not only are such things dangerous, the clutter is unsightly. The surface of your driveway should be beyond reproach; after all, it's one of the first things a buyer will see when he drives up. Repair cracks and potholes, pull up pesky weeds, or get a new load of gravel.

51. ENLARGE AND IMPROVE THE APPEARANCE OF THE GARAGE.
A clean, organized garage appears larger. If dark, add more light, if small, one-car garage - remove your car before buyers visit. An empty garage always looks larger. If a two-car garage with very little extra room, remove one of your cars so that the buyer can make their inspection in comfort.

Yard
Whether your property consists of fifty acres or a small suburban lot, much of the value is in the land itself. If your yard is a well-landscaped setting for your home, your chances of selling quickly will be greatly enhanced.

52. AVOID AN OVERGROWN, UNKEPT LOOK.
Does your yard radiate owner’s pride? So, drag out the lawnmower, sharpen up those hedge cutters, and shape up your yard:
Prune bushes, mow your grass, trim trees and hedges, edge along walks anddriveways, spray stubborn weeds.
An inch or two of bark mulch around your foundation shrubs makesan excellent first impression.

53. MARK YOUR PROPERTY BOUNDARIES.
Paint stakes a bright red or yellow, and stick them in the ground at the corners of your property. This will not only show consideration, it will be an effective sales tool.

54. BRIGHTEN UP YOUR PROPERTY WITH SOME FLOWERS.
Plop the plants into a well-placed wheelbarrow, and old fashioned washtub, or what have you. Such standbys as nasturtiums, petunias, impatiens, and verbena are easy to maintain if you remember to water them regularly. Try a row of sweet smelling alyssum to line a short sidewalk or pop in some perky dwarf marigolds to form a cheerful oasis of color in your yard.

55. DRAW ATTENTION TO SPECIAL TREES.
Many buyers can't tell an oak from an elm, but they like the notion of having gracious, mature trees on the property they buy. Make sure yours grabs the buyer's immediate attention. Hang a swing from a strong branch, plant some bright, shade tolerant flowers like impatiens, or set up your picnic table under the tree's leafy awning.

56. PLAY UP FLAT AREAS.
Set up your old badminton or volleyball net in that flat area of your yard.

57. SET UP A BACKYARD LIVING/DINING AREA.
It is important to devote at least one area of your yard to outdoor living. Buyers will still recognize a scene set with picnic table and chairs and respond positively to it. Cover your picnic table with a fringed, red-and-white checked cloth, set out some plastic plates and glasses, bring out the barbecue equipment, and buyers will almost smell the hot dogs cooking!

When Your Home Is Shown
Of course, like all home sellers, you're fantasizing that the first prospective buyers who walk through your front door will fall madly in love with your home and offer to meet your price right there and then. It can happen, but it's a rare occurrence.

58. BE WILLING TO SHOW YOUR HOME (PRACTICALLY) ANYTIME.
Play the odds. The more people who see your home, the more likely you are to sell it quickly. Yes, it's an inconvenience to show your home at dinner time, but if the people buy your home, isn't it worth reheating the pot roast?

59. HAVE A FAMILY "GAME PLAN" FOR LAST-MINUTE SHOWINGS.
Prepare for the inevitable, unexpected showings with a family game plan. To be effective, this plan should be worked out by all your family and actually written down so that everyone knows what to do if you sound the alarm. No one is talking about major house cleaning at this point. The kinds of tasks you ought to be concerned with now are simple ones: dust the dining table top, stuff last night's dirty pans in the dishwasher, hide those damp panty hose hanging on the shower rod. Even young children can participate by "cleaning" their room.

60. AIR OUT YOUR HOME HALF AN HOUR BEFORE SHOWING.
Any home will smell better if you can open the windows in each room and let in some fresh air. Stale air isn't appealing, particularly in a home with smokers or pets.

61. SET YOUR THERMOSTAT AT A COMFORTABLE TEMPERATURE.
Yes, we all want to save on our heating costs, but a chilly house can make buyers nervous and set them to wondering if you home is poorly insulated or your furnace is on its last leg.

62. TURN ON LIGHTS IN EACH AND EVERY ROOM.
You can make home showings smoother for your agent if you turn on lights in every room before prospective buyers arrive. This also gives you an opportunity to select the lighting effects you want for each room. Be sure not to overlook areas like your attic and basement where light switches are often difficult to locate. No area of your home should be dark.

63. TURN ON PLEASANT BACKGROUND MUSIC.
Music has a subliminal power. Why else would stores bother to pipe in soft background music if not to put customers in a comfortable, relaxed mood for what else - buying. Speaking of sound, every seller should know better than to leave a television blaring away when the home is being shown. This is rude and distracting.

64. PUT PETS AND SEND CHILDREN TO PLAY AT THE NEIGHBORS.
Perhaps it's unfair to lump children with pets, but that precious toddler can cause just as much inconvenience when you're trying to sell a home. Keep pets away from buyers.

65. KEEP OUT OF SIGHT WHEN THE SALESPERSON IS SHOWING YOUR HOME.
Once you've answered the door and welcomed the real estate agent and potential buyers, you should take a walk or visit your neighbors or go grocery shopping. The shrewd seller sets the scene so that buyers can walk onto the stage and immediately begin play-acting, pretending the home is already theirs.

66. NEVER VOLUNTEER INFORMATION.
If you've followed the previous tip, you won't be around to chat with the buyers, but if you are at home, resist the urge to volunteer information about what you consider to be important sales features. It's all too easy to develop seller's foot-in-mouth disease.

67. ASSEMBLE HOUSE RECORDS FOR BUYER PERUSAL.
In these times of rising energy costs, buyers will most certainly ask what your home heating and electrical costs are. If you are including any appliances in the sale price of your home, you should keep warranties and instruction booklets in this same file.

68. TELL EVERYONE YOU MEET THAT YOUR HOUSE IS FOR SALE.
Why keep it a secret? Your neighbors across the street may have a friend who has been waiting to move into the neighborhood. Word of mouth is a strong selling aid. If each person you tell that your house is for sale tell two more people, and those people each tell two more people, word can spread quite rapidly.

69. REMAIN OPTIMISTIC.
The buyer for your home will be knocking soon!

Adapted from and Reprinted with Permission of Rich Czeh of Columbus and Central Ohio

When Good Food is in the Air, A House Often Becomes a Home...

2007-11-29T04:01:00.001-05:00

I am in the profession of marketing homes. Charged with making one particular home stand out as more desirable among an increasingly large inventory, this task at times is daunting. Yet, sometimes an entirely distinct element to the desirability and appeal of a property is that sublime sense of “home”. What makes your home really feel like “home”? And, when we say, for instance, that someone comes from a “broken” home, we obviously aren’t alluding to physical disrepair or dysfunction. So much of our sense of home is, in fact, relational, spiritual, emotional, etc. and, being a Greek (or, as my darling partner in life playfully muses, an American of Greek descent!), I am going to throw food into the mix as an significant component in that “feeling” we get from a space when we walk through the door and the hearty aroma of sauteed onions and garlic penetrates our membranes. So, inspired by the bite of winter that has been at everyone's heels lately, I am going to go a bit out of bounds with my blog and include a budget-friendly recipe for a “Fasolada” (bean soup) that will keep everyone warm and satisfied during the day and perhaps heighten that sense of home (and, unfortunately, possibly the inside temperature during the night!). It comes from Father Ernest Blougouras, and is truly delightful:

FASOLADA
1 cup chopped onion
½ cup olive oil
2 cups Northern beans, canned*
8 cups water
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
2 or more carrots, chopped
2 tbsp fresh or dried parsley
1/8 tsp pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp flour, optional
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
also optional for greater flavor: a ham bone

Serves 8.

1. In a 4 quart pot, saute onion and garlic in the olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 8 cups of water; bring to a boil (and replenish water as needed to maintain water level).
3. Add beans and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Add celery, carrots and parsley; cook for another 30 minutes.
5. Add salt, pepper, and tomato sauce.
6. Add flour after mixing with cold water (this is optional, but lends a thicker consistency; the flour should be mixed with cold water and stirred until smooth, then added to the soup).

*if the beans aren’t canned, cover them 2 inches above the surface with warm water and soak overnight in a bowl.

Looking for a FABULOUS REALTOR-OWNED Lakewood Home on an even Better Street?

2007-11-26T03:58:00.000-05:00

(Is the street really better than the house? They're at it neck and neck...)

When I overheard that Kathy Lewis, a very well-respected Realtor within the western suburban communities, was going to list her home for sale, my ears perked up and I thought, "Who do I have on my buyers list who is a Lakewood Loyalist?" The home on 1206 Manor Park, besides bearing that enviable address whose name says it all, a street commonly regarded as the most lovely in ALL of Lakewood, is truly one of those homes that define the intangible elements of "home": you walk in, and you know that you're there. Whether it's the professionally inspired decor, the timeless architecture, the delightful floor plan, the definite sense of space and privacy yet the comfortable, cozy feeling, this 4-bedroom house on three levels (excluding the basement) has it all. To boot, you've overcome the typical Lakewood objection of "postage stamp lots" because you're living on Manor Park...a park like street whose typical 1/3 acre lots lend that "manoresque" feel. It is not a surprise that, despite this flooded market, 1206 Manor Park is the ONLY house for sale on Manor Park at the time of blogging. This house not only boasts a unique, elegant and sheerly delightful interior, but its exterior architecture is also one of a kind and overly demonstrative of curb appeal.

The last time I had the privilege of having a transaction with Kathy, I had visited her house to drop off some papers. As I entered the home and was overwhelmed with that warm, welcoming feeling I thought, "Wow, this house is incredibly striking with some truly exquisite appointments...the kind of house that would be a fine study specimen of architectural integrity or historic home construction, yet I feel like I'm at home...it figures that this is the home of a home-specialist". It's a grand opportunity: it's the like-minded answer to the inquiry, "I wonder what car the CEO of Daimler Chrysler drives?" or "What kind of violin does Itzhak Perlman play?" What kind of home does an established real estate professional, a true lover and marketer of fine homes, reside in? The home that is currently for sale at 1206 Manor Park. I would LOVE to sell it to you, so let me know when I can take you there, before someone else gets it!

Clean Up Your Impression of a Lot of Garbage...

2007-11-26T03:26:00.000-05:00

Handsomely uniformed, professionally astute and storming the roads in gleaming trucks, the crew behind Michael Cooper’s disposal company will reverse any negative impressions of waste management you may have. I was thoroughly impressed with the courtesy that Michael Cooper extended when assisting me with a garage clean-out this week for one of my sellers, not to mention the reasonable price tag. Further, Michael Cooper offers a full-service “gig”: whether you merely want a container for disposal or need someone to do the job from start to finish, this is your full service waste management resource with competitive pricing and service-orientation worthy of royalty. Typically, no job is too small or large for this professional team. Call Michael directly at 440-821-5900...you’ll be glad you did.

MARKET TRENDS - What's Selling Where

2007-11-18T08:31:00.000-05:00

Avon:
172 Homes Sold this Year
Average List Price: 305,129
Average Sale Price: 293,829
Average Market Time: 91 Days
Homes Currently For Sale: 162

Avon Lake:
236 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 276,006
Ave Sale Price: 265,624
Ave Market Time: 93 Days
Homes Currently For Sale: 222

Bay Village:
197 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 258,037
Ave Sale Price: 247,571
Ave Market Time: 73 Days
Homes Currently For Sale: 72

Beachwood:
66 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 277,440
Ave Sale Price: 258,402
Ave Market Time: 81 Days
Homes Currently For Sale: 81

Bratenhal:
5 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 753,160
Ave Sale Price: 646,500
Ave Market Time: 189 Days
Homes Currently For Sale: 24

Brecksville:
115 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 343,591
Ave Sale Price: 343,284
Ave Market Time: 72 days
Homes Currently For Sale: 81

Broadview Heights:
166 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 300,858
Ave Sale Price: 287,167
Ave Market Time: 97
Homes Currently For Sale:117

Cleveland Heights:
472 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 174,708
Ave Sale Price: 164,768
Ave Market Time: 92
Homes Currently For Sale: 591

Cleveland Westpark:
338 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 1,348
Ave Sale Price: 102,460
Ave Market Time: 82
Homes Currently For Sale: 324

Fairview Park:
185 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 158,801
Ave Sale Price: 151,919
Ave Market Time: 75
Homes Currently For Sale: 112

Independence:
39 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 294,792
Ave Sale Price: 277,793
Ave Market Time: 82
Homes Currently For Sale: 41

Lakewood:
316 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 170,498
Ave Sale Price: 162,828
Ave Market Time: 79
Homes Currently For Sale: 347

Lyndhurst:
190 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 168,506
Ave Sale Price: 160,632
Ave Market Time: 84
Homes Currently For Sale: 181

Moreland Hills:
30 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 619,368
Ave Sale Price: 533,025
Ave Market Time: 140
Homes Currently For Sale: 54

North Olmsted:
232 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 159,438
Ave Sale Price: 153,759
Ave Market Time: 71
Homes Currently For Sale: 190

North Ridgeville:
274 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 172,229
Ave Sale Price: 164,255
Ave Market Time: 76
Homes Currently For Sale: 247

North Royalton:
137 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 237,244
Ave Sale Price: 226,472
Ave Market Time: 74
Homes Currently For Sale: 162

Parma:
642 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 124,723
Ave Sale Price: 120,281
Ave Market Time: 71
Homes Currently For Sale: 647

Pepper Pike:
74 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 544,148
Ave Sale Price: 508,563
Ave Market Time: 108
Homes Currently For Sale: 84

Rocky River:
183 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 298,875
Ave Sale Price: 277,391
Ave Market Time: 95
Homes Currently For Sale: 131

Solon:
202 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 394,268
Ave Sale Price: 376,412
Ave Market Time: 94
Homes Currently For Sale: 220

Strongsville:
355 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 242,405
Ave Sale Price: 232,691
Ave Market Time: 83
Homes Currently For Sale: 349

University Heights:
162 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 167,081
Ave Sale Price: 159,409
Ave Market Time: 93
Homes Currently For Sale: 165

Westlake:
190 Homes Sold
Ave List Price: 369,754
Ave Sale Price: 341,561
Ave Market Time: 82
Homes Currently For Sale: 178

Using a discount broker? Be prepared to discount your expectations.

2007-11-06T01:11:00.001-05:00

I could only feel sorry for this seller. He had beautifully renovated his home for the past several years with upgrades that were aesthetically pleasing, practical and picture perfect. It was truly a 'dream listing,' even in this challenging market. He hired a discount broker to save money, but, besides not even returning my many calls and news of an offer for days, was almost invisible during the entire transaction. No cell phone available, no live receptionist to help hunt her down, barely any representation of the seller...in fact, this poor seller, with his notably un-American first name, was mistook for a different gender by his broker, who had never met him and apparently never spoken to him!

Unless you are a true do-it-yourselfer and have the time and resources to keep the marketing aggressive and transaction together, you may want to reconsider the value of the discount broker, who has little incentive, once you’ve paid your fee regardless of results, to work to earn his/her keep.

Yes, Buyers ARE still Fighting Over Homes in this Market...!

2007-11-06T00:59:00.000-05:00

Multiple offers in this market?
Yes!
How?
Price & Presentation!

Believe it or not, this has happened to me not once but twice in the last quarter (and two times is a lot given the fact that I limit my real estate practice to only a few clients at any given time). In the first instance, the subject property was in Lakewood of all places, which, unlike, for example, the eastside Hunting Valley with all of a couple dozen homes for sale – had plenty (several hundred) of competing houses from which to choose.

This house was special. The location was perfect: a more private, picturesque street of well maintained homes. The curb appeal was beyond reproach. The house itself boasted great finishes, upgrades and pristine maintenance. Finally, the home was “staged” beautifully, and could have readily been featured in a fine homes magazine. What made this home even more irresistible was the price: it was priced competitively – almost too low - and clearly, in an oversaturated market, showed the best in its price range, with features and a location that outdid everything else even remotely comparable. Of course you’d cultivate multiple offers given the perfect culmination of all these ideal elements. On the other hand sits the overpriced seller whose buyer knows (as they all know these days) that the seller is overpriced and delights in this fact, confident that he will be the only prospect sitting across from the seller, who can either sit tight and wait or accept a low ball as there are no other balls on the playing field.

So, I encountered my most recent buyer as he had lost out on the multiple offer Lakewood home, as he didn’t stand a chance having no steady or consistent relationship with a realtor: no getting into the home first, no representation, no competitive edge, no nothing.

My own listing, entirely different in the location and kind of home, also attracted multiples because again, it was a great location, had desirable features (this time being all the “conveniences”: first floor laundry, first floor master, “granite” finishes, the near-acre yard, etc., etc.) and was competitively priced at a number which, when compared to all the other homes in that range, made it stand out as a great value.

The lesson: use your realtor. When selling let us shop the competition (and come along!) so you know what you’re compared to and you can overcome the “hindrances” to make your listing sit on top, especially when buyers are more persnickety than ever. Be realistic of the negatives, many of which are simply unavoidable. If you’re in a zone of low-flying aircraft or commercial nuisances, these are factors that will send buyers running in a market which offers dozens of other options within the same price range or city. Of course, the major “hindrance,” typically, is price, and to be sure, you don’t want to “win” in a sluggish market only to lose when it comes time to having your home appraise at the sales price and it doesn’t. If you need to sell and can manage it financially, it’s better to price it so, even in a cold market, it’s still a ‘hot’ property that buyers will still fight over.

Considering Cleveland's Detroit Shoreway district? Here's a basic overview...

2007-07-04T00:56:00.000-05:00

WHERE IS IT?: between W. 85th Street to the west and W. 45th and W. 52nd Streets to the east; Lake Erie/Edgewater Park to the north and I-90 to the south. Readily accessible to downtown through I-90, Route 2 (the shoreway) or public transportation (visit http://www.gcrta.com/)

AN ABBREVIATED HISTORY (just in case)... The community’s origins date to the mid to late 1900’s as a result of the lakeshore development of Lakeshore and Michigan Southern Railroad, which in turn spurred the prosperity of various industries, such as Union Carbide and Otis Elevator (originally a wagon and coach shop). Subsequently commercial and residential development occurred, with Franklin Avenue hosting the more distinguished homes while the intersecting north-south streets were development to meet middle-income housing. German and Irish families first settled this area, with the Italians, Romanians and Southern European immigrants arriving at the turn of the century. The Detroit Shoreway of today enjoys a diverse mix of ethnic groups. The Detroit Shoreway Community is slated, in 2010, to be one of the first districts to benefit from Cleveland’s Waterfront District Plan which is to reinvent the lakefront area as a pedestrian friendly space.

THAT WAS THEN, THIS IS NOW: Developments
(please be patient...more details to come or call/email me with specific questions)

Battery Park, with privileged views of Edgewater Park, spans 13 acres across the former Eveready battery plant. In conjunction with Vintage Development Group, Marous Brothers Construction has over 300 housing units including single family, townhomes and luxury lofts. A park is planned for the center of the development and the community center is to feature a restaurant and market place. A park is planned for the center of the development and the community center is to feature a restaurant and market place.

W. 54 - W. 65th, south of Bridge Avenue: EcoVillage, "green" built construction and community gardens distinguish this notable community.

5415 St. Stephens Court (south of Bridge Avenue): 16 townhomes comprise Phase II, and features include expansive and contemporary floor plans; 10 foot ceilings on the main level; vaulted bedrooms, 2 bedrooms and 1.5-2.5 baths, hardwood floors (living room level), ceramic tile, deck and patio options, attached 2 car garage with 2 additional parking spaces, reduced rate finanacing and a 15-year tax abatement.

5809 Bridge Avenue: Bridge Square Phase 3, multi-level townhomes with desirable finishes such as granite counters and bamboo flooring, not to mention the contemporary open floor plan, bonus room and tax abatement to boot.1270 W. 70th: Villa Giardino offers 18 townhomes, remodeled and just a breath away from Edewater Park and Lake Erie, and adjacent to Battery Park. Prices range from 109,900 to 124,900 plus city down payment assistance of 10,000. Suites feature: 2-3 bedrooms, 1-1.5 baths, 1 covered parking space, newer mechanicals, in-suite laundry, patio, 10 year tax abatement, and landscaped grounds.

W. 58th Street: Pear Avenue Cottages is an offering of new green built 2 and 3 bedroom homes located within EcoVillage.

5413 Herman Avenue: Kings Terrace Townhomes, with 2400 upscale square feet of downtown and lake views.

8404 Franklin: The Franklin Townhomes, priced from 174,900-189,900. 1452-1700 square feet with 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, and features including maple cabinetry, an indulgent master bath, balcony, attached garage, wall of windows, open floor plan, private rear yards and more. A 1.5% discounted mortgage and 15 year tax abatement sweetens the deal.

Looking for a Home in Bay Village? Enjoy a Group Open House Saturday, June 30th

2007-06-22T07:08:00.000-05:00

Register at the limited list of homes on tour that day together with 29001 Millard and be in the hopper for a gift card drawing. These select homes are desirably located in Western Bay Village.

The list of homes OPEN THIS SATURDAY are as follows; if the time isn't posted yet, it's because I'm awaiting it from the listing agent:

29001 Millard: OPEN 12-2. Osborn to Dwight; South on Dwight, which leads to Millard. Listing Agent Christina Carpadis of Realty Professionals, Inc., Westlake. NOT A DRIVE BY! Expansive & Tastefully Updated: Large Rooms; Lustrous & Professionally Installed Oak Floors; Harmonious Floor Plan; Updated Baths, Oversized Kitchen w/Granite+most Stainless Steel Appliances; Mammoth Storage. Newer: H20/boiler & Premium Schucco & Airtite Win; Serene, Large Rear Yard; Near Crocker Park, I90, Desirable street of higher $ homes. MUST SEE!

318 Saddler: South off Lake Road, W of Bassett, E of Bradley. Listing Agent James Robinson of Howard Hanna Lakewood. Where charm & comfort, convenience & location meet! In a spacious house that's beautifully updated w/lovely maple kitchen, lg baths (3 full!), a big, bright family rm that opens to a charming deck & park-like yard; AND very well maintained, w/new roof, refinished flrs, newer windows & garage. Beautiful.

313 Breezewood: 2 BLOCKS WEST OF BASSETT, BETWEEN LAKE & WINDSOR. Listing Agent Patricia DeCapua, Howard Hanna Bay Village. REMARKABLE BRICK RANCH WITH OVER 2000 SQ FT. GREAT LOCATION. QUIET STREET. NEWER WINDOWS. 2 FIREPLACES. STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES ALL STAY. ENJOY THIS OPEN FLOOR PLAN. MUST SEE!

29314 Wolf Rd: OPEN 1-3 East of Bassett, West of Cahoon near Bay High School. Listing Agent Kristi Ramella, Realty One. RIGHT OUT OF THE PAGES OF BETTER HOMES & GARDEN! PROFESSIONALLY DECORATED W/BEAUTIFUL OAK FLR IN LIV/DIN RMS. FURNACE '06. CENTRAL VAC. APPLIANCES. NWR WINDOWS. COUNTRY KITCHEN W/WOODBURNER & BRICK FLRING. BRIGHT SUNROOM THAT LEADS TO YOUR OWN SECRET GARDEN W/PATIO & SHED. A PLEASURE TO SHOW!

29223 Buchanan: Osborn to Dwight; South on Dwight, which leads to Millard. Listing Agent Viola Kocskar of Re/Max Classic. SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM 2.5 BATH COLONIAL!FAMILY ROOM WITH FIREPLACE*2 STORY TOILET*REMODELED KITCHEN AND BATHS IN 2001*ELECTRICAL UPDATE 2002*CLOSE TO CROCKER PARK & I90

Moving to Cleveland? A Few Insights from a Family Who Has "Been There" and "Done That"

2007-06-17T21:44:00.000-05:00

This week, both from a professional and personal standpoint, I am suffering a loss as a result of a former client and friend of mine who is relocating with her family from Cleveland out of state. The nature of her husband's work and their military background have shifted them around the globe for the past several years, and it really astounded me at how enthusiastically and consistently she and her spouse embraced Cleveland and marvelled at its virtues over and above so many other places they have lived. I asked if she could record some thoughts on "paper," and what she noted I am offering here as some very informal but nonetheless heartfelt feelings on Cleveland. Beam up, Cleveland...our sullen media has surely had its way with you, but hopefully more people with greater perspectives will illuminate what is wonderful about our humble city.

My husband and I are both previous U.S. Army Officers. We were assigned in Cleveland for a federal government job a few years ago. We were referred to an awesome real estate agent who after hearing our criteria told us to look at buying a house in the north-west portion of Cleveland. We ended buying a house in Avon Lake which has been an incredible experience. We are huge fans of Bay Village and Rocky River as well. Prior to the military, my husband and I came from backgrounds where we have been in several parts of the world. For example I personally have lived on three continents to include Africa, South America and North America. Growing up, and being in the military, we have lived and visited many beautiful places in and out of this country. Avon Lake, Bay Village, and Rocky River are just as phenomenal and are full of neighborhoods which make one feel as if they "jumped back in time" to an era when life was simple and sweet. Our street had beautiful sidewalks where our family can walk around the block and all around the neighborhood. As crazy as this sounds, there are many housing developments all over this country where they are not building your old-fashioned sidewalks.

The people are so fantastic! When we moved in, within weeks, we knew many of our neighbors because they would all come over, bring goodies, and offer their help. Many friendships have blossomed in our tight community.

I like that fact that many places were within walking distance for us. Our church was only a few blocks away. There are parks very close by, as well as the library, which is perfect for little children as well as adults.

In comparison to other parts of the country, the crime rate is very low in this area of Cleveland. This area is extremely safe, fun and very family oriented which I think everyone would agree is a top priority when looking for a home.

Having experienced very congested traffic areas, we loved how the traffic flows quickly on Interstate 90, and coming home from down-town only takes 20-25 minutes. Trust me, there are many places where commute time is easily 2 hours.

Out of all the places we lived, we love how recycle-friendly this area is. When we lived in Tennessee, we drove 20 miles a few times a month to go to a recycling center. Here, you clean your recyclables, put them in a blue grocery store type bag and leave it next to your trash. It can't get better than that. Also the cost of the recycling is included in your trash pick-up (which is inexpensive here).

Housing may be a little bit more expensive than other areas of Cleveland, however in comparison to most of the rest of the country, you can't beat housing prices here. The cost of living is also lower than many other places in the United States.

I think people who have never been other places could possibly take this area for granted. We consider the north-west part of Cleveland the best place we have ever lived.

Sincerely Susan L.

Looking to Live in Downtown Cleveland? This is It!!

2007-06-12T13:04:00.000-05:00

I am currently sitting in an absolutely gorgeous listing I have at 2222 Detroit Road, Cleveland (44113). Suite 907 is one of the few coveted corner units at Stonebridge’s original structure (circa 2004, with a generous tax abatement) that enjoys a stunning view of the city, the Superior viaduct and, in particular, the beautifully illuminated Superior Bridge, with its glowing blue hues. The size is modest: 1100 square feet. The design is smart, sleek and loaded with desirable upgrades. One would expect no less from the owner, who is herself a designer and whose life’s work revolves around creating spaces that are aesthetically pleasing as their are pragmatically functional. Glance around and indulge your senses: Granite on the counters and flooring; rich multi-hued Brazilian cherry flooring in the great room and adjoining study; upgraded lighting including a designer Jonathan Adler piece at the foyer; custom millwork framing the entryways and doors with a classic, upscale feel; plush carpet in the cocoon-like bedroom where one can escape the business and clamor of the day and retreat into a quiet, intensely intimate space that invites sleep and tranquility. Whether your mood beckons for deep submersion in the jetted bath or an invigorating spray in the glass enclosed shower, both full baths, privately tucked away in this urban sanctuary, convey refinement and practicality, especially when it comes to their being furnished with smart storage solutions. There are two bedrooms each with a spacious closet. The kitchen space is also buttressed with a walk in pantry whose many shelves not only accommodate those bulky appliances and just enough canned goods to slack off on the weekly excursion to the nearby grocer, but also a stackable washing machine and dryer. The granite island attached to the sink affords dwellers the option of not having a breakfast or dining room table, and the approximately 9 sets of kitchen cabinets – finished in clean Amish-crafted beech with clean polished nickel hardware – afford storage for all the kitchen essentials. Not to mention the custom crafted wine rack, which permits enough wine - a dozen bottles – to have on hand when the time is right. Despite its modest size, this condo even offers an immediate and deep closet upon entry large enough for residents as well as their guests, an essential which even regular homes often lack. What’s nice is that this living choice may require that one slow down and pare down and ask: what is essential about the way I want to live? Do I really need to spend time and money acquiring excess things that are really integral to my daily living? Do I need a super-sized kitchen pantry when six 3-31/2’ shelves I already have is room enough for the essential bulky appliances and a month’s supply of canned goods that were on sale this week? Living simply for many means living lightly...not being possessed by your possessions, but spending time on what really matters, which, of course, is different for everyone. This condo is an invitation to explore these considerations, through a medium that is alluring and addictive. Walk in and you’ll see what I mean.

A Reflection on Cleveland’s Western Suburbs: Lakefront Living Past and Present

2007-06-12T13:03:00.000-05:00

Having resided in Avon Lake for a few years and now having returned to my “native soil” in Bay Village, the nostalgic part of me is always roused by those remaining properties on the north side of Lake Road that have been “spared” the iron ball and chain to level them to their end. As a resident of these lakeside suburbs and as a Realtor® who has a passion for the “soul”, the “thisness” that is distinct to every home, I would always get that queasy feeling when I saw a “normal” looking home in what we would label its “golden years” (housing dating 50 or so years back) on the north side of Lake being staked with a “For Sale” sign. You knew the end was near. Sometimes the subtlety of the impending doom is completely lost when a builder’s “Build to Suit” sign cohabits the front yard with the realtor’s “For Sale” sign. For those lakefront owners who are alive, their departure from their lifetime property is a double edged sword: in exchange for a lifetime of memories being disgraced in the demolition process they may receive substantial funds that a modest home comparable to theirs but located elsewhere would never command. It almost feels like a betrayal to the home, knowing that the large proceeds from their sale will surely result in the home’s demolition. Must Lake Road be dominated by mega-luxury homes? Is it no longer the residence of the modest family home that the average American can pursue? I realize that the cost of renovating these homes is towering, and the economics of this is probably what motivates new owners to simply start from scratch rather than work around antiquated systems and functional obsolescence. Still, as I drive Lake Road, I try to recall the homes – some of which were quite impressive in their day – which used to occupy that space and it genuinely saddens me when the memory is lost. Perhaps, when I can get the 4, 2 and 3 month old to settle in for a nap in the mega-stroller, I can do some picture taking so that I can recall these fleeting Lake Road residences before they too fade into oblivion.

Moving to Cleveland? You should be THRILLED!

2007-06-12T13:01:00.000-05:00

After the last few years of being a pregnant outcast from all the alluring rides at Cedar Point, this past Friday myself, family and friends ventured out to this renowned amusement park and really had a great time. Under 90 minutes from our home on the west side of Cleveland, Cedar Point is a bright summer highlight of living in Cleveland that people from around the country embrace. It has a bit of everything for everyone: “Snoopy Land” for the kids, shows of all sorts that appeal to every age range, insurance-inspiring roller coasters and thrill rides for the daring, Starbucks and a wireless cafe for those who just can’t take a full day away and so much more. I can easily see spending a few days or more there, and it amazed me the variety of license plates that appeared in the parking lot that day from around the nation. This little trip reinforced my affection for northeast Ohio and how easily accessible it is to some great summer spots, this one a definite.

GETTING "SHOT IN THE FOOT" TWICE...I LESSON LEARNED FROM OVERPICING A LISTING

2007-05-22T06:36:00.001-05:00

We overpriced it because the appraisal slapped that fat price tag on our beautiful home (and believe me, the way this home has been refurbished, it's worth every penny and more to the right buyer), and, at the time, there was even a comp on the street that supported that price. That was then.

THIS IS NOW.

Over one year later, that comp isn't recent enough, the market is soft(er), and now that the price has been lowered substantially and we have received multiple offers, we run the risk of losing loan approval due to the fact that the beautiful comparable-selling, higher-priced home we had used initially has seen its day. We are unfortunately in a market (at this time, as all markets are cyclical) when many sellers are actually paying or losing money at the closing table just to secure a sale. Is it worth it? Is it better to hold on an keep paying a mortgage (as that is most people's scenario) holding out for a better price when all the while those savvy buyers are going to use that extended marketing time as a machette to slash down the price?

This is a grim reminder to closely examine that market in the beginning, and price it accordingly, with great care.

REO PROPERTIES... Ohio License Law Put to the Test

2007-05-08T21:54:00.000-05:00

REO...Speedwagon? No. Real Estate Owned? Yes. I have to admit that as a newer residential agent “Speedwagon” was more in my vocabulary than the latter, but, thanks to Peg Ritenour’s article in the last OAR issue, she gives great clarity to often complicated transactions with such real estate owned properties. Because the banks that own many of these properties are outside of Ohio, the stringent Ohio license law is often put to the test....

Specifically:

In Ohio, listing agreements must include fair housing language. If a lender dictates that its own listing agreement is used and the fair housing language is absent from this agreement, it must be added in an addendum. Common sense, I guess, but perhaps easy to overlook in the heat of getting paperwork completed and filed.

Agency Disclosure Statements... these must be signed by both buyer and seller, of course, and if the lender/seller fails to do so, agents must document at least their efforts to get the signature, including printed emails requesting the seller’s signature. Further, if a lender won’t sign the dual agency consent, then we as realtors cannot act as a dual agent. Period.

Lead Based Paint Forms...are required with REO properties, while they are NOT required at a foreclosure/sheriff’s sale, as is true of the Residential Property Disclosure Form. So while the lender who buys that foreclosed property does so with out the lead based paint and/or residential property disclosure form, they are required to have them once they resell the property. One exception: if a “deed in lieu of foreclosure” (when the borrower deeds their home back to the bank to avoid foreclosure) was the vehicle by which the lender acquired the property. How the bank acquired the property must therefore be ascertained.

Ms. Ritenour offers a valuable reminder at the close of the article: “If the lender refuses to provide a [Residential Property Disclosure Form] to the purchaser...this failure will give the purchaser the right to rescind the purchase contract” – and this right of rescission can happen as late as 30 days after the contract was signed or after closing, depending on what happens first. Peg points out that under Ohio law buyers can waive their rescission rights if a residential property disclosure form isn’t received, and she advises that in transactions where lenders fail to furnish buyers with the disclosure form, buyers should make acknowledgement of this non-receipt and waive their rights.

In the age of the buyer’s market, I personally would find this challenging for a buyer to do, but, if the REO offers an attractive “deal” for the purchaser, perhaps they would.

While investors or even buyers who are feverishly seeking that bargain property may feel all these considerations are insignificant, Ohio has a distinct license law to ensure that transactions are executed properly, and it is to this higher standard that all Realtors are called (and another reason why hiring a Realtor is of value).

Bursting 'Burbs: Who's For Sale as of May?

2007-05-08T21:25:00.000-05:00

In case you share my compromised vision, here's the whipped cream that goes along with that pie (and I just thought it interesting how some suburbs are overflowing with listings, and others quite parched)... Let's face it; if you live in Independence where there are only 36 homes for sale at this time, the immediacy that "everyone" is up and moving out of Cleveland is a bit subdued...

Avon Lake: 236 Avon: 204 Bay Village: 139 Beachwood: 57 Berea: 117 Brecksville: 92 Cleveland Heights: 592 Euclid: 635 Fairview Park: 118 Garfield Heights: 462 Independence: 36 North Olmsted: 150 Rocky River: 139 Seven Hills: 91 University Heights: 173 Valley View: 9 Westlake: 181

THANK YOU, FAITHFUL BUYERS

2007-05-01T02:02:00.000-05:00

I recently recovered from one of those "Lord Help Me" moments when I had been using all surplus cash (or should I clarify with change from the wine jug) to run some delightful buyers "all around town" - - - and I mean places and byways in Ohio that I didn't know existed. They were actually "shared" clients of mine...A referral from one of my very first clients in the business and, of course, referrals hold a very special place in our care as realtors in that you want to meet or beat the level of service previously provided. When they were referred, however, we were in the process of ourselves moving and I knew taking on a challenging listing that had sat on the market for 1.5 years was not in anyone's best interest. I therefore referred the listing to one of my brokers and a much more experienced realtor who voraciously eats, drinks and sleeps real estate (much to the chagrin of his modelesque wife), who did in fact sell their home and now returned the happy clients to me to do "the fun job" - finding the new place.
So, after travelling hundreds of miles, their mention of a FSBO (for sale by owner, commonly pronounced "fizz-bow") in Litchfield (no, not the golf resort in Myrtle Beach or the scenic town in the northwest hills of Connecticut, but Litchfield OHIO, wherever that was) unnerved me. My fear was that their fidelity would waiver and I would lose them entirely.

Their reaction to the circumstances was a refreshing surprise.

The bottom line was that my buyers DESIRED REPRESENTATION. Research on the home. Research on the neighborhood. Market analysis. Their best interest articulated and defended. The best price for the property secured. All the paperwork correctly prepared to ensure a seamless deal to their benefit (and to that of the sellers). A positive home inspection experience and the correct contract terms and representation to ensure their exit from the contract if "adversity strikes". And maybe even someone to vent to when things seemed too frustrating or the light at the end of the tunnel too dim. And of course, all for FREE (especially since my broker doesn't impose an "ADMINISTRATIVE FEE" for processing paperwork as some of the other larger, traditional firms do).

So, when the fsbo sellers declined contact with the "we ain't working with no real-it-tore", thankfully, so did my buyers IMMEDIATELY decline further contact with this property and we found them a delightful home nonetheless!

LET'S GIVE LAKEWOOD A LIFT: CONSIDER AN OFF STREET PARKING BAN, AND CURB THE CURBSIDE GARBAGE COLLECTION

2007-03-09T17:22:00.000-05:00

I love Lakewood, the first city that afforded me the privilege of home ownership. It offers a wonderful blend of near century housing stock that typically is overflowing with old world charm; it is a beautiful lakeside suburb; it features an eclectic mix of shopping; it has that comfortable small town flavor of nightlife, and it truly is a vibrant offering of "diversity" in many senses of the word. However, with the many challenges this great city faces, would I be the only one thinking that an off street parking ban, like most of its younger suburban counterparts, would assist the city in cleaning out all the "jalopies" and junk from the driveways and garages? Let's face it, a drive down Manor Park in Lakewood, where such a ban exists, is like a drive down no other street in the city. And, as "indulgent" as it was to have the little go-carts pick up my trash in the morning, couldn't the funds saved on this indulgence be redirected to address any of the city's more pressing concerns?

"BURSTING BUBBLE?" - - - Not Necessarily...

2007-01-29T02:07:00.000-05:00

Per 2006 NAR President Thomas Stevens: "After five years of outstanding growth, the housing market is undergoing a period of adjustment and becoming more balanced between buyers and sellers" - a return to normalcy versus dramatic price increases. The numbers behind this: existing home sales rose .6 percent (totalling 6.28 million units in November 2006) from 6.24 million units in October. Likewise, NAR Chief Economist David Lereah projects an increase in existing home sales for 2007... More to come!

FIRST IMPRESSIONS, OVERPRICING AND THE CLEARANCE SHELF PHENOMENA

2007-01-09T10:13:00.000-05:00

In a world that is so image-driven, we are all aware of the timeless adage, "you can only make a first impression once." It is so with pricing your home. When a house hits the market the first time, it's new, it's exciting, and it draws buyers almost magically as compared to any other time in its market life. Most of these buyers have been shopping around (especially with so much housing stock to scrutinize) so, when they see a bargain, they will indeed recognize it as such. A house priced smartly will stand out in the fog of other overpriced homes with quickly expanding market periods. And these poor creatures, the houses that have sat on the market overpriced for weeks and months on end, unfairly suffer from the "clearance shelf" effect: they have been overpriced, have sat neglected, have been slashed in price and put on clearance, and so, the buyers that do peruse these homes are looking for defects and automatically assume that the long market time is indicative of some failing, some flaw that has caused the home to be rejected for months on end. It never fails at an open house that the only two questions out of the savvy buyer's mouth is: "how much" and "how long". Since when did buyers care but only so they can leverage that information against the listing as a somehow rejected and deficient property. The savvy seller who has modest numbers to both of these inquiries is more likely to sell quickly and less painfully.

The lesson: Price it right from the start. Sell it fast. Move on with your life.

GETTING TOP DOLLAR EVEN IN A SLUGGISH MARKET

2007-01-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

Per the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in 2000, the typical existing home sold for 111,800 versus 225,000 this past August! Getting top dollar in today's market is feasible if approached carefully.

Recognize that buyers are limited, while available listings are abundant. While sellers have called the shots for the past few years, that's no longer the case in most markets. Sellers must make their homes the most attractive, best priced listings in their neighborhood. Painting, thorough cleaning and overall maintenance and repairs are essential, not just indulgent options.

Cash is still an issue. While home prices may have slipped a touch, real estate continues to be hugely expensive for most buyers, especially first time home buyers who lack equity from a prior home sale. Rather than reducing prices, offer to pay for buyer closing costs, thus lowering the out of pocket cash requirement for your first time buyer.

Choosing the best broker is key, needless to say. Real Estate is a social business, and realtors that maintain a positive reputation in the community are magnets for other realtors. More importantly, each realtor brings his or her own unique marketing plan to a property, and these should be carefully compared to determine what is best for your home.

Remember that pricing and marketing your home is a business transaction, and is about the MARKET versus your needs as a seller. Consquently, the statement "I must sell my house for 400,000 in order to clear what I need for my next purchase" is irrelevant; prices are established by the marketplace and what recent comparable homes sell for, not what your needs are.