Thursday, March 24, 2011

Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions-Ep. 8



How can I tell if my new neighborhood will be safe?

This question comes up a lot when a client is un sure of what area of the metro they would like to live in and they want to know more information about safety. Unfortunately there are areas of the metro that are perceived to be less safe than others and therefore less desirable to live in.

I encourage clients to drive around the neighborhood a few different times at different times of the day in a particular area they are interested in. Park and take a walk for a few blocks and see what kind of vibe you get. If you see someone who lives in the neighborhood outside, ask them what they think of the neighborhood. You can mention to them you are looking at house nearby and just wanted some feedback about the location from someone living there. Most people love to help and would be happy to take a few minutes to discuss this with you.

You want to make sure you are going to feel safe and comfortable in your new home, take the time to check out the neighborhood of your potential new home if you have any concerns.

Here are a few great websites that can help.
www.neighborhoodscout.com
www.crimereports.com
www.nsp.state.ne.us/sor

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions-Ep. 7



Could I buy a home instead of renting?

I recently read an article that said the number one reason people tend to rent instead of buy is because they “assume” or are “scared” that they cannot qualify for a loan to purchase a home. That got me thinking…I bet that is true. I remember back to when I purchased my first home, I knew nothing about the process. I did not think I could purchase a home either. Thankfully I learned that it was possible. Times have changed but there are still first time home buyer loan options available, that allow you a small down payment and a great rate.

Before you sign your next lease to rent, just take the time to meet with a mortgage loan specialist to see if it is possible for you to qualify to purchase a home. If so, they will help you determine the purchase price you qualify for with the payment your are comfortable with. People are often surprised after they see the type of home they could purchase with what they are currently paying monthly in a rent payment.

I know some top notch mortgage loan specialist that will meet with you and help get you on the way to owning your own home. Call, email or text me for a referral.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions-Ep. 6



How much would my home sell for?


Are you are thinking about listing your home for sale, but are not sure how much to list it for? Maybe you are just curious what you could sell it for, if you decided to list it down the road. How do you find out the best price?

Call me! I am more than happy to do the research and work for you. No cost or obligation. EVEN if you want to try to sell your house for sale by owner, I will still help you determine the best price to list it at. All I ask is that if you decide to list it with an agent you interview me for the job.

There are several websites out there you can pull data from and plenty of neighbors to ask what they bought their house for or how much they have it listed at, and this MIGHT get you in the ball park. What you really and MUST do is contact an agent to help you with this. We know the market and see several homes a week to compare yours to. We know what it will take to get your home sold. You have to price your home competitively to get it sold in today’s market.

If you are thinking of listing your home for sale, and need to know how much to sell it for, call me! 402-305-4335. Anytime! It's my cell. If you know of someone else thinking of selling send this information on to them, I would love to lend a hand!